Support for Metrology Infrastructure in Albania
IPA 2008 project
Twinning Project Fiche
1. Basic Information
1.1. Programme: IPA 2008
1.2. Twinning number: AL 08 IB FI 05
1.3. Title: Strengthening of the national metrology infrastructure and achievement of
international recognition.
1.4. Sector: 03.01
1.5 Beneficiary country: Public Procurement Agency, Contracting Authorities, Ministry of
Economy, Trade and Energy.
2. Objectives
2.1 Overall Objective
To assist the Government of Albania to achieve EU standards as required under the SAA in the
areas of Metrology .
2.2 Project Purpose
To contribute to the reduction of technical barriers to trade and to facilitate international trade
through the increased quality of products produced in Albania.
2.3 Contribution to AP/NPAA / EP/ SAA:



The European Partnership Document of 2007 defines as priorities to ensure
improved functioning, taking into account EC practices, of the body responsible for
metrology and calibration, to ensure administrative capacities to implement SAA
requirements in this area, and to progress in transposing New and Global Approach and
Old Approach directives.
SAA article 75 specifically refers to the need to provide assistance for institutional
strengthening of metrology, eventually leading to membership to EU agencies
(EURAMET, WELMEC)
EC Progress Report 2008: The 2008 EC Progress Report noticed some progress in the
area of metrology, mentioning the fact that the new law on metrology sets up a
decentralized metrology system and deregulates some metrological activities such as
calibration. At this point the Commission notes that the preparations in this field are at
an early stage. This highlights the need for a continuity of the community assistance.
2.4 Link with MIPD:
The MIPD 2007-2009 has among its stated objectives under European Standards - trade:
defines the need to support the establishment and capacity building of agencies and institutions
required for the implementation and enforcement of the sectoral policies, including
mechanisms for verification of EU compatibility of government policies and draft laws.
2.5 Link with National Development Plan
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Support for Metrology Infrastructure in Albania
IPA 2008 project
The National Strategy for Integration and Development (2007-2013), emphasizes that Albanian
Government will further work in fulfilling of the obligations deriving from SAA, chapter of
Internal Market, free movement of goods (metrology, standardization, certification, and
accreditation).
2.6 Link with Sectoral investment plans
Implementation of National Strategy on metrology prepared within CARDS 2003 project and
World Bank project “Business Environment reform and Institutional Strengthening”; and of
sectorial strategy on Quality Infrastructure adopted by the Albanian Government require the
necessary means and financial support to be implemented.
Metrology (measurement) system is the most costly component of the Quality infrastructure
system. It consists of national reference measurement standards, calibration and testing
laboratories, infrastructure for inspection and supervision. An adequate metrology institute
covering most of measurement areas costs more than 40 mil EUR and requires about 150
qualified staff to operate and it takes 15-25 years to develop with very strong government
commitment. The main problem is the time required for the development of the metrology
system. Normally it will be around 15 years from now, but this puts a lot of constraint on
development of the internal market in Albania and fulfilling of the commitments at national
level with regard to the EU accession.
3. Description
3.1 Background and justification:
Most of Acquis Communautaire implementation is linked to an operational measurement
infrastructure (ex. food, environment monitoring, health care, hygiene, technical safety,
consumer protection, etc) which require traceable and reliable measurements to the institution
responsible for the metrology (General Directorate of Metrology). In providing reliable and
accurate measurement for the industry and testing of products produced in Albania, that will be
exported its necessary that Albanian metrology infrastructure is well established and
recognized at international level (EURAMET membership).
Around 40% of the European Union directives are related to measurements by establishing
essential requirements for measuring instruments, measurement methods or various materials
in practically every sector. A weak metrology system in Albania will lead later in delay in the
maturity and integration of other stakeholders as standardization, accreditation, inspection, etc),
knowing that establishing or upgrading a metrological system takes a lot of efforts in terms of
financial and human resources. During the period 2004-2007 the DPM was supported by the
National Programme CARDS 2003 with project CARDS 2003 Albania Metrology”, with a
budget of 1.3 mln EUR, where 0.9 mln EUR was spent in technical assistance which included,
legislation development, consultancy, training and public awareness, and the rest 0.4 mln Euro
is invested in measurement equipment. Within the CARDS 2003 “Albania metrology”,
measuring equipment for establishment of national standards in mass, pressure, temperature
voltage and resistance for limited ranges was supplied and related trainings of the technical
staff was delivered. Nevertheless, the needs of industry and enforcement bodies are constantly
increasing and can not be covered by the limited supply through the CARDS 2003 project. For
example, no equipments for calibration of humidity, volume and flow, density, acoustic,
frequency, chemistry are available at the General Directorate of Metrology.
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IPA 2008 project
The investments in measurement equipment should be associated with the training of the
technical staff. (approximately 22 new staff is expected to join DPM and 12 is the number of
the current staff in the department of scientific and industrial metrology). Due to the unique
and complicated nature of national measurement standards laboratories there are no local
providers for such trainings. The Albanian experts could be trained at the national metrology
institutes of Member states.
During the drafting of this project fiche are closely taken into account the key
recommendations given in the final report of CARDS 2003 project as following:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Developing of the secondary legislation
Establishing of a decentralized metrology system
