SIST EN ISO 4787:2022 PDF

Overview

EN ISO 4787:2021 (Laboratory glass and plastic ware - Volumetric instruments - Methods for testing of capacity and for use) is the CEN-endorsed version of ISO 4787:2021. It defines standardized methods for testing, calibration and correct use of volumetric instruments made from glass and plastic to achieve the best measurement accuracy in laboratories. The standard applies to nominal capacities from 100 µl to 10 000 ml, covering pipettes, burettes, volumetric flasks and measuring cylinders. It excludes micro‑glassware below 100 µl and does not specifically cover pycnometers, although most procedures are applicable.

Key topics and requirements

• Scope and definitions: Clear distinction between testing (determination of conformity and error at one or more points) and routine use.
• Applicable instruments: Single‑volume and graduated pipettes (ISO 648, ISO 835), burettes (ISO 385), volumetric flasks (ISO 1042, ISO 5215), measuring cylinders (ISO 4788, ISO 6706).
• Capacity range: 100 µl to 10 000 ml.
• Reference temperature & units: Volume unit conventions and reference temperature requirements for calibration.
• Apparatus and calibration liquid: Minimum requirements for balances, measurement devices and calibration liquids (new in 2021).
• Factors affecting accuracy: Temperature control, cleanliness, condition of ware, delivery and waiting times, and meniscus behavior.
• Meniscus setting: Updated guidance for setting convex and concave menisci (includes altered procedure for tangency to the upper edge of graduation lines).
• Calibration procedures: Filling/delivery methods, weighing, volume and uncertainty calculations; test room conditions and repeatability guidance (Annex E).
• Supporting annexes: Cleaning methods for glass and plasticware, calculation tables and thermal expansion data.

Practical applications and users

EN ISO 4787:2021 is essential for:

• Calibration laboratories performing acceptance testing and issuing calibration certificates.
• Quality managers and laboratory supervisors ensuring volumetric accuracy in analytical, pharmaceutical, environmental and food testing labs.
• Manufacturers of volumetric glassware and plasticware for product verification and compliance.
• Regulatory and accreditation bodies requiring standardized test methods for traceability and uncertainty estimation. Practical uses include routine instrument verification, method validation, corrective action after damage, and establishing measurement uncertainty for volumetric transfers.

Related standards

• ISO 648 - Single‑volume pipettes
• ISO 835 - Graduated pipettes
• ISO 385 - Burettes
• ISO 1042, ISO 5215 - Volumetric flasks
• ISO 4788, ISO 6706 - Measuring cylinders
• ISO 3507 - Pycnometers (procedures partly applicable)

Keywords: EN ISO 4787:2021, volumetric instruments, calibration, laboratory glassware, plasticware, pipettes, burettes, volumetric flasks, measuring cylinders, meniscus, measurement uncertainty.