ISO 15790:2004

Overview

ISO 15790:2004 is an international standard developed by ISO focusing on the use of certified reference materials (CRMs) in reflection and transmission metrology for the graphic arts, photography, and other imaging industries. This standard outlines essential documentation for CRMs, detailed procedures for their effective application, and robust methods for determining and reporting the combined standard uncertainty of measurement systems. The guidance within ISO 15790:2004 ensures accurate and traceable measurement results, enabling consistent quality assurance and confidence in measurement processes across various imaging technologies.

Key Topics

• Certified Reference Materials (CRMs): ISO 15790:2004 defines requirements for the documentation, identification, and traceability of CRMs used in metrological applications in imaging industries, covering both reflectance and transmittance.
• Determination of Combined Standard Uncertainty: The standard provides procedures for calculating and combining sources of uncertainty within measurement systems, following principles from the Guide to the Expression of Uncertainty in Measurement (GUM).
• Documentation and Reporting: Emphasizes the importance of proper reporting of CRM reference values, including reference values, uncertainty values, coverage factors, and relevant conditions.
• Guidelines for Application: Includes instructions for selecting, using, caring for, and maintaining CRMs to ensure ongoing accuracy and stability in measurement data.

Applications

ISO 15790:2004 is widely applicable within imaging industries such as:

• Graphic Technology: Used to verify, calibrate, and maintain the reliability of densitometers, colorimeters, and spectrophotometers in processes such as print production and quality control.
• Photography: Ensures the accuracy of transmission and reflection measurements critical for photographic processing and archiving.
• Other Imaging Industries: Supports any sector reliant on precise colorimetric or densitometric measurements for product consistency or regulatory compliance.

Practical benefits include:

• Calibration of Measurement Equipment: CRMs described by ISO 15790:2004 are central to maintaining calibrated measurement devices, leading to more reliable results and reducing errors.
• Quality Assurance: By documenting and understanding uncertainties, organizations can meet industry requirements, international standards (like ISO 9001), and accreditation schemes (such as ISO/IEC 17025).
• Data Integrity and Traceability: Clear documentation and traceability of CRMs ensure data can be referenced back to recognized national or international standards, supporting reproducibility and comparability over time and between organizations.

Related Standards

For a comprehensive approach to reflection and transmission metrology and measurement uncertainty, ISO 15790:2004 references and aligns with several important standards, including:

• Guide to the Expression of Uncertainty in Measurement (GUM): Provides the fundamental framework for evaluating and expressing uncertainty in measurement.
• ISO Guide 30: Defines and describes reference materials, including certified reference materials.
• ISO/IEC 17025: Specifies general requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories, relevant for organizations using CRMs as described in ISO 15790:2004.
• ISO 5-3: Details standardized methods for densitometry, which are often part of the measurements covered by this standard.

Conclusion

ISO 15790:2004 plays a critical role in ensuring reliable measurement results and robust quality control within the graphic arts, photography, and imaging industries through the proper use of certified reference materials. Following its guidelines on documentation, CRM application, and uncertainty determination supports organizations in achieving accurate, traceable, and compliant measurement practices.