Consolidation of calibrations vs. verifications
Metrology in chemistry
Within the finished CARDS 2003 “Albania Metrology” a national strategy on establishing and
developing the Albanian metrology system towards the EU integration was adopted.
Therefore, this new phase concerns of the implementation of this strategy, something which
has also been provided for in SAA article 75.
Implementation of national strategy on metrology has received the support of the Albanian
government for financial support with the World Bank project BERIS, which will be executed
within 2007-2011. The project budget is Euro 5.05 million.
The BERIS project component “Strengthening Enterprise Sector's Capability to Export” will
support the upgrading of the national metrology infrastructure by financing the design,
construction of a modern metrology laboratory/facility with proper environmental devices. It
will also assist in strengthening staff skills for headquarter and regional centres. Design,
supervision and construction of new metrological centre, and (iii) training programs in EUbased metrology services and requirements, including study tours for selected staff of the DPM
to metrology institutes of EU and accession countries, and (iv) measurement equipment are the
next components of the project. Support could also be provided for the DPM’s efforts to join
selected EU organizations in the areas of calibration laboratories and legal metrology,
including verification and type of approval such as EURAMET and WELMEC.
So far under this component, support is provided for the following: (i) preparation of a national
metrology strategy, including an action plan for consolidation of provincial and district
metrology laboratories. The procedures for the design and supervision of new building have
started.
With the support given through CARDS 2003 project and World Bank project is still a need for
financial support in order to fulfil the basic requirements for a metrological infrastructure
compatible with EU practices and recognised at regional and international level.
Beside the national strategy, a new law on metrology, compatible with EU requirements and
practices was elaborated with EU assistance. Although legal metrology is, reasonably set up,
scientific metrology is developing slowly, and industrial metrology is only slowly becoming
market orientated. Drafting national regulations on non automatic weighing instruments
(NAWI directive), regulations on the control of pre-packages and bottles as measuring
containers started three years ago. In the process numbers of public and private institutions
were involved. There is still need for expertise, training and equipment supply in order to fully
adopt and implement the prepared regulations.
The Albanian National Plan on fulfilling of SAA obligations has determined as priorities the
adoption and implementation of all New and old approach Directives on metrology. Therefore
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IPA 2008 project
further assistance is required in terms of preparing and adopting the secondary legislation
which includes adoption of EU directives on measuring instruments (22/2004 EC); provisions
of (71/316/EEC) on the approximation of the laws of the Member States relating to common
provisions for both measuring instruments and methods of metrological control, etc.
One of the presently most important international arrangements in metrology field is a
Multilateral Recognition Arrangement on national standards and calibration and measurement
certificates issued by national metrology institutes signed by more than fifty countries all
around the world (CIPM MRA). Although Albania signed the Arrangement on 15 October
2007, it is still far from the international recognition of national standards and calibration
certificates.
The basic requirements for full membership of EURAMET (European Association of
National Metrology Institutes) and international recognitions are:
 The traceability routes to the SI should be identified and have been in operation for at
last three years;
 The National Metrology Institute (DPM) shall show evidence of appropriate
participation in international comparisons
 The metrology infrastructure implemented in the country.
The quality system in use at the National Metrology Institute of the country
Therefore, urgent support in developing legislation/regulations, implementation quality
management system (ISO 17025) in the General Directorate of Metrology and Calibration;
training of personnel and increasing of the technical competence of the staff that operates with
national measurement standards, and investment supply of measurement standards and
equipment is sought.
To cope with highly demanding tasks to be performed by DPM as Albanian National
Metrology Institute (i.e. EURAMET full membership), change in the structure of DPM staff
shall be achieved as well. It is important to increase the qualifications and the number of staff
that are working on most demanding tasks, crucial for overall performance of DPM as a
national metrology institution. This relates most demanding calibrations, participation in
EURAMET inter-comparisons and in Quality system presentation, participation in other
international research and other projects and activities as well as implementation of different
international documents, starting with EU directives, WELMEC and OIML guides, ISO and
other international standards. Seminars for industry, test and measurement laboratories,
inspectors and other interested parties shall be organised as well to increase the quality of
measurements in the country. This do not necessary mean to increase the overall number of
DPM personnel which is the implementing institution of this project.
3.2 Linked activities
Within the CARDS 2003 project “Albania Metrology” (EUROPAID/85154/C/SV/AL)
measuring equipment for establishment of national standards in mass, voltage, pressure and
temperature was supplied. Nevertheless, the needs of industry and enforcement bodies are
constantly increasing and could not be covered by the limited supply through the
EUROPAID/85154/C/SV/AL project.
The proposed activities are a continuity of CARDS 2003 due to the new requirements
stemming from the new law on metrology, which requires applying of new standards
accordingly, as aforementioned. The new equipment will be distributed and improve the
infrastructure for the all technical areas as mentioned in the project fiche;
Regarding the legal approximation process, CARDS 2003 project has assisted DPM in drafting
of the new law “On Metrology”, as well as provided support in drafting the first draft of the
