NMISA - Department of Trade and Industry

Annual Performance Plan 

2013 - 2015 

NMISA-12-0064 Annual Performance Plan 2013 - 2015 2 

Your measure of excellence

NMISA 

Annual Performance Plan 

2013-2015 

3131 


NMISA-12-0064 Annual Performance Plan 2013 - 2015 1

Foreword by the Minister by the Minister 

It is my pleasure to present the Annual Performance Plan of the National Metrology Institute of 

South Africa (NMISA). As a Technical Infrastructure entity of the dti, NMISA is mandated by the 

Measurement Units and Measurement Standards Act, Act No. 18 of 2006, as the custodian of the 

National Measurement Standards for South Africa, ensures that South African national standards 

and units are internationally comparable and scientifically valid. Allowing the acceptance of 

export products and manufactured goods into overseas markets, locking out substandard and 

unsafe imports and ensures proper analysis in healthcare and law enforcement. 

Measurement forms the basis of international trade. Securing an export contract for trade 

commodities, as an example, requires agreement in the mass and volume of the goods. Trade 

barriers occur when there is no agreement on the measurement, and such barriers can be 

detrimental to enabling trade strategies such as the Industrial Policy Action Plan (IPAP). 

In IPAP, it is emphasised that “the role of Technical Barriers to Trade (TBTs) and Non-Tariff 

Barriers (NTBs) is increasing the relative importance of the technical infrastructure policies and 

institutions. Developed countries and advanced developing countries are increasingly using TBTs 

and NTBs to protect their markets. NMISA is thus pivotal in opening access into export markets, 

which has a direct impact on the job creation thrust of the dti and government. 

NMISA has been successful at launching a major recapitalisation project that will see a leap in 

the technology used in the development and maintenance of the national measurement 

standards, strengthening its value proposition to industry and international markets. New and 

upgraded equipment and plans for a new building will see the institute grow substantially in 

coming years, and will secure NMISA’s position as the authority in measurement which local 

businesses can rely on to assist them in being competitive and in securing access to international 

markets. 

From 2013/14 to 2015/16 there will be a special focus on measurement standards for the priority 

sectors (Green industries, Agro-processing, Metal fabrication, capital and transport equipment) 

and I am looking forward to NMISA contributions to the dti deliverables and the South African 

economy. 

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NMISA-12-0064 Annual Performance Plan 2013 – 2015 2 

NMISA-12-0064 Annual Performance Plan 2013 - 2015

Overview by the Chairperson 

As a public entity institute, NMISA serves the country and its populace. The major objective of 

NMISA is to link the national measurement system to the international measurement system and 

NMISA continues to impact the daily lives of all citizens, even at the level of informal settlements. 

The quality of drinking water, the monitoring of air pollution, food safety, health care and law 

enforcement all require the measurement foundation that NMISA provides. At a higher level, 

accurate measurement is an essential tool for manufacturing, scientific research and 

technological innovation. 

For 2013/14 to 2015/16, the NMISA Board requested NMISA management for a special focus to 

assist not only the formal clients (calibration and analytical laboratories and large industry), but 

small, micro and medium enterprises as well (SMMEs). SMMEs find it increasingly difficult to stay 

abreast of technical infrastructure requirements and developments (quality assurance and 

measurement in particular) and in many cases it is the major factor preventing their success. 

Management responded and identified a need to assist especially the SMMEs in the IPAP priority 

sectors with an intervention in respect of measurements impacting compliance to industry 

specifications, standards and legal requirements for enhanced competitiveness. 

The formal sector and academia will benefit from the modernisation of the equipment of NMISA 

that will provide state-of-the-art measurement support for research and innovation and especially 

national priority projects such as the MeerKAT/Square Kilometer Array (SKA). Other priorities 

such as the development of nanotechnologies, biofuels, pharmaceuticals, environmental 

monitoring, energy efficiency and measurement to ensure food safety are also high on the 

agenda. 

NMISA will also contribute to human resource development in the science of measurement 

(metrology) by presenting special modules in metrology as part of higher education courses, 

provide training in measurement to industry and in general assist the measurement community 

with measurement expertise. 

It is within this context that the Board and management of NMISA presents this Annual 

Performance Plan and commits itself to the outputs and good governance that is necessary to 

deliver on the mandate of NMISA. 



Official Sign-Off 

It is hereby certified that this Annual Performance Plan: 

• Was developed by the management of NMISA under the guidance of the Board and the 

Board Chair, Dr Prins Nevhutalu; 

• Was prepared in line with the current Strategic Plan of NMISA; 

• Accurately reflects the performance targets which NMISA will endeavour to achieve given 

the resources made available in the budget for 2013 - 2015. 

Prepared and compiled by: 

NMISA Directors 

Signature 

Ms Irene Mathatho 

Executive Director Finance and Corporate Services: Signature : 

Mr Benjamin van der Merwe 

Acting Chief Executive Officer 

Accounting Officer 

Signature 

Dr Prins Nevhutalu 

Accounting Authority Signature : 

Dr Rob Davies 

Executive Authority Signature : 

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Executive Summary 

The economic prosperity, health of the population, efficient monitoring of the environment and 

successful law enforcement are directly influenced by the measurement infrastructure and 

services in a country. In order to be accurate and internationally accepted, the national 

measurement infrastructure and services must be linked to the international measurement 

system. This link is provided by the National Metrology Institute of South Africa (NMISA), as 

mandated by the Measurement Units and Measurement Standards Act, Act No. 18 of 2006, to 

apply the International System of Units (SI) in South Africa and to maintain and disseminate the 

National Measurement Standards (NMS). 

The activities of NMISA support the dti’s objectives, the Industrial Policy Action Plan (IPAP) and 

contribute towards the government’s twelve national outcomes. NMISA works closely with the 

other dti Technical Infrastructure (TI) institutes towards a comprehensive standards, quality 

assurance, accreditation and metrology (SQAM) environment that support ‘Locking out’ unsafe 

and poor quality imports and ‘Locking in’ access to increasing demanding export markets. The 

activities of NMISA further support analysis in food, environment and healthcare, measurements 

for law enforcement and the more effective use of natural resources. 

In addition to the basic maintenance of the national measurement standards (NMS), there is an 

increased focus on the provision of advanced measurement assistance to industry sectors such 

as agro-processing, green energy, automotive and manufacturing, chemical, aerospace, metal 

beneficiation and fabrication; plastics and telecommunication. A special programme will assist 

small, micro and medium enterprises (SMMEs) with measurement awareness, training, expert 

advice and appropriate measurement services. 

NMISA faces aged infrastructure and fast developing international measurement system 

challenges, with effect from the 2013/14 financial year, NMISA projects to realise a significant 

growth of transfer funds from the national fiscus to address its recapitalisation project. The above 

funds will be invested towards the PPP Project, adequate plant and equipment for the nature of 

NMISA business and to improve skilled human capacity. This would enable the entity to provide 

quality services to its current client base and to expand the parameters of services offered in line 

with its mandate. 

In the medium term, Internal Audit will focus on reviewing the adequacy of internal controls 

throughout the entity with particular emphasis on those that have financial implications. In line 

with government priorities, audits on performance information will be one of the key focus areas. 

Emphasis will also be put on providing assurance on the integrity of both operational and 

financial information such as organisational performance information and financial reporting. With 

the increase in funding for recapitalisation, NMISA would review the current financial system to 

ensure that it is able to provide the necessary financial reports. 

The successful execution of NMISA’s mandate relies on a competent and sustainable workforce. 

The staff complement will continue to grow parallel to the drive to raise the qualification profile of 

the institute to ensure that the institute is equipped to meet the continuously more stringent 

measurement requirements both locally and internationally. The organisation will continue to 

invest significantly into skills development of employees while building a pool of talent to address 



future skills needs. The revised human capital development plan indicates an aggressive 

increase in the intake of students and graduates into the undergraduate bursary programme, 

studentship (postgraduate bursary programme) and internship programme. The plan also 

emphasises continued support for current staff to enhance their qualifications and to gain 

technical experience through exchange and secondment projects with other national 

measurement institutes (NMIs). Human capital development programmes will play a significant 

role in the transformation of the organisation. NMISA is committed to building an organisation 

which reflects the profile of the South African population. Implementation of said plans will ensure 

a transformed organisation with diverse skills, an enhanced qualification profile and a highperformance 

culture. 

A strong research infrastructure in measurement science is critical to the enhancement of the 

NMS, as well as for the successful initiation and execution of innovation and technical 

development programmes. NMISA is establishing long-term multi-divisional research 

programmes which will support measurement and product development from the design stage to 

advanced contributions for national innovation projects in nanotechnology, biofuels, advanced 

materials and ICT to support national projects such as the SKA. Stronger research and 

development cooperation is foreseen with both national and international science institutes. 

In support of quality of life and especially health and safety and green energy, certified reference 

materials (CRMs) and reference measurements are being developed as critical components to 

safeguard the food we eat and the environment in which we live. This is paramount for agroprocessing 

as food export and locally consumed items need to comply with international laws 

and regulations that stipulate ever stricter limits on pesticides, toxic elements (such as dioxins 

and mycotoxins) and other hazardous substances. Measurement techniques and traceable 

measurements will be made available to commercial laboratories that provide industry with 

reliable measurement values, ensuring the quality and international acceptance of their 

measurement results. Development of these measurements techniques and traceability is 

achieved through extensive collaborations with academia, science institutes and other NMIs, it 

will also serve to enrich the current scarce skills base in the analytical sciences in South Africa. 

Access and use of Information and Communications Technologies (ICTs) is a key requirement to 

social and economic development in South Africa. Increased access to broadband services at 

reduced cost to individuals and businesses is a national priority. Business Process Servicing 

(BPS) has the potential to attract investment and create employment opportunities in the 

economy. An affordable and reliable ICT infrastructure is the most important prerequisite for 

making South Africa a successful BPS destination. NMISA contributes to the current and future 

expansion of South Africa’s ICT industry, by developing and maintaining standards to regulate 

optical fibre and wireless communication systems and to perform diagnostic network tests at high 

accuracy levels. 

In support of the government’s drive to reduce the national energy consumption the NMS will be 

enhanced; this will facilitate more efficient energy usage in buildings, the use of energy efficient 

lighting systems, assist with the elimination of wasteful industrial energy consumption and 

inaccurate billing. For example, these standards will provide users with reliable measurement 

values to establish whether lighting products and building materials satisfy the properties, 

performances and technical specifications required by regulations aimed at improving energy 

efficiency. 

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NMISA, through its Ionising Radiation division (IR), maintains NMS related to ionising radiation 

that enable accurate, traceable measurements of all levels of radioactivity and dose 

measurements from very low to very high, to support the nuclear industry and trade, energy 

efficiency, environmental, health and safety requirements. IR plays an important role in the 

application of ionising radiation in the health sector and extensively supports the ionising 

radiation regulatory bodies in the country. Radionuclide and radiopharmaceutical manufacturers 

are supported through internationally benchmarked measurement methods as a crucial 

component of quality control that facilitates correct diagnoses and radiation doses administered 

to patients. IR is also well established as a regional measurement and traceability hub and is the 

designated regional training centre for Anglophone countries under the African Regional 

Cooperative Agreement for Research, Development & Training related to Nuclear Science & 

Technology (AFRA)/IAEA. 

Physical measurements are fundamental to the manufacturing of high quality goods and services 

and the construction of infrastructure. The Physical Metrology division (PM) is the source of 

measurement traceability for physical measurement parameters not only in South Africa, but also 

in sub-Saharan Africa. To maintain this status and in support of IPAP, PM will modernise its aged 

facilities with a special focus to provide fit-for-purpose measurement standards in Mass and 

Related Quantities (volume, pressure, force, toque and hardness), Acoustics, Ultrasound, 

Vibration and Length measurements, in support of especially automotive and transport 

equipment manufacturing sectors. 

The Technical Infrastructure Development (TID) division of NMISA strives to increase the impact 

of accurate measurement at all levels of society and to manage the relationship and obligations 

of NMISA within the Metre Convention and related international bodies. There is a specific drive 

to develop new business through assistance to large industry and all exporters to meet 

measurement needs and targeted assistance to SMMEs, especially automotive component 

manufacturers, to meet the technical specifications as preferred suppliers. 

Technical cooperation with the metrology institutes of the BRIC countries will be improved on 

issues of joint concern, such as to provide accurate measurement for biofuels, nanotechnology 

and metals fabrication. Specific metrology development projects are also planned with other 

NMIs in the region to assist intra-regional trade. 

The NMISA will also contribute to human capital development in metrology by presenting special 

modules in metrology as part of higher education courses and to develop special courses in 

metrology for SMMEs. 



ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS 

AFRIMETS 

AFRA 

AMI 

APMP 

BIPM 

BRIC 

CC 

CGPM 

CIE 

CIPM 

CMC 

CMM 

COTII 

CRM 

the dti 

EE 

EHS 

GDP 

HCD 

HEI 

IAEA 

ICT 

IEC 

IPAP 

IR 

ISO 

JCRB 

KCDB 

KPI 

LED 

MEA 

MRA 

MTEF 

NCCM 

NEDLAC 

NIP 

NMI 


NMS 

NNR 

NRCS 

NRL 

NRF 

OEM 

Intra-Africa Metrology System 

African Regional Cooperative Agreement for Research, Development & 

Training related to Nuclear Science & Technology 

Advanced Metals Initiative 

Asian Pacific Metrology Programme 

International Bureau of Weights and Measures 

Brazil, Russia, India and China 

Consultative committee 

General Conference on Weights and Measures 

International Commission on Illumination 

International Committee for Weights and Measures 

Calibration and Measurement Capabilities 

Co-ordinate Measuring Machine 

Committee of Trade and Industry Institutions 

Certified Reference Material 

Department of Trade & Industry 

Employment Equity 

Environment, Health and Safety 

Gross Domestic Profit 

Human Capital Development 

Higher Education Institutions 

International Atomic Energy Agency 

Information and Communication Technology 

International Electro technical Committee 

Industrial Policy Action Plan 

Ionising Radiation 

International Standards Organisation 

Joint Committee of Regional Metrology Organisations and the BIPM 

Key Comparison Database 

Key Performance Indicator 

Light Emitting Diode 

Multilateral Environment Agreements 

Mutual Recognition Arrangement 

Medium Term Expenditure Framework 

National Committee on Chemicals Management 

National Economic Development and Labour Council 

National Industrial Participation 

National Metrology Institute 

National Metrology Institute of South Africa 

National Measurement Standard 

National Nuclear Regulator 

National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications 

National Reference Laboratory 

National Research Foundation 

Original Equipment Manufacturer 

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OIML 

PFMA 

POP 

PPP 

PRGMs 

PTS 

RISDP 

RMO 

SA 

SAAQIS 

SABS 

SADC 

SADCMET 

SANAS 

SANS 

SI 

SMME 

SME 

SQAM 

TBT 

TC 

TEI 

UNIDO 

WG 

International Organisation of Legal Metrology 

Public Finance Management Act 

Persistent Organic Pollutant 

Purchasing Power Parity 

Primary Reference Gas Mixtures 

Proficiency Testing Schemes 

Regional Indicative Strategic Development Plan 

Regional Metrology Organisation 

South Africa 

South African Air Quality Information System 

South African Bureau of Standards 

Southern African Development Community 

SADC Cooperation in Measurement Traceability 

South African National Accreditation System 

South African National Standards 

International System of Units 

Small, Micro and Medium Enterprise 

Small and Medium Enterprise 

Standards, Quality Assurance, Accreditation and Metrology 

Technical Barrier to Trade 

Technical Committee 

Tertiary Education Institute 

United Nations Development Organisation 

Working Group 



Contents 

ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS ................................................................................... 8 

1 Vision ...................................................................................................................... 13 

2 Mission .................................................................................................................... 13 

3 Values ...................................................................................................................... 13 

4 Organisational Goals and Strategic Objectives ................................................... 13 

5 Products and Services ........................................................................................... 14 

5.1 Products ................................................................................................................ 14 

5.2 Services ................................................................................................................ 15 

5.3 Research .............................................................................................................. 15 

6 Legislation, Policy and Functional Mandates ....................................................... 15 

6.1 Legislative Mandate .............................................................................................. 15 

6.2 Policy mandates .................................................................................................... 16 

6.2.1 The dti Industrial Policy Action Plan (IPAP) – Developmental Trade Policies 

………………………………………………………………………………………………...…16 

6.3 Functional Mandate............................................................................................... 16 

7 Situational Analysis................................................................................................ 17 

7.1 Performance Environment ..................................................................................... 17 

7.1.1 The International and Regional Environments and their requirements ........... 17 

7.1.2 The Measurement Environment ..................................................................... 19 

7.1.3 The National Environment .............................................................................. 19 

7.2 Organisational Environment .................................................................................. 21 

7.2.1 Internal Business Review ............................................................................... 22 

7.2.2 International Benchmarking............................................................................ 24 

7.2.3 Organisational Growth and Development ....................................................... 25 

7.3 Description of the strategic planning process ........................................................ 28 

8 Strategic Outcome Orientated Goals of the NMISA ............................................. 29 

8.1 Physical Metrology Division ................................................................................... 29 

8.2 Ionising Radiation Division .................................................................................... 30 

8.3 Electricity and Magnetism Division ........................................................................ 30 

8.4 Chemistry Division ................................................................................................ 31 

8.5 Research & Technology Development (RTD) Division .......................................... 32 

8.6 Technical Infrastructure Development Division ...................................................... 32 

8.7 Finance and Corporate Services Division .............................................................. 32 

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8.8 Specific Goals and Objectives of the NMISA Divisions .......................................... 33 

9 Alignment of Key Technical Programmes to the dti priorities ............................ 41 

9.1 Contribution to Quality of Life ................................................................................ 41 

9.2 Contribution to Manufacturing and Industrial Development, including IPAP and 

SMMEs ................................................................................................................. 42 

9.3 Contribution to Trade and Commerce ................................................................... 44 

9.4 Contribution to Safety and Security ....................................................................... 45 

9.5 Contribution to Energy Saving and Green Energies .............................................. 46 

9.6 Contribution to Environmental Protection .............................................................. 48 

9.7 Contribution to Food Safety ................................................................................... 50 

9.8 Contribution to Information and Telecommunications ............................................ 50 

9.9 Contribution to Regional Development .................................................................. 51 

10 Risk Management ................................................................................................... 53 

11 Performance Plan Matrix ........................................................................................ 54 

11.1 Stakeholder and Customer Perspective ................................................................ 55 

11.2 Organisational (learning and growth) perspective ................................................. 56 

11.3 Financial and Business Perspectives .................................................................... 57 

11.4 Detailed Performance Indicators ........................................................................... 58 

11.4.1 National Measurement Standards .................................................................. 59 

11.4.2 Calibration and Measurement Capabilities ..................................................... 61 

11.4.3 Measurement Services .................................................................................. 62 

11.4.4 Skills transfer ................................................................................................. 64 

11.4.5 Scientific outputs ............................................................................................ 66 

11.4.6 Human Resources ......................................................................................... 68 

11.4.7 Audit Controls ................................................................................................ 69 

12 Financial Plan ......................................................................................................... 72 

12.1 MTEF Projections ................................................................................................. 72 

12.2 Recapitalisation of the National Measurement Standards ..................................... 76 

12.3 MTEF allocation .................................................................................................... 77 

Appendix A: The SI Units and National Measurement Standards ........................................ 78 

Appendix B: The Base Units as maintained by NMISA ........................................................ 79 

Appendix C: Gazetted National Measurement Standards .................................................... 80 

Appendix D: Certified Reference Material Register ............................................................. 84 

Appendix E: International measurement equivalence .......................................................... 86 



Appendix F: Divisional activities / key projects in support of the NMISA 3 year strategy and 

performance plan. ............................................................................................................... 87 

Appendix G: Fraud Prevention Plan .................................................................................. 103 

Appendix H: Risk Plan....................................................................................................... 114 


Appendix F: Divisional activities / key projects in support of the NMISA 3 year strategy and 

performance plan. ............................................................................................................... 87 

Appendix G: Fraud Prevention Plan .................................................................................. 103 

Appendix H: Risk Plan....................................................................................................... 114 

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1 Vision 

To be a measurement centre of excellence inspired to consistently deliver outstanding, 

innovative and international comparable measurement solutions that support the country’s trade, 

people’s quality of life and enable the protection of the environment. 

2 Mission 

To provide South African industry and environmental, health and safety sectors with fit-forpurpose 

measurement standards and measurements. This is achieved by keeping and 

maintaining the national measurement standards and units to an acceptable international 

standard; and by disseminating traceability to the South African industry. 

3 Values 

• Measurement excellence 

• Social responsibility 

• Economic prosperity 

• Good Governance 

4 Organisational Goals and Strategic Objectives 

The National Metrology Institute of South Africa (NMISA) is guided overall by five goals; namely, 

Goal 1: 

Goal 2: 

Goal 3: 

Goal 4: 

Goal 5: 

Ensure that South Africa maintains national measurement standards; and 

demonstrates their comparability to other national and international standards 

and measurements. 

Build and maintain an internationally recognised national metrology system as the 

foundation for the South African measurement system. 

Strengthen the metrology system as a key component of the Technical 

Infrastructure that is aligned with international best practice. 

Provide essential support to South African enterprises competing in a fast-paced 

global economy and provide appropriate assistance to SMMEs to enable their 

acceptance in the formal supply chain. 

Provide essential support for public policy objectives with regard to measurement 

compliance issues in terms of health, safety and the environment. 



The NMISA is guided overall by eight strategic objectives; namely: 

1. Keep and maintain the equipment necessary for bringing national measurement 

standards and certify reference materials into being. 

2. Upgrade the existing measurement standards, develop new measurement standards 

and reference materials in line with the requirements of commerce and industry. 

3. Establish confidence in the accuracy of the national measurement standards by 

suitable and documented verification processes. 

4. Disseminate traceability, measurement expertise and services to South African 

commerce and industry by means of calibration, measurement or analysis, certified 

reference materials, appropriate technology and skills transfer, especially to SMMEs. 

5. Establish and maintain the necessary expertise and competence according to 

internationally acceptable standards. 

6. Recapitalise and modernise the NMISA to ensure the NMS supports international trade, 

health, environmental and safety requirements. 

7. Participate and represent South Africa regionally and internationally with reference to 

traceability and measurement issues and maintain close links with the CIPM and 

associated activities of the Metre Convention. 

8. Adhere to sound corporate governance. 

5 Products and Services 

As the custodian of the national measurement units and NMS, NMISA maintains and ensures the 

appropriate application of the International System of Units (SI) and other measurement units for 

the country (Appendix A). NMISA also keeps, maintains and disseminates the gazetted NMS 

(Appendix C). This role is performed through various products and services: 

5.1 Products 

National Measurement Standards (NMS): NMISA maintains 42 gazetted national measurement 

standards (Government Gazette 27269 of 18 February 2005). These standards underpin the 

South African measurement system and facilitate national traceability of measurements to the SI, 

or to other international agreed references. During the APP period, the number of gazetted NMS 

is anticipated to increase to 50. 

Reference Measurements: NMISA maintains a number of reference measurements in a number 

of parameters through which the NMS is disseminated. These methods are verified and 

validated, and most are underpinned by internationally published Calibration and Measurement 

Capabilities (CMCs). Method development is on-going for expansion of existing scope. 

Certified Reference Materials (CRMs): CRMs are ‘controls’ or standards used during the 

analysis and/or quality assurance process (mostly calibration of analytical equipment). Accredited 

laboratories performing analysis are required to use CRMs to ensure traceability of their results. 

These CRMs typically are produced under stringent manufacturing procedures that are part of an 

accredited quality system with traceability of the data provided (to the NMS and ultimately the SI). 

The highest order CRMs are usually produced and certified under the jurisdiction of a national 

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metrology body. The full list of Chemistry CRMs is detailed in the Chemistry Reference Materials 

and Measurements Register, attached in Appendix C. 

5.2 Services 

Calibrations: Delivering direct traceability to the national measurement standards, the NMISA 

serves the accredited calibration laboratories by performing calibrations to the highest accuracy 

(smallest uncertainty). NMISA holds accreditation to ISO/IEC 17025 for most of the parameters 

and ranges that it offers calibration services for. Calibration is also provided directly to industry in 

cases where there are no accredited calibration laboratories, or the desired accuracy can only be 

provided by NMISA. 

Certification of Reference Materials: NMISA has built capability to value assign chemical 

samples and gas mixtures for customers, including purity. Purity assignment is a core 

competency requirement for all NMIs involved in metrology in chemistry. This capability allows 

NMISA to produce pure standard CRMs or calibration solutions that are internationally 

recognised and accepted. 

Measurements, testing and analysis: NMISA offers advanced measurement services to 

industry. This includes method development for customers, assistance with problem solving and 

analysis in support of research projects. 

Training: The expertise residing in the staff of NMISA is an important contribution to the 

development of a skilled and capable workforce through training in measurement science. Where 

and when required, NMISA assists especially SANAS and the NLA with training courses. Special 

development projects aim to assist SMMEs have been created and are being rolled out. NMISA 

staff is also involved as invited lecturers in graduate and post-graduate academic courses. 

5.3 Research 

Research that underpins the NMS involves collaborative associations and projects with 

Government, Science Institutes and Academia and sources external revenue through these 

collaborative associations and projects. Acknowledging that there is a wealth of analytical need, 

NMISA prioritised activities and focuses on three or four thrusts, aligned with IPAP, that include 

environmental monitoring (persistent organic pollutants and air pollution monitoring), food safety 

(nutritional content and contaminants), photonics (ICT, etc.), nanotechnology, measurements 

related to biofuels and the development of measurement equipment and solutions fit-for-purpose 

for developing or rural areas. 

6 Legislation, Policy and Functional Mandates 

6.1 Legislative Mandate 

NMISA was established under the Measurement Units and Measurement Standards Act, No 18 

of 2006 (The Measurement Act). 



To provide for the use of measurement units of the International System of Units (SI) and certain 

other measurement units; to provide for the designation of the national measurement units and 

standards; to provide for the keeping and maintenance of the national measurement standards 

and units and to provide for the establishment and functions of the National Metrology Institute of 

South Africa (NMISA). 

6.2 Policy Mandates 

6.2.1 The dti Industrial Policy Action Plan (IPAP):Developmental Trade Policies 

Specific statements and objectives as mentioned in IPAP that guided the preparation of this 

document include: 

1. The Technical Infrastructure policies and institutions need re-orientation to have broad 

strategic thrusts: 

• ‘Locking out’ unsafe and poor quality imports 

• ‘Locking in’ access to increasing demanding export markets 

• Therefore, the technical infrastructure institutions are required to re-prioritise 

their activities to support the development, accreditation and enforcement of 

standards that can create, scale-up and resuscitate certain industries while 

simultaneously contributing to broader social benefits. 

2. Technical Infrastructure entities are required to support more actively export markets 

access by assisting exporting firms to meet the increasing demanding standards of 

advanced countries. 

• need to play an increasing role in addressing energy and water-efficiency 

imperatives, at the household and industry level 

3. A sound Technical Infrastructure plays a significant role in the economy in two ways: 

• assists firms to adopt and meet the quality standards necessary to compete 

in global markets 

• assists in ensuring that low-quality imports do not undercut the productive 

base of the South African manufacturing sector 

4. The ability to manufacture to specific requirements is critical in many advanced 

sectors. 

5. It is these measurement-based capabilities that are key criteria for potential players to 

become members of the global supply chains. 

6.3 Functional Mandate 

South Africa is a signatory to the Metre Convention, a treaty dating back to 1875. Under this 

Convention the International Bureau of Weights and Measures (BIPM) was created to act in 

matters of world metrology, particularly concerning the demand for measurement standards of 

ever increasing accuracy, range and diversity, as well as to address the need to demonstrate 

equivalence between national measurement standards. The International System of Units (SI) 

was also established under the Metre Convention. 

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South Africa signed the International Committee for Weights and Measures (CIPM) Mutual 

Recognition Arrangement (MRA) in 1999. The CIPM MRA was a response to a growing need for 

an open, transparent and comprehensive scheme to give users reliable quantitative information 

on the comparability of national metrology services and to provide the technical basis for wider 

agreements negotiated for international trade, commerce and regulatory affairs. It is the basis for 

the international acceptance of national measurement standards and for calibration and 

measurement certificates issued by National Metrology Institutes (NMIs). 

7 Situational Analysis 

As the custodian of the NMS in accordance with the Measurement Act, NMISA develops and 

maintains primary and secondary standards (chemical and physical quantities) for South Africa 

and compares those standards with international standards to determine their equivalence and 

ensure global comparability. These standards are disseminated to the South African industry 

through a range of services and products and in the case of a measurement dispute, reference 

analyses are provided to ensure conformity. 

Technological advances over the past decade are placing stringent demands on metrology. New 

areas in metrology, such as nanotechnology, optical techniques, quantum-based technologies, 

material sciences, etc. are developing rapidly and require new measurement methods and 

measurement standards. In response, NMIs are investing more funds into research activities and 

are actively pursuing opportunities for collaboration with their peers in order to pool resources. 

NMISA engages in research towards the improvement of existing standards and to facilitate the 

development of new measurement standards to address emerging national needs. 

7.1 Performance Environment 

7.1.1 The International and Regional Environments and their requirements 

As signatory of the Metre Convention, South Africa follows the SI system, as per the rules laid 

down for the base units, derived units, use of references and other matters by the General 

Conference on Weights and Measures (CGPM). 

The International System of Units (SI) 

The International System of Units - "Système International d'Unités" or SI units, was established 

in 1960 by the 11th General Conference on Weights and Measures (CGPM).The seven base 

units are a choice of seven well-defined units which by convention are regarded as 

dimensionally independent: 

• the metre, the kilogram, the second, the ampere, the kelvin, the mole, the candela 

Derived units are those formed by combining base units according to the algebraic relations 

linking the corresponding quantities. The names and symbols of some of the units thus formed 

can be replaced by special names and symbols which can themselves be used to form 

expressions and symbols of other derived units. 



