What is the difference between Part 1 and Part 2 of ISO 6789:2017?
Applies to: ISO 6789-1:2017, ISO 6789-2:2017 · Updated 2026-10-27
Technical review: Alston Hsiao (Chieh-Jen Hsiao), CTO, STAND
Part 1 answers “Does this tool conform?” while Part 2 answers “How did this tool measure, and how much confidence can be placed in the results?” ISO 6789-1:2017 addresses conformance during design, manufacture, and use, usually expressed through a declaration of conformance when a new tool is supplied. ISO 6789-2:2017 addresses calibration of individual tools, with results and measurement uncertainty reported in a calibration certificate.
Find the part that answers your question
| What you want to know | Relevant part | Documentation |
|---|---|---|
| Does the design of this model conform to the requirements? | Part 1: design conformance testing | Test records retained by the manufacturer; conformance communicated through a declaration of conformance |
| Do the tools delivered from the factory conform to the requirements? | Part 1: quality conformance testing | Declaration of conformance, or a calibration certificate issued to Part 2, and tool markings |
| Does a tool still conform to the requirements after a period of use? | Part 1: conformance testing during use | Inspection records kept by the user organization |
| What measurement results does calibration provide for my tool? | Part 2: calibration of individual tools | Calibration certificate |
| How much confidence can be placed in the measurement results? | Part 2: measurement uncertainty and traceability | Calibration certificate reporting uncertainty |
| How often should the tool be recalibrated? | Part 2 recalibration, linked to Part 1 checks during use | Management procedures and recalibration records |
Why was the standard split into two parts?
ISO 6789:2003 combined tool requirements and calibration procedures in one standard. The 2017 revision placed conformance requirements for design, manufacture, and use in Part 1, and calibration and uncertainty calculations for calibration providers in Part 2. Each document can therefore address a distinct question, making it easier for readers to identify the evidence they have received.
If your document references the 2003 edition, see Can an ISO 6789:2003 report still be used, and how should it be read?.