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IPA 2008 project
Council of Minister Decision “Recognition of National Measurement Standards” which is
still in the consultation process in the Line Ministries. A key recommendation given in the
final Report of CARDS 2003 was the further transposition and adoption of the secondary
legislation; Drawing upon the recommendations this project shall provide assistance for the
proper implementation of the new law and the relevant by-laws focusing on MID, NAWI
directives.
Other key recommendations given in the final report of CARDS 2003 are the establishment of
a decentralized metrology system, consolidation of calibrations versus verification and
development of metrology in chemistry. Following the National Strategy and Business Plan
prepared under CARDS 2003 and the new Law on metrology, Albania shall have a
decentralized system which needs to be strengthen and upgraded accordingly. Development of
metrology in chemistry, by involving all stakeholders in the country is one of the examples that
the national standards holder system will be developed through IPA 2008 in that direction.
Acknowledging the fact that the training activities undertaken by CARDS 2003 project were
very useful especially in the field of mass, volume, length, electrical and temperature
measurements, as well as gambling machines, these trainings were specifically related to a
general introduction and to limited parts of the measurements areas. According to the new
strategy, the staff of DPM will be increased which leads to the need that under IPA 2008
project, relevant trainings should be provided. Besides, building upon the experience of
CARDS 2003 project, trainings need to be extended to more specific sub-fields of the
measurement areas, and to a higher level of the technical expertise for these areas that already
had trainings under CARDS 2003 project.
The World Bank project “Business Environment Reform and Institutional Strengthening”,
component “Strengthening the MSTQ system in Albania”, aims at strengthening the capacity
of the General Directorate of Metrology (DPM), including modernizing the metrology
infrastructure and, in particular, construction of a modern metrology centre, to perform basic
measurements and calibrations services.
As it was aforementioned, the project will have a positive effect on all the other previous and
future projects aimed at strengthening measurement capabilities as related to measurements by
provision of recognised traceable measurements and it has no overlapping components with
other projects.
The project proposed is a continuation of CARDS 2003 project and it is intended to improve its
sustainability.
3.3 Results:
3.3.1
3.3.2
3.3.3
3.3.4
3.3.5
Process of legal approximation of MID, NAWI directives into the national
regulations, completed – secondary legislation developed/revised, approved and
validated.
Regulations on technical and metrological requirements of measuring
instruments subject of legal control; on national reference measurement
standards developed and adopted
Training needs analyzed, material developed, training performed, certificates
issued.
New measurement areas are established and operational, providing services to
the industry and testing laboratories (CAB), humidity, acoustics, time and
frequency, AC current, electrical power.
The national network of metrology in chemistry is established, and fully
functioning according to EU requirements and practices.
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IPA 2008 project
3.3.6
3.3.7
3.3.8
3.3.9
3.3.10
3.3.11
3.3.12
3.3.13
3.3.14
3.3.15
3.3.16
Expanded technical capacities of calibration laboratories in the field of mass,
temperature, electrical quantities, volume & flow, pressure, dimensional
measurements (speed radar, tachometers) etc.
Four regional Centres are having adequate capacities and are fully operational.
Metrological supervision structure (market surveillance in metrology) established
and runs properly.
Training of technical staff in laboratories and in situ carried out (in Albania and
in Member States’ national metrology institutes).
Quality managment system according to ISO 17025:2005, implemented and the
documenation ready for presentation at the EURAMET Techncial Committee of
Quality.
Action plan for the traceability routs of measurement areas prepared and
implemented.
The International recognition achieved at least by three measurement areas i.e
mass, temperature, pressure, electrical quantities, etc, (EURAMET membership).
Technical specifications for measurement equipment and IT software are
developed.
Measurement equipment for reference measurement standards laboratories and
IT facilities are installed and operational.
Internal/external auditors and technical assessors according to ISO 17025 and
ISO 17020 are trained and certified
The national network of national reference measurements standards is established
and holders of reference measurements standards are designated.(inside and
outside the DPM, such as Universities, research institutions, etc).
3.4. Activities
Legislation development
 Revision and development of secondary legislation with special focus to adoption of
MID directive 22/2004 EC, NAWI Directive 90/384 EEC, internal procedures and
verification procedures etc.;
 Evaluating and verifying the detailed plan of implementation of the measures for
meeting the requirements and reaching the EURAMET membership, including
investment plan and preparing specifications of necessary measurement equipment and
related software.
 Evaluating and verifying the action plan for implementation of Aquis,
revision/development and proposals for the secondary legislation, including the
WELMEC guides.
Capacity building
Ensuring of the traceability of measurements in thermometry, electricity, volume, flow,
length and, mass and related quantities force, pressure, down to the service sector,
industry and other customers and participation in proficiency testing schemes and inter
laboratory comparisons (bilateral and regional) at least with three measurement areas.
 Assessment of needs/developing a policy and establishing of traceability chain in the
field of chemical measurements (organic and inorganic, pH meter, etc)
 Expanding of existing measuring areas and development of metrological infrastructure
for the new measurement areas: acoustic and vibration, humidity, density, etc
 Supporting the institutional building development of the DPM, especially with respect
to the establishment of Albanian Metrology institute within DPM, its leading and