The CIPM has established a number of Consultative Committees (CCs), 10 in total, to oversee 

and arrange for the comparison of national measurement standards (see Figure 1). The CCs 

bring together the world's experts in their specified fields as advisers on scientific and technical 

matters and are pivotal in the arrangement of key comparisons that compare the measurement 

capabilities and determine the measurement equivalence of national measurement standards. 

NMISA has full membership to 9 of the 10 CCs. Membership of a CC is open to institutions of 

Member States of the BIPM that are recognised internationally as an expert in that field. This 

normally requires that they: 

• be national laboratories charged with establishing national measurement standards in the 

field; 

• realise, keep and maintain primary standards; 

• be active in research and have a record of recent publications in research journals of 

international repute; 

• have demonstrated competence by a record of participation in international comparisons 

organised either by the CCs, the BIPM or a regional metrology organisation (RMO). 

NMISA play a key role in the establishment of measurement traceability and the international 

equivalence there-of, sitting at the interface between the national and international systems. The 

expanding global trade and pressure to eliminate technical barriers to trade (TBTs) creates a 

constant demand for greater accountability and demonstrated competence in NMIs. 

Figure 1. The CIPM Consultative Committees 

18 



NMISA plays a leading role in the development of metrology infrastructure in Africa, especially in 

support of South Africa’s immediate neighbours in SADC. A sound measurement structure is 

critical to the successful implementation of regional free trade agreements and elimination of 

TBTs. This role is emphasised in the dti’s strategic goals and the South African contribution 

establish harmonised regional standards. 

7.1.2 The Measurement Environment 

Participation in international activities at CC and Technical Committee (TC) level are imperative. 

These interactions serve to benchmark South Africa’s capability to compete in measurement 

equivalence that directly impacts on our ability to disseminate traceability to the country. In order 

to do this, metrologists have to be extremely proficient at measurement science and techniques. 

This requires time and effort as it takes three to five years to master the art of metrology to the 

level where international participation is meaningful. It also requires sophisticated techniques, 

time and money and very good planning to align with the international call for participation and 

the availability of scientists and resources in the laboratory. This has to be balanced with national 

collaborative projects and research projects that are on-going as part of the performance 

requirements in each laboratory. 

The pool of young black professionals is not yet adequate and the qualification profile and 

availability of young black scientists must be improved. Therefore a training plan is in place for 

each metrologist, whether experienced or new to the field. 

7.1.3 The National Environment 

The NMS maintained and disseminated by NMISA underpins and/or supports directly and 

indirectly the daily activities of South Africa on almost all levels. This role is expanded to the 

continent and the NMISA has established itself as the leader in metrology in Africa, where it 

provides the link to the international measurement system (measurement traceability) to most of 

sub-Saharan Africa. 



Figure 2. The dti's Technical Infrastructure Institutes 

As one of the dti’s Technical Infrastructure (TI) entities, the activities of NMISA are critical to the 

success of the other TI’s is illustrated in Figure 32. Standardisation, metrology, conformity 

assessment and accreditation are the key issues in the implementation of free trade agreements 

between countries/economic trade blocks. The NMISA plays a role in providing technical support 

for many other acts and regulations, ranging from the Occupational Health and Safety Act (Act 85 

of 1993) to the Atomic Energy Act (Act 90 of 1967). It serves the more than 1300 accredited 

laboratories in South Africa and provides measurement and measurement assistance to over 400 

industrial companies. 

The national significance of NMISA is illustrated in Figure 3. NMISA is not only the link between 

the international measurement system and the South African measurement system, but in the 

vertical integration allows for South African measurements to be accepted in international trade 

and for South Africa to have a credible domestic measurement system to facilitate and ensure 

trade, commerce, manufacturing, services and consumer and environmental protection. 

20 



National 

Metrology Institute 

(Measurement Standards 

and MEasurement Units) 

• To ensure international 

equivalence of measurement 

standards 

• To safeguard and disseminate the 

national standars 

Traceability Chain 

Accredited Laboratories 

National Regulator 

Standardised methods; Directives 

Equipment and Instrument Manufacturers 

Quality Control / Quality Assurance 

• National Legislative and Regulatory 

Framework 

• Standards, Regulations and 

Directives 

• Supervision of test equipment / 

analytical instrumentation 

• Calibration and Testing Services 

and Instruments 

Market Place: Products and End Users 

Industry and Manufacturing 

Quality of Life and Health 

Environmental Monitoring 

Agricultural Practices and Food Safety 

Medical Services 

• Production, Services & Compliance 

• Customer satisfaction 

• Customer safety 

• Peace of mind 

Accuracy and Uncertainty of Measurement 

Figure 3. Measurement pyramid for traceability of measurements from NMISA to the market place 

7.2 Organisational Environment 

NMISA is a Type 3A public entity managed by a Chief Executive Officer (CEO) supported by an 

executive management team and is governed by the NMISA Board. 

NMISA manages its technical activities through four technical divisions, namely Physical 

Metrology, Electricity and Magnetism (EM), Ionising Radiation (IR) and Chemistry, which are 

supported by the Research &, Technology Development (RTD), Technology Infrastructure 

Development (TID) and Finance and Corporate Services divisions. The organisational structure 

is mapped out in Figure 4. 

The technical activities of NMISA are mapped onto the international metrology structures, 

especially the 10 CCs of the CIPM. Cross-cutting initiatives such as materials metrology and 

environmental metrology allows for the use of expertise from different technical divisions to 

contribute to national priorities such as nanotechnology and environmental monitoring in support 

of climate change programmes. 

NMISA adheres to a total quality management system and the environmental health and safety 

(EHS) practitioner and supporting structures handle all matters relating to health and safety of 

staff, from ensuring a safe working environment; identification of laboratory and workplace 

hazards/aspects and ensure environmental sustainability, through training of staff in safety 

awareness; inspections; and compliance with the relevant legislation. 

NMISA-12-0064 Annual Performance Plan 2013 - 2015 

21 

NMISA-12-0064 Annual Performance Plan 2013 – 2015 21

Figure 4. NMISA Organisational Structure 

NMISA has identified the regulatory requirements applicable to its services operations and 

products in order to maintain regulatory compliance. NMISA is in the process of seeking 

certification of its occupational health and safety (OH&S) and EHS management system guided 

by ISO 14001 and OHSAS 18001 which specifies requirements for Environmental management 

systems (EMS) and an OH&S management system, to enable NMISA to control its OH&S 

risks/environmental aspects and improve its OH&S and EMS performance. 

7.2.1 Internal Business Review 

NMISA’s ability to develop new NMS and to maintain and/or improve the existing NMS to levels 

required by industry is under threat from an ageing infrastructure. This includes the NMS as well 

as the building infrastructure. 

The NMS and other standards are continually reviewed to ensure that they still meet the needs of 

the South African industry through engagement with industry and other stakeholders through 

technical advisory forums and participation in national interest forums. “Typically the accuracy 

required of national measurement standards doubles every ten years.” With doubling 

requirement, modern metrology laboratories need to be custom built with advanced 

environmental control; clean power supplies; surgical grade clean rooms and anti-vibration 

flooring. Infrastructure should further be designed and planned in such a way that it can be 

upgraded at regular intervals to meet increasing stringent environmental conditions and to stay 

abreast of technology developments in measurement sciences. 

22 



To successfully fulfil its mandate, NMISA has to ensure that the equipment and facility 

infrastructure that supports the NMS are maintained and upheld. This implicates a continued 

investment in the required infrastructure. 

The measurement infrastructure in the country unfortunately did not keep 

up with modern developments and the export industry is increasingly 

faced with the inability of the local measurement system to provide the 

analysis and traceability needed for exports. 

With almost 60% of the equipment that makes up the NMS being between 10-30 years old, the 

NMS are not only becoming obsolete, but cannot achieve the measurement levels that our 

industry requires. In the Chemistry division the life-cycle of instruments is short due to the rate at 

which technology changes internationally, and the rate at which allowable residue values of 

contaminants in foodstuffs and other products are being decreased. The measurement needs 

and tolerances of the fast-advancing ICT industry also increase exponentially. The result is that 

at least 70% of the instrumentation at NMISA will be obsolete in three to five years. 

The ageing NMS impacts negatively on NMISA’s ability to fully deliver on its mandate, and 

results in the following challenges which need to be addressed in the next few years: 

• Inability to perform measurements at the required accuracy and measurement 

uncertainty level: Technology advances allowing industry to improve their 

measurements, increase the pressure on the metrology institute to have measurements 

of a higher order (higher accuracy) as industry to ensure that it can provide traceability. 

• Lack of support by suppliers: Suppliers typically will support equipment for 5 years, 

where-after they consider the electronics and software to be out-dated and they will not 

maintain it anymore. 

• Increased maintenance cost and time: With equipment not supported by suppliers, or 

any other external party, metrologists have to maintain instruments themselves. The 

sourcing of parts also becomes a challenge as equipment becomes older. 

• IT compatibility issues: Software platforms require regular periodical updates. It is not 

possible to update the software or the platform of older equipment that are no longer 

supported by its manufacturer. 

NMISA is located on the CSIR’s Scientia Campus in Pretoria. NMISA still occupies the metrology 

laboratories, as when the CSIR took occupation of the site in the late 1950’s. With no major 

building infrastructure investment in its history (NMISA became a tenant to the premises in 2007) 

the building infrastructure has reached its technical limit of modifications. 

NMISA has reached an infrastructure crossroad, as new equipment can’t be operated at the level 

desired for measurement traceability. Better environmental conditions, a modern layout and 

state-of-the art equipment are needed to maintain and keep NMS and ensure industry remains 

globally competitive. To address the issue, NMISA has motivated strongly for a re-capitalisation 

project to modernise the NMISA, a project was registered at National Treasury for a feasibility 

study towards re-capitalisation and additional funding of R50m allocated for 2013/14 and R100m 

for 2014/15 was secured. 



7.2.2 International Benchmarking 

To assist in developing a well-informed strategy plan, the current NMISA profile was compared 

with sister NMIs to evaluate resources, inputs and outputs. A number of NMIs were selected 

based on their similar status to the NMISA and the SA economy. The survey included staff 

compilation, budgets, resources, outputs and more. 

Total budget and total staff are compared in 

Figure 5. The budget/staff comparison indicates that the NMISA has one of the lowest effective 

budgets per staff member. The total budgets are in US$ as provided by participating NMIs and 

for the budget/staff comparisons, a purchasing power parity (PPP) conversion was applied (as 

per World Development Indicator Database). Also, for Brazil (INMETRO) the total institute staff 

and budget is used (not only the scientific metrology department) and the data for Germany 

(PTB) only includes permanent staff and excludes of ‘project money’. For the USA (NIST) the 

data only includes permanent staff (excl. post-docs and guest workers) from the total NIST 

budget. 

2500 

Total Staff Total budget (million US$) Budget ($)/staff 

300 

Total number (Staff, Budget) 

2000 

1500 

1000 

500 

0 

0 

RSA Canada France Korea Brazil China UK Germany USA 

Country 

Figure 5. Comparison of Total Staff and Total Budget of selected NMIs, with budget/staff adjusted 

by the purchasing power parity for each country. 

250 

200 

150 

100 

50 

Country-adjusted budget / staff 

member ('000 $) 

Technical outputs are compared in Figure 6. Considering that the NMISA is one of the smaller 

NMIs and that it has the smallest effective budget, the NMISA’s CMCs compares well with the 

other NMIs. If one evaluates the other NMIs, most of them are research institutes with a focus on 

measurement sciences and a full suite of primary standards, or the metrology laboratory is part of 

a larger institute (Canada and France), with the other laboratories contributing to the NMS 

research. 

The international benchmarking confirmed that the NMISA compares well with similar NMIs in 

some areas, but lacks behind in others. NMISA is well established with a high CMC ratio, but the 

NMISA is lagging behind in some parameters, mainly in input resources: staff qualification and 

budget available for its activities. 

24 



Number of outputs 

2500 

2000 

1500 

1000 

500 

0 

# of peer reviewed publications 

# of CMCs in KCBD 

Papers per staff ratio 

Brazil RSA Canada UK China France Korea Germany USA 

Country 

1.4 

1.2 

1.0 

0.8 

0.6 

0.4 

0.2 

0.0 

Ratio papers published / staff member 

Figure 6. Comparison of technical outputs: CMCs in the KCDB and peer reviewed publications per 

year. 

7.2.3 Organisational Growth and Development 

The sustainability of NMISA’s activities and its ability to deliver measurement solutions to South 

Africa lies in its staff. Human capital is the key asset of the NMISA, and their development and 

the creation of a pipeline of future metrologists are high on the organisational agenda. See Figure 

7 for organisational growth. 

The organisation has grown in size as projects to develop and support national measurement 

standards have grown in number and depth over the years. With measurement standard 

demands on-going, the organisation will continue to grow and expand to meet new and more 

stringent requirements, as well as putting plans in place to move into new metrology areas. 

The projected growth furthermore incorporates two major components: enhancing the NMISA 

qualification profile, and addressing employment equity. 

In the development towards a more modern NMI with a strong research and development 

component, the qualification profile of NMISA has to be addressed. Projects to enhance the 

profile include both the internal development of staff, as well as dedicated bursary and postgraduate 

studentship schemes. Four (4) staff in the internal development project will obtain their 

PhD degrees in the next 2-3 years, while some staff holding MSc degrees has been identified for 

the programme, in line with proposed measurement projects. The target qualification profile is 

projected in Figure 8. 

NMISA will continue to focus on recruiting black professionals as the institute’s employment 

equity profile is lagging behind set targets. This is due to a limited pool of suitably trained black 

professionals, as well as an outflow of newly trained metrologists to calibration laboratories and 

industry. Various programmes have been implemented to address employment equity and to 

boost the recruitment and retention of black professionals. The projected employment equity 

profile, based on the Gauteng demographic profile, is illustrated in Figure 9. Evaluating past 

trends in staff turn-turnover percentages, the demographics of the resignations, upcoming 



etirements and ability to appoint skilled black professionals, a growth rate of 3 to 4% per year is 

projected, leading to transformed workplace by 2015/16. 

An undergraduate bursary and post-graduate studentship programme was launched in 2011/12, 

to start the internal development of a pipeline of young black researchers who will be assigned to 

specific projects where senior researchers to mentor and guide them through their study 

programmes, while also contributing to the technical development of national measurement 

standards. The program targets five (5) bursaries and five (5) studentships, which will be 

expanded as and when NMISA establishes additional sources of funding from national initiatives 

and collaborative projects. 

The HCD programmes include: 

• Internship programme 

• Contract researcher programme 

• Post-graduate studentship programme 

• ‘Shadow’ and mentoring programmes 

Other programmes that will be implemented in the next few years include: 

• Staff exchange opportunities 

• Higher qualifications in metrology from international tertiary institutions 

• Participation in national HCD initiatives 

• Structured vacation work programmes 

Number of Staff 

140 

120 

100 

80 

60 

40 

Total staff 

Black Prof (%) 

70 

60 

50 

40 

30 

20 

% Black Professionals 

20 

10 

0 

2007/08 2008/09 2009/10 2010/11 2011/12 2012/13 2013/14 2014/15 2015/16 

Financial Year 

Figure 7. Organisational growth 

0 

26 



50 

45 

% PhD % MSc % B Degree % Other 

% Staff 

40 

35 

30 

25 

20 

15 

10 

5 

0 

2007/08 2008/09 2009/10 2010/11 2011/12 2012/13 2013/14 2014/15 2015/16 


Figure 8. Projection of staff qualification profile 

100 

% African % Indian % Coloured % White 

90 

19 

Employement Equity (%) 

80 

70 

60 

50 

40 

30 

20 

10 

64 

29 

57 56 55 

36 38 39 

51 

43 

47 43 40 38 

48 51 53 56 

74 

0 

2007/08 2008/09 2009/10 2010/11 2011/12 2012/13 2013/14 2014/15 2015/16 Gauteng 


Figure 9. Employment Equity / Staff demographics. 

The technical staff complement has remained stagnant in recent years as support structures had 

to be put into place post May 2007 to address compliance and corporate requirements. The King 

III Code of Good Conduct impresses a need to increase the support staff complement to ensure 

that NMISA has sufficient resources to meet the requirements and regulations as stipulated. The 

changing support vs. technical staff complement is illustrated in Figure 10. 



100 

90 

Pipeline Support Technical 

84 

86 

88 

90 

80 

74 73 

76 76 75 

Number of staff 

70 

60 

50 

40 

32 

35 36 36 36 

30 

25 

16 

18 

20 

20 

14 

16 

19 19 19 

10 

8 

10 

2 

8 

0 

2007/08 2008/09 2009/10 2010/11 2011/12 2012/13 2013/14 2014/15 2015/16 


Figure 10. Organisational growth, shown per staff category and pipeline development 

7.3 Description of the strategic planning process 

NMISA has looked both internally and externally as part of its strategic planning process, 

consulting its shareholders, the dti, and monitoring national priorities and programmes, to 

determine possible and probably emerging needs. NMISA’s Board also plays a critical role in the 

strategic guidance of the organisation. In addition, industry and academia gives high-level inputs 

and advice through the Technical Committee’s External Consultative Forum. 

Further to this, strategic input into NMISA activities occurs at three distinct levels: 

• National, with input from stakeholders and associates in South Africa 

• Regional and Continental, with input from stakeholders across the African continent 

• International, where, due to the mandate of NMISA, work inherently requires liaison with 

other NMIs, the CCs and the BIPM. 

This strategic review specifically included: 

• Internal business review of all technical and support divisions 

• Presentations to NMISA Board Committees 

• Industry inputs through technical advisory forums for all the parameters 

• Alignment of activities to the 12 key government outcomes 

• International trends and directives, as per feedback from meetings of the CIPM/BIPM and 

other specialist forums 

• International benchmarking against other NMIs 

This process ensures that NMISA’s activities support and contribute to key social, economic and 

environmental needs and the institute aligned its activities to support the dti’s strategic 

objectives. 

28 



8 Strategic Outcome Orientated Goals of the NMISA 

The technical activities of NMISA are structured into technical divisions, which are supported by 

Research & Technology Development and Technical Infrastructure Development divisions for 

cross-cutting projects. 

8.1 Physical Metrology Division 

Physical measurements are fundamental to the manufacturing of high quality goods and services 

and the construction of infrastructure. The division has positioned itself as the source of 

measurement traceability for physical measurement parameters not only in South Africa, but also 

in Sub-Saharan Africa. This is achieved through fit-for-purpose measurement standards in Mass 

and Related Quantities, Acoustics, Ultrasound, Vibration and Length measurements by using 

internationally recognised methods and calibration procedures. 

The division is however challenged by aged equipment. With 46% of the laboratories’ standards 

and other critical equipment older than 10 years, and no longer supported by their respective 

manufacturers, a number of the standards must be refurbished, upgraded or replaced. The 

division’s leading position in the region will be maintained through a programme of modernisation 

of the measurement standards in Physical Metrology as part of the re-capitalisation of NMISA. 

This will include focussed capital investment, while ensuring the necessary skills development 

occurs in parallel. 

CMCs will be improved and maintained to ensure international equivalence of measurements at 

a level of accuracy that is suitable for the South African industry, as well as the regional market. 

Continued research will further develop the NMS and to continually reduce the uncertainty of 

measurement. There will be a special focus on dimensional measurements related to 

nanotechnology. Physical Metrology division with reference to nano-metrology activities will focus 

on the three activities: Calibration of suitable standards to the national standard for length, 

development of suitable models for the evaluation of uncertainty of measurement for the 

calibration of the above mentioned and new standards for the measurements exclusively in the 

nanometre regime. See Figure 11 for a schematic model. 

Comparisons 

and proficiency 

schemes 

Calibration of 

suitable 


Development 

of suitable 

models for the 

evaluation of 

UoM 

Development 

of calibration 

methods 

Nano- 

Metrology/ 

Technology 

Standards for 

measurements 

in the Nanometre 

regime 

Figure 11. Figure for establishing Nano-metrology in NMISA. 



The division will also research the needs and requirements of materials metrology with a focus 

on supplying traceability to measurements performed in this field, e.g. hardness, strength of 

materials and thermal expansion. In order to support the above research, the division will 

continue to uplift its metrologist qualification base. 

8.2 Ionising Radiation Division 

The Ionising Radiation (IR) Division, comprising the Dosimetry Standards (DS) and Radioactivity 

Standards (RS) laboratories, provides traceability and specialised measurement services for 

users of radiation products and techniques in the country and the region. The division ensures 

that the NMS and units maintained are internationally comparable and scientifically valid. This, in 

turn, allows for correct diagnoses and medical doses to be administered to patients, facilitates 

quality control in the manufacture of radioactivity solutions and ensures safety of the public. 

The main priorities of the DS laboratory are the development and upgrading of standards in 

radiation therapy, diagnostic radiology, brachytherapy and radiation protection. The application of 

accurate doses, determined for each patient through careful evaluation and calculations, is of 

utmost importance for the effectiveness of the application of radiation. The laboratory will 

organise regional comparisons to harmonise dosimetry measurements in Africa, and will, with the 

IAEA as partner, coordinate an audit programme which focuses on dose delivery in linear 

accelerators in radiation therapy centres whilst looking at setting up a national audit programme. 

The RS laboratory is of critical importance to the South African community that uses radioactivity. 

A large number of radionuclides are in use today, with many different modes of decay. Since 

there is no general method of standardisation, the laboratory personnel need to have the 

expertise, skills and experience to accurately measure any radionuclide. This experience is 

gained through participation in international comparisons; hence the RS laboratory plans to 

participate in most of the internationally organised comparisons. The RS laboratory will also 

submit new radionuclide standards to the International Reference System (SIR), run a project to 

support accurate radioactivity measurements in hospitals in South Africa, assist the National 

Nuclear Regulator (NNR) with the establishment of a radio-analytical laboratory for environmental 

monitoring and establish the capability to search for and measure radioactive impurities. 

Measurement capabilities for calibration of radiation monitoring equipment have developed in 

South Africa with two accredited laboratories now disseminating the traceability from NMISA to 

industry for radiation protection services. Although it is a desirable situation, it has caused a 

decrease in calibration requests directly to the NMISA with a subsequent decrease in calibration 

income. The division’s response is projects to develop other standards covering the areas of 

need in the country that are currently not covered by anyone. Once these standards are 

developed the service will be offered to industry and it is anticipated that this will cause an 

increase in calibration income. The developmental work currently underway will increase the 

number of papers published. 

8.3 Electricity and Magnetism (EM) Division 

The laboratories forming part of the EM division strive to maintain a broad spectrum of 

capabilities, rather than specialising in specific sub-fields. Specifically, 25 NMSs are maintained 

and 208 CMCs have been published in the international Key Comparison Database, Appendix C. 

30 



As measurement infrastructure in optical, temperature, electrical, time and frequency metrology 

is well-developed in South Africa, dissemination of traceability is dominated by calibration of 

measurement standards for commercial calibration laboratories and regional NMIs, rather than 

calibration of instruments directly for industrial users. The division therefore strives to enhance 

customer relationships with these calibration laboratories and to assist them in building capacity 

to serve industry’s measurement needs. 

Research and development is driven by the projected traceability needs of stakeholders, as well 

as the need for NMISA staff to develop specific skills and expertise. Collaboration with larger 

NMIs, TEIs and other science councils is actively pursued in order to complement the Division’s 

knowledge resources. Key national projects, such as SKA/MeerKAT, provide opportunities for 

NMISA to share and further develop its measurement science knowledge. The division is 

exploring collaboration with the SKA team on high accuracy time transfer over fibre optic 

networks. This will link to the work done with the Physics Department of the Nelson Mandela 

Metropolitan University on fibre optics. 

The primary risk is that the success of the division is dependent on the expertise of key senior 

scientists and engineers, of whom there is often only one in a metrology field. Young researchers 

and bursaries are being appointed to reduce the risk, but serious effort needs to be taken to 

ensure retention of key senior researchers as these specialised skills cannot be replaced in the 

short term. 

Another risk is the old age of most of the division’s measurement equipment. The ability of the 

Division to provide the measurement services required by industry will be secured through 

modernisation of the key equipment as part of the re-capitalisation of the NMISA. 

8.4 Chemistry Division 

The strategic focus of the Chemistry Division is towards the establishment of comprehensive 

analytical capabilities to provide support and provide measurement traceability for chemical 

analysis in chemical manufacturing, automotive, food safety, environmental monitoring, health 

care, the mining industry, law enforcement and agriculture. Comprising the Gas Analysis (GA), 

Inorganic Analysis (IC), Organic Analysis (OC) and Bio-analysis (BA) laboratories, the division 

develops traceable methods to underpin analysis in support of IPAP objectives, participates in 

research projects of national interest and provides industry with proficiency testing schemes. 

Dissemination of its capabilities is further done through certified reference materials and higherorder 

reference measurements in support of the agro-processing, chemicals, energy, climate 

change and clean air, food safety, health and environment, pharmaceuticals, metals, 

manufacturing and mining industry sectors. 

The Chemistry division is also active in the SADC region and Africa and organises benchmarking 

exercises for chemistry laboratories in Africa in support of mainly agro-processing. 

With the emphasis on ensuring that the chemical activities remain sustainable and applicable 

within a challenging economy, the division will also focus on contract research projects and 

contract analysis to increase external funding needed to substantiate the relevance of the 

measurement services offered to industry. 



The main focus thrusts identified in the Chemistry division include the National Reference 

Laboratory (NRL) for Air Pollution management and establishing a dioxin facility as part of the 

Environmental Pollution Compliance and Research Centre. 

8.5 Research & Technology Development (RTD) Division 

Research is a fundamental component of any technological organisation, and in the context of 

NMISA, research; 

• is required by the CIPM Consultative Committees; 

• is essential for staying relevant and competitive in the long run; and 

• is required to address national measurement needs as a matter of urgency. 

Research thrust areas are identified from national government needs and priorities, national 

science focus areas, international trends and stakeholder requests. These platforms are 

supported by position papers, which underpin the establishment and nurturing of special projects 

into new metrology areas. 

Research and development is furthermore driven by the projected traceability needs of 

customers and stakeholders that require NMISA staff to develop specific skills and expertise. 

Collaboration with larger NMIs is occasionally exploited to circumvent limitations in NMISA’s 

resources. Cross-cutting research and development programmes also allows for addressing 

internal needs - the shortages in specialised skills necessitated special strategies to alleviate the 

pressure on certain laboratories. The removal of boundaries between laboratories is thus being 

pursued to improve capacity by exploiting synergies and utilising the complementary skills sets of 

available staff. 

The RTD division is also responsible for the knowledge management systems and is custodian of 

the Intellectual Property portfolio. These functions will continuously be reviewed and enhanced to 

meet the needs of the institute and to ensure compliance to national regulations and guidelines, 

and to facilitate a culture of continuous improvement in the institute. 

8.6 Technology Infrastructure Development Division 

The primary role of the Technical Infrastructure Development (TID) division is to increase the 

impact of NMISA and metrology at all levels of society, manage the relationship and obligations 

of NMISA within the Metre Convention and CIPM MRA, ensure the inclusion and participation of 

metrology in the Technical Infrastructure, develop and foster metrology amongst the stakeholders 

and clients and identify and grow new business opportunities. 

TID coordinates the maintenance of NMISA’s CMCs in the BIPM’s KCDB as well as the 

continued membership to 9 of the 10 CIPM CCs. TID also manages NMISA’s relationships with 

other NMIs and international organisations and co-ordinate participation in metrology within 

SADCMET, AFRIMETS and other regional metrology organisations. The division assists in 

leveraging funding from regional and international sources for metrology consultancy, calibration, 

collaborative development projects and specialised measurement consultancy to industry. 

8.7 Finance and Corporate Services Division 

The division provides an array of different services in five units to meet corporate, statutory and 

compliance requirements, along with transactional, administrative and professional services to 

32 



the business and deliver financial and management reporting to aid informed decision making 

process. The Information Technology (IT) unit on the other hand ensures that NMISA’s IT 

infrastructure is available to users at all times. Documentation of policies and procedures in line 

with International standards and best practices will remain a focus area for this unit. The IT unit 

will continue to work hand in hand with Information & Communication unit to enhance the NMISA 

website to be an effective tool of communication. Human Resources (HR) management focuses 

on ensuring that the human capital within NMISA is well equipped to meet the strategic mandate 

of the institute. The HR unit will work with Information & Communication to position the NMISA as 

an employer of choice to be able to attract young scientist. Facilities management mainly focuses 

on the stability of internal electricity supply, air conditioning and general maintenance. 

8.8 Specific Goals and Objectives of NMISA Divisions 

PHYSICAL METROLOGY DIVISION 

Strategic Goal 1 

Objective1.1 


Objective 2.1 


Objective 3.1 

Objective 3.2 

Objective 3.3 

Objective 3.4 


Objective 4.1 


Objective 5.1 

Modernisation of the National Measurement Standards (NMS) in Physical 

Metrology 

To modernise and uplift the NMS for Mass, Force, Torque, Vibration, 

Acoustics, Pressure & Vacuum and Flow to an internationally comparable 

level through the replacement of aged NMS and the improvement of the 

capabilities of existing NMS. 

Baseline: Replace and/or modernise NMS older than 10 years 

To be the leading Physical Metrology division in National Measurement 

Institutes (NMIs) in the SADC region. 

To implement fit for purpose, internationally recognised, mechanical (physical) 

calibration services for the South African industry and NMI's in the SADC 

region by improving current systems and developing a sustainable skills base. 

Baseline: Current service categories and SANAS accreditation. 

Research in new fields of metrology, focussed nano and materials 

metrology. 

Achieve official accreditation for the current calibration facility for one and two 

dimensional gratings to supply traceable calibrations for nano standards to the 

national standard for length. 

Baseline: No current activity in nano-metrology is accredited 

Continue and expand research and development work in nano-metrology 

through the establishment of special standards used exclusively in nanometrology. 

Baseline: No current exclusive length standards for nano-metrology. 

Research in materials metrology specially the traceability for these 

measurements. 

Baseline: No current specific standards for materials metrology. 

Uplift the qualification of the metrologists in the Physical division to support 

research in this field. 

Baseline: Double MSc qualifications in the division and reduce diploma 

qualification. 

