What occurs if a calibration procedure does not include an expiration date for a calibration?

When a calibration procedure does not include an expiration date, it becomes crucial to establish a necessary date for reevaluation. This ensures that equipment remains reliable and within specified tolerances over time. Regular recalibration is an essential component of quality assurance, as it helps maintain the accuracy and precision of measurements that the equipment is expected to provide.

By establishing a necessary calibration date before the equipment is used, organizations can uphold standards, ensure compliance with regulations, and reduce the risk of using potentially inaccurate measurements. This practice is particularly important in industries where precision is critical, such as pharmaceuticals, aerospace, and manufacturing, where undetected equipment drift can have significant consequences.

Without assigning a reevaluation date or calibration frequency, equipment might be used beyond its reliable period, potentially leading to erroneous results and affecting overall quality management systems. Therefore, ensuring a clear reevaluation schedule is vital to maintaining the integrity of measurement processes.