Eichnormen

Eichnormen are normative standards used in legal metrology to define what is required of measuring devices that are used in trade, public administration, and safety-related applications. They specify the technical characteristics, permissible deviations, testing methods, environmental conditions, and documentation needed to verify that a device meets the applicable requirements.

Scope and purpose: Eichnormen cover a wide range of instruments, such as scales, gas and water meters, electricity meters, thermometers, and other instruments used for measurements that affect commercial transactions or regulatory compliance. The aim is to ensure measurement accuracy, reliability, and traceability to the International System of Units (SI), thereby supporting fair trade and consumer protection.

Legal framework and verification: In Germany and many German-speaking regions, the use of measuring instruments for official purposes is governed by legal metrology provisions. Instruments typically undergo type approval, pattern evaluation, or conformity assessment against the relevant Eichnormen. Upon successful verification, an official verification mark (Eichzeichen) and accompanying documentation are issued. The instrument remains compliant for a defined period and must be reverified or recalibrated before the end of that period, especially after alterations or repairs.

Maintenance and harmonization: Eichnormen are maintained and updated by national and international standardization bodies. In practice, they are often aligned with DIN, EN, or ISO standards to ensure compatibility and harmonization across borders. Regular updates reflect advances in technology and measurement science.

Relation to practice: Eichnormen provide the technical basis for calibration, testing procedures, and quality control in metrology laboratories, manufacturers, and service providers. They help establish metrological traceability and support compliance with legal requirements for fair measurement in everyday commerce.