To develop NMS in the fields of Underwater Acoustics and Ultrasound 

To establish competencies in the fields of Underwater Acoustics and 

Ultrasound by 2013/14 with the purpose of developing NMS in these areas in 

support of marine biology, maritime monitoring, diagnostic and therapeutic 

medical ultrasound as well as Non Destructive Testing (NDT) applications 

Baseline: New facility, no staff or underwater acoustic standards 

Improve measurement in the capabilities of the calibration of mass 

standards (weights). 

To reduce current uncertainties to meet requirements of OIML class E 1 and to 

have this capability internationally recognised by 2014/15 

Baseline: Uncertainty of measurement support OIML class E 2 only. 



IONISING RADIATION DIVISION 


Objective 1.1 

Objective 1.2 

Objective 1.3 


Objective 2.1 

Objective 2.2 


Objective 3.1 

Objective 3.2 

Objective 3.3 

Enhance the impact profile of the IR division for dosimetry and 

radionuclide measurements in the country and region 

Improved laboratory infrastructure for disseminating traceability in radiation 

therapy, radiation protection including X ray capabilities and fully set up for 

diagnostic radiology dosimetry by end of 2015/16 financial year. 

Baseline: Current working bench for calibration of radiation protection 

chambers is not functioning properly due to the motors that are failing. 

New facility, X-ray tubes, working bench, filter wheel and diaphragm installed 

for diagnostic radiology capabilities. 

Ensuring measurement equivalence in dosimetry measurements for the 

region by piloting comparisons and improving dissemination by hosting yearly 

PT schemes for laboratories and audit programmes for hospitals. 

Baseline: Currently no comparisons in the region have been organised to 

benchmark and calculate degrees of equivalence for different measurement 

capabilities in dosimetry. 

Increase the number of services rendered and CMC’s published in the BIPM 

database especially for dosimetry services by end of 2014/15 financial year. 

Baseline: Currently there are 37 CMC lines for ionising radiation with one line 

for dosimetry. 

Support the South African nuclear regulatory bodies (DoH and NNR) in 

fulfilling their mandate through traceable measurements and technical 

expertise. 

In collaboration with the NNR set up a radio-analytical measurement 

laboratory by end of 2013/14 financial year. 

Baseline: New facility. Working agreement with the National Nuclear 

Regulator (NNR) to set up a radio-analytical laboratory together, in Rosebank, 

Cape Town has been signed. 

Pilot audits for hospitals in radiation therapy, diagnostic radiology and/or 

nuclear medicine. 

Baseline: In 2010/11 the division started an audit programme for nuclear 

medicine and in 2011/12 co-ordinated the IAEA TLD audit for radiation 

therapy. These will be performed every second year. 

Increased workforce that is knowledgeable in dosimetry including 

radionuclide measurements in nuclear applications. 

Host interns from the NRF/DST project and NMISA intern initiative. Also offer 

to host interns based in hospitals for medical physics training. 

Baseline: Area has previously hosted one intern from the NRF/DST 

programme and one intern funded from NMISA funds. Interns from hospitals 

in the area have previously visited the dosimetry section. 

Offer a training course in dosimetry, focussing on radiation protection 

parameters, to ensure proper dissemination of traceability of measurements to 

hospitals and monitored sites by March 2015. 

Baseline: There is currently no training on dosimetry for industry. The only 

dosimetry training is the one which has been tailored for medical physicist as 

honours modules at the medical training universities. 

Increase collaboration with universities through joint projects and evaluation of 

their medical physics interns. 

Baseline: Currently only Wits university has been actively collaborating with 

the area by sending interns for lab visits and also student projects. 

ELECTRICITY AND MAGNETISM DIVISION 

Improve performance of fibre optics and wireless telecommunication 


systems by enhancing the national measurement standards (NMS) 

necessary to perform diagnostic network tests with higher accuracy 

Objective 1.1 Design a replacement for the current standard for fibre optic responsivity 


34 


(2013/14) (planned for 2012/13 – transferred to 2013/14 due to capex budget cut). The 

system will be commissioned during 2013/14. 

Improve the calibration uncertainty when measuring the wavelength of a fibre 

optic source by a factor of 2 in the L-band (i.e. beyond 1543 nm). 

The results of the ICT market study (conducted in 2012/13) will be analysed 

and the recommendations on how to implement the findings of the study into 

the strategic initiatives of the division will be applied. 

Objective 1.2 

(2013/14) 

Objective 1.3 

(2013/14 – 2015/16) 

Objective 1.4 

(2013/14) 

Objective 1.5 

(2013/14) 

Objective 1.6 

(2013/14) 


Objective 2.1 

(2013/14) 

Objective 2.2 

(2013/14) 

Objective 2.3 

(2014/15 – 2015/16) 


Objective 3.1 

(2013/14 – 2015/16) 

Objective 3.2 

(2013/14 – 2015/16) 

Objective 3.3 

(2013/14 – 2015/16) 


Objective 4.1 

(2013/14) 

A fibre-based Polarisation Mode Dispersion (PMD) emulator will be built which 

could be used as a standard reference material for PMD. It would allow 

calibration laboratories to calibrate their own PMD emulators and would 

ultimately provide traceability for PMD to calibration laboratories. 

Research and development work towards optical frequency standards will 

continue. After relocating to a class 10 000 clean room (2012/13), integration 

of an optical light source and implementation of an atomic cell (including 

signal detection), will be completed. 

A theoretical steering algorithm with the aim of steering a secondary oscillator 

(either an auxiliary offset generator or a hydrogen maser) to bring UTC(ZA) to 

within 100ns of UTC. The output of this project will be a report detailing the 

algorithm and the implementation steps required when a suitable secondary 

oscillator, together with the required hardware, are procured in the following 

years. 

Provide users with knowledge and reliable measurement data to verify 

energy saving claims for lighting systems and building materials, to 

reduce wasteful industrial energy consumption and to enable accurate 

electricity billing. 

Set up a basic laboratory to develop and research the methods required to 

measure the photometric properties of light emitting diodes (LEDs). 

NMISA will build on the feasibility study of the metrology needs in the South 

African building industry related to thermo-physical quantities, conducted in 

2012/13, engaging with role players such as the CSIR Built Environment 

Division to plan developments as identified in the feasibility study. 

Develop facilities for measuring thermal properties of materials designed for 

heat management in buildings. 

Enhance the NMS to support the development of a world-class NMISA 

Secure the ability of the Division to provide the measurement services 

required by industry, through replacement of obsolete equipment and 

procurement of new equipment. 

The results of the DC Low Frequency and Radio Frequency business review 

(conducted in 2012/13) will provide a strategy for enhancing these capabilities 

to a suitable international level and appropriate for the local industry. The 

output of this research and development plan is to establish primary standards 

instead of importing traceability and to improve the secondary standards. It 

will be implemented over the next 5 years and will result in enhanced 

measurement capabilities disseminated to the electrical test and 

measurement industry. 

Improve the radio frequency power standard by implementing new generation 

communication technology at higher frequencies in order to improve the 

accuracy by a factor 2 and extend the range from 50 GHz to 67 GHz, over the 

next 3 years. 

Support the inter-comparison of environmental observation 

measurement data obtained by different space agencies by providing 

traceability for radiometric measurements. 

The results of the feasibility study (conducted in 2012/13) on adapting the 

current NMS for radiometry to meet space applications, will be utilised to 

recommend a 5-year R&D strategy. 



CHEMISTRY DIVISION 


Objectives 1.1 




Objective 2.1 

Objective 2.2 

Objective 2.3 


Objective 3.1 

Objective 3.2 

Objective 3.3 

Objective 3.4 


Objective 4.1 

Entrench our international standing 

Participation in Key Comparisons to prove core competencies as an NMI, thus 

improving and expanding CMCs 

Baseline: 27 CMCs 

Increase publications and scientific outputs (international scientific and 

metrology conferences) 

Baseline: ~7 publications per year 

Upgrade existing instrumentation and acquire instrumentation needed to 

support improved higher-order measurement outputs 

Baseline: Most instrumentation 5-10 years old and not the highest order 

instruments 

Provide essential support for public policy objectives and initiatives 

pertaining to measurement compliance issues related to health, food 

safety and the environment 

Provide the technical expertise in support of the establishment of the National 

Research Laboratory for Air Pollution Management, and similar initiatives 

Baseline: Have ppm to %, including stack gases; basic infrastructure is in 

place; need capacity building for dissemination. Development of new gas 

reference mixtures for BTEX and VOCs have started. Ozone analysis in 

place. 

Establish a dioxin and toxic substances facility in support of global treaty to 

protect human health and the environment from POPs 

Baseline: Method development and method validation in progress, but 

dedicated laboratory space and instrumentation required to proceed from 

current status. 

Develop methods in support of health, food safety and the environment, 

including biofuels 

Baseline: Have demonstrated the capability to solve the analytical problem 

through successful participation in international comparisons towards offering 

these services to industry (if not already provided). Quality system supports 

analytical claim. Have measurement capability for contaminants in food, 

organic solution and demonstrated core competency or purity of high purity 

chemicals. 

Provide support to the South African industry competing in a fast-paced 

global economy 

Perform measurements, reference measurements and chemical analyses as 

required by industry 

Baseline: 11 validated reference methods 

Expanding the range of CRMs offered as per requirements of commerce and 

industry 

Baseline: 34 CRMs in register. 

Improving measurement capabilities of analytical labs through provision of 

proficiency testing (PT) schemes and value assignment 

Baseline: Dissemination of metrology through proficiency testing (PT) 

schemes for aqueous ethanol. Expand PT scheme to offer ambient ait 

permanent gases and condensable gases, NaF, pesticides, mycotoxins, 

amino acids in various matrices. Bilateral comparisons with industry for SO 2 in 

N 2 . Provide reference values for the SADCWaterPT for heavy metals in water 

Participate in specialist technical forums and initiatives 

Baseline: Participant in SANAS STCs and CGC Food Safety Initiative 

Establish and maintain the necessary expertise and competence 

according to internationally acceptable standards 

Expand the bursary/ intern pipeline 

Baseline: Have one bursar currently; need to collaborate more closely with HR 

to establish stronger ties with Department of Student Affairs of each 

institution. 

36 



Objective 4.2 

Objective 4.3 

Objective 4.4 

Initiate scientist exchange program 

Baseline: No formal science exchange program; but hosted interns and 

metrologists from KEBS (Kenya). New programme will be initiated for 2012/13 

(KRISS, Korea) 

Collaborative projects with industry and academia (including training) 

Baseline: Currently collaborating with NWU, UP and University of Liege; will 

expand and further develop collaboration with UJ, TUT, UNISA and U of 

Limpopo. Metrology course at UP, Measurement Uncertainty courses for the 

NLA. MoU with SA Grain Laboratory 

Increased peer-reviewed publication outputs 

Baseline: 7 papers per year, application notes, comparison reports (each 

study and report a mini-RD project) 

RESEARCH & TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT DIVISION 


Objective 1.1 

Objective 1.2 


Objective 2.1 

Objective 2.2 


Objective 3.1 

Objective 3.2 


Objective 4.1 

Objective 4.2 

Develop knowledge management systems 

Implement systems to manage and protect NMISA intellectual property 

Baseline: First policy drafted in 2012/13 

Implement programmes to leverage existing expertise within the organisation 

Baseline: No existing formal programmes 

Develop R&D programmes to support new measurement standards, 

reference materials and upgrade of existing measurement standards 

Establish technology platforms aligned to national priorities 

Baseline: One in existence, two in development 

Establish long-term multi-divisional anchor projects/ programmes 

Baseline: One project (Optical Standards) initiated in 2008 

Enhance confidence in the national measurement standards 

Increase scientific outputs in peer review journals by 7 % per year 

Baseline: 8 peer reviewed papers per year (from R&D projects) 

Promote scientific activities and outputs at national technical conferences 

Baseline: 25 oral and 20 presentations (for all NMISA), and 3 promotional 

stands at technical conferences per year 

Establish and maintain the necessary expertise and competence 

according to internationally acceptable standards 

Create opportunities to attract and host students and post-docs into NMISA 

research projects 

Baseline: Informal and ad hoc approach exists, ~2-3 students exposed to the 

Research projects per year. 

Implement incentive schemes to attract and retain top researchers 

Baseline: No official scheme is in place. 



TECHNICAL INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT DIVISION 


Objective 1.1 

Objective 1.2 

Strategic Outcome 

Oriented Goal 2 

Objective 2.1 

Objective 2.2 


Oriented Goal 3 

Objective 3.1 

Objective 3.2 

Objective 3.3 

Objective 3.4 

Increase the Impact of Metrology/NMISA Nationally and Regionally 

Represent the NMISA and South Africa in Metrology issues related to the 

region, ensure inclusion of Metrology in TBT issues and a common trade 

region and leverage R2-3 million funding for the NMISA from SQAM regional 

projects by 2014/15 

Baseline: Participated in SADC Trade protocol TBT document, hosts the 

SADC Secretariat and earned over R1,4 million from regional projects in 2011 

and 2012 

Design model for NMISA Technical cooperation and regional outreach 

programme for implementation from 2013 onwards, secure funding and 

implement in collaboration with partners such as the PTB. Reach at least 15- 

20 SMMEs and NMIs per annum 

Baseline: Participation in regional outreach programme, experience with 

measurement assistance to SMMEs. Preferred partner to the PTB Technical 

cooperation programme 

Decrease the reliance on traceability sourced from outside Africa 

Establish NMISA as the traceability link to the SI for SADC by 2013/14 and 

Africa by 2015/16 

Baseline: NMISA is the traceability link for SADC for basic parameters only 

and for selected parameters for some sub-Saharan countries. 

Maintain our international links with the CIPM and associated activities of the 

Metre Convention to influence policy to the benefit of South Africa and 

developing countries. Groom a candidate for the CIPM to replace current 

incumbent on his retirement 

Baseline: Current CIPM member from NMISA retired from NMISA and to retire 

soon from CIP M. 

Increase bi-lateral collaboration with other key NMIs in Africa and other 

trading partners especially the BRIC countries 

Negotiate and sign bi-lateral scientific cooperation agreements between South 

Africa and NMIs in SADC and Africa to leverage and obtain funding for 

specific measurement system development projects at the NMISA. Design 5 

bilateral projects for implementation between NMISA and Namibia, Zambia, 

Malawi, Tanzania and one more SADC 

Baseline: Informal cooperation between NMISA and 3 SADC countries 

Expand bi-lateral cooperation with the NMIs of the BRICS countries at all 

levels, both political and technical to 3 technical co-operations and 4 mutual 

projects by 2016 

Baseline: Memorandum of understanding with INMETRO, Brazil and cooperation 

in biofuels 

Collaborate with identified NMIs (PTB, KRISS Korea and NIST, etc.) to tap 

into the research scientist exchange program and train metrologists. 

Baseline: First exchange programme in 2012/13. 

Organise opportunities for post graduate studies at other NMIs for NMISA 

scientists. 

Baseline: No post graduate scientists yet 

38 



FINANCE AND CORPORATE SERVICES DIVISION 


Objective 1.1 


Objective 2.1 


Objective 3.1 

To ensure sound financial management 

Manage resources to accomplish strategic goals, effective financial planning, 

ensure adherence to laws, regulations and contractual obligations and ensure 

effective and efficient use of resources 

Baseline: 

Internal audit rating – an average of 2 

Actual expenditure to revenue received – 100% 

Uphold the principles of good corporate governance 

Compliance with legal frameworks, 

Improve efficiency and effectiveness of financial processes and systems and 

develop policies and procedures. 

Baseline: Unqualified Audit Opinion 

Ensure compliance with SCM regulations 

Improve SCM processes, policies and procedures. 

Integrate systems to ensure efficient and effective service delivery. 

Baseline: No irregular expenditure incurred 

HUMAN RESOURCES SECTION 

Strategic Goal 1 Human Capital Development 

Objective 1.1 Enrol 5 postgraduate students for PhD. 

Baseline: 5 PhD, 1 MSc 

Objective 1.2 Offer 3 undergraduate bursaries. 

Baseline: 3 

Objective 1.3 Host 5 interns and in-service trainees. 

Baseline: 5 

Strategic Goal 2 Improve organisational qualification profile 

Objective 2.1 PhD:12 

MSc: 34 

B Degree:39 

Other: 37 

Baseline: PhD:10, MSc 30, B Degree 35, Other 38 

Objective 2.2 Support 18 internal staff further studies. 

Baseline: 11 staff members to be supported. 

Strategic Goal 3 Transformation 

Objective 3.1 Increase black professionals to 51%. 

Baseline: 48% 

Objective 3.2 Submit employment equity plan. 

Baseline: Plan submitted in 2012 as per DOL requirements. 

Strategic Goal 4 Management & leadership development 

Objective 4.1 Conduct skills needs analysis and arrange 3 training courses for managers 

and supervisors. 

Baseline: 3 courses arranged. 

Strategic Goal 5 Staff attraction and retention 

Objective 5.1 Succession plan. 

Baseline: Succession plan newly developed. 

Objective 5.2 Implement incentive schemes to attract and retain top researchers. 

Baseline: First draft incentive scheme in place. 

Objective 5.3 Conduct remuneration survey. 

Baseline: First survey completed. 

Objective 5.4 Develop new employee classification system for scientific and support staff. 

Baseline: Only technical staff has been classified as Metrologists/R&D 

Metrologists. 



Objective 5.5 Develop new job evaluation system for scientific staff. 

Baseline: 2 Technical career ladders. 

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY SECTION 

Strategic Goal 1 Provide seamless integration between IT System and Financial Systems 

Objective 1.1 Deployment, configuration and maintenance of Integration.net. 

Baseline: Integrated financial systems 

Strategic Goal 2 Provide an efficient backup and restore solution 

Objective 2.1 Create a Virtualised environment to enhance backup-restore latency. 

Baseline: Investigate the options available in the industry, determine best 

option for NMISA and produce a feasibility study 

Document a business case on solution identified to request funding 

Objective 2.2 Provide an expandable SAN solution 

Baseline: Availability of SAN solution. 

Strategic Goal 3 Cost saving by sourcing a Printer Rental Contract 

Objective 3.1 Initiate a printer consolidation model. 

Baseline: Source printer rental contract 

Map printer floor plan 

Create printer architecture model 

Objective 3.2 Define a centralised printer management solution and organisational print 

policy. 

Baseline: Document printer usage policy 

Document and workshop printer procedures 

Strategic Goal 4 Convert all paper based forms to be digitally online with workflow 

Objective 4.1 Provide online templates and forms on SharePoint and develop routing based 

workflows. 

Baseline: Automated petty cash requests and approvals 

Automated leave requests and approvals 

Enhance and automate staff engagements and disengagements 

Objective 4.2 Provide training to staff. 

Baseline: Produce training manuals, user guidelines 

Create “how to” site 

INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION UNIT 


Objective 1.1 


Objective 2.1 


Objective 3.1 

Objective 3.2 

To provide regular flow of information to stakeholders 

Maintenance of website and intranet content, quarterly newsletter and 

comprehensive feedback form for services 

Baseline: Available website platform with feedback forms 

To develop, maintain and promote NMISA corporate identity and ensure 

conformity in the usage there-off 

Ensuring that all NMISA documentation adheres to the NMISA Corporate 

Identity 

Baseline: Reviewed NMISA corporate identity and standardisation of 

information used 

Market NMISA as employer of choice to students and young scientists 

NMISA website to include a recruitment page that is inviting to young 

scientists 

Baseline: Have a recruitment page on the NMISA website to invite young 

scientists 

Arrange more regular, structured interaction with students through educational 

tours 

Baseline: Set programmes or guidelines for education tours 

40 



9 Alignment of Key Technical Programmes to the dti priorities 

National measurement standards impact on all aspects of the South African community, whether 

directly or indirectly: whether it is the mass of a maize consignment traded on international level, 

the amount of electricity a citizen pays for in the city or the radiation therapy a cancer patient 

receives. Important decisions (economic, social and medical-) are based on measurement 

results. The contribution of metrology to some selected sectors (such as manufacturing, industrial 

development, trade, quality of life, energy saving and greener energies, environmental protection, 

food safety, safety and security, and regional development) and proposed expansion of activities 

are highlighted in the next few sections. 

The national measurement standards impact all aspects of the South 

African community, whether directly or indirectly, and NMISA makes a 

contribution to all government key priorities and the 12 national 

outcomes. 

9.1 Contribution to Quality of Life 

NMISA’s chemistry activities focus to improve the accuracy and reliability of chemical, 

physical and bio-measurements that are important to the nation’s quality of life. To achieve this 

aim requires the application of leading-edge science and the development of improved 

measurement technology to underpin some of the most challenging and important 

measurements made in South Africa. Methods have been developed and verified for the 

determination of trace elements in a range of matrices, to evaluate the purity of chemical 

substances and to detect banned or restricted substances. 

Every health measurement follows some prescribed method and involves some kind of 

equipment and patients should have confidence that they are treated correctly and in a cost 

effective manner. With measurement as basic as body temperature, heart rate and blood 

pressure, or as complex as cholesterol levels or cancer marker cells, it is important that the 

equipment conforms to specifications, and that it operates comparably from one location to 

another. New projects to expand calibration ranges for flow and pressure to what is required by 

the medical equipment industry will be initiated. 

NMISA’s calibration of thermometers, stop watches and pressure meters 

ensures confidence in the equipment and allows comparability of 

measurements. 

Radiation is naturally and permanently present throughout the environment, in the air, water, 

food, soil and in all living organisms. Ionising radiation is invisible and not directly detectable by 

human senses. The fastest growing source of man-made radiation exposure can be found in 

medicine, where the use of x-rays, particularly in computed tomography scans, are being applied 

with greater frequency. Exposure to ionising radiation can lead to detrimental health effects in 

human beings. There are requirements designed for the protection of workers and the general 

public against the dangers of ionising radiation without unduly limiting the beneficial uses of the 

practices giving rise to radiation exposure. 

Nuclear and radiation techniques are often the sole means of diagnosis and treatment in a large 

number of health problems. Radiotherapy, one of the earliest applications of radiation, remains a 

major cost-effective modality available for cancer treatment. 



About 30% of cancer deaths can be prevented if diagnosed and treated 

accurately. Radiation therapy, one of the effective treatments available, 

depends on the application of accurate doses, determined for each 

patient through careful evaluation and calculations. This relies on 

accurate measurements and a trusted calibration system. 

Measurement underpins everything that humans do and considered in the broadest sense, 

contributes to the general quality of life. NMISA projects are in support of: 

• Monitoring greenhouse gasses towards clean air; 

• Protecting people against heavy metals in maize; 

• Assist with accurate blood alcohol measurements; 

• Ensure accurate measurement of amino acids in food and biopharmaceuticals; 

• Determine contaminants in food and beverages to which people may be allergic; 

• Monitoring dioxins and pesticides in sediment, soil and water; 

• Assessing the purity of raw chemical substances to prevent harmful substances entering 

products; 

• Classification of biodegradable plastics to ensure correct labelling, recycling, etc. 

9.2 Contribution to Manufacturing and Industrial Development (IPAP and SMMEs) 

Without a measurement infrastructure it is difficult to manufacture to international specifications 

and tolerances, to ensure the integrity of export commodities. 

The national measurement standards kept and maintained by NMISA underpin the Trade 

Metrology Act (Act 77 of 1973) as amended, which regulated trade and the quantitative 

measurement units allowed in trade dealings. By maintaining internationally accepted 

measurement standards for mass, volume, length and area NMISA not only ensures fair trade in 

South Africa, but also ensures the South African trade goods are accepted internationally with 

regards to quantitative requirements. 

The automotive Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) rely on validated master moulds and 

prototypes to ensure local manufactured components comply with mother company 

specifications and tolerances. NMISA’s dimensional services provide the necessary traceability, 

and upgrades and developments to the national measurement standards to meet the stringent 

industry requirements. 

NMISA impacts a number of sectors directly while in many cases the impact is indirect. There are 

areas where the organisation can have an impact, but potential impact is limited due to there 

being no national measurement standard for some parameters. 

Many manufactured products are covered with a special treatment or with paint to protect it from 

detrimental effects such as corrosion, and/or to add aesthetic value to it. New standards will be 

developed for gloss and refractive indexes of paints used in the automotive industry, while the 

Materials Characterisation group aims at expanding the suite of characterisations for surfaces, up 

to the nano-meter level. 

42 



The pharmaceutical industry is the fifth largest contributor to the country’s trade deficit. In an 

attempt to alleviate this stress, the Department of Science and Technology as well as the 

Department of Trade and Industry have invested significantly into innovation for the production of 

biopharmaceuticals. The growth and success of the biopharmaceutical industry is dependent on 

methods capable of accurately identifying and absolutely quantifying proteins. Since the NMISA 

organic chemistry laboratory was largely equipped to begin addressing this measurement need, 

the laboratory is expanding into the realm bio-metrology through establishing a capability to 

perform amino acid analysis for the absolute quantification of proteins. Physical parameters such 

as air flow and air velocity are also critical in the pharmaceutical manufacturing industry and 

measurement standards will be developed to meet these needs. 

SMMEs find it increasingly difficult to stay abreast of TI requirements and developments and in 

many cases it is the major factor preventing their success. It is within this context that NMISA has 

identified a need to assist especially the SMMEs in the IPAP priority sectors with an intervention 

in respect of measurements impacting compliance to industry specifications, standards and legal 

requirements for enhanced competitiveness. 

A. NMISA has developed a Measurement Practice Improvement Guide targeted at the 

SMMEs in the manufacturing sector and the objectives are to: 

• Evaluate the current measurement practice in the SMME sector 

• Improve measurement awareness amongst SMMEs in the provinces 

• Empower SMMEs to instil good measurement practice with the aim to improve their 

competiveness in industry and to contribute to local and international trade, thereby 

creating jobs for the economy 

• Improve the quality of the products being manufactured to increase customer 

confidence in the SMMEs and their products. 

B. Strategic partnerships will be formed with SMMEs to qualify the need for fit-for-purpose 

measurement equipment for developing country/rural conditions. If the scoping indicates an 

opportunity in the market for the development of such equipment or the adaptation of 

commercially available equipment, NMISA will seek international donor funding to start 

such a project with a group of manufacturing SMMEs. 

9.2.1 Roll-out mechanism: 

A. NMISA is in discussion with Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA) to review an 

existing MoU and agree on a work plan to ensure collaboration and provision of Metrology 

related expertise to SMMEs. 

In principle, the mechanism to deliver Measurement traceability expertise to SMMEs will be 

through the SEDA Service Delivery Network in all the 9 provinces. SEDA Business 

Advisors will be trained in accurate measurement on the train the trainer programme which 

will be presented by NMISA staff in the various provinces. 

B. The initial scoping for the need for measurement equipment for developing country 

conditions will be done in parallel with 1.2.1. 



9.2.2 Specific plans for the APP period: 

• Interaction with all stakeholders and maintain co-operation with regard to business 

opportunities and development of SMMEs; 

• Visit the provincial SEDA business centres to sensitise and market NMISA services, 

• Visit a cross-section of SMMEs to establish metrology needs and provide expertise, 

• Organise provincial training workshops and roll out the SMME toolkit to provinces 

• Identify further programmes for the next period to address issues emanating from the 

first phase of the programme 

The TID division is responsible for the coordination of SMME activities within the institute. For 

specific expert training in measurement to the technologically more advanced SMMEs, technical 

experts from the metrology divisions will be utilised and called upon to visit SMMEs and offer 

advice where necessary. TID is also in the process of talking to the provincial government 

departments for economic development and Chambers of Commerce with the view to cooperate 

and participate in trade fairs and exhibitions organised by them to create public awareness of the 

importance of metrology to the economy and in improving the well-being and security of 

consumers. 

9.3 Contribution to Trade and Commerce 

The trade of goods and services around the world is the lifeblood of the global economy, and is 

increasingly important to domestic economic growth, productivity and investment opportunities. 

For customers to consider trade to be fair and benefit from it, measurements taken in different 

parts of the world needs to be equivalent to each other, and accepted by each other. 

Without internationally comparable mass standards of the highest accuracy, the Chemistry 

Division of NMISA will not be able to underpin their measurement standards, certified reference 

materials or perform quantitative reference measurements; the reason being that chemical 

traceability is directly linked to mass, thus forming the basis of chemical metrology. 

Physical metrology tends to affect the value of goods, but the chemical 

measurements are essential to the acceptance of all goods in especially 

the fuel, chemicals, plastics, pharma, food and agriculture industries. 

Technical regulations and standards are adopted and legislated by governments to protect both 

their producers and the consumers in trade on national and international level. They promote 

competitive pricing and product choices. They also give confidence that the products were 

produced or manufactured in ways that are safe to humans and the environment. 

Trade regulators rely on accurate measurements linked to national 

measurement standards, to give them confidence for adopting and 

legislating regulations and documentary standards. This also assists the 

removal of technical barriers to trade (TBTs). 

The Chemistry Division, with its most of its current analytical capabilities, technical experience 

and metrological approach, is a highly competitive facility for the analysis of melamine, 

mycotoxins, pesticides, toxic elements and nutrients in food. The division also focuses on 


44 


eference materials and reference measurements for environmental monitoring including air 

pollution, persistent organic pollutants, pesticides, as well as dioxins and furans in a variety of 

matrices. Costs are high, but the initial emphasis is on a non-profit approach and superior 

analytical performance as it is a moral obligation for government to provide industry (private and 

public) with monitoring services. Chemistry typically undertakes and performs analyses on 

request when the nature of analysis or analytical requirements cannot be adequately fulfilled by a 

commercial or academic laboratory in the country. 

9.4 Contribution to Safety and Security 

Safety regulations protect against maximum exposures to some radiation sources, magnetic 

fields, or noise from industry or airports. They set minimum temperature requirements for indoor 

work environments and ranges for lighting in buildings and on the roads. They also ensure the 

correct information is published on labels and certificates. These limits and ranges are 

determined through exposure assessments, evaluations and predictions. Accurate 

measurements are essential in setting the optimal and correct limits and ranges in regulations to 

ensure safety. 

