5. Mutual recognition

Many countries have set up connection systems similar to the French calibration chains. Under the impetus of EA and ILAC, multilateral mutual recognition agreements (MLAs) have been developed between these countries.

EA, a non-profit association based in the Netherlands, is the network of European accreditation bodies, with thirty-three full members representing thirty-one countries and three associate members representing three European countries.

As of April 30, 2005, twenty-two countries had signed the EA MLA for testing and calibration.

ILAC is the worldwide network of laboratory accreditors, with over forty accreditation bodies signatory to its multilateral agreement (as of January 31, 2005) covering testing, analysis and calibration.

Under these agreements, a calibration certificate...