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Support for Metrology Infrastructure in Albania
IPA 2008 project









coordinator role with the national metrology infrastructure, verifying the conformity
with the standards requirement.
Development of metrological inspection structure (regulation and procedures) in line
with EU requirements, training on risk analysis, pre-assessment, evaluation of internal
procedures. Introducing of the QMS according to ISO 17020.
Pre-assessment of the existing quality system of DPM and DPM laboratories according
to ISO 17025 : 2005 requirements; implementation of the quality system in DPM
aiming at its presentation and taking of the confidence by the Technical Committee of
EURAMET (European Association of National Metrology Institutes).
Establishment of the IT network for communication of DPM with regional centres
(software, development of a database, computers and relevant accessories)
Hands-on support for preparation of calibration and measurement capabilities (CMC’s)
and their submission to the EURAMET Technical Committee for revision.
Preparation of detailed technical specifications for the necessary measurement
standards, auxiliary equipments and related software, for DPM laboratories
Trainings
Development and delivery of training to the new staff of General Directorate of
Metrology and Regional Centres, Universities, research institutes, covering -but not
limited to uncertainty calculation-, application of quality systems; delivery of trainings
on development of calibration procedures and measurement methods for the new
measurement areas, etc
Delivery of trainings to the higher level of technical expertise for the measurement
areas of mass, temperature, pressure, electrical quantities, in order to achieve the
international recognition (EURAMET membership).
Development and implementation of training programs with a special focus on training
of trainers and technical assessors for calibration/testing laboratories according ISO
17025 in Albania and abroad; 20 internal and external auditors according to the ISO
9001 and ISO 17025 trained.
Organisation of study tours in Member States National metrology institutes to get
overview
Public awareness
Informing the local industry and trade as well as other interested bodies on the new introduced
metrological requirements; Preparation and participation in the seminar addressed to industry,
public bodies and semi-private organizations as well as NGOs as regards checking the net
quantity in pre-packages and utility meters (electricity meters, water meters, and taximeter and
measurement systems for liquids other than water).
3.5 Means/Input from the MS Partner Administration
3.5.1 Profile and tasks of the Project Leader
Profile:
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IPA 2008 project
 at least 15 years experience in either a national metrology institute or an European
metrology organization and, during that period, he/she must have held a senior
management position for at least 7 years;
 excellent English
Tasks:




Assists the RTA with project management;
Monitoring and guidance of the whole project
Provision of legal and technical advise and analysis
Development a project work plan, with a timetable for project implementation,
encompassing all project components and activities, plus the provision of related skills
development activities.
3.5.2 Profile and tasks of the RTA
One Resident Twinning Adviser (RTA) over a period of 24 months as well as medium/short
term experts will implement the above-listed components. The RTA has the responsibility to
guide the work of the team. The medium/short term experts will work in close cooperation with
the RTA and the staff in order to meet the specific objectives as set out above.
The RTA is expected to fill the following profile:
 Minimum 10 years of experience in the field of metrology.
 Be an administrator from public administration of an EU member's state with expertise
in metrology issues. He/she should have the status of civil/public servant.
 Very good knowledge of and demonstrated working experience in the establishment
and operation of metrology laboratory in a National Metrology Institute, member of
EURAMET and signatory of CIPM MRA, matured in other countries of the region,
and/or EU countries, including EU accession countries
 Sound comparative knowledge of relevant EU legislative and institutional requirements
related to the various components of this project.
 Wide knowledge of related good practice/acquis communautaire and demonstrated
experience on adoption of New and Old Approach directives on metrology into national
legislation.
 Solid knowledge of metrology legislation, work methods and procedures.
 Have excellent management, leadership, communication and coordination skills.
 Proven abilities of manager in forming an appropriate team of short-term experts.
 Experience in developing similar projects implemented in other countries.
 Good training, public speaking and written communication skills.
 Excellent computer literacy (Word, Excel, Power Point).
 Excellent command of spoken and written English.
Additional assets are:






