What is the primary documentation requirement upon receiving an item for calibration?

The primary documentation requirement upon receiving an item for calibration is to document any departures from specified conditions. This is essential because it ensures that any discrepancies or irregularities affecting the calibration process are formally recorded. These recorded departures can include environmental factors such as temperature or humidity, the physical condition of the item, or any other conditions that might influence the calibration results. Proper documentation creates a clear record that can be referenced later, helps in maintaining the integrity of the calibration process, and supports traceability and accountability throughout the calibration lifecycle.

While customer feedback forms, normal operating procedures, and checklists of all equipment are certainly important aspects of quality management systems and equipment maintenance, none of them directly address the immediate requirement of assessing and recording any deviations when an item arrives for calibration. Hence, they do not meet the critical initial documentation requirement as effectively as noting departures from specified conditions.