Standards Corner

THE GNBS METRICATION PROGRAMME

The need for a single, worldwide, coordinated measurement system was recognised over 300 years ago and today it is no different. As scientific research and technological advancements require the use of systems to weigh and measure more complex things, it is necessary to have an efficient system to perform these tasks.

The Metric System has been proved to be the most suitable and accurate measuring system. It is of a decimal nature and makes for easy calculations.  It can perform all calculations of weights and measures quite simply.

Weights and measures may be ranked among the necessities of life to every individual of society.  It is a part of the economical arrangements and daily concerns of every family, occupation, industry and to every transaction of trade and commerce.

In our world, over 96% of the world’s population uses the metric system as the standard weighing and measuring system.

In Guyana, Order No. 4 of January 2002, under the Weights and Measures Act, gave legal effect to the implementation of the Metric System in all areas of commerce and trade.

Most persons however, when confronted with the metric system of measurement express reservations since Guyana’s first few attempts to go metric failed.  However, the passing of the order has made the changeover to the Metric System inevitable for all Guyanese.

Many sectors in Guyana are already using the Metric System, these include the Education Sector, the Health Sector and many stores, supermarkets and vendors

In order to encourage the use of the Metric System, officers of the GNBS conduct metrication training session for all organizations, businesses, agencies, schools and others that need help in understanding  or implementing the metric system.

The Metrication department also disseminates metric information, such as flyers, facts sheets and conversion charts on the metric system.

A National metrication committee is also a part of the Metrication Programme of the GNBS. The aims and objectives of this committee is to encourage all sectors, agencies and industries in Guyana to use the Metric Measurement in their operations.

For more information contact

GUYANA NATIONAL BUREAU OF STANDARDS

FLAT 15, Exhibition Complex, Sophia, Georgetown

Telephone Nos. 225-6226, 227-7890, 227-7072

Email:gnbs@neworksgy.com