Sound background in drafting and/or implementing strategies, policies or regulations
Previous experience as project coordinator/project manager in similar projects;
Some relevant working experience in the new Member States and the Western Balkans;
Knowledge regarding the situation and the administrative structures from
Albanian would be a plus.
Relevance of other language skills will be considered as well.
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IPA 2008 project
Tasks:
 Overall supervision of the project implementation and coordination of all activities, as
well as management of the project administration;
 Coordination of the activities of the team members in line with the agreed work
programmes to enable timely completion of project outputs;
 Preparation of project progress reports;
 Permanent contact with the beneficiary RTA counterpart;
 Liaison with EC Task Manager;
 Liaison with other relevant projects.
The RTA is expected to ensure, together with the beneficiary administration, the achievement
of the objectives listed in 2.1/ 2.2. In order to meet these purposes, and if fully justified, the
RTA may propose alternative and/or complementary project activities and/or outputs to those
identified in the section 3.4.
3.5.3 Profile and tasks of the medium/ short-term experts
Tasks of medium and short term expertise
Terms of Reference for short-term adviser(s) will be elaborated by Project Leader/RTA at the
work plan preparation stage.
Profile of short and medium-term expertise
There should be a pool of short/medium term experts. Their "mix" should be identified by the
Project Leader/RTA in the course of designing the delivery of the project. The actual duration
of the assignments of each of the short-term expert(s) (in principle from 2 to 8 months) will be
defined during the drafting of the twinning agreement. The medium-term expert(s) will work in
close co-operation with the RTA and the Beneficiary in order to meet the specific objectives as
set out above.
The short and medium- term experts are expected to have:
 Professional background in the field of metrology
 At least 8 years of experience in a specialised national administration of an EU Member
State;
 Solid training skills and experience in organizing training courses
 Sound knowledge of relevant EU legislative and institutional requirements related to
the various components of this project;
 Substantial working experience gained within the National Measurement System of an
EU member state;
 Wide knowledge of the requirements for full (national) membership of Meter
Convention (CIPM Mutual Recognition Agreement), EURAMET (European
Association of National Metrology Institutes);
 Very good command of English (oral and written);
 Excellent computer skills (Word, Excel);
 University degree.
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IPA 2008 project
Additional assets are:
 Sound communication skills and previous experience of working in multi-disciplinary
and multi-national team;
 Sound background in drafting and/or implementing strategies, policies or regulations;
 Some relevant working experience in the new Member States and the Balkans.
4. Institutional Framework
The General Directorate of Metrology (DPM) is the responsible institution for metrology in the
Republic of Albania, integral part of the quality infrastructure along with standardization,
accreditation, market surveillance and conformity assessment.
DPM operates under the Minister of Economy, Trade and Energy and it carries out its functions
pursuant to law no 8975 of February 14, 2008 “On metrology” replacing the Law no 8996 date
30.01.2003 “On legal units of measurements and control of measuring instruments
(metrology)”, and to its respective by laws. DPM is responsible and performs its activities in all
metrology categories:
1. Scientific and Industrial Metrology
o National Measurement Standards
o Calibration Laboratories
2. Legal Metrology (including regional branches)
o Type approval
o Verification Laboratories
3. Metrological Supervision
 Metrological Inspection
 Control Laboratories
Pursuant to the order of Prime Minister nr. 112 date 06.08.2008 “On organization and structure of
DPM”, DPM is organized in three technical departments:
i) Department of Scientific and Industrial Metrology
The Department of Scientific and Industrial Metrology at DPM, deals with the development of
metrology science and with the measurement traceability. The mission of scientific and
industrial metrology is to realize (create), and maintain the national reference measurement standards
in accordance with national needs, with an optimal use of the capacities and capabilities within the
country; to offer calibration services to producers and users of measuring instruments for being
competitive in the internal and global market.
It consists of the following laboratories:
Laboratory of Dimensional Measurements
Laboratory of Force, Pressure, Hardness
Laboratory of Mass Measurements
Laboratory of Volume and Flow Measurements
Laboratory of Temperature and Humidity Measurements
Laboratory of Electrical Measurement
Laboratory for Testing of Gambling Machines
Laboratory for Chemistry and Precious Materials
Basically the same measurement infrastructure is used for scientific and industrial metrology.
ii)
Department of Legal Metrology
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IPA 2008 project
Legal Metrology is an important and traditional function of the state. Main traditional activity of Legal
Metrology in Albania is performed in the field of consumer protection from incorrect measurements in
the field of official and commercial transactions. The key activities are designing and building the
national legal metrology system which provides for accurate and reliable measurements in the fields of:
 official and commercial transactions in goods and services
 health protection, environmental protection and general technical safety
Legal metrology is an important, horizontal and/or inter-sectoral and interdisciplinary activity. It
involves various fields, such as protection of health, environmental protection, trade, agriculture and
others activities of ministries or institutions. In order to ensure a well functioning of legal metrology
system is needed a closely collaboration with individual ministries or institutions. The department of
legal metrology coordinates the operations and performances of four regional centres, in Tirana, Fieri,
Korca and Lezha. The key activity of regional centres is verification of legally controlled measuring
instruments;
iii)
Department of Metrological Supervision
This is a newly established department with the key activity enforcement of the law on metrology and
related sub laws dealing with the control of net quantity of pre-packaged products
The new directorate of MS has start activities with staff of 18 employees geographically
distributed in Tirana, Fier, Korca and Lezha including the director. This department closely
cooperates with market surveillance authorities in the country, especially within the Ministry of
Economy, Trade and Energetic.
iv)
Department of Supporting Resources
This department dealing with finance, administrative, human resources, public relations,
