Do we need to calibrate the meter tapes?

Question

We have finding last audit that all measuring tapes used in our production were not included in the calibration maintenance.

Answer 1

I don't think anyone here will know what the requirements of your operation are. Tapes are often used for relatively imprecise measurements, and it is not unusual for them not to be calibrated, but there will be applications where they will be calibrated, but with the information you have provided, it is hard to say which is the case.

If the audit mentioned the tapes it suggests that perhaps they should be calibrated, but on the other hand it may have just been general information. Also it is quite possible that there will be some operations that require calibrated tapes and some that don't, the audit might just be indication that some tapes are only suitable for certain operations.

Answer 2

I'd be surprised, measuring tapes are not designed for precision measurements. Usually +/- 1/16" is close enough when using them.

Answer 3

No you don't. If your meter tapes camme from a reputable vendor, the vendor should have done a  calibration when those tapes came out of production.

Answer 4

It depends the law of land where you stay, at India it is a must to have the meausrement tapes checked and authenticated by the authority (pre-sell test); where as at UAE it is not (these are the 2 countried where I lived).

Edit: If you are into contracting or someother service providing business it will be a good idea to check your client's QA requirements