The Metre Convention and its programme

The organs of the Metre Convention, the BIPM and the CIPM carry on, since 1875, a double objective: to improve and extend the metric system (now the SI), and ensure its international development. As regards the first goal, one may mention, among others, a new set of recommended radiations for the realisation of the metre, and the initialisation of activities in metrology in chemistry. New fields of activity in acoustics, ultrasound, vibrations, hardness, and flout measurements are being considered. The second point is now of special concern to the CIPM which after adopting a document on national and international needs relating to metrology, implements a world-wide mutual recognition of national measurement standards and calibration certificates issued by national metrology institutes. The organisation that is being implemented implies the recognition of regional metrological organisations to which important responsibilities in. the world-wide traceability are delegated We are also considering how to extend this general traceability to nations or territories not members of the Metre Convention.