services and maintenance.
The tasks and responsibilities of General Directorate of Metrology and are defined by the law
on metrology. The DPM is responsible and has the ownership of national reference
measurement standards. The measurement equipment that will be supplied under the project
will be installed in the laboratories of General Directorate of Metrology which is responsible
for ensuring the measurement traceability to the international measurement units (SI)
international system of units.
A number of institutions and economic operators (Union of Chambers of Commerce, Research
Institutes etc.) are contributing to metrology national system through the metrology council,
where various ministries, research institutes, public and private bodies are represented.
There are several institutions which perform various tests and chemical analysis in the field of
food, water, environment, health hygiene etc. Such institutions are designated as reference
institution by the legislation. Having an adequate infrastructure and technical competence,
these institutions have the potential laboratories for ensuring of measurement traceability in the
filed of metrology in chemistry according to internationally accepted standards.
5. Detailed Budget in Euros
The beneficiary will provide in kind contribution in the form foreseen in the twinning manual.
Total budget of the action: € 1 million.
Programme
Support
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IPA 2008 project
Investment
Support (I)
Twinning
Institution
Total
Building (IB) Programme(
=I+IB)
1,000,000
Measurement
2,000,000
equipment Supply
contract,
Total
2,000,000
National Cofinancing
IFI
TOTAL
1,000,000
0,000
0
1,000,000
2,000,000
400, 000
0
2,400,000
1,000,000
400,000
3, 400,000
6. Implementation Arrangements
6.1. Implementing Agency
The European Commission Delegation in Tirana will be responsible for tendering, contracting,
payments and financial reporting, and will work in close cooperation with the beneficiary. The
Programme Manager at the EC Delegation, OPS I, will be Mark Reilly, Rruga e Durresit, no.
127/1, Tirana, Albania.
Tel: + 355 42 228 320 Fax: +355 42 270 678 e-mail:
mark.reilly@ec.europa.eu
6.2 Main counterpart in the Beneficiary Country:
Project leader:
Ms Myrvete Pazaj, General Director;
General Directorate of Metrology,
Sami Frasheri St 33, Tirana, Albania
Phone: +355 42 233 174,
Fax: + 355 42 228 244
Email: Myrvete.Pazaj@dpmk.gov.al
metrology@dpmk.gov.al
Ms. Majlinda Hoxha
Director of Department of Scientific and Industrial Metrology
General Directorate of Metrology
Sami Frasheri St 33, Tirana, Albania
Phone: +355 42 233 174,
Fax: + 355 42 228 244
Email: Majlinda.Hoxha@dpmk.gov.al
6.3. Contracts:
The project will be implemented through one twinning agreement.
Contract
Contract Value ( € )
2010
Project: Strengthening of the national metrology infrastructure and achievement of international
recognition.
Contract = Twinning
Component 1. Revision and development of secondary legislation
€1,000.000
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Support for Metrology Infrastructure in Albania
IPA 2008 project
Component 2. Evaluating and verifying detailed implementation
for EURAMET membership
Component 3, Action plan for implementation of secondary
legislation
Total € 1,000.000
7. Implementation schedule (indicative)
7.1. Launching of the call for proposals (date) November 2009
7.2. Start of the project activities (date) October 2010
7.3. Project completion (date) October 2012
7.4. Duration of the implementation period (number of months) 24 months
8. Sustainability:
The sustainability of the project rests entirely upon the Government of Albania as a whole in
the fostering of a professional, merit based public administration.
9. Cross cutting issues
9.1. Equal Opportunity
The principle of equal opportunity will be integrated into all stages of the project
implementation, which it is also in conformity with the Albanian Constitution which provides
for equal opportunity for men and women be treated equally despite of their race, nationality,
gender, origin, religious and political beliefs.
9.2. Environment
NA
10. Conditionality and sequencing
The implementation of the project requires the full commitment and participation of the senior
management of the General Directorate of Metrology
The Beneficiary shall:
a) Ensure that appropriate staff is made available to work with the EU twinning
partner(s). Counterparts for each of the objectives will be appointed to facilitate the
implementation of the respective activities of the twinning project;
b) Be responsible for the selection of trainees - in consultation with the EU experts - as
well as for providing the EU experts with legislation and any other documents
necessary for the implementation of the project;
c) Ensure that appropriate staff for training are made available, that trainees are
released from their duties during their training and that once trained they are
retained in post;
13
Support for Metrology Infrastructure in Albania
IPA 2008 project
d) Ensure that staff trained under this project are permitted to remain in post and not
subject to arbitrary and frequent transfer into posts where their newly acquired skills
are of no use or dismissed without due cause/process. To address this, a detailed
database of what training was provided to which person should be maintained by
the implementing partner(s) to allow for monitoring of the investment in future to
ensure those trained have not been transferred;
e) Shall provide all possible assistance to solve any unforeseen problem that the EU
twinning partner(s) may face;
f) Fully support the RTA with accommodation, trainings rooms and logistical
assistance.
Equally, the Twinning team, as led by the Twinning Resident Adviser must ensure full
collaboration with the counterparts at the institution. Communications should be open and
consistent. The Twinning team must carry out activities in the interest of the institution, and
maintain its involvement at all stages of activities.
11. Investment criteria
10.1 Co-financing: Co-financing will come from the beneficiary in the form of provision of
accommodation, training rooms, electricity and telephone, staff salaries, etc.
10.2 Additionality: IPA assistance under this project will not overlap with funds provided
by the national budget or other bilateral support
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Support for Metrology Infrastructure in Albania
IPA 2008 project
ANNEXES TO PROJECT FICHE
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Logical framework matrix in standard format
Implementation Chart
Contracting and Disbursement Schedule by Quarter
Reference to feasibility /pre-feasibility studies
List of relevant Laws and Regulations
Reference to relevant Government Strategic plans and studies (may include Institution Development Plan, Business plans, Sector studies etc)
15
Support for Metrology Infrastructure in Albania
IPA 2008 project
ANNEX I - LOGFRAME PLANNING MATRIX FOR twinning fiche
Programme name and number
Support for Metrology Infrastructure in Albania
Overall objective
Objectively verifiable indicators