The Acoustics and Vibration laboratory keeps the ‘noise’ and vibration 

standards for South Africa. Noise is often ignored as a threat to safety, 

but for the workplace there is set limits to protect workers in different 

environments. Vibration measurements are critical to the safety of mine 

workers. 

NMISA produces primary reference gas mixtures (PRGMs) for local industry and has prepared 

and validated a new suite of gas reference materials for ethanol in nitrogen to add to the 33 

PRGMs already offered. The new ethanol in nitrogen mixtures are also used in the calibration of 

evidential breath analysers. The in-house production ability is of huge benefit, as the reference 

mixtures for instrument and breathalyser calibrations previously had to be imported. The 

production of PRGMs and dissemination to industry is increasing since industry has realised that 

purchasing certified PRGMs provides a two year certification whereas submitting a gas mixture to 

NMISA for reference measurement and certification only provides industry with one year 

certification. Hence the reference measurements will decline, but the sale of PRGMs is 

increasing exponentially. 

As a complimentary offering for breath alcohol measurements, the institute continues to provide 

one of the widest ranges of certified ethanol reference materials for forensic and toxicological 

purposes world-wide. These reference materials are internationally bench-marked. The ethanol 

reference materials are also used for the calibration of breathalysers by the ‘wet’ method. Blood 

samples are preserved with sodium fluoride to prevent the production of ethanol after a sample is 

taken, but this is only effective in concentration above 1%. Laboratories thus have to monitor the 

sodium fluoride content of each sample. For this purpose, the NMISA produces a unique range of 

certified sodium fluoride reference materials. To enable laboratories to demonstrate the quality of 

their results NMISA has been co-ordinating a number of ethanol proficiency testing schemes. As 

a result, a significant improvement can be seen in the results of the participating laboratories. 

The need to incorporate new emerging technologies, such as nanotechnology, successfully into 

society demands a better understanding of the safety risks they might pose. Often measurement 

methods must first be developed to estimate and assess the safety risks to the human body, the 



workplace and the environment. The acceptance of these new technologies is based on accurate 

and traceable measurements to deem safe, and to allow for regulations to be formulated 

ensuring continued safety. Methods for the characterisation of nano-containing materials and for 

nanoparticles will be developed in support of new international labelling legislation to not only 

ensure compliance of products to the export market, but also to ensure that products are fit for 

the national market. 

The safe operation of a nuclear power plant like Koeberg, relies on careful monitoring of 

radionuclides produced during various processes. Effluent fluids, personnel, air and 

environmental samples need to be measured regularly using calibrated instrumentation. Without 

the use of calibrated instruments in the nuclear industry there could be nuclear accidents and the 

institutemay not be aware of it, thus causing the possible loss of lives of people working there 

and the communities staying in the area. The environment, including the vegetation, can be 

affected as it will absorb the radionuclides released into the air. This would affect all fruits, 

vegetables, meat and meat products from the area as they could be used for human 

consumption. Because ionising radiation is not visible, people are always over critical of it, 

especially nuclear power plants. It is therefore critical that data from monitoring of sites is readily 

available for the public, to ensure their peace of mind. Work is underway in collaboration with the 

NNR to facilitate this. 

9.5 Contribution to Energy Saving and Green Energies 

A worldwide consensus is evolving to reduce electrical energy consumption because of concerns 

about global climate change. This is one of the objectives of the IPAP, also explicitly directed at 

this institute. Industry, policy makers and stakeholders need to develop appropriate 

measurement methods to ensure compliance of biofuels with the standard requirements in the 

local and international regulatory framework. NMISA is assisting in a national initiative to 

establish a biofuels fingerprinting facility to verify the origin of the fuels and had established 

technical co-operation with the Brazilian NMI, INMETRO, which specialises in bioethanol 

reference materials. Projects have been identified to strengthen the collaboration, as well as to 

expand the scope of measurements to include viscosity, density and other critical biofuel 

parameters. 

Light emitting diodes (LEDs) are more energy efficient than conventional light bulbs. Regulations 

are being promulgated to replace conventional lighting products with LED systems. 

Measurements traceable to the NMS are required to measure the photometric characteristics of 

these sources and to ensure that the quality of lighting is not compromised. 

Lighting consumes about 20% of all electricity. It is estimated that the 

replacement of conventional lamps with light-emitting diodes (LEDs) will 

bring this number down to 4%, assuming full scale adoption 

The Materials Characterisation group supports the energy sector with the analysis of catalysts for 

the petrochemical industry. Catalysts are used in the conversion of coal to petroleum and other 

products such as waxes and plastics and will play a significant role in biofuel production in the 

future. The group is also involved in the research of new solar cell technologies involving 

nanotechnology which might increase the efficiency of this energy source. 

46 



Supporting the hydrogen economy, the gas laboratory is developing methodologies for the purity 

analysis of high purity hydrogen. This will enable NMISA to provide certified reference gases to 

industry to not only ensure quality, but also safety in these technologies. 

NMISA will investigate the feasibility of developing national measurement standards for thermophysical 

properties of materials, including thermal conductivity, thermal diffusivity, thermal 

transmittance, heat capacity and thermal expansion. 

“If thermal ceiling insulation and high-performance window systems 

were introduced today into all new residential and commercial buildings, 

an estimated 3500 MW in electricity could be saved by 2020. This is 

almost twice the electricity currently produced by our only nuclear 

power plant, Koeberg (1800 MW).” 

Accurate performance data on building materials and structures, validated measurement 

techniques, and metrology support for building design as well as completed buildings, are 

required to verify that energy saving measures reduce the building’s energy consumption or loss 

as claimed and meet the regulatory requirement. 

Buildings are one of the largest end users of energy and represent 40% 

of primary energy use globally. The Department of Energy set a goal of 

15% reduction by 2015 of energy use in the commercial and public 

building sector. 

Significant voluntary energy saving had already occurred in the industrial and mining sectors as 

energy inefficiency and wastage are perceived to be costs that reduce the bottom line. However, 

in the building sector, energy costs are often not considered as a major issue. It was agreed that 

legislative steps would be necessary in order to achieve the required energy savings in all of the 

building sectors. In order to achieve these goals in practice, the SABS established a Steering 

Committee and two working groups to write the necessary standards. The standards (entitled: 

“SANS 204, Energy efficiency in buildings: a huge reduction in energy consumption, equivalent to 

a new nuclear power plant”) have recently been published, with the following statement: 

“If thermal ceiling insulation and high-performance window systems were 

introduced today into all new residential and commercial buildings, an 

estimated 3500 MW in electricity could be saved by 2020. This is almost 

twice the electricity currently produced by our only nuclear power plant, 

Koeberg (1800 MW).” 

Accurate performance data on building materials and structures, validated measurement 

techniques, and metrology support for building design as well as completed buildings, are 

required to verify that energy saving measures reduce the building’s energy consumption or loss 

as claimed and meet the regulatory requirement. NMISA needs to investigate the feasibility of 

developing national measurement standards for thermo-physical properties of materials, 

including thermal conductivity, thermal diffusivity, thermal transmittance, heat capacity and 

thermal expansion, which will also form part of a bigger drive towards establishing materials 

metrology. 



9.6 Contribution to Environmental Protection 

The range of measurements to protect our environment is huge: for example farming activities 

can deplete the soil of its nutrients and pollute it with the slow build-up of pesticides and toxic 

chemicals; noise pollution and vehicle emissions from busy highways can have a detrimental 

effect on the environment if not monitored and regulated. Confidence that the correct 

measurement is being made, means sound assessments can be made, reliable models 

constructed, and policy decisions that are based on universally accepted facts nationally and 

internationally are made. 

The Kyoto Protocol, to which South Africa is a signatory, sets binding targets for signatory 

countries to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. In view of this and several other developments 

that call for clean air, national measurement standards for air pollution monitoring are becoming 

increasingly important for South Africa. The National Air Quality Act, Act No. 39 of 2004, which 

closely monitors emissions from businesses, came into full effect on 1 April 2010. In March 2010 

the South African Air Quality Information System (SAAQIS) was launched by the Department of 

Environmental Affairs (DEA). NMISA has been identified as the ideal facility to host the national 

reference laboratory (NRL) for air quality management for SAAQIS as comparability and 

traceability of data is critical. In an endeavour to support these regulations, NMISA laboratories 

are gearing towards improving measurement infrastructure to provide the necessary primary 

reference gas mixtures that will be needed. While this will require financial support from 

government, it will also generate opportunities for young scientists to become involved in the 

projects that will develop as party of the expanding measurement challenges that will be faced. 

The establishment of the NRL will consist primarily of the host (NMISA) who will provide 

measurement traceability and facilitate training of air pollution officers and the development of 

standard operating procedures for monitoring stations. Ultimately, the NRL will develop to also 

include a network of calibration laboratories, preferably a total of 9 (one in each province), to 

make the measurement traceability accessible to monitoring networks all over the country and in 

the SADC region. It is envisaged that each calibration laboratory will be a newly established 

SMME. This network of laboratories will also provide the infrastructure for the development of 

additional monitoring stations and networks as well as consultancies, which will also be new 

SMMEs, to support the national response to climate change and the promise of a cleaner 

environment for every South African. 

Chemical measurements, specifically pertaining to environmental 

pollutants and toxicants, have increased in importance over the last few 

years. This can mainly be attributed to increased awareness of health 

risks associated with these chemicals. Recent alerts in European 

countries have once again highlighted the vulnerability of the African 

economy due to inadequate chemical testing facilities. 

Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) are considered some of the most toxic substances to the 

environment and mankind. It can circulate globally through wind and water, thus causing damage 

wherever they travel. South Africa has taken a number of actions to promote environmental 

sound management of chemicals and waste, including being a party to Multilateral Environment 

Agreements (MEA) on chemicals and waste. 

Under the Stockholm Convention, to which South Africa is a signatory, there is now legislation in 

place to limit emissions of furans and dioxins. The POPs convention has highlighted the need 

48 



to establish at least one centralised toxic substances (including dioxins) laboratory, 

equipped with higher order measurement instrumentation and infrastructure, to enable 

accredited dioxin analyses. As an initial step, NMISA has aligned its analytical capability in 

support of these directives in order to at least provide a minimum of traceability and validity to 

measurements toxic in nature. There is a clear need for a market survey to collate a clear case 

study document to be submitted to government in support of such a dioxin facility. The 

Environmental Pollution Compliance and Research Centre (EPCRC) is envisioned to become 

this facility. In an effort towards aligning fragmented legislation, government has established a 

National Multi-stakeholder Committee for Chemicals Management (SCCM) to facilitate coordination 

for national waste legislation that adopts the waste management hierarchy which 

focuses on waste avoidance, reduce, reuse, and recycle while recovery of materials, energy and 

disposal should be considered as the last option. The benefits of reusing, recycling and 

recovering waste are manifested by the reduction of the amount of virgin resources that need to 

be harvested and processed for the manufacture of new products and the creation of job 

opportunities for communities. Government is also in the process of finalising the National 

Industrial Participation (NIP) plan of the Stockholm Convention. The NIP has far-reaching effects 

on both industry as well as research. It has identified areas that will increase the responsibilities 

of industries concerning the control and elimination of these chemicals. Additionally, there will be 

an increased need for analytical capability. Not only as mandated through the increased 

monitoring requirements, but also through the renewed interest in priority chemicals. The preemptive 

steps will require advanced analytical capability both for instrumental and biological 

analysis techniques. Due to these implications, the role that NMISA can play to assist industry, 

researchers and other government organisations needs to be evaluated and addressed in 

support of industry and SMMEs. 

It is critical to monitor the environment in areas where there are nuclear facilities. The reasons for 

environmental monitoring are to assess the possible radiation exposure of the public (primary 

objective), to confirm control measures that are in place in the nuclear plant, to contribute to 

research, to provide information and reassurance to the public about their safety, to establish 

pre-operational radiation levels, and to help decide on actions required should there be any 

emergency as there must be a capability to begin monitoring rapidly in the event of an 

emergency as with Fukushima, Japan after the earthquake and tsunami incidents. Based on the 

national measurement standards NMISA maintains for the nuclear industry, the National Nuclear 

Regulator (NNR) has identified the NMISA as a key partner in the establishment of a radioanalytical 

laboratory for independent verification analysis in support of its compliance assurance 

programme. 

Within the South African context, the protection of our natural world is not only essential for 

human health and compliance with international directives, but also to maintain one of our largest 

income streams-tourism. Currently tourism accounts for approximately 8% of South Africa’s 

GDP, with ecotourism being one of the main attractions. To sustain ecotourism, the natural 

ecosystem needs to be maintained and the on-going security of natural animal and bird 

populations ensured. As illustrated by the mass deaths of crocodiles in the Kruger National Park 

over recent years, anthropogenic activities are increasingly encroaching on these systems. If 

realistic environmental monitoring for environmental pollution cannot be maintained within South 

Africa we are at risk of destroying natural breeding populations of our greatest natural resourceour 

wildlife. 



To accurately ascertain the status of chemical pollution analytical 

capability is needed in the country and thus also traceability and unity in 

measurement. 

9.7 Contribution to Food Safety 

Ensuring consumer food health and safety is of critical importance as evidenced by numerous 

international laws and regulations, thus, the presence of contaminants and nutritional content in 

food is routinely monitored according to limits recommended by the Codex Alimentarius. Whether 

domestically produced, imported or exported, agricultural commodities need to be accurately 

tested by competent analytical laboratories. To support these laboratories in demonstrating 

accuracy and competency as required by ISO/IEC 17025, NMISA is establishing several 

reference measurement services for food analysis. Included in this endeavour and to assist with 

providing traceability in food measurements and is providing proficiency testing schemes (PTS) 

for pesticides in water and later a relevant food matrix. This will allow smaller laboratories that 

cannot afford to participate in the expensive Quasimeme and FAPAS PTS programs to obtain 

accreditation once their quality systems are in place. 

Expertise has been established in the analysis of mycotoxins in maize, ochratoxin-A in wine; 

melamine in milk, pesticide residues in fruit and vegetables, veterinary drug residues in milk and 

meat, and protein content/ quality (amino acid content) in milk and grains. From the 

measurement capabilities for toxic trace elements such as lead, chromium and cadmium in food 

and water, NMISA started to develop a series of elemental reference solutions for the calibration 

of equipment (ICPs and AAs) that are used extensively for elemental analysis of water and food, 

not only by the food industry, but also the mining industry. In partnership with industry, the 

institute also assists with the development of maize CRM and other CRMs as requested and if 

viable. 

Temperature and humidity control is required for food processing, packaging, transport and 

storage, and include both temperature and humidity controls. NMISA will be expanding the 

humidity national measurement standards to provide traceability in the high dew point range 

(from -20 Cdp to 60 Cdp), which is critical for especially the food and pharmaceutical industries. 

9.8 Contribution to Information and Telecommunications 

The information and communications technology (ICT) industry is one of the fastest growing 

sectors of the South African economy. It underpins a number of sector clusters identified in the 

IPAP, namely business process outsourcing, tourism, cultural industries and aerospace. The high 

cost of telecommunications has been identified as a constraint in the development of these 

clusters. Increased access to broadband at reduced cost to individuals and businesses is one of 

the national priorities. Three NMISA laboratories directly provide for the calibration of equipment 

used to measure the performance of telecommunication networks, namely Fibre Optics, Time 

and Frequency, and Radio Frequency. An increased demand for network performance thus 

presents an opportunity for these laboratories to expand their services within the 

telecommunications industry. 

The second is considered to be one of the key units maintained by NMISA. It is the most 

accurate measurement known and is often used to measure other fundamental quantities, such 

as the volt, the ampere, the ohm, and the meter. It is expected that eventually three of the seven 

SI units (the ampere, the meter and the kilogram) will be traceable back to the second. As one of 

50 



NMISA’s policy objectives is to “build world class and internationally recognised measurements 

and metrology infrastructure”, a strategic goal for the time and frequency laboratory is to improve 

its measurement capabilities to be within the top half of all NMIs contributing to UTC, over the 

next five years. In order to achieve this, the laboratory will work on methods and algorithms to 

steer the time scale of South Africa closer to UTC with the first goal of keeping the laboratory 

prediction to within 100 ns of UTC and ultimately to within a smaller window. This will position the 

laboratory such that it can also take advantage of specialised opportunities within South Africa, 

for example providing the means to synchronise data packets very accurately to the South 

African Square Kilometre Array (SKA) project or the smaller, test project of MeerKAT. The 

knowledge gained from the implementation of clock monitoring systems, time transfer systems 

and steering algorithms will also provide opportunities to assist African NMIs with developing 

national time and frequency scales. 

The establishment of an optical frequency standard is another key objective, which will also build 

capacity in the organisation and may lead to NMISA contributing internationally to frequency 

standards, either as a secondary realisation of the second, or maybe even a primary standard. 

Currently, a research project in the Research and Technology Development division is dedicated 

to establishing an optical frequency standard using a two-photon transition in rubidium. This has 

potential benefits not only to time and frequency metrology, but also to dimensional and fibre 

optic metrology. 

The Radio Frequency laboratory of NMISA realises the national standards for RF power, 

attenuation and impedance, which serve the following industries: telecommunications, 

aerospace, defence, radar and electromagnetic issues related to health and safety. 

The laboratory provides traceability for test and measurement 

instruments used by the ICT industry for installation and maintenance of 

their communication infrastructures, which include cell phone 

installations, radio and TV broadcasting, wireless LANs and point-topoint 

communications. Air traffic control, communication from and to the 

aircraft, collision avoidance radar systems and navigation systems based 

on GPS use equipment that requires proper calibration of RF parameters 

to work at optimum performance. 

The effect of non-thermal and non–ionising mobile phone radiation on biological systems is the 

subject of many research projects around the world. RF metrology impacts on these projects 

since no meaningful results can be expected if non-traceable measurements of electric field 

parameters or guided-wave parameters are used to interpret the results. 

9.9 Contribution to Regional Development 

Africa faces a huge challenge to stay abreast of technological developments, to be able to prove 

measurement equivalence and to provide analytical assurances for export products. Its economy 

is resource and commodity based and relies heavily on metals, oil, diamonds and agricultural 

exports. 

As market access encompasses (i) intra-African trade, (ii) Africa’s trade 

with other countries and regions, and (iii) the diversification of exports, 

the international linkages that a metrology system could provide to the 



analytical community is of inestimable value, and its impact on 

increasing trade could be huge. 

NMISA was pivotal in the formation of the SADC Cooperation in measurement traceability 

(SADCMET) in 2001 and the Intra-Africa Metrology System (AFRIMETS) in 2007, and 

AFRIMETS since succeeded SADCMET as the RMO representing Africa. A number of 

metrologists are serving as chairs of the AFRIMETS working groups, mentoring the metrologists 

from African NMIs to build continental capacity. This leadership role will continue over the next 

five (5) years, as many countries still only have the most basic parameters in place. NMISA is cohosting 

the secretariat of AFRIMETS with the NRCS. 

The SADC Protocol on Trade, as amended, has established a Free Trade Area in the region 

since 2008 and its objectives are to further liberalize intra-regional trade in goods and services; 

ensure efficient production; contribute towards the improvement of the climate for domestic, 

cross-border and foreign investment; and enhance economic development, diversification and 

industrialization of the region. Key to this is the elimination of technical barriers to trade (TBTs) 

which have been identified as a key driver of regional development and integration in SADC, and 

is prioritised in the Regional Indicative Strategic Development Plan (RISDP) as the facilitator of 

intra-regional trade and economic growth leading to poverty eradication. To eliminate TBTs and 

accelerate economic integration, SADC has put in place the SADC Standards, Quality 

Assurance, Accreditation and Metrology programme referred to as SADC SQAM programme to 

deal with TBTs and harmonize these measures among its member states and with other 

economic trading blocks. Under SADC SQAM, the secretariat of the SADCMET has since its 

inception been hosted by NMISA which is responsible for coordinating metrology activities and 

services in the region, in order to provide regional calibration and testing services with readily 

available traceability to the SI units. NMISA plays an active role in not only providing traceability, 

but also in training of metrologists and assisting in laboratory design and set-up at SADC NMIs. 

Working closely with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the United Nations 

Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) and the PTB’s Technical Cooperation Agency, the 

NMISA participate in a number of regional capacity building projects. These are important 

towards the visibility of NMISA’s technical capabilities, but also contribute to the career growth of 

NMISA staff. 

While NMISA plays a leading role in the SADC region as well as continental Africa, and for many 

years has being the most developed NMI, its leadership is being challenged in some areas and 

parameters. Both Kenya and Egypt built new facilities after 2000, which significantly enhanced 

their profile and role; and Egypt now has more modern facilities than NMISA in a large number of 

parameters. 

52 



10 Risk Management 

In accordance with good governance, sound management and the PFMA, a Risk Management 

Plan (RMP) incorporating a Risk Register guides the management of risk in the NMISA. Risks 

are defined as ‘any event that is likely to adversely affect the ability of the institute to achieve the 

defined objectives’. The risks are grouped in the following broad categories: Plant and 

Equipment, Health and Safety, Financial, Stakeholder/Customer, Internal Organisation and 

Internal Business Processes. 

The method used to manage the risks is undertaken through the implementation of five key 

processes: 

• The identification of risks 

• The logging and prioritising of risks 

• The identification of risk mitigating actions 

• The assignment and monitoring of risk mitigating actions 

• The closure of risks 

The integrity of the process is ensured by an accredited ISO/IEC 17025 compliant quality 

management system with detailed procedures related to the nature and execution of the work it 

undertakes. The policies and procedures are published as part of the Total Quality Management 

System of the NMISA. Policies and Procedures are updated with a maximum frequency of two 

years. 

Several processes, procedures and policies to deal with the management of risks in the business 

are thus in place for NMISA. A Risk Committee, under a Risk Chairperson, with representation 

from Executive Management, the Technical Divisions, Finances, Corporate services and EHS, 

continuously monitors risks and update the Risk Register that is used to manage risk at a 

detailed level. The Committee reports new risks and the monitoring and management of existing 

risks to Executive Management, the Board Committees and finally to the Board. 

The top risks challenging the institute (an extract from the comprehensive risk register with more 

than 200 entries) are shown in Appendix H. 



11 Performance Plan Matrix 

An updated performance matrix has been included below, covering the period 2013/14 to 

2015/16. Quarterly targets have been defined for 2013/14, and targets have been maintained as 

per the signed off strategic plan. 

Some targets, illustrated in red, have been revised due to a change in budget and reprioritisation 

of funds. 

NMISA has adopted the balanced scorecard approach to set and measure performance targets. 

This scorecard addresses the four key components of a generic scorecard; namely, 

stakeholder/customer (technical), organisational development (learning and growth), financial 

and business process perspective. 

Stakeholder/customer perspective (technical): includes scientific and technical outputs, 

products and services developed to support the South African commerce and industry in a fastpaced 

global economy. 

Internal organisation (learning and growth) perspective: Internal growth perspective 

addresses human resources, thereby demonstrating the organisation’s capacity to deliver on its 

mandate by maintaining a skilled, competent and transformed work force. Key priorities include: 

• Improve core skills and qualifications 

• Reduce employee turnover 

• Transformation 

• Improve job satisfaction 

• Improve internal communications in the HR function 

Financial and business process perspectives: The focus is on the financial performance and 

sustainability of the organisation. Key priorities that are addressed include: 

• Financial growth and stability is ensured by broadening the revenue mix 

• Effective financial controls 

• Develop and update policies and procedures 

• Improving of internal processes, aligning and integrating systems and processes 

• Improving internal communications 

• Establishing long-term multi-divisional research programme 

• Implementing systems to manage and protect NMISA’s intellectual property 

The performance indicators of the balanced scorecard are supported by divisional Annual 

Performance Plans and deliverables. The main activities, in line with the strategy that has been 

presented, to attain these key performance indicators are summarised in Appendix F. 

Note: YEARLY TARGETS: While yearly targets are not recommended in the Framework document, some 

key metrology targets can only be claimed annually due to procedural constraints. Yearly targets have 

been kept to a minimum. 

54 



11.1 Stakeholder and Customer Perspective 

For its stakeholders and customer perspective, NMISA’s core function is reflected in its scientific and technical outputs. Technical key 

performance areas and outputs have been developed for each strategic objective of the organisation. 


Oriented Goal 

Internationally 

benchmarked and 

accepted measurement 

standards in support of 

competitive economic 

infrastructure and an 

improved quality of life 

1 

2 

2013/14 

Baseline Target for 

Key performance outputs Key perfomance Indicator/ Measure (Q1) (Q2) (Q3) (Q4) 2014/15 2015/16 

BUDGET (2012/13) 2013/14 

Gazetted National Measurement 

Standards 

New Certified reference 

materials and methods of 

Calibration and/or improved 

NMS 

Demonstrated measurement 

capabilities 

Number of Gazetted national measurement standards 

maintained 

New CRMs, measurements, methods of calibration as listed 

in the NMISA Chemistry Reference Materials and 

Measurements Register and improvement of NMS as listed 

in laboratory quality documentation 

Number of Calibration Measurement Capabilities 

maintained in the International Key Comparison Database 

(KCDB) 

R 57 862 

50 50 Yearly Target* 

50 50 


14 15 


413 417 

Traceability, 

measurement expertise 

and services 

disseminated to South 

African commerce and 

industry through 

certified reference 

materials, appropriate 

technology and skills 

transfer. 

3 

4 

Dissemination of the NMS and 

measurement capabilities 

Certified Reference Materials 

supplied to health, food, 

environment and the chemical 

sectors 

A skilled and capable work force 

for measurements in industry 

Income generated through calibration, services, sales, 

consultation, research grants and donor projects 

R 11 690 R 10 861 R 2 100 R 4 700 R 7 500 R 10 861 R 13 852 R 10 603 

Number of Certified Reference Materials sold 86 200 45 55 50 50 220 240 

R 23 315 

Number of industry, SMME and/or regional metrologists 

trained in accurate measurement 

14 49 5 21 13 10 64 80 

Number of courses developed and offered to industry 5 6 1 1 3 1 8 8 



11.2 Organisational (learning and growth) perspective 

The Human Resources Department has developed measures to increase core skills and staff capability, reduce employee turnover and ensure 

a fair and equitable work force. Included are targets to develop and increase the pipeline of technical staff, and increase the qualification profile 

to foster more research & development on par with developed metrology institutes. 


Oriented Goal 

2013/14 



BUDGET (2012/13) 2013/14 

Requisite expertise and 

competencies 

established and 

maintained according to 

internationally 

5 

acceptable standards A skilled, competent and 

transformed work force 

6 

Demonstrated competence and 

excellence in measurement 

through Scientific outputs 

Number of refereed and/or peer-reviewed publications on 

measurement science 

Number of presentations (oral and poster) given at 

conferences and workshops on measurement science 

R 22 898 

21 18 0 3 5 10 20 27 

50 51 4 7 28 12 58 66 

Number of staff with PhDs 10 12 Yearly Target* 

14 15 

Number of staff with M-degrees 30 34 Yearly Target* 

35 38 

Number of Post-graduate bursars R 12 900 5 5 Yearly Target* 

7 8 

Number of Undergraduate bursars 6 3 Yearly Target* 

3 5 

Number of Interns and in-service trainees hosted 5 5 Yearly Target* 

7 7 


56 


11.3 Financial and Business Perspectives 

These perspectives include measures that ensure effective financial controls, financial growth and stability and improve the quality of internal 

processes, and align and integrate systems and processes 


Oriented Goal 



BUDGET (2012/13) 2013/14 

2013/14 

Upholding the principles 

of good corporate 

governance and 

compliance to 

regulatory frameworks 

7 

8 

Established systems and 

processes to ensure compliance 

to regulatory frameworks 

Reasonable assurance on the 

adequacy, effectiveness, 

efficiency of internal controls, 

risk management and 

governance maters 

9 Client services / customer 

satisfaction 

Actual expenditure to revenue received New KPI 100% 80% 85% 90% 100% 100% 100% 

Unqualified 

Unqualified Unqualified 

Unqualified audit opinion R 26 782 New KPI 

Yearly Target* Yearly Target* Yearly Target* Yearly Target* 

audit opinion audit audit 

% of total budget spent on CAPEX 10% 20% 10% 15% 18% 20% 24% 30% 

100 % completion of approved Annual Audit Plan and 

issuance of audit reports. 

30 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 

Quarterly Reporting to the Audit and Risk Committee 7 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 

Conduct 100% Follow-Up Audit on Management Action R 1 092 

Plan emanating from External Audit 

1% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 

Customer satisfaction for external jobs (measurements, 

calibrations, CRMs, etc.) 

>90% >90% >90% >90% >90% >90% >90% >90% 

Note: The Key performance indicator/Measure “Unqualified audit opinion” will be changed to “Clean audit” from 2013/14 onwards. 



11.4 Detailed Performance Indicators 

A summary of Performance Indicators developed for NMISA appear in table 1, with a more 

detailed overview in the following sections: 

Table 1: Performance Indicators 

Number Indicator Title Strategic outcome oriented goal 

1 National Measurement 


2 Calibration and Measurement 

Capabilities 

Internationally benchmarked and accepted measurement 

standards in support of competitive economic infrastructure 

and an improved quality of life 

3 Measurement services Traceability, measurement expertise and services 

4 Skills transfer 

disseminated to South African commerce and industry 

through certified reference materials, appropriate technology 

and skills transfer 

5 Scientific outputs Requisite expertise and competencies established and 

6 Human resources 

maintained according to internationally acceptable standards 

7 Financials 

8 Audit controls 

9 Customer services 

Upholding the principles of good corporate governance and 

compliance to regulatory frameworks 

Detailed indicator descriptions 

Indicators were defined according to the Framework for Strategic Plans and Annual 

Performance Plans document, published by National Treasury. 


