Those using scientific instrumentation will probably know the most common cause for instrument inaccuracy is down to drift. Drift is defined as ‘the change in an instrument’s reading or set point value over a period of time’ and how it deviates from a known standard (an ‘accurate’ reading).

And while some of the reasons drift occurs may seem obvious, such as the environment it is kept in, others are not as well-known. But all these issues are crucial to know and consider for the success of the process.

1. Environmental Surroundings:

• Lab Relocation – A simple change in an instrument’s usual environmental conditions can affect its performance. For instance, after lab relocation, the processes and experiments remain unchanged, but the equipment may suddenly produce different results.

• A Hazardous Environment – In some production facilities and research labs, scientific equipment may be less likely to work accurately because of their harsh environment. This can be due to the instruments being used in extremely high or low temperatures, such as freezers or ovens, or because they are exposed to hazardous substances, such as oils or corrosive materials.

2. Over-Use or Aging: Sometimes equipment doesn’t function properly because it’s too old, or because it has been used far more extensively than the manufacturer recommended.

3. Power Outages: Even with back-up generators in place, the mechanical shock or vibration caused by sudden loss of power can cause instruments to behave differently. This is especially true when they are connected to a mains power supply.

4. Human Error: We are all human and mistakes happen in all lines of work, and this is no exception. Errors can occur in several different ways – staff could accidentally dropping an item, forget to clean or maintain it or use it in an inappropriate environment or for something other than its intended purpose. Staff could also make a mistake in recording or transcribing results or readings.