To assist the Government of Albania in
strengthening the national metrology infrastructure
in line with EU standards.





Project purpose
The purpose of this project is to support the
General Directorate of Metrology to fulfilling of
the conditions for full membership in
EURAMET, and aligning of the Albanian
metrology legislation nad practices with these of
EU members; increasing of technical

Gaps in legislation eliminated.
Progress report to present the quality management
system at EURAMET TC Q uality
3 DPM laboratories accredited by the end of 2010
competence of DPM;
Results
Disbursement period expires :
Total budget: €1,000,000
IPA budget:
€1,000,000
Sources of Verification
Assumptions
One year after the end date for the
execution of contracts
Quality management system fully implemented

National macroeconomic figures , periodical and
and application for presentation submitted to
annual report from the Institute of Statistics
EURAMET TC-Q,

SAP report (trade sector)
Number of accredited laboratories

EC annual progress report
Number of regulations/legal acts adopted
Reports of ministries responsible for trade, agriculture and
Number of calibration services provided to finance
industry
Number of testing and calibration laboratories Project reports
Conference reports
traceable to DPM
Objectively verifiable indicators


Contracting period expires:
3 years following the date of conclusion of the Financing
Agreement
Sources of Verification
Political support from the Government
continued.


Construction of the new metrological
centre progresses accordingly


Objectively verifiable indicators
Assumptions
C annual progress report

Reports of ministry responsible for metrology

Project reports
Conference reports
Annual report of
Committee for Quality
Annual reports,
Accreditation reports
EURAMET
Technical
Commitment of the business society to
increase the quality of the products

Official bulletin of Chamber of Commerce and Commitment to align with the acquis
Industry.
communautaire

Reports from certification bodies
Sources of Verification
Assumptions
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Support for Metrology Infrastructure in Albania
IPA 2008 project
LOGFRAME PLANNING MATRIX FOR Project Fiche – continued
Results














Objectively verifiable indicators
Process of legal approximation of MID, NAWI
directives into the national regulations, completed –
secondary legislation developed/revised, approved and
validated.
Regulations on technical and metrological
requirements of measuring instruments subject of
legal control; on national reference measurement
standards developed and adopted
Training needs analyzed, material developed,
training performed, certificates issued.
New measurement areas are established and
operational, providing services to the industry and
testing laboratories (CAB), humidity, acoustics, time
and frequency, AC current, electrical power.
The national network of metrology in chemistry is
established, and fully functioning according to EU
requirements and practices
Expanded technical capacities of calibration
laboratories in the field of
mass, temperature,
electrical quantities, volume & flow, pressure,
dimensional measurements (speed radar, tachometers)
etc.
New measurement laboratories in the field of
acoustics, humidity, time and frequency, electrical
quantities, density, etc) are established and operational
Four regional Centres are having adequate
capacities and are fully operational.
Metrological supervision structure (market
surveillance in metrology) established and runs
properly.
Training of technical staff in laboratories and in
situ carried out (in Albania and in Member States’
national metrology institutes).
Quality managment system according to ISO
17025:2005, implemented and the documenation ready
for presentation at the EURAMET Techncial
Committee of Quality.
Internal/external auditors and technical assessors
according to ISO 17025 and ISO 17020 are trained
Action plan for the traceability routs of
measurement areas prepared and implemented.
The International recognition achieved at least by
three measurement areas i.e mass, temperature,
pressure, electrical quantities, etc, (EURAMET
National regulation published in OF (Official
gazette)
Number of secondary legal acts adopted and/or
implemented.
Number of calibrations per year
Number of types of calibrations performed in that
year
Sources of Verification

Reports of ministry responsible for trade

Project reports

events reports

Interim reports,

DPM newsletter

DPM annual report

Official Journal

EC annual progress report
Number of customers that used calibration services

Official
% coverage by DPM/ of metrology services in
Albania
Annual reports,
Assumptions
Necessary legal acts adopted by the
relevant institutions
Accreditation reports
Market share of DPM in calibrations in Albania
Official bulletin of Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
Number of publications per year
Average time per calibration (min, mean, max)
Reports from certification bodies
Number of tests performed
Number of types of products tested
Number of customers that used DPM testing and
analysis services
% coverage by DPM of testing services in Albania
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Support for Metrology Infrastructure in Albania
IPA 2008 project
membership).
Technical
specifications
for
measurement
Market share of DPM in testing and analysis in
equipment and IT software are developed.

Measurement standards, auxiliary equipment and Albania
related software for reference measurement standards
laboratories and IT facilities are installed and
Average time per test or analysis (min, mean, max)
operational.
The national network of national reference measurements
standards is established and holders of reference

measurements standards are designated.(inside
and outside the DPM, such as Universities,
research institutions, etc).
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Support for Metrology Infrastructure in Albania
IPA 2008 project
19
Support for Metrology Infrastructure in Albania
IPA 2008 project
Activities/Components or input
Means
Sources of verification
Assumptions
MS Project Leader (Member States project
Twi
leader (24 months, TF 30 000 EUR)
Tasks:
MS Project leader : 2 working months over 24 consecutive
Assists
the
RTA
with
project months
management;
Monitoring and guidance of the whole
Total budget : 1 000,000 EUR
project
Provision of legal and technical advise
and analysis
Development a project work plan, with a
timetable for project implementation,
encompassing all project components and
activities, plus the provision of related
skills development activities.
Overall supervision of the
project implementation and
coordination of all activities, as
well as management of the
project administration;
Advise on copyright standards
and practices in EU Member
States;
Coordination of the activities of
the team members in line with
the agreed work programmes to
enable timely completion of
project outputs;
Preparation of project progress
reports;
Permanent contact with the
beneficiary RTA counterpart;
Liaison with EC Task Manager;
Liaison with other relevant
projects.

