The Department of Industry, Innovation and Science’s National Measurement Institute (NMI) has announced that a new international system for measuring weight, temperature, electric current and substance has come into force.
Adopted around the world on World Metrology Day last week (20 May), the new measurements have an effect on kilograms, amperes, kelvin degrees and moles.
In a statement, the Institute said life as we know it was measured in units like the second, metre and kilogram.
“Science, trade and industry all rely on accurate measurement to function and produce results,” it said.
“Last November, measurement scientists from around the world voted in favour of redefining the International System of Measurement (SI) Units.”
The four base units redefined are kilogram (measurement of mass); ampere (measurement of electric current); kelvin (measurement of temperature) and mole (measurement of substance).
“The revision will ensure that the international measurement system is robust and able to stand the test of time,” it said.
“It will also effectively support future advances in science and technology.”
NMI is Australia’s peak body responsible for biological, chemical, physical and trade measurement, responsible also for providing Australia’s interface with the international measurement system.
It said it was working hard to ensure there would be no disruption to industry.
“For most, it will appear that not much has changed,” the Institute said.
“The changes will impact a small number of high level electrical calibration services, but most customers using our calibration services can anticipate a negligible impact,” it said.
