Mõõtmisõigus

Mõõtmisõigus is a legal concept primarily found in Estonian law that pertains to the right to use, calibrate, and verify measuring instruments. It ensures that measurements taken for official or commercial purposes are accurate and reliable. This right is crucial for fair trade, consumer protection, and the enforcement of regulations.

The fundamental principle behind mõõtmisõigus is that instruments used to determine quantities, values, or other measurable characteristics must meet specific standards. These standards are established by law and often refer to national or international metrological regulations. The right to use an instrument is typically granted after it has been type-approved, meaning its design and construction have been found suitable for its intended purpose, and then subjected to initial verification.

Verification, or calibration, is a process that confirms whether a measuring instrument is accurate and conforms to the prescribed requirements. This can be done by authorized bodies or accredited laboratories. Mõõtmisõigus also encompasses the obligation for users of measuring instruments to ensure that their instruments are regularly verified and remain in a condition that guarantees accurate measurement throughout their service life. Failure to comply with these requirements can lead to penalties and the invalidation of measurements. The concept is overseen by national metrology institutes and market surveillance authorities.