ELECSA position regarding calibration

[Bez]

My assesor (Elecsa) was happy to accept Cal Card readings for my Multi-Function tester, as long as I use the same socket for RCD & Zs checks.

 

[Manator]

I like what you're saying, Andy, but phoning ELECSA to query the matter puts me in an invidious position. I think discretion is the better part of valour in this instance.

I would go ahead with your calibration, but I would write to Elesca and point out the "mistake" that the assessor made. You will not make waves, just point out that whilst you disagree with the assessors remarks and the non conformity as detailed, you have decided to have a formal calibration taken and have posted the copy. As a measure of good will could you now reimburse the

 

[ISSWWW]

I have my own thoughts on why a meter should or should not be calibrated yearly but i think i will keep them to myself for the sake of self preservation:innocent

However i would like to make an offer to the Forum, I will collect, calibrate and redeliver any Multifunction tester for

 

[Voltimax]

I'll be coming to see you again soon Mark. I'm due for calibration and have an assessment fast approaching.........

 

[ISSWWW]

I'll be coming to see you again soon Mark. I'm due for calibration and have an assessment fast approaching.........

Always welcome mate, I need to talk to you anyway about your last call

 

[the doctor]

Hello All,

I am going to state an opinion now and may be wrong but..... :yellow card

When i started off in the trade 30 years ago, my motorbikes and cars had a mix of electro and mechanical digeridoos to make it work. Things such as a mechanical vacuum advance on my distributor and points and carburettors.......etc....

The car went out of 'tune' and I needed a man to get it all in kilter to get maximum efficiency and economy.

I also, back then, had a moving coil continuity/insulation tester which got a bang here and there and perhaps a bit of dust in it or even plain old wear and tear....it had to go into an instrument technician and he repaired/ recalibrated it

You know where this is going now don't you......

Today I drive a computer controlled car. Many hundreds of times it calculates the fuel and spark timing. It never goes out of tune, it either works......or it dosent....

I am of the opinion that 'calibration' of a modern computerised test equipment may not be as life depending essential as they would all have you believe..

could be wrong though, any 'experts' on this looking in:Salute

best wishes

alan

 

[Sidewinder]

Doc,

There is truth in them thar hills.

Good post.

You started "just" before me then!

However, there are "ways" even for modern digital kit to drift.

It is also more true that older kit needed more TLC than the new stuff.

However, the requirements from the scheme providers, ISO9001 etc. etc. require the checking AKA calibration checks, NOT adjustment thus we have to comply.

Same way really that the WF&FO method is no longer acceptable?

 

[ianmacd]

I asked this direct question of ELECSA last year and this was the response I got:

On 11 Feb 2010, at 16:02, ********, G**** wrote:Ian, The cal card will only check continuity and insulation testers.

Earth loop and RCD testers will require calibration. If you have a multi

function tester you will require a valid calibration certificate when

your assessment is due. Regards G****.

-----Original Message-----

From: Ian MacDonald [mailto:***@****.***]

Sent: 11 February 2010 12:57

To: ELECSA

Subject: Technical Enquiry

Hello.

I have a cal card and someone has suggested that if this is used

regularly then my MFT only needs calibrating every 3 years instead of

every year. Is this correct?

Thanks.

Ian.

 

[Andy™]

but if your using something else to test loop & RCD times, then calibration can be extended

 

[springcrocus]

I think that we are now back to the start of the thread, particularly after Ians reply in post #28.

Calibration of your multifunction meter, if you use one, is a yearly requirement. If you use separates, then a different regime may apply. So my original post warning ELECSA members (and probably the other schemes also) of a less relaxed approach to calibration is still valid.

If you were lucky enough to get through on your own system of checks at your last assessment, don't rely on the same happening at your next.

Manator, although I found your reasoning and advice (post #22) interesting, I will just send them the required calibration certificate (assuming my meter passes OK tomorrow) and let sleeping dogs lie.