Governing for Results 2 - Washington State Digital Archives

Department of AgricultureState improves process for verifying weights andmeasuresThe Washington Department of Agriculture operates and maintains the stateMetrology Laboratory, which verifies measurements of mass, volume and lengthin a variety of commercial settings around the state. The former system of qualityassurance was unstructured and poorly documented.To improve processes and quality assurance, the lab chose to becomeaccredited by the U.S. Department of Commerce, National Institute of Standardsand Technology. The new quality assurance system relies on a newly createdmanual that integrates standard lab practices and requirements of the NationalInstitute of Standards and Technology.Results★ The measurements and documentation the lab needs for accreditation aregenerated throughout the year, so this new process will become the standardway of doing business. The state meteorologist is able to efficiently scheduletests, combine tasks and collate data.★ Consumers of Washington State are assured the purchases they makebased on weights and measurements being accurate.★ Businesses who bring test standards to the laboratory are assured of theaccuracy of the measurements and calibrations.★ Procedures and requirements are documented and can be easily resumed inthe event of turnover or an extended absence.Team members: Bob Arrington, Jerry Buendel, and Dan Wright.CONTACT: Christie O’Loughlin (360) 902-19755