58 


11.4.1 National Measurement Standards 

I 

Indicator title (Output) Number of Gazetted National Measurement Standards maintained 

Short definition Number of national measurement standards that are Gazetted and maintained according to the maintenance schedules in 

the NMISA Total Quality Management System 

Purpose/importance Legislative requirements for NMISA 

Source/collection of data NMISA approved National Measurement Standard Report kept on the electronic records system 

Method of calculation Count the number of standards in the Gazette under headings 

Baseline 50 Gazetted (8 new in 2012/13) 

Target and target date for the 

indicator 

50 Gazetted and to be maintained with special focus on the 8 new NMS 

Data limitation Request to gazette new standards is being sent to the Minister of the dti. Final sign off outside NMISA control 

Quality assurance strategy The National Measurement Standard report should document the regional, local or international benchmarking exercise 

through comparisons and/or a calibration to another national or international standard 

Type of indicator Output 

Calculation type Non-cumulative (annual number) 

New indicator No 

Reporting cycle Annual 

Desired performance Meeting annual target, as it is part of a long term growth trend 

Indicator responsibility Technical Divisions 



Indicator title (Output) New Certified Reference Materials and Methods of Calibration and/or improved 

Short definition Number of new CRMs, reference measurements and Methods of Calibration that have been developed and number of NMS 

that have been improved 

Purpose/importance Tracks the development of chemistry measurement standards in support of accurate measurement in analytical chemistry, 

environmental monitoring, food safety and manufacture. Also tracks the number of maintained NMS in the other divisions 

that have been improved. 

Source/collection of data A register of CRMs, reference measurements and methods are published on the NMISA website. Improvements to NMS are 

recorded in the quality documentation of the laboratories 

Method of calculation Count the number of entries for the period and the number of improvements to NMS recorded in the Quality system 

Baseline 5 


indicator 

10 

Data limitation Entries must conform to a set of rules such as verification and in some instances international benchmarking of capabilities. 

Final benchmarking reports at the international level can be delayed if there are disputes 

Quality assurance strategy The process is underpinned by accreditation to ISO 17025 or Guide 34 


Calculation type non-cumulative (annual number) 

New indicator No, it is the old indicator for “new NMS” that is defined in terms of the Chemistry output and improvements to Gazetted NMS 


Desired performance Does not necessarily increase from year to year. This indicator is in response to industry requirements from year to year, 

for new CRMs to be developed and for NMS to be improved. 



60 


11.4.2 Calibration and Measurement Capabilities 

 

Indicator title Number of Calibration Measurement Capabilities maintained in the International Key Comparison Database (KCDB) 

Short definition A measurement capability claim that has been reviewed and accepted by international peers, and then published in an 

international database 

Purpose/importance Gives customers confidence that a claimed measurement capability is internationally accepted and internationally proven. 

Source/collection of data Appendix B of the International (BIPM) Key Comparison Database (KCDB), published at www.bipm.org 

Method of calculation Count the number in the published register 

Baseline 366 


indicator 

382 

Data limitation It takes time for international approvals to take place which is sometimes outside NMISA control 

Quality assurance strategy Quality assurance is inherent in this KPI, as the values are internationally peer reviewed and published 


Calculation type non-cumulative (annual number) 



Desired performance Capabilities that meet local and international requirements 




11.4.3 Measurement Services 

 

Indicator Profile Income generated through services 

Indicator title Income generated through calibration, services, sales, consultation, research grants and donor projects, measurements / 

chemical analysis performed. 

Short definition To provide measurement traceability to industry through calibration, measurement services, analysis, consultation, 

research grants and donor projects 

Purpose/importance The certificate of calibration issued can lead to significant improvements in accuracy and/or efficiency of the item 

Alternative indicator Financial impact of services rendered 

Potential other uses of indicator Shows the impact of NMISA. One calibration could impact millions of South Africans. 

Source/collection of data A report of income is downloadable from NMISA small contracts management system and financial system 

Method of calculation The total amount of sales. A register of certificates issued to clients is also downloadable from the NMISA small contracts 

management system software 

Baseline 1849 


indicator 

R10 861 (As requested by the NMISA Board, this indicator was combined by number of analysis performed and changed 

to the alternative indicator, financial impact) 

Data limitation Industry not sending units for calibration or analysis, downtime due to building failures or regulatory processes such as the 

national acceptance of evidential breath alcohol results 

Quality assurance strategy Calibration performed under accreditation to ISO 17025 and certificates are signed off by technical staff declared 

competent as signatories under ISO 17025 


Calculation type Output 


Reporting cycle Quarterly 

Desired performance Meet financial target No customer complaints 



62 


Indicator Profile Certified Reference Materials (CRMs) supplied to industry 

Indicator title Number of Certified Reference Materials supplied (sold) to health, food, environmental and chemical sectors 

Short definition A CRM is a Reference material characterized by a metrologically valid procedure for one or more specified properties, 

accompanied by a certificate that provides the value of the specified property, its associated uncertainty, and a statement of 

metrological traceability 

Purpose/importance To provide health, food, environmental and chemical sectors with metrological traceability through the CRMs produced and 

sold at the NMISA 

Potential other uses of 

indicator 

A CRM can be used for metrological traceability, calibration and for quality assurance 

Source/collection of data NMISA Reference Material Register lists all CRMs available for sale (NMISA internet) and CRM certificates of analysis, 

issued with each CRM sold 

Method of calculation Count the number of certificates from the system download and collate with laboratory batch numbers and cylinders per 

batch 

Baseline 86 


indicator 

200 

Data limitation Industry not requesting CRMs due to financial constraints or sourcing lower level CRMs from commercial CRM producers 

Quality assurance strategy Certificates are signed off by technical staff declared competent under accreditation to ISO 17025 and Guide 34 


Calculation type Output 



Desired performance No customer complaints 




11.4.4 Skills transfer 

 

Indicator Profile A skilled and competent workforce for measurements in industry 

Indicator title Number of people trained in metrology with a special focus on SMMEs 

Short definition To develop skills and competencies required to provide required measurements support to industry. 

Purpose/importance To ensure skills transfer and assist SMMEs to meet compliance 

Source/collection of data Number of attendees are kept on file 

Method of calculation Head count 

Baseline 14 


indicator 

49 

Data limitation Decision to train SMMEs is not only in NMISA 's control as it is done with SEDA as a partner 

Quality assurance strategy Signed MoU with SEDA detailing work plan and schedule for training 


Calculation type Cumulative 



Desired performance Increased metrologists and SMMEs trained in industry 

Indicator responsibility HR and Technical Infrastructure Development 


64 


Indicator Profile A skilled and competent workforce for measurements in industry 

Indicator title Number of courses developed and offered 

Short definition Develop relevant metrology courses to address skills requirements 

Purpose/importance To ensure skills transfer 

Source/collection of data Technical divisions have sets of course notes for each course developed 

Method of calculation Count the number of Full courses, partial, own developed and presented, on behalf of others 

Baseline 5 


indicator 

6 

Data limitation Courses are presented in partnership with other institutions like SEDA and NLA 

Quality assurance strategy Signed MoU with SEDA and joint work plan with NLA detailing work plan and schedule for training 



New indicator Non-cumulative, annual number 


Desired performance Increased metrologists and SMMEs trained in industry 

Indicator responsibility HR and Technical Infrastructure Development 



11.4.5 Scientific outputs 

 

Indicator title Demonstrated competence and excellence through scientific outputs 

Short definition Number of refereed and/or peer reviewed publications in journals and conference proceedings 

Purpose/importance Proof of the scientific competence, excellence and standing of the NMISA, as well as effective and relevant application of 

research funding 

Source/collection of data NMISA technical output database, copies saved on central record repository. Also Scopus and other scientific platforms 

Method of calculation Count the number of publications on the technical output database 

Baseline 21 

Target and target date for 

the indicator 

18 

Data limitation Delays in projects for outputs, financial constraints for attendance of conferences, identification of IP which prohibits 

publication, long review timelines at some journals, slow response for conference proceeding publications 

Quality assurance strategy These outputs are peer reviewed, a process which ensures quality as publications are executed 





Desired performance Increase the number and the impact factor 

Indicator responsibility Research and Technology Development Manager 


66 


Indicator title Demonstrated competence and excellence through scientific outputs 

Short definition Number of presentations given at conference and workshops 

Purpose/importance Tracks NMISA's presence and excellence in measurement science and ability to determines at various technical forums 


indicator 

Visibility of Brand NMISA, dissemination of measurement sciences 

Source/collection of data NMISA technical output database, copies saved on central record repository. Also Scopus and other scientific platforms 

Method of calculation Count the number poster and oral presentations on the technical output database 

Baseline 50 


the indicator 

51 

Data limitation Delays in projects for outputs, identification of IP which prohibits publication, long review timelines at some journals, slow 

response for conference proceeding publications, financial constraints to attend conferences 

Quality assurance strategy These outputs are peer reviewed, a process which ensures quality as publications/posters talks are executed 



New indicator No, two indicators have been combined (oral and poster presentations) 


Desired performance Increase the number and the impact factor 

Indicator responsibility Research and Technology Development Manager 



11.4.6 Human Resources 

 

Indicator title A skilled, competent and transformed workforce 

Short definition Number of staff with PhD Number of staff with 

MSc 

Number of postgrad 

bursaries 

awarded 

Number of 

undergraduate 

bursaries 

Number of Internships /In 

service training 

Purpose/importance Enhance the NMISA qualification profile to build a modern NMI with a strong research component. 

Potential other uses of indicator To address employment equity 

Source/collection of data Human capital development plan 

Method of calculation Head count 

Baseline 10 30 5 6 5 


indicator 

12 34 5 3 5 

Data limitation Shortage of appropriate 

PhD graduates in SA 

Shortage of 

appropriate MSc 

graduates SA 

Unexpected decline of bursary offer or 

cancellation of bursary contract 

Intern receiving job offer 

elsewhere before completion 

of training 

Quality assurance strategy Academic record or research outputs of candidate 

Type of indicator Equity 

Calculation type Cumulative Non-cumulative, annual number 



Desired performance Improvement in the NMISA qualification profile Bursaries offered, increase in the 

pipeline of graduates 

Well trained interns who can 

be placed in the NMISA or 

other organisations 

Indicator responsibility HR together with technical divisions 


68 


11.4.7 Audit Controls 

 

Indicator title Annual Audit Plan 

Short definition Annual Internal Audit Plan as approved by the Audit and Risk Committee 

Purpose/importance To provide guidance on Internal Audit Activities and focus area based on Organisational Risk Exposure. Management tool to 

determine the effectiveness of Internal Audit. Forms the bases for progress quarterly reporting to the Audit and Risk 

Committee 


indicator 

Measure the effectiveness of Internal Audit Division. Resource allocation and accountability 

Source/collection of data NMISA Risk Assessment and Risk Register. Risk based Internal Audit plan 

Lead/collection of data NMISA Risk Assessment, Risk Register, Business Plan, Business Scorecards etc. 

Method of calculation Number of Audit Reports produced. 

Baseline 30 


the indicator 

Total number of approved Audit Assignments as listed in 2013/14 Annual Internal Audit Plan 

Data limitation None 

Quality assurance strategy Audit Plan is Approved by Audit and Risk Committee before implementation for the financial year 

Type of indicator Quantitative 



Reporting cycle Quarterly Reporting to Audit and Risk Committee 

Desired performance 100% completion of the planned and approved audits 

Indicator responsibility Internal Audit 



Indicator title Internal Audit Quarterly Report 

Short definition Quarterly report on the effectiveness of Internal Audit tabled at the Audit and Risk Committee 

Purpose/importance To monitor the effectiveness of Internal Audit towards the achievement of the Approved Annual Audit Plan 


indicator 

To determine whether Internal Audit resources are used in an economical, effective and efficient manner. To provide 

reasonable assurance to management the that NMISA will achieve its objectives 

Source/collection of data Internal Audit Reports, Internal Audit Strategic Plan, Internal Audit Annual Report 

Lead/collection of data NMISA Risk Assessment, Risk Register, Business Plan, Business Scorecards etc. 

Method of calculation Number of issued Audit Reports 

Baseline 7 


the indicator 

Total number or 100% completion of audit assignments per quarter 


Quality assurance strategy Internal Audit reporting functionally to the Audit and Risk Committee 

Type of indicator Quantitative and Qualitative 

Calculation type Number of conducted audit assignments as approved 



Desired performance 100% completion of approved annual audit plan and effective utilisation on resources 



70 


Indicator title Management Action Plan 

Short definition Management Action Plan developed and implemented as a result of External Audit / Auditor - General Audit Report to 

address control weakness identified during external audits. 

Purpose/importance To ensure that management implements corrective actions on control weakness and any non-compliance raised in external 

Audit reports. 


indicator 

N/A 

Source/collection of data Final External Audit Report 

Lead/collection of data NMISA Divisions and structures 

Method of calculation Number of issues raised in the Audit Report and Management letter 

Baseline 1 


the indicator 

Conduct 100% follow-up audits as scheduled at end of each quarter 


Quality assurance strategy Report is compiled and tabled at the Audit and Risk Committee 

Type of indicator Qualitative 




Desired performance Full implementation of the Action Plan and Follow -Up audit on action plan. No re-occurrence of reported findings 




12 Financial Plan 

12.1 MTEF Projections 

The spending focus over the MTEF period will be on providing metrology and advanced 

measurement assistance to specific industry sectors as identified in IPAP, and building capacity 

in the institution to better fulfil its mandate. 

Over the MTEF period NMISA is projected to grow its grant allocation funding from R76.5 million 

(2012/13) to R250.8 million (2015/16). 

The main contributor is the additional funding that is earmarked for the re-capitalisation of the 

institute in support of the NMS. Over the years, as baseline funding did not increase with 

scientific inflation (that is significantly higher than normal inflation), and funding lost from the 

CSIR was not fully compensated when NMISA was established, funding available for capital 

investments on equipment for hosting the NMS drastically decreased from 55% of the total 

budget in 2001/02 to an unprecedented low level of 4% in 2010/11. This would have led to 

discontinuation and abandonment of some NMS in contravention with the entity’s mandate. To 

avert the situation, the organisation has embarked on a drive to recapitalise the operations by 

growing the budget from R76.5 million at the current year to R250.8 million in 2015/16 at an 

average growth rate of 33% from the allocated baseline. 

The investment on NMS will thus take a centre stage over the next 4 years and capital 

expenditure is projected to grow by 27% in 2012/13 and by 2015/16, by 106%. Also, a significant 

amount of the funding will still be directed towards human capital capacity building which is 

currently at ~76% of the original baseline allocation. The external revenue part of income from 

services rendered (calibration and analysis) is expected to decline from R10.5 million in 2012/13 

to R9.2 million in 2015/16. The main reason is that accredited calibration laboratories are taking 

over the routine lower-level calibrations previously provided by the institute, but the organisation 

is currently working on strategies to expand the revenue base through higher-level services, 

especially in support of IPAP. Amongst others, the entity is working on initiatives to identify 

strategic government operations which the organisation can participate in and add more value at 

lower cost to the state such as the establishment and operation of a laboratory for the National 

Nuclear Regulator, co-operation with the South African Police Services forensic analysis 

laboratory, a reference environmental monitoring laboratory, a laboratory for traceability and 

accurate measurement for nano-technologies, etc. 

The goods and services budget is projected to grow from the current R29.5 million in 2012/13 to 

R119.1 million in 2015/16. This amount is mainly utilised on proper maintenance of NMS facilities 

which are 5-20 years old, as well as proper maintenance of the newly acquired NMS (through the 

re-capitalisation). The other significant portion goes to Rental of buildings from the CSIR and 

related services which is growing at a high rate of about 13-15% per annum. Although the 

organisation is working towards building new facilities, the indications are that the project can 

only come to fruition after the MTEF period. 


72 


. 

Figure 12. Revenue - dti grant and external, and staff compensation bill as % of total revenue. 

Table: Overview of the Estimates of National Expenditure (ENE) of the NMISA 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



Table: Financial information of the Estimates of National Expenditure (ENE) of the NMISA 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

74 





Figure 13. Projected revenue. 

Figure 14. Projected expenditure 

12.2 Recapitalisation of the National Measurement Standards 

The laboratories evaluated the current national measurement standards and working 

standards/transfer standards in terms of cost, lifetime and suitability to retain if moving to a new 

building. The table below shows the summary of the estimated investment to upgrade the 

equipment to the desired status – the chemistry and physical divisions can retain a large 

percentage of their equipment, provided it is being upgraded. New equipment to ensure state-ofthe-art 

NMS that meets the South African industry/ community needs for a number of years. The 

estimated total cost to recapitalise the NMS comes to R375 million, which excludes the facility 

building costs, estimated currently at R400 million plus. 

76 



Laboratory 

Current 

equipment 

value 

Value of 

equipment 

retained to 

new building 

Value of 

upgrades 

needed for 

retained 

equipment 

New 

equipment 

Total (R 

million) 

Chemistry 27 527 200 22 422 900 10 920 000 179 877 000 190 797 000 

Electromagnetic 3 589 790 195 000 0 38 290 791 38 290 791 

Mechanical 27 919 000 26 568 000 12 901 000 75 085 000 87 986 000 

Ionising 

Radiation 

4 501 900 3 471 300 1 320 000 34 660 000 35 980 000 

RD Optics 2 720 030 1 220 030 5 000 000 17 489 395 22 489 395 

Total 66 257 920 53 877 230 30 141 000 345 402 186 375 543 186 

*NMISA’s asset book value at 31 March 2012 is R 52 008 131. The difference in the table results from fair 

values vs depreciated value. 

12.3 MTEF allocation 

In the MTEF allocations 2013/14 to 2015/16, on the recommendation of the Minister’s Committee 

on the Budget, additional budget has been approved by Cabinet on 23 November 2011 for 

NMISA towards improvement of National Measurement Standards: R50 million and R100 million 

for 2013/14 and 2014/15, respectively. 



Appendix A: The SI Units 

Unit of Length (meter) m 

The metre is the length of the path travelled by light in vacuum during a time interval of 1/299 792 

458 of a second. 

Unit of Mass (kilogram) kg 

The kilogram is the unit of mass; it is equal to the mass of the international prototype of the 

kilogram 

Unit of Time (second) s 

The second is the duration of 9 192 631 770 periods of the radiation corresponding to the 

transition between the two hyperfine levels of the ground state of the caesium 133 atom. 

Unit of Electric Current (ampere) A 

The ampere is that constant current which, if maintained in two straight parallel conductors of 

infinite length, of negligible circular cross-section, and placed 1 m apart in vacuum, would 

produce between these conductors a force equal to 2 x 10 –7 newton per metre of length. 

Unit of Thermodynamic Temperature (Kelvin) K 

The Kelvin, unit of thermodynamic temperature, is the fraction 1/273.16 of the thermodynamic 

temperature of the triple point of water. 

Unit of Luminous Intensity (candela) cd 

The candela is the luminous intensity, in a given direction, of a source that emits monochromatic 

radiation of frequency 540 x 10 12 hertz and that has a radiant intensity in that direction of 1/683 

watt per steradian. 

Unit of Amount of Substance (mole) mol 

1. The mole is the amount of substance of a system which contains as many elementary entities 

as there are atoms in 0,012 kilogram of carbon 12. 

2. When the mole is used, the elementary entities must be specified and may be atoms, 

molecules, ions, electrons, other particles, or specified groups of such particles. 

78 



Appendix B: The Base Units as maintained by NMISA 

Base Unit 

Metre 

Kilogram 

Second 

(Time and 

Frequency) 

Ampere 

Kelvin 

System for Primary 

Realisation and/or 

Representative 

parameter 

Iodine stabilized 

He/Neon laser: through 

the wavelength of the 

632,8 nm radiation 

Pt/Ir artifact copy no. 56 

of the International 

prototype of the kilogram 

Suite of 4 Caesium beam 

atomic clocks 

International Benchmark 

Range 

Accuracy 

1-NMS 

2-Dissemination 


NMS 

Required 

Nationally 

Gap 

Range Accuracy Range Accuracy Range Accuracy 

632,8 nm 2,5 x10 -11 632,8 nm 2,5x10 -11 632,8 nm 1x10 -9 Sufficient Sufficient 

1 kg 

UTC 

1) 5 µg 

5 µg 

1 kg 

2) < 50 µg 500 µg 

< 60 ns (Other BRIC 

countries) 

< 100 ns (BIPM 

requirement to 

participate in UTC) 

Coordinated 

Universal time 

(UTC) 

5 µs 

1 kg 150 µg N/A 

SA Standard 

Time 

(SAST) 

1 ms Sufficient 

350 µg 

Need to reduce 

to 100 ns to be 

able to 

contribute to 

UTC 

Time Interval 1 s 2 ns 1 s 0,2 ns 1 s 1 ns Sufficient Sufficient 

Frequency 10 MHz 1x10 -15 Hz/Hz 10 MHz 1x10 -13 Hz/Hz 10 MHz 1x10 -12 Hz/Hz Sufficient Sufficient 

Josephson junction 

Voltage bridge 

1V, 1,018 V and 10 

V 

0,0001 ppm to 0,001 

ppm 

Resistance 100 µ to 1 T 0,0047 to 500 ppm 

Fixed point cells (Ar, Hg, 

H2O, Ga, Sn, Zn, Al, Ag, 

Cu) 

-189 °C to 962 °C, 

(800 to 2700) °C 

Mole Derive traceability from the kg and amount of substance 

0.0001°C to 

0.0012°C, (0.7 to 

1.9)°C* 

1 V, 1,018 V 

and 10 V 

100 µ to 1 

T 

-189 °C to 

660 °C, (600 

to 1600) °C 

0,02 to 0,1 ppm 

1V, 1,018 V and 

10 V 

0,5 to 1 ppm Sufficient 

0,0001 ppm to 

0,001 ppm 

0,2 to 800 ppm 100 µ to1 T 5 to 500 ppm Sufficient 0,06 to 120 ppm 

0.0013°C to 

0.0100°C, (1.2 to 

2.4)°C 

-189 °C to 

660 °C, (600 to 

1600) °C 

0.0100°C to 

0.0500°C, (2.5 

to 3.0)°C 

Ranges - 

189°C to - 

80°C and 

1085°C to 

1554°C 

Comparison 

medium 

required subzero, 

fixed 

points at high- 

Temperature 

Candela 

Room temperature 

absolute Radiometer 

KRISS: 1-10000 cd 

(Tungsten lamp) 1,1% 

1-10000 cd 

(Tungsten 

lamp) 

1,0% 

0,1 – 100 cd (LED) 1,4 – 1,7% None None 

1-10000 cd 

(Tungsten lamp) 

0,1 – 100 cd 

(LED) 

1,0% 

1,5 % 

Sufficient for 

Tungsten 

lamps 

No capability 

to 

disseminate 

LED sources 

Table: The Realisation of the Primary scales/Base Units with the International benchmark, NMISA offerings and National Requirements 

Sufficient for 

Tungsten lamps 

Capability to 

disseminate 

LED sources 



Appendix C: Gazetted National Measurement Standards 

The National Measurement Standards, as per Government Gazette27269 of 18 Feb 2005. 

NMS 

Schedule 

No. 

Definition 

Length 1 Helium-neon laser, No CSIR 4, stabilized on hyper fine absorption lines of 

iodine used in conjunction with emission and absorption lines of elements 

Mass 2 A cylinder of platinum-iridium, known as prototype No 56 of the kilogram 

Time 3a A caesium beam atomic clock, HP 5071A No. 3608A01034 

3b Electric phase angle- a model 5500 phase standard, No 217 

Electricity 4a Electric potential – 10V Josephson junction voltage array No. ME-106/5 

4b 

4c 

4d 

Electric resistance – a series of eight Thomas type 1Ω resistors, Nos. 

681732,681734,681735,755517,1132427,1146606,1593467 and 1593473 

Electric capacitance – a capacitor, No 193 of nominal value 10 pF. 

Electric inductance - a series of six type 1482 inductors of nominal values from 

100µH to 10 H, Nos. 19399, 19604, 19515,19499 and 19349 

4e Electric AC voltage – three thermal converters (AC to DC), Nos. MJTC 70, PMJTC 301, 

PMJTC312, PMJTC 313 and PMJTC 314. 

4f 

4g 

4h 

Electric AC current – a series of thermal converters (AS to DC) with current shunts, Nos. 

AC-AO 1 with 2695008, AC-AO 4 with 795012, AC-AO 5 with 2215002, AC0Ao 6 with 

2610002, TCC 203 with 2675006, AC-AO 8 with 810015, AC-AO 9 with 2695011, AC-AO 

10 with 2605010, TCC 203 with 2680005, AC-AO 11 with 770018, AC-AO 252010, TCC 

202 with 2735014, AC-AO 3 with 2665013, AC-AO 14 with 2665013, TCC 201 with 

2585007 

Electric AC power – A power calibration system, comprising of – detector amplifier 

Model 2001A, No 950404;current source Model 2002, No 980103; current transformers 

Model 2003A, No 980301, trans-conductance amplifier Model 2701A, No 980107; high 

voltage divider Model 2501A, No 980204; power comparator Model 2000A, 960101, 

and alternating voltage measuring Model 4920, No 2988-5 

Radio-frequency power 

4h-i 50 Ω measuring head No 50/01 

4h-ii 

4h-iii 

50 Ω 0 dBm, power sensor HP8485A, No 2942A11856 

50 Ω-20 dBm, power sensor HO 8485D, No 3318A02445 

4h-iv 75 Ω measuring head, No 75/01 

4h-v 

75 Ω power sensor, HP 8483A, No 3318A0799 

Electricity (cont) 4h-vi 50 Ω 0 dBm, power sensor R&S NRV-Z55, No 839728/002 

4h-vii 

4h-viii 

50 Ω 0 dBm, power sensor Agilent 8487A, No 3318A04344 

50 Ω,-30 dBm, power sensor Agilent 8487D, No MY41090317 


80 NMISA-12-0064 Annual Performance Plan 2013 – 2015 80

NMS 

Schedule 

No. 

Definition 

4i Radio-frequency attenuation: attenuator model WBCO 310, No 103 

4j 

Radio-frequency impedance: 50 Ω coaxial air-dielectric transmission lines: 

4j-i Connector-type PC-7 mm, Nos 00628 and 00639 

4j-ii Connector-type PC-3,5 mm, Nos 00235 and 00551 

4j-iii 

4j-iv 

Connector-type N-7 mm, Nos 00896 and 00744, and 

Connector-type K-2, 92 mm, Nos 601009; and 

4g-v Connector-type PC-2,4 mm, Nos 00968 and 00885 

Temperature 5a Contract thermometry (-200 ◦C to 1085◦ C) 

5a-i 

5a-ii 

5a-iii 

5a-iv 

5a-v 

5a-vi 

5a-vii 

5a-viii 

5b 

5b-i 

5b-ii 

5b-iii 

5b-iv 

5b-v 

5b-vi 

Triple point cells of argon (TS-009) 

Triple point cells of mercury (TS-008) 

Triple point cells of water (TS-007) 

Freezing point cells of tin (TS-006, TS-018) 

Freezing point cells of zinc (TS-005, TS-017) 

Freezing point cells of aluminium (TS-004, TS-016) 

Freezing point cells of silver (TS-003, TS-015) 

Freezing point cells of gold and copper (TS-002, TS-011) 

Radiation thermometry 

Model WB10 oil bath (TS-019) in conjunction with suitable thermometer 

traceable to the contact thermometry measuring standards 

Model P550P oil bath (TS-020) in conjunction with suitable thermometer 

traceable to the contact thermometry measuring standards 

Freezing point cells of silver (TS-013) 

Freezing point cells of copper (TS-115) 

RTS-912 NPRL/CSIR narrow band radiation thermometer (TS-158) 

RTS-657 NPRL/CSIR narrow band radiation thermometer (TS-157) 

Pressure 6a Gas pressure balance piston cylinder units, No. P1 233/C1 123 (2,2 kPa to 30, 0 

kPa) and No P2 187/C2 1806 ( 11kPa to 300 kPs) 

6b 

6c 

Oil pressure balance piston cylinder units No 2839 (0,5 MPa to 30,0 MPa) and 

No 2206 ( 6,0 MPa to 120,0 Mpa) 

Absolute transducer, No 76817-17 with signal conditioner, No 76817-2 (1X10ҙ 

mmHg to 1 mmHg) to mmHg) 

Acoustics in Air 7a Sound pressure in air – a primary calibration system based on a Br0el and Kjæ, 

model 4143 No 1298058 



NMS 

Radiation 

Dosimetry 

Schedule 

No. 

8a 

8b 

8b-i 

8b-ii 

8c 

8d 

Definition 

Air kerma/air kV range: 

X-ray (50-300) kV range: dosimeter (RD-01) 

Absorbed dose/absorbed dose rate: 

High energy photons: 

Beta rays set of beta sources (RD-03) 

Particle emission rate: Set of extended area sources (100mm by 150mm) (RD- 

02) 

Radom gas and radon progeny activity concentration; 60 m³ chamber with Ra- 

22 radon gas source, stearic acid aerosol generator and radiation 

spectrometer, No 080 (RL-070) 

Force 9 A set of load cell as follows: 

Nominal capacity 

No 

Up to 20 kN 76949 

Above 20 kN up to 50 kN 

H18881 

Above 50 kN up to 100 kN 75848 



1 MN 82809 

5MN 21757 

Optical radiation 10 Radiation in the ultraviolet, visible infrared regions: 

Optical radiation 

(cont) 

10a 

10b 

10c 

10d 

10e 

10f 

Luminous intensity (cd): absolute radiometer system (ORP-001.RA) 

Luminous flux (1m): Goniophotometer system (ORP-004.GO) 

Radiant power (w) Absolute radiometer systems (ORP-000, RA, ORP-002 RA) 

Irradiance (W/m²) Absolute radiometer systems (ORP-000, RA, ORP-002 RA) 

Spectral response (A/W or V/W or W/W: Absolute radiometer systems (ORP- 

000, RA, ORP-002 RA) 

Spectral irradiance (W.²m)/nm): Tungsten-bromide lamps (ORS-304.SR, ORS- 

303,SR and ORS-302.SR 

10g Reflectance (%) 

Glossy ceramic tiles (ORP-014.SP) 

Mat ceramic tiles (ORP-015.SP) 

10h 

Transmittance (%): Neutral density filters (ORP-016.SP) 

82 



NMS 

Schedule 

No. 

