Why are calibration intervals for measuring instruments established?

Establishing calibration intervals for measuring instruments primarily serves the purpose of controlling the probability of calibrations being out of tolerance. This approach enables organizations to systematically monitor and maintain the accuracy and precision of their measuring instruments over time. By determining appropriate intervals for calibration, organizations can identify any drift or inaccuracies in measurements before they lead to significant issues, ensuring that the instruments remain within predetermined tolerances.

While factors such as cost-effectiveness, compliance with international standards, and minimizing measurement errors are important, they are often secondary benefits that arise from a well-structured calibration system. By focusing on controlling the probability of being out of tolerance, organizations can proactively manage the integrity of their measurement processes, ultimately leading to improved quality and reliability of the outputs.