Pipette Calibration Essentials: Why, When, and How to Stay Compliant

Accurate pipetting is essential for reliable lab results—but even the best pipette needs regular calibration to stay in top condition. For labs working under GMP or GLP regulations, calibration is not just best practice—it’s an audit requirement.

In this article, we cover the fundamentals of pipette calibration, and what lab managers and QA teams need to know.

🔍 Why Is Pipette Calibration Important?

Even a slight inaccuracy in volume can lead to:

  • Inconsistent experimental results

  • Failed assays or reactions

  • Regulatory non-compliance

Pipettes can lose accuracy due to:

  • Regular wear and tear

  • Exposure to solvents or temperature changes

  • Improper cleaning or handling

📎 In regulated labs, uncalibrated pipettes can lead to critical deviations in audit reports.

🕒 How Often Should You Calibrate?

There is no one-size-fits-all schedule, but common practices include:

Lab Type Calibration Frequency
Research Labs Every 6–12 months
GLP/GMP Labs Every 3–6 months (or more frequently)
High-Volume Use Monthly or per project

🎯 Tip: Track usage count or exposure to solvents to determine frequency.

🧰 In-House vs. Third-Party Calibration

✔ In-House Checks:

  • Simple gravimetric testing with distilled water

  • Good for pre-checks or weekly QC

  • Not a replacement for formal certification

✔ Certified Calibration Services:

  • Use NIST-traceable standards

  • Provide official calibration certificates

  • May offer on-site service or pickup options

📄 Calibration Certificates: Keep Them Safe!

Especially in GMP/GLP labs, calibration documents must be:

  • Stored digitally or on paper

  • Accessible during inspections

  • Traceable to the pipette’s serial number

🔐 Having both digital and paper backups is ideal for risk management.

🔧 WATSON Pipettes and Calibration Support

  • All WATSON pipettes come with calibration reports

  • Calibration services available via authorized partners

  • Easy-to-read dials and serial labels support regular checks

➡ View WATSON Pipette Lineup

📘 Summary

Calibration isn’t just about numbers—it’s about trust in your results.
Stay compliant. Stay accurate. Your pipette's performance depends on it.

🧩 Need help setting up a calibration log or SOP for your lab? We’ve got templates available—just ask!

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