How often do you check the time you take to do something or the speed at which you drive? Do you measure the length of objects or the weight of groceries you purchase? Whether you are a teacher, construction worker or a housewife, Metrology plays a key role in everyone’s daily activities. Defined as the science of measurement, Metrology also provides the foundation for data-driven decision-making and policy development, helping organisations, governments and individuals make informed choices that contribute to a more sustainable future.
Tomorrow (May 20, 2024), the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) as the National Measurement Institute, will join the rest of the world to observe World Metrology Day (WMD). This is an annual celebration of the signature of the Metre Convention on May 20, 1875 by representatives of seventeen nations. The Convention introduced the International System of Units (SI), or the Metric System, as the international standard for measurement in industrial, commercial and societal applications.
The original aim of the Metre Convention – the worldwide uniformity of measurement – remains as important today as it was in 1875. The SI, which is made up of 7 base units, plays an essential role in international trade and is commonly used in scientific and technological research and development.
This year’s WMD theme is “Sustainability – We measure today for a sustainable tomorrow.” It marks the official recognition by UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) of May 20 each year as UNESCO International Day which opens new avenues to promote metrology through science and education.
In keeping with the theme, the GNBS has embarked on a roadshow to Technical Institutes across the country to teach students about Metrology, the use of the metric units and careers in Metrology. This activity commenced at the New Amsterdam Technical Institute on Wednesday, May 15 and concludes on Monday, May 20.
During the roadshow, Inspectors from the Bureau’s Legal Metrology Department and Laboratory Technicians from the Industrial, Metrology and Testing Department visited the tertiary educational institutions including NATI, GTI and LTI to interact with students. During these engagements, students were allowed to see and use measuring instruments including scales, masses, measures, thermometers, test measures, and calipers, which are verified and calibrated by the GNBS. The knowledge garnered by the future technicians will be beneficial in their work and professional lives.
Accurate measurements promote safety and health, business growth and consumer protection while reducing wastage of resources. The GNBS is committed to all of the above by verifying all measuring instruments used in trade and calibrating measuring instruments used in the manufacturing and other sectors. Recently, the GNBS commenced the verification of Net Content of prepackaged goods to ensure consumers receive value for money.
It is crucial for all stakeholders to understand the importance of Metrology. Metrology, through standardised and traceable measurements, is critical to sustainability in Guyana, the Caribbean region and the globe. The continuous development of the National Measurement Infrastructure in Guyana is done based on the growing needs of stakeholders, with support from government, and through collaboration with NMIs regionally and internationally.
As we commemorate World Metrology Day 2024, citizens are encouraged to play their role by understand and using reliable measurements. Consumers must demand accurate measurements in the metric units. The GNBS is available to provide the guidance and services necessary to ensure the traceability and sustainability of reliable measurements across all sectors of the economy. Finally, the GNBS lauds the work of professionals in the area of Metrology or measurement.