Definition 

Humidity 11a Dew point (-75 ◦Cdp to +20◦ Cdp): 

11a-i 

11a-ii 

11b 

Model S400RS dew point hygrometer (HMS-100); and 

Model 373LX dew point hygrometer (HMS-110 

Relative humidity 

Suitable interpolation instruments in conjunction with 

11b-i 

11b-ii 

11b-iii 

11b-iv 

11b-v 

Salt solution ampoules (10 %RH) (HGS-510); 





Air Flow 12a Flow rate: A volumetric air flow calibrator, No 9568002N (0’02 L/min to 50 

L/min); and 

Amount of 

substance 

12b 

13a 

Velocity: Miniature vane anemometer, No 55139, and measuring sensor, No 

56116 with measuring heads No S12510,S11287 and S09749 (S09749 

(0’4mAs¯¹ to 40 mAs¯¹). 

Gravimetrically prepared primary reference gases and ethanol in water 

reference solutions, listed in the National Metrology Laboratory reference 

material register 

13b 

Referee Analysis of Inorganic elements in solid and liquid material through 

methods of measurements having the highest metrological qualities 

Radioactivity 


14 A Vinten Instruments Radionuclide Assay Calibrator No. NVS/WNNR 03540, 

comprising a model 671 ionisation chamber (pressurized, re-entrant well type) 

attached to a Vinten ISOCAL 284 electrometer/display module. The chamber is 

calibrated on an ongoing basis using primary standards so as to obtain 

radionuclide specific calibration factors 

Vibration 15a Acceleration – A homodyne laser interferometer system with quadrature 

optical outputs, based on a Melies Griot laser, type 05-STP-901, No 21249, in 

compliance with ISO 16063-11 1 and 3 

Underwater 

acoustics 

15b 

16a 

Velocity & displacement – these are units derived from acceleration 

Sound pressure in water – A primary calibration system to determine the freefield 

received voltage sensitivity if a hydrophone by reciprocity. The standard 

hydrophones maintained are two Brûel and Kjaer 8104 hydrophones with 

serial numbers 2225712 and 2225714 



Appendix D: Certified Reference Material Register 

D.1 Primary Reference Gas mixtures (PRGMs) 

Expanded uncertainty 

Description 

Concentration 

Carbon monoxide (CO) in air/nitrogen 1-10 % mol/mol 0,5% relative 

Carbon monoxide (CO) in air/nitrogen 1000 –10 000 mol/mol 0,5% relative 

Carbon monoxide (CO) in air/nitrogen 100 – 1000 mol/mol 0,5% relative 

Carbon monoxide (CO) in air/nitrogen 10 –100 mol/mol 0,5% relative 

Carbon monoxide (CO) in air/nitrogen 1 – 10 mol/mol 0,5% relative 

Carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) in air/nitrogen 1-20 % mol/mol 0,5% relative 

Carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) in air/nitrogen 1000-10 000 mol/mol 0,5% relative 

Carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) in air/nitrogen 100 – 1000 mol/mol 0,5% relative 

Sulphur dioxide (SO 2 ) in air/nitrogen 1000-10 000 mol/mol 1% relative 

Sulphur dioxide(SO 2 ) in air/nitrogen 100 – 1000 mol/mol 2% relative 

Sulphur dioxide(SO 2 ) in air/nitrogen 10 – 100 mol/mol 2% relative 

Nitrogen monoxide (NO) in nitrogen 1000-10 000 mol/mol 1% relative 

Nitrogen monoxide (NO) in nitrogen 100 – 1000 mol/mol 2% relative 

Nitrogen monoxide (NO) in nitrogen 10 – 100 mol/mol 3% relative 

Nitrogen dioxide (NO 2 ) in air 100 – 1000 mol/mol 2% relative 

Nitrogen dioxide (NO 2 ) in air 10 – 100 mol/mol 3% relative 

Hydrogen sulphide (H 2 S) in nitrogen 1000-10 000 mol/mol 4% relative 

Hydrogen sulphide (H 2 S) in nitrogen 100 – 1000 mol/mol 4% relative 

Hydrogen sulphide (H 2 S) in nitrogen 10 – 100 mol/mol 4% relative 

Methane (CH 4 ) in nitrogen/helium 1 – 10 % mol/mol 1% relative 

Methane (CH 4 ) in nitrogen/helium 1000 – 10000 µmol/mol 1% relative 



Methane (CH 4 ) in nitrogen/helium 1 – 10 µmol/mol 1 to 2% relative 

Propane (C 3 H 8 ) in nitrogen/helium 1 – 10 % mol/mol 1% relative 

Propane (C 3 H 8 ) in nitrogen/helium 1000 – 10000 µmol/mol 1% relative 



Propane (C 3 H 8 ) in nitrogen/helium 1 – 10 µmol/mol 1 to 2% relative 

Automotive emission gases Multi-component mixtures 1 to 2% relative 

Stack gas emission gases Multi-component mixtures 1 to 2% relative 


84 NMISA-12-0064 Annual Performance Plan 2013 - 2015

D.2 Organic Certified Reference Materials (CRMs) 

4% for the 10 mg / 100 g solution 

2% for the 20 mg / 100 g solution 

Aqueous ethanol solutions 

1.3% for the 50 mg / 100g solution 

1% for conc between 55 and 500 mg / 100 g 

1.2% for conc between 1 g / 100 g and 20 g / 100 g 

NaF solutions 

0.3 to 3 g / 100 ml 



Appendix E: International measurement equivalence 

Figure: Relationship between the CIPM MRA, the NMIs and the publication of CMCs in the 

KCDB. 

86 



Appendix F: Divisional activities/key projects in support of NMISA annual performance plan. 

The technical division’s activities in support impact areas are summarised in the tables below. 

Electricity and Magnetism Division 

Parameter Activity Drivers / Impact 2012/13 2013/14 2014/15 2015/16 

Realisation of the 

Candela 

Establish the unit of 

luminous intensity. 

Benchmark capability 


Supporting all visible light 

measurements (incl. 

colour), required for 

automotive and 

manufacturing industry, 

safety and security, 

OSHA act. 

Basic 

instrumentation in 

place 

Realise Candela 

using cryogenic 

radiometer 

Establish traceability 

for LED luminous 

intensity 

measurements 

Increase the dynamic 

range of luminous 

intensity. 

Determine 

requirements for lowpower 

cryogenic 

radiometer. 

LED Measurement 


Establish an 

accredited 

measurement facility 

to provide traceability 

to commercial 

laboratories 

Regulatory requirement 

to standardise in the 

South African market on 

LED and LED related 

products as part of the 

Energy Efficiency drive. 

No capability Determine measuring 

methods and 

equipment 

specifications. Send 

identified expert to 

international training 

course. 

Obtain the required 

equipment and 

commission the 

facility. 

Commence with trial 

measurements 

Benchmark the 

capability internationally 

by participation in the 

planned pilot CCPR 

comparison on LED 

luminaires. May only be 

in 2015/16. 

RF attenuation 

standard 

Refurbishment of 

current in-house 

realisation of the 

NMS 

Proper maintenance of 

radar, air traffic control 

communication and other 

telecommunication 

systems (Internet, cell 

phones, radio, television) 

Current instrument 

at the end of its 

useful life (~25 

years old) 

Upgrade and 

refurbish the 

wavelength below 

cut-off piston. 

Replace transfer 

standard and 

commission 

Upgrade optical 

alignment of laser in 

the circular waveguide 

Investigate the need of 

extending the 

frequency range from 

50 GHz to 67 GHz. 

RF power standard Upgrade RF power 

standard to meet 

future communication 

needs 

New generation 

communication 

technology will be at 

higher frequencies 

Current instrument 

at the end of its 

useful life (~30 

years old) 

Expand RF power 

measurements up to 

67 GHz 

Upgrade the 

calorimeter 

Realise the RF power 

standard using a new 

calorimeter 





RF impedance 


Upgrade RF 

impedance and 

related parameter 

measurements 

Develop primary 


New generation 

communication 

technology will be at 

higher frequencies. 

NMISA to realise its own 

measurement standards 

Frequency range 

limited to 50 GHz 

Calibrate 1,85 mm 

verification kit at 

other NMI, evaluate 

results and compile 

uncertainty budgets 

and 

Automate 

measurements 

Expansion of 

accreditation scope to 

include the improved 

capability and 

disseminate to the 

user-community 

Submit CMCs, 

Research the 

implementation of a 

Impedance 

measurement facility for 

in-house traceability 

South African 

timescale 

Improve time scale to 

within 100 ns of the 

the (post-processed) 

Coordinated 

Universal Time (UTC) 

Continued contribution to 

the UTC. 

Improved systems to 

support commerce and 

business processes, and 

technology developments 

for Meerkat/SKA 

Time scale within 

5 000 ns of UTC 

Develop an offset 

phase-lock-loop 

(PLL) 

Design a steering 

algorithm 

Implement the steering 

algorithm; test the 

steered timescale 

(provided that the 

hardware operates 

successfully) 

Optical power Improve the National 

standard for optical 

power 

Direct ICT industry 

impact: measurements at 

telecommunication 

wavelengths 

Current standard 35 

years old and 

obsolete 

Design setup for 

measuring fibre optic 

power responsivity 

with the cryogenic 

radiometer 

Implement setup for 

measuring fibre optic 

power responsivity 

with the cryogenic 

radiometer 

Fibre Optics Establish a calibration 

service for dispersion 

in optical fibre 

Direct ICT industry 

impact: Dispersive effects 

in fibre communications 

are inherent in fibre 

networks, need to 

minimise potential data 

loss, especially at high bit 

rates. 

Basic capability 

developed and 

needs to be 

expanded 

Continue and 

improve 

measurements on 

polarisation mode 

dispersion 

Continue and improve 

measurements on 

polarisation mode 

dispersion 

Purchase polarisation 

controller and analyser 

Research chromatic 

dispersion and 

measurement thereof 

Ac power and energy Replace ageing ac Directly supports reliable Current range for ac Purchase a second Provide a calibration Provide a calibration 


88 




voltage source and 

extend ac current 

range for power 

measurements to 

160A 

and efficient power 

delivery and accurate 

billing of electric power 

(industrial and 

household). 

voltage is 0 A to 

100 A 

100A transcoductance 

amplifier and 

1000V ac amplifier 

and phase standard. 

Commission system 

service to industry service to industry 

Temperature Develop methods for 

thermophysical 

properties (thermal 

conductivity, 

diffusivity, emissivity, 

etc.) 

Energy efficiency 

(particularly building 

insulation) 

Mining and metals 

(smelters, refineries, 

casting) 

No capability Determine 

specifications for 


property 

measurement facility 

Start development of 


property measurement 

facility 

Develop hightemperature 

(>1085°C) 

fixed points 

New standards for 

Earth Observation/ 

Renewable and 

Sustainable Energy 

Determine and 

develop suitable 

standards to enable 

traceable data 

To support remote 

sensing/earth 

observation/solar 

irradiance activities in 

South Africa. 

Capabilities for 

general 

applications. These 

need to be adapted 

for the niche 

applications in the 

field of Earth 

Observation 

Determine the needs 

of institutions such as 

CSIR DPSS, CSIR 

Meraka and CRSES 

in terms of calibration 

and validation. 

Determine the 

extension of current 

ranges and possibly 

new standards 

Extend existing ranges 

and develop new 

standards as is 

required and feasible. 

On-going project. 

Initial establishment of 

calibration facilities will 

require at least 3 

years 

Further establish and 

benchmark facility 



Physical Metrology Division 

Parameter Activity Drivers 2012/13 2013/14 2014/15 2015/16 

Mass Standards Improve calibration 

capabilities to 

OIML class E1 

level and submit 

CMCs into the 

BIPM database 

Legal Metrology (fair trading, 

consumer protection and law 

enforcement). 

Improved standards to attract OEM 

investment for local production and 

manufacturing. 

OIML class E2 Procure equipment 

and standards. 

Benchmark ability to 

transfer traceability 

from NMS to 1 kg 

stainless steel 

standards. 

Continue 

development work to 

facilitate calibrations 

at OIML accuracy 

class E1. 

Procure automated 

micro comparator to 

calibrate milligram 

weights at OIML 

accuracy class E1. 

Publish the 

capability through a 

CMC at OIML 

accuracy class E1. 

Volume 

measurements 

To develop 

capabilities in the 

-litre range 

Improved calibrations in the µ range 

as needed by industry. 

Limited 

capabilities in the 

-litre range 

Develop capabilities 

and participate in a 

key comparison in the 

-litre range. 

Obtain/improve 

SANAS accreditation 

in the -litre range. 

Publish the 

capability through a 

CMC for volume 

measurements 

Density 

measurement 

To increase the 

range of solid 

densities to 

include mass 

standards of < 1 

kg. 

Improve 

capabilities in 

liquid density. 

Need to determine the density of 

mass standards to enable the 

calibration to higher accuracy (OIML 

class E1) 

Need identified by the local petrochemical 

industry 

Solid density 

capabilities; 2 kg 

to 10 kg and 

limited 

capabilities< 1 kg. 

Continue to develop 

the solid density (1 

to10 kg) capability. 

Commission the 

hydrometer 

calibration system. 

Continue to provide 

traceability to industry 

and to determine the 

densities of own 

mass standards. 

Procure and 

commission a solid 

densities calibration 

system for mass 

standards of < 1 kg. 

Force Laboratory Modernise the 55 

kN dead-weight 

and hydraulic 

amplification 

machines. 

Establish a facility 

to address the 

calibration gap 

Safety (in mines). 

Traceability and advanced 

measurement assistance to metal 

fabrication, 

automotive/airline/mining/construction 

(components and heavy commercial 

vehicles) and down-stream mineral 

beneficiation. 

55 kN deadweight 


hydraulic 

amplification 

machines system 

older than 25 

years. 

Limited 

capabilities below 

Upgrade the control 

systems of the 55 kN 

and hydraulic 

amplification 

machines. 

Commission and 

benchmark the 

upgraded capability 

Develop and build a 

5 kN dead weight 

machine. 


90 




below 5 kN. 5 kN. 

Torque Laboratory Extend Torque 

calibration 

services range to 

20 kN.m applied 

torque 

Automotive, components and 

medium and heavy commercial 

vehicles manufacturing industry. 

Construction industry 

No capabilities 

above 1 kN.m 

Upgrade the current 1 

kN.m torque rig 

(improve UoM). 

Procure 20 kN torque 

rig, appoint and train 

staff 

Commission the 20 

kN torque rig and 

benchmark through 

a comparison. 

Hardness 

Laboratory 

Determine current 

and future industry 

needs for microand 

nanohardness. 



fabrication, the National Tooling 

Initiative (NTI), automotive and 

advanced manufacturing. 

Rockwell 

hardness scale. 

No microhardness 

capabilities. 

Quantify the needs 

with regards to 

materials metrology 

and advanced 

manufacturing 


commission microhardness 


as identified. 

Benchmark 

capability 

internationally. 

Air flow laboratory Build capacity and 

extend gas (air) 

flow services to 

broader industry 

Traceability for instrumentation used 

in the public health / medical and 

environmental sectors 

Limited range of 

services 

provided. 

Appoint and train 

metrologist On 

current system. 

Determine additional 

current and future 

industry needs. 

Start to implement 

actions as identified 

in the roadmap. 

Continue to 

implement actions 

as identified in the 

roadmap 

Dimensional 

Laboratory 

Upgrade the coordinate 

measuring 

machine (CMM) 

capability in 

support of 

dimensional 

measurements. 



fabrication, the National Tooling 

Initiative (NTI), agro-processing, 

automotive textiles and leather, 

aerospace and defence and 

advanced manufacturing 

Industrial CMM 

only with 4 times 

higher uncertainty 


commission a high 

accuracy CMM. 


commission a laser 

tracker. 

Appoint and train: 

Three dimensional 

metrologist. 

Further train three 

dimensional 

metrologist. 

HR development, 

equivalence and 

maintain the 

national standard 

for length. 

Traceability for all length 

measurements in South Africa 

National standard 

laser out of order, 

received new 

laser system nut 

lack expertise 

International 

equivalence through 

comparison of new 

National standard for 

length. 


commission 

secondary lasers. 





Extending the long 

baseline 

measurement 

system to 2km. 

Construction industry 

Mining industry 

Provide advanced measurement 

assistance for legal metrology in SA, 

for example speed traps. 

Limited capability 

up to 1 km 

Investigate the 

building of a new 

base line up to 2km 

for better traceability 

and more accurate 

measurements. 

Build new baseline. Procure and 

commission a laser 

tracker to be used 

for 3D 

measurements and 

baseline 

calibrations. 

Developed a 

system for the 

calibration of the 

angle measurement 

when 

calibrating 

theodolites. 

All angle calibrations in South Africa; 

including level, theodolite and true 

north 

Mining and geology industries 

Surveying 

No traceability for 

theodolite 

measurements 

and limited angle 

measuring 

capability 

Developed a system 

for the calibration of 

the angle 

measurement when 

calibrating 

theodolites. 

Research new angle 

standards for 

Benchmarking. 

Develop new 

standard for 

traceability for true 

north 

measurements. 

Develop standards 

in support of 

nanotechnology 

Support nanotechnology 

development projects and innovation 

Measurements for nanomanufacturing 

industry (labelling of 

goods and cosmetics) 

Capable of only 

one and two 

dimensional nano 


Determine additional 

current and future 

industry needs. 

Develop new 

nano/material – 

capabilities. 

Continue to develop 

new nano/material – 

capabilities. 

Acoustics 




Acoustics 

Health and Safety 

Noise pollution monitoring and 

control. 

Impact assessments for development 

Broken/outdated 

1” reciprocity 

system 

Imported 

traceability for ½” 

microphones 

Implement primary 

calibration system for 

1 inch microphones. 

Implement primary 

calibration system for 

½ inch microphones. 

Update submitted 

CMCs for 1 inch 

microphones. 

Benchmark through 

Bi-lateral 

comparison with 

Brazil. 



Underwater 

Acoustics 

Traceability needed for sonar –in 

support of Maritime Institute’s 

responsibilities. 

No capabilities Acoustics/Underwater 

Acoustics metrologist 

Further train 

Acoustics/Underwater 

Acoustics metrologist 

Develop the National 

Standard for Under- 

Benchmark the 

NMS internationally 


92 




water acoustics. 

Develop a NMS for 

acoustic shock 

Defence R&D development No capabilities Determine current 


needs. 

Procure and implement 

a secondary 

calibration system 

Validate system and 

obtain accreditation 

Vibration Develop a NMS for 

mechanical shock. 

Safety gear testing in support of 

• Defence development. 

• Automotive industry 

Research. Calibration of 

instrumentation used in the public 

health and environmental arenas 

Secondary 

system, 50 g 

peak shock 

Determine current 


needs and appoint 

appropriate staff. 

Procure and implement 

a secondary 

calibration system. 

Validate system and 

obtain accreditation. 

Ultrasound Develop a NMS for 

Ultrasound 

Traceability for calibration of Medical 

ultrasound equipment to ensure 

health and safety of patients and 

unborn babies, 

Support to Non-destructive Testing 

(NDT) used for materials fatigue- and 

flaw testing during aircraft 

maintenance and steel manufacturing 

No capabilities Appoint and train 

Ultrasound 

metrologist. 

Further train 

Ultrasound 

metrologist and 

establish secondary 

ultrasound power 

capability. 

Establish secondary 

ultrasound power 

capability. 

Benchmark 

ultrasound capability 

internationally. 

Pressure & 

Vacuum 

Laboratory 

Establish a 

primary NMS for 

the full pressure 

and vacuum 

ranges. 

The medical, aerospace and defence 

sectors need the range of calibrations 

to be extended to include low 

pressure measurements. Expertise 

and traceability needed for Pressure 

Vessel Testing 

No equivalence 

for National 

standard. 

Imported 

traceability for 

vacuum. 

Limited technical 

signatory status 

Procure a pressure 

balance. 

Initiate activity in 

Pressure Vessel 

STC. Strengthen 

HCD in pressure and 

vacuum metrology 

Obtain SANAS 

accreditation for 

Vacuum 

measurements. 

Obtain SANAS 

technical signatory 

status pressure and 

vacuum. Benchmark 

primary standard and 

vacuum capability. 

Develop the Static 

Expansion System 

as Vacuum Primary 

standard. 



Ionising Radiation Division 

Parameter Activity Drivers Baseline 2012/13 2013/14 2014/15 2015/16 

Air kerma in 

diagnostic 

radiology 

Develop capability 

to calibrate 

equipment used to 

calibrate X-ray 

machines in 

diagnostic 

radiology 

departments. 

Human health: 

diagnostic radiology 

departments, health 

and safety; support 

for DoH; towards 

improved health 

services and 

accurate diagnoses. 

X-ray tubes, 

working bench, 

filter wheel and 

diaphragm 

installed. 

Staff expertise is 

available. 

Characterisation of 

the x-ray tubes 

and determination 

of filter 

thicknesses for 

different beam 

qualities. 

Manufacture or 

order filters for the 

full setup. 

Develop 

procedures for the 

measurement set 

up and the 

dissemination. 

Benchmark 

capability by 

participating in 

comparison for 

calibrating in 

general 

radiography and 

CT beams. 

Benchmark 

capability by 



calibrating in 

mammography 

beams. 

Disseminate 

traceability to 

industry. 

Disseminate 


industry. 

Brachytherapy 

dosimetry 

Develop 


Reference air 

kerma 

measurements. 

Human health: 

radiation therapy 

departments, health 

and safety; improved 

cancer treatment. 

New facility. 


available. 

Purchase 

ionisation 

Chamber (and 

peripherals) to be 

used as a 

calibrated 

reference 

instrument. 

Develop 



up and 

dissemination. 

Benchmark 

capability by 



reference air 

kerma 

measurements. 

Disseminate 


brachytherapy. 

Disseminate 


industry. 


94 




Neutron fluence Improve capability 

for the Calibration 

of neutron 

monitoring 

devices. 

Safety regulations 

and environmental 

monitoring 

requirements. 


in place and 

disseminated to 

industry. 

Develop 



up, train staff and 

disseminate 

through 

calibration. 

Benchmark by 



calibration of 

neutron monitors 

(if international 

comparison is 

available). 

If not benchmarked 

in 2013, perform 

benchmark. 

Disseminate 


industry. 

Air kerma in 

medium energy x- 

ray 

Set up traceability 

for air kerma in 


and radiation 

protection. 

Improvement of NMS 

to support regulatory, 

safety and health. 


available. 

New 

instrumentation 

required. 

Purchase and 

install x-ray unit 

and the working 

bench. 

Characterise the 

x-ray tube for the 


set-up. 

Characterise the x- 

ray tube for the 


set-up. 

Characterise the x- 

ray tube for 

radiation protection 

services. 

Develop procedures 

for dissemination. 

Benchmark 

capability by 


comparison for the 

air kerma in therapy. 

Organise a 

comparison for the 

radiation protection. 

Disseminate 


industry. 

Radioactivity for 

environmental 

monitoring 

Establish low level 

activity 

measurement 

capabilities for 

environmental 

monitoring. 

Need for a NNR 

radio-analytical 

measurement 

laboratory. 

New facility 

Working 

agreement with 

the NNR to set 

up a radioanalytical 

laboratory in 

Rosebank, Cape 

Town signed. 

Procure 

equipment. Modify 

the laboratory to 

accommodate 

instruments and 

the radio-analytical 

requirements. 

Develop methods 

and procedures for 

the measurement 

set up and 

analysis. 

Benchmark 

capability by 


comparisons. 

Disseminate 


industry. 





Radioactivity for 

nuclear medicine 

Conduct audit 

scheme on behalf 

of the nuclear 

medicine 

community. 

Need for improved 

activity 

measurements in 

hospitals, in support 

of health and safety. 

Entrenched in IAEA 

standard that is now 

being used in 

hospitals. 

Needs analysis 

performed by 

NMISA. Basic 

capability in 

place to address 

need through PT 

scheme. One 

audit finalised. 

Run proficiency 

scheme according 

to the needs 

identified. 

Finalise the 

proficiency scheme 

started in 2013/14. 

Identify a 

radionuclide that will 

be used for 2015/16. 

Run proficiency 

scheme according 

to the needs 

identified in 

2014/15. 

Maintain 

Radioactivity 


Benchmark 

radionuclide 

measurement 

capability by 

participation in Key 

Comparisons for 

different 

radionuclides. 

Traceability needed 

by SA nuclear 

industry. 


in place. 


available. 

Benchmark 

radionuclide 

measurement 

capability by 

participation in 

Key Comparison 

for Tc-99 

radionuclide. 

Benchmark 

radionuclide 

measurement 

capability by 


Comparison for 

99m Tc and 

68 68 Ge/ Ga 


Benchmark 

radionuclide 

measurement 

capability by 


Comparison for 57 Co 

and 131 I 

radionuclide. 

Benchmark 

radionuclide 

measurement 

capability by 


Key Comparison 

for 18 F and 166m Ho 


Primary 

radioactivity 

measurements 

Develop 

symmetrical TDCR 

system. Improve 

detection 

efficiency for more 

accurate 

measurements. 

More accurate 

measurements 

needed by the users 

of radioactive 

solutions, e.g. the 

manufacturers 

(especially 

exporters), hospitals, 

etc. 


available. 

Equipment 

upgrade needed. 

Design and build a 

new TDCR system 

Design and build a 

new TDCR system 

Verify accuracy vs. 

old system. 

Implement CNET 

method. 

Validate methods 

and benchmark 


through comparison. 

Validate methods 

and benchmark 


through 

comparison. 


96 


Chemistry Division 


Certified Reference 

Materials (CRMs) 


Primary reference 

gas mixtures 

(PRGMs) 

Expand the scope 

and range of 

CRMs on offer to 

industry 

Legislation and 

prosecution (National 

traffic act, section 65) 

Traceability for 

accredited 

laboratories through 

use of CRMs 

Alcoholic beverage 

tax 

Customs and Excise 

Act, 1964; SARS 

Customs and excise 

tariff schedule 1 part 

1chapter 22. 

ISO 17025 & 34 

accreditation 

Aqueous ethanol 

and NaF CRMs 


in 20% glucose 

solution CRM 

Develop and 

validate expanded 

ranges for 

aqueous EtOH, 

(Provision of 

additional lower 

concentration 

ethanol CRMs as 

legal limit for 

drunken driving 

expected to be 

lowered from 

0.05% to 0.02% 

alcohol per 100 

ml) 

Expand scope of 

ISO 17025 & 34 

accreditation to 

include lower 

ethanol 

concentration 

CRMs 


validate methods 

for new CRM for 

alcoholic 

beverages, 

benchmark 

through bilateral 

with INMETRO 

Maintain ISO 17025 

& 34 accreditation 

Maintain CRM 

range 


validate methods for 

any new CRM, 

benchmark through 

bilateral with 

INMETRO on 

ethanol content in 

cachaça 

(beverages) 

Maintain ISO 

17025 & 34 

accreditation 

Maintain CRM 

range 


validate methods 

for any new CRM, 

benchmark 

through bilateral 

with INMETRO 

Develop new 

PRGMs and 

extend the ranges 

of existing 

PRGMs 

Air Quality Act. 

Regulations for the 

monitoring of 

automotive exhaust 

emissions and ozone. 

Odour control for 

industries such as 

SASOL, SAPPI, etc. 

Traceability for 

Medical gases 

ISO 17025 & 34 

accreditation 

33 PRGMs for 

automotive and 

stack emission 

gases and 

ambient air 

Develop 

methodology, 

capabilities and 

infrastructure to 

prepare and 

validate PRGMs 

for permanent 

gases (gases in 

the atmosphere) 

Validate the new 

PRGMs and 

monitor stability 

(must be done 

over a period of 3- 

6 months, 

depending on the 

gas) 

Disseminate the 

new PRGMs to 

industry. 

Establish 


disseminate 

condensable gases 

PRGMs to industry 

Disseminate the 

new PRGMs to 

industry. 

Establish 


disseminate 

condensable 

gases PRGMs to 

industry 

Establish 


methodologies for 

production and 

Measurement 

traceability to national 

analytical/ industrial 

laboratories. 

Reference 

measurement 

capabilities 

Establish 


methodology and 

produce certified 

Establish 




Establish capability 

and methodology 

and produce 

certified standard 

Establish 








certification of 

primary elemental 

standard solutions 

Need for 

comparability and 

reliability of analytical 

results in industry and 

trade 


of Pb and Cd 


of Cu and Zn 

solutions of Fe standard solutions 

of Molybdenum 

Reference 

measurements for 

environmental and 

food analysis 

Develop critical 

measurement 


methods in 

support of the 

environmental and 

food sectors 

National and 

international 

legislation and 

regulations for food 

and the environment, 

international treaties 

and conventions: e.g. 

Stockholm 

convention, Kyoto 

protocol, REACH, 

RoHS, Codex 

Alimentarius, etc. 

Regulations 

Governing Tolerance 

for Fungus-produced 

Toxins in Foodstuffs 

Amendment No. 

26849, R1145 

October 2004. 

Regulations relating 

to the labeling and 

advertising of 

foodstuffs, R 146, 

March 2010. 

Urgent baseline 

levels for pollutants in 

South African 

Method for 

measurement of 

OCPs, PAHs, dl- 

PCBs in 

environmental 

matrices (water 

and soil) 

Measurement 

capability for 

dioxins and furans 

but need to 

develop methods 

and baseline for 

South Africa 

Measurement 

methods for 

contaminants, 

heavy metals and 

nutrients in food 

matrices, stack 

gas and ambient 

air 

Further 

development and 

method validation 

for all pesticides 

and selected food 

contaminants, 

POPs to include 

dioxins/ furans 

and dl-PCBs and 

also to include 

animal feed as a 

possible matrix; 

Mycotoxins, heavy 

metals and 

nutritional 

elements in maize 

(towards a CRM); 

Amino acids in 

infant formula; 

hydrogen 

sulphide, nitrogen 

dioxide. 

Obtain 

accreditation for 

the melamine, 

CAP, OCPs and 

ochratoxin-A, 

mycotoxins in 

maize, hydrogen 

sulphide and 

nitrogen dioxide. 

Benchmark via 

comparisons and 

PT schemes 

(Pesticides, 

mycotoxins). 

