The property of a measurement result that connects it to a specified reference through a documented, unbroken calibration chain, with uncertainty contributions at every link.
Also called: measurement traceability; calibration traceability.
Does a calibrated instrument make every result traceable?
No. Traceability belongs to the measurement result and requires a documented, unbroken calibration chain to the stated reference, with uncertainty contributions. A sticker identifies only part of that evidence; it does not describe the complete chain from reference to working measurement.
For a capsule-thickness measurement, connect the actual result and method to the relevant calibration information and stated reference. Identify the instrument/configuration, range, corrections and associated uncertainty as applicable. A certificate for a different configuration or an unexplained supplier statement is not a description of that complete chain.
Yes. Traceability alone does not set an upper bound on uncertainty or establish fitness for purpose. A documented reference chain can exist even when the uncertainty is too large for the intended dimensional comparison.
Assess measurement capability against the intended decision, using calibration evidence applicable to the working configuration. Traceability supports the result’s reference chain; it does not by itself establish capsule conformity.