International Organisation of Legal Metrology (OIML)

15 Sep 2023

Context: Recently, India has become an International Organisation of Legal Metrology (OIML) certificate-issuing authority. India applied to become an OIML certificate-issuing authority in March 2023.

India’s inclusion as an authorized issuer expands the list to 13 countries.

About International Organisation of Legal Metrology (OIML):

It is an International Organisation of Legal Metrology established in 1955 and headquartered in Paris.
India became a member of the International Organisation of Legal Metrology (OIML) in 1956. In the same year, India signed the metric convention.
Functions: It serves as an international standard-setting body, developing model regulations, standards, and related documents for legal metrology authorities and industry use.
Objective: To harmonize national laws and regulations concerning the performance of various measuring instruments, including clinical thermometers, alcohol breath analyzers, radar speed measuring instruments, ship tanks at ports, and petrol dispensing units.
International Organisation of Legal Metrology (OIML) Certificate:
- The OIML-CS is a system for issuing, registering, and using OIML certificates, and their associated OIML-type evaluation/test reports, for instruments like digital balance, clinical thermometers, etc.

Significance for India of International Organisation of Legal Metrology (OIML) Membership:

Export Facilitation: Legal Metrology certificate streamlined certification process enhances export prospects for Indian manufacturers.
Foreign Exchange Earnings: Attracts foreign manufacturers for certification, contributing to foreign exchange earnings.
Employment Opportunities: Establishment of a specialized unit for certification can generate employment.
Reduction of Redundancy and Savings: Local certification reduces redundancy and saves resources for manufacturers.
Global Acceptance and Streamlined Export Process: International Organisation of Legal Metrology (OIML certificates are universally accepted worldwide.
- Manufacturers in India can now obtain the necessary certification locally.