Preparation 

towards 

accreditation of 

pesticide residue 

measurements to 

include 

organophosphorus 

pesticides 

and other classes 

of pesticides in 

food matrices 

Benchmark via 


PT schemes (detail 

decided in 2013) 

Offer reference 


POPs and 

contaminants in 

selected matrices 

Accreditation of 

selected pesticide 

classes, dioxins and 

furan 


biological matrices 

used as indicators 

of environmental 

pollution (urine, 

breast milk). Will 

continue into 

2015/16 

Benchmark via 


PT schemes 

(detail decided in 

2014) 

Offer reference 


POPs and 


selected matrices 

Accreditation of 

selected pesticide 

classes, dioxins 

and furan 


agro-processing/ 

food matrices. Will 

continue into 

2016/17 


98 




environment needed 

Analytical methods Maintain core 

competency and 

develop new 

methods for value 

assignment in 

support of trade 

and environmental 

health and safety 

Support of industry 

sectors for 

manufacturing, export 

and safety (Chemical, 

Food safety, 

Environmental 

Agro-processing, 

Pharmaceuticals, 

Fuel 

Polymers and 

plastics, 

Petrochemical); 

Support of 

Environmental Health 

and Safety 

Expertise and 

Instrumentation in 

place for purity 

analysis, 

certification, 

failure and surface 

analysis 

VCIs for catalyst 

corrosion 

prevention (mild 

steel, copper, 

galvanised steel 

and aluminium) 

Mechanism of 

corrosion 

protection by VCIs 

Develop new 

methods at 

request of 

industry. Already 

identified are 

micro separation 

of heavy metals, 

extraction and 

clean-up of 

organic matrices, 

tribology of 

automotive alloys; 

Pyrolysis GC-MS 

and TGA for 


plastic food 

packaging 

Investigate the 

viability of 

developing 

methods for 

Emerging 

pollutants, 

pharmaceuticals 

and new 

generation 

pesticides in 

abiotic media 

Develop new 

methods for 

elemental 

speciation, 


food packaging; 

expand pyrolysis 

GC-MS and TGA 

methods. 

Purity assignment 

method 

development for 

molecules 

mapping new 

polarity/ molecular 

weight space. 

Developing 

methods for 

emerging 

pollutants, 



generation 

pesticides in 

abiotic media 

Establishment of 

international cooperation 

in 

biodegradable 

polymers, 

polyolefin nanocomposites 


Develop new 

methods; DSC in 

support of paper 

and pulp and 

biodegradable 

plastics; GDMS for 

purity analysis of 

high purity metals; 

dynamic dilution for 

ambient level gas 

analysis; XPS, 

SIMS, SEM and 

XRD analysis in 


nanotechnologies 

Purity analysis of 

high purity metals 

Prepare for 

accreditation/ 

peer-review for 

selected new 

methods for 

emerging 

pollutants, 



generation 

pesticides in 

abiotic media 

towards 2016/17 

and new CMCs in 

KCDB 





wood adhesives. 

International 

higher-order 

benchmarking 

comparisons 

Demonstrate 

capability through 

successful 

participation 

KCDB- CCQM CMC 

requirement, ISO 

17025 competency, 

national credibility 

with laboratories 

Participation in 

CCQM K95/P136 


mid-polar 

pesticides in 

green tea; 


PTs (National and 

Regional 

(AFRIMETS) and 

SADCMET Water 

PT No 8 (cations 

in water); 

CCQM-K30.1 

Trace metals in 

wine; 

CCQM-K93 

Preparative study 

for ethanol in 

nitrogen at 120 

ppm 


CCQM K55c 

Purity assignment 

of L-valine 

(essential amino 

acid); 


CCQM key 


the gravimetric 

preparation of 

calibration 

solutions; 

Establish NaF 

(high 

concentration) PT 

for SA; 

Continue aqueous 

ethanol PTs 

(National and 

Regional); 


for 10 ppm 

Oxygen in 

nitrogen; 


CCQM key 


the gravimetric 

preparation of 

calibration 

solutions; 

Continue aqueous 

ethanol PTs and 

offer NaF PT; 


for NO in nitrogen 

from 30 to 70 

ppm; 

Ambient level 

methane; 

SADCMET Water 


in water) 


CCQM K55d Purity 

assignment of folic 

acid (to be 

confirmed);Continue 

to offer aqueous 

ethanol and NaF; 

BIPM.QM-K1 

Ongoing 


ambient level ozone 


CCQM key 

comparisons for 

the continued 

support of CMCs 

and proof of 

international 

measurement 

equivalence 

Participate in 

Volatiles - 

Calibration 

solution 

comparison 

(composition to be 

confirmed) 

Participate in 

larger molecule 

(mass < 500) - 

Calibration 

solution 

comparison 

(composition to be 

confirmed) 

SADCMET Water 


in water); 

BIPM.QM-K1 


100 




Ongoing 


ambient level 

ozone 

Measurement 

capability for bio 

analysis 

Establish 

reference 


support of the bioanalysis 

sector 

(bio-pharma) 

Food labelling (the 

amino acid and GM 

content) 

Environmental 

monitoring/ toxicity 

testing 

Comparability in 

microbiological 

testing 

Support the 

regulation and 

production of 

biopharmaceuticals 

Comparability in 

diagnostic testing 

Mol concentration 

of peptides in 

solution 

measurement 

capability 

Therapeutic 

drugs: Theohylline 

purity established 

Collaborate with 

PTB, pending 


for hGH 

concentration in 

serum 

Ready to respond 

to any industry 

request for 

therapeutic 

drugs(purity)/ 

peptide 

(quantification) 

analyses 

Verify amino acid 

analysis 

measurement 

(MSc project) 

Establish 

toxicological 

testing assays 

(pending funding 

~R600k) 

Provide amino acid 

quantification 

methods to industry 

Continue/expand 

toxicological/cell 

culture assays 

aligned with industry 

needs – potential 

collaborations with 

surface analysis and 

nano laboratories 

Bilateral with PTB 

(pending 

instrumentations) 

for quantification 

of protein in serum 

Establish nucleic 

acid measurement 

capabilities 

(pending funding) 

Biofuel capability Expand biofuel 

characterisation 

capability to 

include chemical 

and physical 

parameters 

Needs of IPAP (in 

particular Green and 

alternative energy 

and Automotive) 

DoE’s White paper on 

biofuels 

Upcoming SABS 

specifications for fuel 

production 

Ethanol and 

moisture content 

of bioethanol 

established 

Basic analytical 

capabilities in 

place to start 

method 

development for 

FAMEs 

Bioethanol – 

water content and 

ethanol 

Bilateral 

INMETRO 

Investigate 

Criminal aspect, 

collaboration with 

NRCS 

Biofuel origins, 

i.e., use of soya 

Bioethanol – 

water content and 

ethanol 

Bilateral 

INMETRO 

Start Biodiesel 

projects based on 

outcome of 

investigation in 

2012/2013. 

Biodiesel projects 

based on outcome 

of investigation in 

2012/2013 

Continuation of 

Biodiesel projects 

based on outcome 

of investigation in 

2012/2013 





only and not 

maize (FAME 

profiles) 

Research and Technology Development Division 

Parameter Activity Drivers Baseline 2013/14 2014/15 2015/16 

Technology Platform: 

Nanometrology 

Establish a nanometrology 

programme 

Support for 

nanotechnologies – to 

boost innovation as well as 

to facilitate the use of nano 

components in 

manufactured goods 

(labelling legislations) 

Nano-metrology 

identified as 

thrust areas for 

platforms. 

Internal colloquia 

Position paper 

drafted 

Establish nano-core 

project with focus as 

identified in position 

paper. 

Nano-particle project 

(as per position 

paper) 

Nano-particle project 

Technology Platform: 

Materials metrology 

Implement 

programme for 

materials metrology 

Manufacturing 

Minerals beneficiation 

New standards for use in 

industry 

Technology 

platform 

launched 

Position paper 

Identify research/ 

industry partners 

Reference document 

for chemical, physical, 

electrical, thermo and 

optical properties 

Materials 

characterisation 

project as per position 

paper) 

Materials 

characterisation project 


102 


Appendix G: Fraud Prevention Plan 

1 Introduction 

NMISA acknowledges the fact that the incidence of economic or commercial crime is an 

increasing phenomenon and has become an integral part of the current corporate and 

business environment. In this regard the entity commits itself to – 

• Become one of those participants in the economy that will actively and proactively 

protect all of its assets against threats of crime like fraud, corruption, theft, bribery 

and others. 

• Pursue and bring to justice any perpetrator, whether inside or outside NMISA, who 

commits any criminal activities against assets or interest of the organisations. 

Apart from material financial implications, economic crime has further detrimental effects on 

organisations such as loss of reputation, the undermining of competitiveness and erosion of 

credibility. NMISA subscribes to the national drive to eradicate fraudulent activities and has 

adopted a strategic approach to management of economic crime prevention, detection and 

resolution by: 

• Unequivocally communicating to internal and external stakeholders its stance 

against and its policy to prevent and dealing with instances of economic crime; 

• Practicing and upholding good cooperate governance; 

• Developing and instituting an ethical business environment that will cultivate and 

anti-crime culture within the entity; 

• Conducting regular assessments to identify risks; 

• Adopting risk based audit approach 

• Strengthening internal controls; 

• Implementing proper fraud reporting and whistle-blowing structures; and 

• Developing a fraud response plan. 

2 Policy Stance 

NMISA is committed to protecting all its monetary, physical and human assets under its 

custodianship from attempts by any individual to gain a financial benefit or otherwise in an 

unlawful, dishonest or unethical manner. 

All individuals within and dealing with NMISA must believe that: 

• The entity is honest and ethical in its business dealings; 

• They are treated with respect, reward and disciplined in a fair and just manner; 

• The fight against commercial crime is of paramount importance to the organisation, 

and that they are part of that fight and their efforts will be acknowledged; 

• The stance of zero tolerance will be taken against any employee who commits a 

crime; 

• Violations will be investigated and disciplinary action and or criminal prosecution 

will be instituted; and 

• Board members and management are bound by the same ethics. 



The Audit and Risk Committee, established in terms of the PFMA will be responsible for the 

administration, revision and interpretation of the Fraud Prevention Plan. It is therefore the 

responsibility of each EXCO member to ensure that potential fraud risk pertaining to his/her 

functional area of responsibility are continuously monitored and managed. 

The Fraud Prevention Committee which will be constituted as a special task team from time 

to time shall consist of the Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, HR Manager, 

Compliance & Corporate Governance Manager, and Internal Audit will be convened on an 

ad hoc basis to deal with any matters that may require immediate action. 

All instances of fraud, alleged fraud or similar irregularity, will be pursued by thorough 

investigations and if guilt is established, 

• Appropriate disciplinary action will be taken against any perpetrator; 

• Criminal prosecution will be initiated if appropriate; 

• Civil action will be instituted if appropriate; and 

• Any other appropriate legal action or remedy will be initiated. 

If any employee has any doubt regarding a questionable situation that may arise, such 

employee should immediately consult with any member of the Fraud Prevention Committee. 

3 Defining Fraud or Corruption 

“Fraud is the unlawful and intentional making of a misrepresentation with the intent to 

deceive and to defraud by causing actual and potential prejudice”. The use of the term 

is in its widest possible meaning and is intended to include all aspects of economic crime 

and acts of dishonesty. 

Fraudulent conduct includes: 

1) a misrepresentation of facts which is: 

• verbal; 

• by conduct; 

• by a combination of words and conduct; or 

• by omission (failing to disclose the true facts). 

2) Such misrepresentation must be: 

• factually untrue; 

• be known by the perpetrator that it is untrue; 

• be intended by the perpetrator of the fraud that is untrue; and 

• be intended by the perpetrator to be acted upon by the victim. 

3) someone must suffer actual or potential prejudice 

“Corruption on the other hand involves to give or offer to give any benefit not legally 

due to a person who has any power or duty by virtue of employment with the intention 

to influence or reward the person to commit or omit to do any act in relation to such 

powers or duty”. Alternatively can further be described as: “any conduct or 

behaviour where a person accepts, agrees or offers any gratification for him/her or for 

another person where the purpose is to act dishonestly or illegally. Such behaviour 


104 


also includes the misuse of material or information, abusing a position of authority or a 

breach of trust or violation of duty”. 

The act of corruption requires: 

1) A corruptee – is the person in a position of power who is being corrupted; 

2) A corrupter – is the person who gives, offers or agrees to give a material 

reward or other benefit to the corruptee; 

3) Corrupt act – the material reward or benefit must be given with the intention to 

influence the corruptee to do something with regard to their position of power 

or duty; and 

4) Benefit – the benefit need not be of monetary value. 

4 Types of Fraud 

4.1 False accounting 

The main aim of false accounting is to present the results and affairs of the organisation in a 

better light than reality. Frequently there are pressures to report unrealistic income and 

expenditure amounts to avoid exceeding budgets. 

4.2 Bribery 

Bribery involves the promise, offering or giving of a benefit that improperly affects the actions 

or decisions of public servants. This benefit may accrue to the employee, another person or 

an entity 

4.3 Embezzlement 

This involves theft of resources by persons entrusted with the authority and control of such 

resources. Example: Staff that steals stationery/stock and in turn sells it for personal gain. 

4.4 Fraud 

This involves actions or behaviour by an employee or other person or entity that fools others 

into providing a benefit that would not normally accrue to the employee, or other persons or 

entity. Example: An employee that registers a fictitious employee in order to collect the 

salary of that fictitious employee. 

4.5 Extortion 

This involves coercing a person or entity to provide a benefit to an employee, another person 

or an entity in exchange for acting (or failing to act) in a particular manner 

4.6 Abuse of power 

This involves an employee using his or her vested authority to improperly benefit another 

employee, person or entity (or using vested authority to improperly discriminate against 

another employee, person or entity). Example: During a tendering process but before actual 



selection of a successful contractor, the manager or an area expresses his or her wish to 

see the contract awarded to a specific person. 

4.7 Conflict of interest 

This involves an employee acting or failing to act on a matter where the employee has an 

interest or another person or entity that stands in a relationship with the employee has an 

interest. Example: An employee considers tenders for a contract and awards the tender to a 

company of which his or her partner is a director. 

4.8 Abuse of privileged information 

This involves the use of privileged information and knowledge that an employee possesses 

as a result of his or her office to provide unfair advantage to another person or entity to 

obtain a benefit, or to accrue a benefit him or herself 

4.9 Favouritism 

This involves the provision of services or resources according to personal affiliation (for 

example; ethnic or religious) of an employee. Example: A manager in a particular area 

ensures that only persons from the same ethnic group are successful in tendering. 

4.10 Nepotism 

This involves an employee ensuring that family members are appointed to positions or that 

family members receive contracts from NMISA. Example: A Manager appoints his or her 

sister’s child to a position when a more suitable candidate has applied for the position. 

The above illustration of the manifestations of corruption is by no means complete or 

exhaustive. Corruption appears in various permutations and degrees of intensity. 

5 Fraud Prevention Strategy 

5.1 Culture and stance against fraud and corruption 

NMISA is determined that the culture and tone of the organisation will be one of honesty and 

opposition to fraud and corruption. To support the culture and strong stance against fraud 

and corruption, the company has a range of interrelated policies and procedures that provide 

a framework to counter fraudulent activities. 

The entity expects that all its employees at all levels should with no fail ensure adherence to 

legal requirements, financial rules and practices, contract management procedures, code of 

ethics, policies and procedures, etc. 

As part of this culture, the company will provide clear structures by which concerns can be 

raised by any member of staff as well as outsiders who are providing services. 

This robust culture and stance against fraud and corruption is brought about through the 

following ways: 

• The Board and senior management support; 


106 


• A code of ethics for the Board and all employees; 

• A “whistle-blowing” policy and related complaints procedures; 

• Suitable financial procedures rules and contract procedures rules; 

• Sound internal control systems, procedures and accurate, up-to-date, reliable 

records; 

• The effectiveness of an internal audit function; 

• The maintenance of effective recruitment procedures; 

• The company’s disciplinary procedures; 

• Clear responsibilities, accountabilities and standards; 

• Suitable induction and training to members and employees; and 

• A prosecution and recovery policy that requires the prosecution of those who 

commit fraud and corruption. 

The strategy also includes the manner in which the company implements and maintains 

systems of accountability and internal controls to ensure that its resources are appropriately 

deployed to achieve the overall objectives of the company. These systems include adequate 

internal controls to prevent and detect not only errors but also fraud and corruption. 

The responsibilities of the company’s managers and employees include the design, 

implementation and maintenance of these internal controls within systems. These 

arrangements are independently reviewed on a planned basis by internal audit from whom 

managers receive reports on the adequacy or otherwise of their control arrangements. 

The company’s systems are also supported by a framework of financial rules relating to the 

administration of its finances. 

NMISA also has structural bodies who have specific monitoring roles which are relevant in 

re-enforcing the appropriate culture and stance against fraud and corruption: 

• The Audit and Risk Committee, which looks over the risk management process 

and the effectiveness of internal controls; 

• The Finance Committee, which looks at budgets and procurements of major 

contracts; 

• The Human Capital Committee, which sets and monitors disciplinary processes; 


• The Executive Committee, which sets and monitors standards of conduct. 

5.2 Clarification of Responsibilities 

The Board: Ensures that new directors are aware of all statutory requirements and assisted 

with guidance. This must include rules on the declaration and registration with CEO of 

potential areas of conflict between directors’ duties and responsibilities and any other areas 



of their personal or professional lives. Directors shall also assist in setting the overall tone of 

the organisation in its efforts against fraudulent and corrupt activity. 

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO): Is responsible for the overall management 

arrangements of the company. The CEO together with the Board is expected to promote an 

organisational culture that is in line with the values of the entity. 

The Chief Financial Officer (CFO): Must ensure proper management and is overall 

responsible for the administration of the company’s financial affairs. The CFO must together 

with the Executive team ensure that the entire NMISA workforce is aware of this policy and 

embraces the principles upon which it’s based. 

Managers: Are responsible for the successful implementation and maintenance of effective 

control systems designed to prevent and detect fraud within their responsibility and service 

areas. They should ensure adequate training of staff and conduct reviews to ensure proper 

procedures are being followed. The responsibility of fraud prevention must therefore be 

formalised by including it in appropriate managers’ job descriptions. 

Supervisors: Are in position to take responsibility for the prevention and detection of fraud 

and corruption in their work area and should also encourage their staff to fulfil this objective. 

They must respond to threats in respect of specific high-risk areas, and where problems do 

occur, take steps to strengthen controls in a cost effective manner. 

Employees: All employees are required to act in accordance with the Code of Ethics. 

Employees should be familiar with the contents of the code and adhere to it in both principle 

and practices. Compliance must be enforced through the agreed disciplinary procedures. 

Internal Audit: This function as part of its programme schedule and conduct audits to 

assess the effectiveness of the controls to prevent and detect errors and fraud. The 

outcomes of the assessment should be clearly communicated to Management with 

appropriate recommendations to mitigate the risk exposure. 

5.3 Raising Vigilance 

As demonstrated on the above paragraph fraud prevention is the responsibility of entire 

leadership and workforce of the entity. 

To be in a position to contribute to fraud prevention, management and staff alike need to: 

• Embrace an ethical workplace; 

• Recognise the value and importance of personally contributing to fraud 

prevention; 

• Develop an understanding of good work practices, systems and controls; 

• Conduct business in an open and transparent manner; 

• Condemn discreet behaviour or non-disclosure of information relating to fraud or 

corruption to the relevant authorities; 

• Conduct themselves in a professional manner at all times when having any 

suspicions relating to fraudulent activities; 


108 


• Keep abreast of best practices for preventing fraud; and 

• Become aware of different types of fraud that can occur and how to detect them. 

This will achieve through strategies that increase managers’ and staff awareness of fraud 

and encourage active involvement in fraud prevention. 

5.4 Increase Awareness 

NIMSA shall ensure that they increase awareness amongst staff about fraud prevention by 

conducting on going campaigns to reinforce the entity’s stance against fraud. The details of 

the campaign will incorporate a number of methods, including: 

• Promotional aids – flyers and posters, intra-agency communication – newsletters, 

e-mail and placing fraud awareness on meeting agendas; 

• Training of staff; 

• Fraud awareness seminars and publication, presentations to staff as well as 

making use of the induction process; and 

• Informing staff of the outcomes of investigations and disciplinary action against 

dishonest employees. 

5.5 Increase Involvement 

Management shall increase awareness and involvement of all staff and other stakeholders in 

fraud prevention. Furthermore, initiatives shall also be undertaken to encourage involvement 

through: 

• Integrating fraud prevention with normal business processes by including it in all 

levels of the business planning process and by incorporating fraud prevention 

action plans into organizational business plan; and 

• Annual staff and manager training in fraud prevention, including the types of fraud 

and fraud detection techniques. 

5.6 Dealing with fraud allegations 

When the fraud allegation is made, the process of determining its validity must involve 

several stakeholders. 

The key steps which must be followed in managing fraud allegations are outlined below. The 

CEO may delegate some or all of the tasks within these steps to the Fraud Prevention 

Committee or any other relevant body as he may deem appropriate. However, full 

accountability and responsibility remains with the CEO. Throughout the process, 

confidentiality must be maintained and the individuals’ rights respected. Appropriate 

documentation recording details of fraud allegations and the processes followed should be 

securely stored. 



5.7 Code of Business Ethics and Conduct 

Each employee shall apply the entity’s Code of Ethics policy with common sense and 

attitude of seeking full compliance with the spirit rather than the letter of the rules presented. 

The absence of a specific guidelines, practice or instruction covering a particular situation 

does not relieve and absolve an employee from exercising the highest ethical standards 

applicable to the circumstances. 

5.8 Fair Competition 

NMISA subscribes to fair competitive procurement practices based on quality, service and 

price. The entity shall therefore in this regard: 

• Never agree with a competitor to restrict competition by fixing prices, allocating 

markets or other means; 

• Never arbitrarily refuse to deal with or purchases goods and services from others 

simply because they are competitors in other respects; and 

• Never engage in industrial espionage or commercial bribery. 

5.9 Conflict of Interest 

5.10 Gifts and Entertainment 

NMISA staff should not accept gift, reward or hospitality from any organisation or individual 

with whom they have contact in the course of their ordinary business activities to coerce 

them to act inappropriately in their course of execution of their official duties 

Particular care should be taken about any gift from a person or organisation, which has or is 

hoping to secure a contract with the company. Although it is conventional in some parts of 

other business industries to exchange seasonal gifts, this should not be an acceptable 

practice within the entity. 

Gifts of a trivial or inexpensive nature (not exceeding R500) may be accepted but more 

substantial or expensive offerings should be declined. If unsolicited gifts of a substantial 

nature arrive from contractors they should be returned with a polite explanation that the 

company’s policies do not allow their acceptance. 

If staff have any doubts about whether an offer of a gift should be refused (it is accepted that 

refusal of a gift may cause offence) they should consult their immediate managers. The CEO 

or designated person is the final arbiter on the acceptability of the gifts. 

Should an employee receive an unsolicited gift prohibited by these guidelines, this should be 

reported to his supervisor and the details entered into the prescribed declaration register. 

5.11 Hospitality 

It is accepted that staff sometimes receive conventional hospitality, e.g. attending as part of 

their official function, an event organised by another body for promotional or information 


110 


dissemination purpose. Offers of hospitality that exceed R500 should in general be refused. 

The following items should be avoided: 

• Hospitality offered in substitution for fees or work done. 

• Inducements that could lead to a contractual position between the company and 

a supplier, contractor or consultant. 

• Substantial offers of social functions, travel and accommodation. 

• Acceptance of meals, tickets and invitations to sporting, cultural or social events, 

particularly from the same source. 

5.12 Whistle Blowing Services: 

An independent Whistle Blower Hotline is available to staff and stakeholders on the NMISA 

Internet and Intranet, and a Whistleblower policy is also available. This provides a method 

for incidents of fraud or corruption to be reported. Reported incidents are escalated to the 

NMISA Board. 

The Whistle Blower hotline adheres to the Protected Disclosures Act, Act 26 of 2000, which 

makes provision for the protection of employees who make a disclosure that is protected in 

terms of this Act. 

5.13 Measures for preventing and detecting fraud in the Procurement process 

NMISA as a Schedule 3a public entity adheres to the Supply Chain Management rules and 

regulations in the public sector. All prescripts of PPPFA, all SCM practice notes and 

regulations etc are adhered to by all NMISA SCM practitioners. All SCM practitioners are 

required to sign code of conduct. In all meetings were procurement issues are discussed, all 

participants are required to declare and sign conflict of interest, suppliers are also required to 

sign standard bidding document (SBD) 4 for all procurement above R10 000 (Vat 

inclusive).Rotation of suppliers is also another means of preventing any suspicion of fraud as 

different suppliers are given an opportunity to do business with NMISA. 

5.14 Disciplinary Code and Procedures 

The need for timely and consistent application of disciplinary measures must be reemphasised 

to all levels of management. Continuous awareness of this factor is important in 

preventing or limiting the risk of fraud. It is also imperative that this code is consistently 

applied to all levels of staff. 

It must also be specifically noted that non-disclosure of information pertaining to a fraudulent 

or illegal activity, at the time being perpetrated, or having taken place already, is considered 

an offence under the Disciplinary Code. The severity of such non-disclosure is regarded in 

the same light as the actual fraudulent or illegal activity perpetrated and any employee 

proven guilty of such non-disclosure will face a similar sanction. 



5.15 Internal Controls 

The NMISA has implemented basic internal controls in most of its financial, administrative 

and operational systems and activities. These controls include policies, procedures, rules, 

regulations, standards, guidelines and other industry and Governmental prescripts. 

Management will continue to regularly re-emphasise to all levels of staff that consistent 

compliance with internal controls is one of the fundamental controls in place to prevent fraud. 

5.16 Computer Security 

Computer hardware, software and data processed and shared electronically or otherwise 

must be adequately safeguarded against damage, loss, alterations, theft, fraudulent 

manipulations and unauthorised access. 

Each employee is responsible for the protection and confidentiality of password, ID’s and 

any other access information to systems and networks. 

In addition, NMISA ICT has put the following measures in place: 

• Firewall software which filters incoming data for viruses 

• Site monitoring and blocking software which blocks inappropriate and uncontrolled 

websites from staff access 

• Regular updates of desktop software to ensure computers have the latest antivirus 

and operating systems protection 

• Offsite backup of NMISA data, which ensures data redundancy in the event of loss of 

information, or the accidental or deliberate deletion of information. 

5.17 Fraud Response Plan 

It is the responsibility of all employees to immediately report all allegations or actual 

incidents of fraud to their immediate managers or to any member of the Fraud Prevention 

Committee. Any such reporting can also be done anonymously. Should any such reporting 

be done anonymously, anonymity will be guaranteed. 

Once an allegation or information of suspicious fraud is received by the Fraud Prevention 

Committee, the members of the Committee will take the following steps: 

• Evaluate the information or allegation in terms of accuracy, completeness and 

seriousness; 

• Secure all assets at risk (inform banks, lock up property, secure documents, etc.); 

• Suspend the suspected employee by following the appropriate processes; 

• Ensure all accounting records have been secured and or back up of computer 

data has been made; 

• Initiate an investigative process; 

• Start tracing and securing documentation and or assets previously under the 

control of the suspect; 


112 


• Initiate disciplinary action where appropriate, in consultation with the HR 

representative; 

• Involve SAPS (or other Governmental agencies where applicable) and other 

specialist service providers where necessary. Audit current accounting, 

administrative or operational procedures and improve the processes where 

applicable; 

• Enter the necessary details into fraud and crime database; 

• Where appropriate, report the outcome of the investigation to deter potential 

perpetrators, encourage whistle blowing and re-iterate the position of the 

organisation with regard to taking drastic measures against any future fraudsters. 



Appendix H: Risk Plan 

1 Purpose 

In accordance with good governance, sound management and the PFMA, a comprehensive 

Risk Management Plan (RMP), incorporating a Risk Register (RR), guides and informs 

management of Risk within the organisation. Risks are defined as ‘any event that is likely to 

adversely affect the ability of the Institute to achieve the defined objectives’. The main 

components of risk addressed in the RMP are grouped under the main Infrastructure 

categories as defined in the NMISA Strategy and Balance Score card: 

A. Plant and Equipment 

1. Heating, Ventilation and Air-conditioning (HVAC) 

2. Electricity Supply 

3. Equipment (Instruments) 

B. Environmental Health and Safety 

1. Hazardous substances 

2. Work environment 

3. Activities 

C. Financial Perspective 

1. Financial Sustainability 

2. Effective Financial controls 

D. Stakeholder/ Customer Perspective 

1. Quality of delivered products and services 

2. Effective external communication and customer satisfaction 

E. Internal Organisation Perspective (Human Resource) 

1. Core skills & staff capability 

2. Employee turnover 

3. Job satisfaction 

F. Internal Business Process Perspective 

1. Systems and Processes 

2. Information security 

2 The Risk Management process in NMISA 

2.1 Overview 

The Risk Management Process in NMISA is a method by which the risks to the Institute 

(e.g., its existence, deliverables, timescales or resources) are formally identified, quantified 

and managed. It is undertaken through the implementation of five key processes: 

• The identification of risks 

• The logging and prioritising of risks 

• The identification of actions to mitigate risks 

• The assignment and monitoring of actions to mitigate risks 

• The closure of risks. © 


114 


The process is schematically depicted in figure 1. 

Figure 1. The Risk Management Process 

2.2 Established Goals and Context 

The risk assessment is undertaken within the context of NMISA goals, as identified in the 

Strategy plans of the Institute. It takes cognisance of the operating environment that defines 

the parameters within which the risks to the NMISA outputs need to be managed. The scope 

includes strategic, organisational and risk management considerations. 

2.3 The Identification of Risks 

Risks are identified for all activities and areas within the NMISA, by all staff, according to 

risks that are most likely to impact on NMISA outputs, together with their sources and 

impacts. NMISA is rigorous in the identification of sources and impacts of risk so as to 

identify the appropriate risk treatment strategies. 

2.4 The Analysis of Risks 

The controls are identified (currently in place) that deal with the identified risks and their 

effectiveness is assessed. Based on this assessment, the risks are analysed in terms of 

likelihood and consequence. The level of likelihood and consequence is determined using 

the Risk Matrix (Section 3.4.1 B) and the current risk level is determined (a combination of 

likelihood and consequence). 

2.5 The Evaluation of Risk 

At this stage of the risk assessment process, it is determined whether the risks are 

acceptable or unacceptable. This decision is made by the appropriate authority, a 

combination of the Risk Manager and the Executive Committee. A risk that is determined 

as acceptable is then monitored and periodically reviewed to ensure it remains acceptable. 

A risk deemed unacceptable is treated accordingly (see below). In all cases the reasons 



for the assessment are documented to provide a record of the thinking that led to the 

decisions. Such documentation provides a useful framework for future risk assessment. 

3 Determination of the Treatment of the Risk 

Treatment strategies are directed towards: 

i. Avoiding the risk by discontinuing the activity that generates it, 

ii. Reducing the likelihood of the occurrence, 

iii. Reducing the consequences of the occurrence, 

iv. Transferring the risk, and 

v. Retaining the risk. 

Potential treatment options are developed according to the selected treatment strategy. The 

selection of the preferred treatment options takes into account factors such as the costs and 

effectiveness. The determination of the preferred treatment includes the documentation of 

implementation details (e.g., responsibilities, a timetable for implementation and monitoring 

requirements). 

The intention of the risk treatment is to reduce the risk level of unacceptable risks to an 

acceptable level. The Risk Matrix is used to determine the expected reduction in level of 

risk resulting from the successful implementation of the treatment. 

4 Monitoring and reporting on the Effectiveness of Risk Treatment 

The Risk Manager monitors the effectiveness of risk treatment and has the responsibility to 

log and classify new risks as they are identified through the formal process and to monitor 

the treatment. The Risk Committee members are required to report on the progress of risk 

treatment at regular intervals. The person responsible for a risk treatment is expected to 

provide feedback on the progress as detailed in the ‘‘effect of mitigation ’ field of the 

treatment. 

5 Risks and Assumptions 

5.1 Context 

The National Metrology Laboratory (NML) of the CSIR existed since 1947. By 2006, the unit 

has grown to around 80 staff and 22 laboratories. NMISA was established in 2007 from the 

CSIR NML in accordance with the Act and has since grown to 106 staff and 22 laboratories. 

Internationally, the role of a National Metrology Institute (NMI) is entrenched in the Metre 

Convention, a diplomatic treaty governing measurement. South Africa became a signatory in 

1964 and thus a full member of the International Bureau of Weights and Measures (BIPM). 

The existence and mandate of the NMISA as the body representing South Africa in 

international metrology matters and the Metre Convention is entrenched in the Act. The 

existence of NMISA is therefore acknowledged by Parliament. 


116 


The main function is to see to the application of the International system of Units (SI) in 

South Africa, to maintain and disseminate the NMS in support of trade, health and safety 

and law enforcement, to assist government departments, regulators and the TI with 

measurement policy and issues, and to in general assist the country (and region) with 

accurate measurement. NMISA is the leading NMI in SADC and Africa, and plays a leading 

role in metrology on the continent. It is also entrenched in the international system of 

metrology where it plays an important role as a major developing country. 

For the purpose of its mandate, special scientific and measurement skills are required and 

NMISA laboratories are equipment intensive. Due to its history and funding models, the 

equipment (NMS and measuring instruments) is a mix of old (30-40 years) and newer 

equipment (1-15 years). All but one of the laboratories is on the main CSIR campus, with 

one laboratory on the CSIR Cape Town Rosebank campus. Since 2007, both premises are 

rented from the CSIR. Buildings are between 30 and 40 years old, with the Rosebank 

buildings 90-100 years old (recently refurbished and one new laboratory section added). 

NMISA receives approximately 80% of its funding through a Parliamentary grant (through 

the the dti). The other 20% is income derived from calibration and measurement income, 

and measurement related consultancy. 

NMISA is registered as a type 3A Public entity, has a governing Board and a shareholder 

performance agreement (“Shareholder Compact”) with the dti that stipulates the rules 

around the application of the Parliamentary grant and the reporting framework. 

5.2 Discussion of Risk areas 

5.2.1 Plant and Equipment 

NMISA must maintain the Gazetted national measurement standards (NMS), the secondary 

standards for the dissemination of the NMS to the end user, and continuously benchmark 

the NMS against other national or international standards. It also sees to the implementation 

of the SI in South Africa, produces certified reference materials and performs reference 

analysis. This requires special infrastructure with tight and detailed specifications on 

building, HVAC, electricity, vibration, acoustics and electronic noise, highly specialised 

equipment and special technical skills. Due to the aged CSIR building infrastructure, this risk 

is classified as a high probability and critical to the business of NMISA. 

5.2.2 Environmental Health and Safety Risks 

The NMISA operates in a medium risk EHS environment. In general the physical metrology 

laboratories pose risks associated with the use of laser light and equipment that emits 

radiation. Radioactive material is used in two laboratories, but the levels of radiation are low. 

NMISA has four chemical laboratories that work with medium level hazardous substances 

(volatile organics, acids, gas, etc). 

EHS is managed through certification to the relevant EHS Quality standards, and a 

dedicated EHS Quality practitioner, that provides a Monthly EHS report to management for 

action. The Report includes feedback on Inspections, an Incident, accident and near misses 

register, EHS training, Medical examinations, Hazard Identification and Risk management, 

maintenance calls logged and any other specific issues that require action. 



5.2.3 Financial Risks 

Financial risks include sustainability, systems and processes and financial control. The 

funding of NMISA is entrenched in the Act, and core sustainability is classified as a medium 

to low risk. A medium risk is associated with the external income from calibration services 

and consultancy. The risks associated with systems and processes are downtime, loss of 

data, ineffectiveness and financial control. NMISA has internal controls in place that are 

continuously audited through an official internal audit process. In addition, the dti has an 

internal audit monitoring system for the public entities that report to it. 

5.2.4 Stakeholder/ Customer Risks 

As the services of NMISA underpins trade, manufacturing processes, automotive and 

aviation, health and safety and law enforcement, this category is critical for the NMISA. 

Services must be internationally benchmarked and no failures can be tolerated. 

The process to maintain the NMS and benchmark it internationally is well described in the 

procedures of the Consultative Committees (CCs) of the BIPM. NMISA has full membership 

of the relevant technical CCs and is represented annually at the meetings of the CCs by 

technical experts. In addition management or metrology experts annually attend high level 

policy meetings such as the Joint Committee for Regional Metrology organisations at the 

BIPM (JCRB). This mitigates the risk to a large degree. Internally, there are various technical 

procedures on how the NMS must be maintained. Technical Management further monitors 

the technical risks at bi-monthly technical meetings, and monitors the measurement results 

the NMISA achieves in technical benchmarking exercises. Finally, the laboratories in NMISA 

are third party accredited to ISO/IEC 17025 and other relevant standards. This includes 

surveillance visits by international metrology peers. The accreditation process provides 

confidence in the abilities of staff, the adherence to international best practises, traceability 

and management. 

5.2.5 Internal Organisation Risks (Human Resource) 

Due to the level of skills required for the maintenance of the NMS, the international 

benchmarking, the development of primary methods, the accurate dissemination of 

traceability to the community and the leadership in measurement issues that must be 

provided to the government and the community, Human Resource issues poses one of the 

biggest risks to NMISA. 

The risk is managed through proper staff training and constant benchmarking, satisfaction 

surveys, a continuous effort by management to improve working conditions and 

remuneration, applications for funding to appoint mentees, a comprehensive contingency 

strategy and strategic partnerships with industry and academia. 

5.2.6 Internal Business Processes Risks (Information Technology, etc.) 

As a public entity NMISA is responsible for the management of risk associated with the 

distribution of non-published government documentation, normally in draft form. Other 

internal information is generally not regarded as high risk items. Most technical information is 

eventually published in the public domain, and is not regarded as sensitive. Some results 

from research projects and unpublished benchmark activity reports may be regarded as 

sensitive until it can be officially published. NMISA also has a comprehensive IP strategy 


118 


and procedures that are aligned with the national directives and legislation. An IP office 

manages IP in NMISA. 

The risk committee IT members monitor the backup of all critical information according to a 

NMISA IT procedure. This includes off-site backups of information. 

An integrated document management system is also being developed. 

5.3 The Risk Register 

Several processes, procedures and policies to deal with the identification and management 

of risks in the business are thus in place for the NMISA. A Risk committee under the 

guidance of a Risk Manager, with representation from Senior management, the Technical 

Areas, Finances, Corporate services and EHS, continuously monitors Risk and updates the 

Risk Register that is used to manage risk at a detailed level. The Committee reports new 

risks and the monitoring and management of existing risks to management. Reporting is 

then done to the Audit committee of the Board, and finally to the Board. 

NMISA has an accredited ISO/IEC 17025 compliant quality management system with 

detailed procedures related to the nature and execution of the work it undertakes. The 

policies and procedures are published as part of the Total Quality Management System of 

NMISA. 

Policies and Procedures are updated with a maximum frequency of two years. 

5.3.1 Assigning Levels to Risks 

The Register has two categories of assigning levels to risk, namely A: Likelihood of 

Occurrence and B: Consequence on Operations. The product of the two categories yields 

the Risk Rating with a numerical number between 1 and 6. The assignments must be done 

as follows: 

C. Likelihood of Occurrence 

Title Probability Description of the Level 

High >50% Will probably occur during the year 

Moderate 10 – 50% Occurrence not entirely unexpected during the year 

Low 0 – 10% Unlikely to occur during the year 

Critical 

>R5m 

Could lead to significant downtime for the larger part of NMISA, 

or render some groups permanently inoperable 

High R500k – R5m 

Could lead to significant downtime for more than one group or 

up to two weeks for the larger part of NMISA 

Moderate 

Low 

R145k – R500k 

Evaluation of Significance 

Rating Title Description of the Impact 

6 Critical Would make some or all of the NMISA unsustainable and 

significantly harm the business 

5 High Would threaten the sustainability of NMISA, may have a 

prolonged negative impact and may require additional resources 

and management effort 

3-4 Moderate Prejudice attainment of the current year’s objectives but can be 

managed under normal operating conditions 

1-2 Low Impact can be handled through remedial actions 

The Risk Register is updated continuously in accordance with the processes described 

above and the Risk Procedure. 

The Top risks as extracted from the comprehensive Risk Register is shown in Table 1. 


120 NMISA-12-0064 Annual Performance Plan 2013 - 2015

Table 1. Main risks of the NMISA 

Likelihood of 

occurrence 

Consequence 

on operations 

Risk Rating 

Risk 

No 

1 

Strategic 

Outcome 

Orientated 

Goal 


benchmarked 

and accepted 

measurement 

standards in 


competitive 

economic 

infrastructure 

and an improved 

quality of life 

Key 

performance 

Indicator/ 

Measure 

Number of 

Gazetted National 

Measurement 


Maintained 

Risk Category 

1. Plant and 

Equipment 

(Instrumentation) 

2. Strategic Customer 

Perspective 

(Products and 

Services) 

Risk 

Objectives 

1. Ensure properly 

operating National 

Measurement 

Standards and 

related 


2. Disseminate 

measurement 

standards to Trade 

and Commerce 

Risk 

Description 

(what is likely 

to hinder 

attainment of 

the objective) 

1. Failure of ageing 

equipment 

2. Proper 

maintenance not 

performed on old and 

new equipment 

3. Loss of NMS or 

related measurement 


Effects of risk 

1. Inability to maintain 

Gazetted NMS 

2. Loss of traceability for 

accredited laboratories 

3. Loss of SANAS 

accreditation 

4. Inability to disseminate 

NMS to industry, health 

and environmental sector 

and law enforcement 

5. Industry to import 

traceability at great cost 

6 

Current 

controls 

(what is 

currently in 

place to 

mitigate the 

risk) 

1. Additional 

funding received 

for CAPEX 

(R25m) 

2. Project 

registered with 

National Treasury 

for recapitalisation 

3. Maintenance 

budgets within 

Divisions for 

existing 


4. Security 

measures in 

place to protect 

NMS 

Action Plan 

1. Ensure proper 

utilisation of 

funding for recapitalisation 

2. Improve 

budgeting for 

maintenance to 

minimum 

acceptable level 

and to include 

both old and new 


3. Develop a 

comprehensive 

Business 

continuity plan for 

Technical 

Divisions 

Risk 

Owner 

Executive 

Director: 

Finance 


Corporate 

Services; 

Divisional 

Directors 


Due 

Date 

High 

Critical 

2 


benchmarked 


measurement 



competitive 

economic 




1. Number of 

comparative studies 

performed 

regionally and 



Calibration and 

Measurement 

Capabilities (CMCs) 

accepted in 

International 

Database (KCDB) 


Equipment (Heating, 

Ventilation and Airconditioning 

(HVAC)) 


Perspective 


Services) 

1. Successfully 


benchmarked 

NMS and 

reference analysis 

2. CMCs accepted 

in KCDB as 


agreed published 

measure of NMISA 

capabilities as the 

basis for 

traceability 

assessment during 

accreditation 

3. Disseminate 

measurement 

standards to Trade 


1. CSIR aged 

buildings and 


2. Inability to maintain 

environmental 

conditions in 

laboratories within 

specification 

1. Inability to demonstrate 

international equivalence 

of measurement standards 

2. CMCs removed from 

international database 

(KCDB) 

3. Loss of SANAS 

accreditation 

4. Inability to disseminate 

NMS to industry 

5. Industry to import 

traceability at great cost 

6. Prosecution for drunk 

driving, speeding not 

possible 

7. Effective environmental 

monitoring not possible 

5 

1. A chiller for 

building 5 is 

being rented 

while a new 

chiller is being 

procured 

2. Split units have 

been installed in 

an EM and a 

Chemistry 

laboratory to test 

if HVAC 

conditions can be 

better 

maintained. 

3. Action plan to 

upgrade HVAC in 

main NMISA 

buildings 

4. Critical 

equipment in 

some areas 

moved to 

laboratories with 

better HVAC 

control 

1. Constant 


HVAC systems 

and increased 

maintenance 

schedules by 


Technician 

2. Action plan to 

improve HVAC in 

all buildings 

3. Increase 

maintenance 

budget for HVAC 

4. Speed up 

process for new 


Executive 

Director: 

Finance and 

Corporate 

Services; 

Divisional 

Directors 

Ongoing 

Ongoing 

High 

High 



occurrence 

Consequence 

on operations 

Risk Rating 

Risk 

No 

3 

Strategic 

Outcome 

Orientated 

Goal 

Key 

performance 

Indicator/ 

Measure 

Risk Category 

Risk 

Objectives 

Risk 

Description 


to hinder 




Current 

controls 

(what is 

currently in 

place to 

mitigate the 

risk) 

Action Plan 

Risk 

Owner 

Due 

Date 


benchmarked 


measurement 



competitive 

economic 




ALL 

Financial Perspective 

(Financial 

Sustainability) 

Ensure adequate 

budget (financial 

sustainability) for 

continued 

international 

acceptance of 

NMS, participation 

in CC and RMO 

benchmarking 

comparisons in 

order to provide 

traceable 

measurements 

and services for 

commerce and 

industry 

1. Non-alignment to 

Strategy 

2. Reduced funding 

from dti 

3. Inadequate funds 

for expensive certified 

reference materials 

and primary standards 

4. Inadequate staff 

capacity to maintain 

standards, produce 

reference materials 

and perform reference 

measurements 

5. Not enough training 

for staff to participate 

in comparisons at 

international level 

1. Inadequate NMS to 

provide in needs of Trade 


2. Inadequate 

benchmarking to ensure 

continued international 

acceptance of NMS and 

CMCs, CMCs removed 

from KCDB 

3. Accredited laboratories 

have to import traceability 

from other NMIs at great 

cost 

4. Inexperienced scientists 

could endanger credibility 

of measurement results 

and compromise 

competitiveness of 

industry, effective health 

diagnostics and therapy 

and law enforcement 

5 

1. NMISA Board 

and senior 

management 

ensure alignment 

to the dti priorities 

2. Strategy and 

annual 

performance 

plans to secure 

adequate 

baseline budget 

for NMS 

3. Budget for 

metrologists to 

participate in 

international 

benchmarking 

exercises 

4. Accreditation 

to ensure 

minimum 

capability of staff 

responsible to 

disseminate NMS 

and perform 

measurement 

and analysis 

1. Raise 

awareness with 

dti to increase 

baseline so that 

an adequate 

budget can be 

maintained to 

realise all NMS 

and comparisons 

2. Continuously 

report NMISA 

importance and 

contribution to 

IPAP 

3. Explore 

opportunities for 

donor funding 

and alliances with 

large industry 

4. Explore 


development 

projects at 

national level 

5. Improve 

contingency 

planning to retain 

the expertise to 

participate at 

international level 

EXCO Ongoing 

Moderate 

Critical 


122 



occurrence 

Consequence 

on operations 

Risk Rating 

Risk 

No 

4 

Strategic 

Outcome 

Orientated 

Goal 

Key 

performance 

Indicator/ 

Measure 

Risk Category 

Risk 

Objectives 

Risk 

Description 


to hinder 




Current 

controls 

(what is 

currently in 

place to 

mitigate the 

risk) 

Action Plan 

Risk 

Owner 

Due 

Date 

Upholding the 

principles of 

good corporate 


compliance to 

regulatory 

frameworks 

Established 

systems and 

processes to 

ensure compliance 

to regulatory 

frameworks 

1. Financial 

Perspective 

2. Internal Business 

Process Perspective 

(Systems and 

Processes) 

Full Compliant and 

effective SCM, 

established quality 

system, business 


processes to 

underpin products 

and services 

reaching 


industry. 

1. Inadequate 

financial processes 

not compliant with the 

regulatory framework 

2. Lack of adherence 

to SCM policies and 

procedures leading to 

non-compliance 

3. Financial systems 

not compliant with 

SCM rules and 

regulations and 

relevant accounting 


4. Outdated systems, 

especially Small 

contract management 

system 

1. Fraud and Fruitless and 

Wasteful expenditure 

2. Qualified audit report 

3. Supplier credibility; 

creditors locking accounts 

because of non-payment 

directly impacting service 

delivery (e.g. gas), NMS 

can not be disseminated 

4. Loss of credibility as 

NMI internationally and 

locally 

5. Funding earmarked for 

re-capitalisation not 

allocated 

6 

1. SCM unit 

established 

during 2012 

2. 

Comprehensive 

Quality 

Management 

system, 3rd Party 

accredited 

3. Programme to 

upgrade all 

systems 

4. Policies and 

procedures in 

place, 

continuously 

upgraded 

1. Improve SCM 

to provide 

compliant service 

2. All 

procurement over 

R30k routed 

through SCM 

3. Update SCM 

Policy to be fully 

compliant 


ensure 

appropriateness 

of Procedures 

and monitor 

adherence 

4. Procure new 

software and 

develop SCMS 

integrated with 

main financial 

system 

Executive 

Director: 


Corporate 

services, 

Quality 

Manager 

Ongoing 

High 

Critical 




occurrence 

Consequence 

on operations 

Risk Rating 

Risk 

No 

5 

Strategic 

Outcome 

Orientated 

Goal 

Key 

performance 

Indicator/ 

Measure 

Risk Category 

Risk 

Objectives 

Risk 

Description 


to hinder 




Current 

controls 

(what is 

currently in 

place to 

mitigate the 

risk) 

Action Plan 

Risk 

Owner 

Due 

Date 

Traceability, 

measurement 

expertise and 

services 

disseminated to 

South African 


industry through 

certified 

reference 

materials, 

appropriate 

technology and 

skills transfer 

All 

1. Internal Business 

Process 

Perspective(Systems 

and Processes) 

IT systems in 

place fully 

providing the 

needs of NMISA 

and properly 

secured and 

backed-up 

1. Outdated IT 


2. Data back-up not 

sufficient 

3. Loss of Internet 

access, including 

during travel or away 

from NMISA 

environment 

1. Loss of critical data, 

including operational 

information and certificates 

of calibration 

2. Compliance reporting 

not possible, funds from 

NT can be frozen 

3. Lost data or corrupted 

data impacting calibration 

results and deliverables 

4. Legal implications as 

copies of calibration 

certificates not available 

5. Loss of credibility as 

NMI internationally and 

locally 

6 

1. Programme to 

upgrade IT, 

including proper 

backup of data, 

anti-virus 

software and fire 

walls 

2. SharePoint 

system to store 

information 

centrally and 

ensure proper 

back-ups 

1. Improve IT 

hardware, backup 

capabilities 

and security 

2. Improve IT 

staff capability 

3. Wireless 

Access to 

internet outside 


environment 

4. 

Comprehensive 

Business 

Continuity plan 

for all data and 

software, 

including 


Executive 

Director: 


Corporate 

services, IT 

Manager 

Ongoing 

High 

Critical 


124 


Risk 

No 

Strategic 

Outcome 

Orientated 

Goal 

Key 

performance 

Indicator/ 

Measure 

Risk Category 

Risk 

Objectives 

Risk 

Description 


to hinder 




Current 

controls 

(what is 

currently in 

place to 

mitigate the 

risk) 

Action Plan 

Risk 

Owner 

Due 

Date 

High 

Critical 


occurrence 

Consequence 

on operations 

Risk Rating 

6 

7 

Requisite 


competencies 


maintained 

according to 


acceptable 




Measurement 


Maintained 



performed 





Measurement 


accepted in 

International 


4. Number of oral 

presentations given 

at conferences and 

workshops on the 

improvement and 

development of 


measurement 


Internal Organisation 

(Human Capital) - 

Pipeline 

Maintain and 

enhance 

international 

recognition of 

South African 

measurement 


measurement 

scientific 

reputation through 

successful 


benchmarking 

exercises, 

contributions to the 


measurement 

techniques and 

realisation of the 

SI standards 

1. Ability to attract 

experienced 

technicians, 

technologists and 

senior researchers 

2. Ability to train 

technologists and 

researchers in 

measurement science 

1. NMISA not being able to 

maintain and enhance its 

international 

measurement/scientific 

standing resulting in loss 

of memberships to the 

technical Consultative 

Committees of the 

International Committee of 

Weights and Measures 

(CIPM) and the 

International Bureau of 

Weights and Measures 

(BIPM) 

2. Will restrict access to 

international measurement 

expertise, planning of 

comparisons, participation 

in comparisons and 

ultimately loss of 

measurement capabilities 

from international 

database 

6 

1. Improved 

recruitment 

processes to 

attract quality 

Scientists 

specialising in 

measurement 

2. Improved 

training for 

Scientists in 

measurement 

technology, for 

example postgraduate 

studies 

and internships at 

other NMIs 

3. Increased 

Bursar and intern 

programme 

3. Increased 

focus on 

research and 

experimental 

development 

1. Initiate more 

research projects 

in measurement 


development 

2. Pursue 

opportunities for 


strategic national 

research 

projects, such as 

SKA/MeerKAT 

3. Pursue 

opportunities to 

participate in the 

European 

Metrology 

research 

programme 

(EMPIR) 

4. Forge strategic 

alliances with 

other NMIs to 

create training 

opportunities 

Divisional 

Directors and 

HR 

Ongoing 

Requisite 


competencies 


maintained 

according to 


acceptable 




performed 





Measurement 


accepted in 

International 


3. Number of oral 

presentations given 

at conferences and 

workshops on the 




measurement 


Internal Organisation 

(Human Capital) - 

Retention 

Retention and 

attraction of skilled 

staff 

1. Remuneration not 

benchmarked with 

peers 

2. Award system 

lacking against peers 

3. Ineffective 

contingency planning 

1. Losing critical expertise 

to develop and maintain 

measurement standards 

and/or develop methods. 

2. Less capacity to perform 

calibrations/tests for 

industry 

3. Loss of qualified 

experienced metrologists 

will also jeopardise SA 

credibility and potentially 

impact CMC existing 

claims 

5 


build social 

capital 

2. Recognition 

and rewards 

3. Taking in of 

interns 

1. Constant 


staff satisfaction 

2. Improve 

human capital 

development 

through improved 

career planning 

2. Cross cutter 

training 

3. Allowing for 

continuous 

education for all 

personnel 

4. Taking in of 

studentships for 

technical area 

specific research 

and development 

projects 

Head: HR Ongoing 

High 

High 



Risk 

No 

Strategic 

Outcome 

Orientated 

Goal 

Key 

performance 

Indicator/ 

Measure 

Risk Category 

Risk 

Objectives 

Risk 

Description 


to hinder 




Current 

controls 

(what is 

currently in 

place to 

mitigate the 

risk) 

Action Plan 

Risk 

Owner 

Due 

Date 

Moderate 

Critical 


occurrence 

Consequence 

on operations 

Risk Rating 

8 

9 


benchmarked 


measurement 



competitive 

economic 






Measurement 


Maintained 



performed 





Measurement 


accepted in 

International 



Calibrations 

provided to industry 


Measurement and 

Analysis performed 

for Industry 


Equipment (Building 

and Instrumentation) 


Perspective 


Services) 

Proper conclusion 

of the PPP project 

for the recapitalisation 

of 

the NMISA 

1. Funding not 

allocated and NMISA 

not able to commence 

with the feasibility 

study in 2013/14 

2. An appropriately 

skilled project officer 

not found 

3. Support from all 

NMISA not sufficient 

to ensure proper 

outcome 

NIMSA unable to move to 

modern, fit-for-purpose 

facilities 

5 

1. Tender in 

progress for 

appointment of 

project officer 

2. Processes 

being developed 

to render 

appropriate 

internal support 

1. Ensure 

appropriately 

skilled project 

officer is 

appointed 

2. 

Comprehensive 

internal support 

plan 

3. Properly 

constituted 

support 

committee 

4. Proper 

feedback to 

Board 

EXCO 31/03/2014 

Upholding the 




compliance to 

regulatory 

frameworks 

Established 


processes to 


to regulatory 

frameworks 

Environmental Health 

and Safety 

(Hazardous 

substances) 

1. To ensure a 

safe and healthy 

environment for 

NMISA staff to 

conduct their 

business 

2. To comply with 

SA legislation 

(Occupational 

Health and Safety 

Act No. 85 of 

1993), Pressure 

Equipment 

Regulation and 

OHSAS 18001: 

1. Working with 

hazardous 

substances (Volatile 

organics and 

radioactive material) 

2. Current buildings 

not optimally 

designed to minimize 

risks 

3. Expensive to 

modify existing 


ensure safety and 

conform to Legislation 

Various health risks 

associated with radiation 

exposure, working with 

hazardous chemicals or 

being exposed to ageing 

electrical infrastructure 

leading to serious injury or 

death due to poisoning or 

electrocution 

6 

1. An EHS risk 

management 

system is 

followed. re 

training plans in 

place to facilitate 

staff development 

2. Additional 

safety measures 

in place in high 

risk laboratories 

(Gas detectors, 

radiation 

detectors, smoke 

detectors) 

3. Safety 

improvements 

done to electrical 

installations 

1. Ensure 

extraction 

efficiency tests 

are conducted 

and proper 

extraction 

maintenance 

takes place 

2. Where 

possible, further 

improve 


minimize risks 

3. Conduct more 

EHS training 

4. Medical 

surveillance 

program 

5. Monthly 

reports on 

controls to 

Divisional 

Directors, CEO 6. 

Air Monitoring 

program 

SHEQ 

Practitioner, 

Technical 

management 

team 

Ongoing 

High 

Critical 


126 


Risk 

No 

Strategic 

Outcome 

Orientated 

Goal 

Key 

performance 

Indicator/ 

Measure 

Risk Category 

Risk 

Objectives 

Risk 

Description 


to hinder 




Current 

controls 

(what is 

currently in 

place to 

mitigate the 

risk) 

Action Plan 

Risk 

Owner 

Due 

Date 

High 

High 


occurrence 

Consequence 

on operations 

Risk Rating 

10 

11 

Upholding the 




compliance to 

regulatory 

frameworks 

Established 


processes to 


to regulatory 

frameworks 

Internal Business 

Process 

Perspective(Systems 

and Processes) 

To prevent Fraud, 

both financial and 

technical 

1. Deficiencies in or 

incorrect setup of 

financial system 

2. Lack of 

comprehensive fraud 

prevention plan 

providing for all fraud 

possibilities 

1. Financial fraud leading 

to financial loss 

2. Technical fraud leading 

to legal action against 

NMISA, loss of credibility 

and loss of income 

5 

1. Fraud 


drawn up and 

included in APP 

for 2013 

2. Through 

accreditation and 

Quality system 

checks and 

balances in place 

to prevent 

technical fraud 

1. Improve fraud 


to make provision 

for all financial 

risks 

2. All SCM 

practitioners must 

sign Code of 

Conduct 

3. Conduct fraud 

prevention survey 

in technical areas 

Executive 

Director: 


Corporate 

Services 

Divisional 

Directors 

31/03/2014 

Upholding the 




compliance to 

regulatory 

frameworks 

Reasonable 

assurance on the 

adequacy, 

effectiveness, 

efficiency of 

internal controls, 

risk management 

and governance 

maters 

Internal Business 

Process Perspective 

(Systems and 

Processes) 

To provide 

auditable proof of 

performance 

delivery for the 


Incomplete or 

inadequate proof of 

delivery 

1. Unable to reliably prove 

the claimed year end 

performance indicators 

2. Audit qualification based 

on poor outcome from 

audit of performance 

information 

4 

1. Proof is saved 

centrally and 

verified through 

internal audit 

2. Divisional 

directors sign off 

on divisional 

performance on a 

quarterly basis 

1. Divisional 

Directors sign off 

deliverables only 

after proof is 

verified 

Compliance Ongoing 

Moderate 

High 

-END of DOCUMENT- 



Notes:

Your measure of excellence 

Address: Private Bag X34, Lynnwood Ridge, Pretoria, 0040 

Calibration office: +27 12 841 2102 

Reception: +27 12 841 4152 

Fax: +27 12 841 2131 

E-mail enquiries: info@nmisa.org 

www.nmisa.org 

2

NMISA - Department of Trade and Industry

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