Analysis, assessment/revision of
The DPM is committed to the reform and to
improve its capacities in order to respect the
SAA requirements.
.
Staff available, committed and devoted to
training
Resident Twining adviser:
24 consecutive months
There should be a pool of short/medium term experts.
20
Support for Metrology Infrastructure in Albania
IPA 2008 project










the legal framework on metrology
in Albania
Inputs
on
development
of
secondary legislation with special
focus to adoption of MID and
NAWI
directives,
internal
procedures
and
verification
procedures etc.;
Support to develop the necessary
measures for implementation of
legislation
Their "mix" should be identified by the Project
Leader/RTA in the course of designing the delivery of
the project. The actual duration of the assignments of
each of the short-term expert(s) (in principle from 2 to 8
months) will be defined during the drafting of the
twinning agreement
Assessment of the existing status
of quality management system at
DPM
Developing an plan of corrective/
preventive actions,
Supporting the implementation of
corrective/preventive actions and
continual improvement
Supporting the preparation of
documentation for presentation of
quality system at EURAMET
Technical Committee of Quality.
If necessary provide trainings for
DPM laboratories staff
Re-Assessment and follow up of
the existing laboratories (mass
temperature, pressure, electrical
quantities, volume, length, force),
written inputs for the new ones
including
of measurement
standards, working conditions,
traceability
chain,
working
procedures,
measurements
methods,
measurement
uncertainty, since the CARDS
2003 project.
Supporting
the
organization/participation
in
laboratory inter comparison /
proficiency schemes
Supporting
to develop
the
appropriate traceability routs,
calibration procedures, validation
of measurement methods, improve
quality management system in the
laboratory; and the necessary
measures
21
Support for Metrology Infrastructure in Albania
IPA 2008 project







Hands-on support for preparation
of calibration and measurement
capabilities (CMC’s) and their
submission to the EURAMET
Technical Committee for revision.
Preparation of detailed technical
specifications for the necessary
additional measurement standards,
auxiliary equipments and related
software, for DPM
national
reference standards measurement
laboratories, under the contract 2
(Lot X)
Analysis of the existing situation
of metrology in chemistry in
Albania
Coordination with the reference
institutes in the field of health,
hygiene, environment, food, etc)
in Albania
Supporting the determination of
the medium term strategy for
establishing
metrology
in
chemistry in Albania
Drafting
of
expert
recommendation for the efficient
set up of Metrology in Chemistry
(including an action plan for
immediate implementation)
Establishment of the IT network
for communication of DPM with
regional
centres
(software,
development of a database,
computers
and
relevant
accessories)

Study tours
Study tours

Trainings courses abroad
15 Albanian experts,
Hosting institutions

Training events in Albania
Lecturers short term expert

Publication of leaflets, guides,
translation of legal acts and quality
documentation
22
Support for Metrology Infrastructure in Albania
IPA 2008 project
23
Support for Metrology Infrastructure in Albania
IPA 2008 project
ANNEX II:
Implementation chart
Project: Support for the General Directorate of Metrology
2009
November December
T
T
2010
January
T
February
T
March
D
April
D
May
D
June
D
July
D
August
D
September
C
October
C
November December
I
I
February
I
March
I
April
I
May
I
June
I
July
I
August
I
September
I
October
I
November December
I
I
February
I
March
I
April
I
May
I
June
I
July
I
August
I
September
I
October
I
November December
X
X
2011
January
I
2012
January
I
2013
January
X
D = Design
T = Tendering
C = Contracting period
I = Implementation
X = Closure
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Support for Metrology Infrastructure in Albania
IPA 2008 project
ANNEX III
Contracting and disbursement schedule by quarter
Contracting and Disbursement Schedule by Quarter
2010
3Q
Contract
Twinning
Contracted
(Components
€
1, 2, etc )
1,000,000
2010
4Q
2011
1Q
2011
2Q
2011
3Q
2011
4Q
2012
1Q
2012
2Q
120,000
120,000
100,000
100,000
120,000
120,000
100,000
Disbursed
Contract
Twinning
(Components
1, 2, etc, )
Contracted
2012
3Q
2012
4Q
120,000
100,000
2013 2013 2013 2013
1Q
2Q
3Q
4Q
€ 1,000,000
Disbursed
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Support for Metrology Infrastructure in Albania
IPA 2008 project
Annex IV
Reference to relevant reports/documents
Reference to Assessment Report carried out under the Regional CARDS 2006
Project “Quality Infrastructure”:
To cope with highly demanding tasks to be performed by DPM as Albanian NMI in the
future (i.e. EURAMET full membership), change in the structure of DPM staff shall be
achieved as well. It is important to increase the qualifications and the number of staff that
are working on most demanding tasks, crucial for overall performance of DPM as a
national metrology institution. This relates most demanding calibrations, participation in
EURAMET inter-comparisons and in Quality system presentation, participation in other
international research and other projects and activities as well as implementation of
different international documents, starting with EU directives, WELMEC and OIML
guides, ISO and other international standards. Seminars for industry, test and
measurement laboratories, inspectors and other interested parties shall be organised as
well to increase the quality of measurements in the country. This do not necessary mean
to increase the overall number of DPM personnel.
Main development needs of Metrology in Albania, for the future are:
 Metrological equipment:
to upgrade measurement standards and other metrological equipment as needed to
support calibration and verification activities of measuring instruments in Albania and
successful implementation of EU directives;
 Trainings of personnel:
to prepare laboratories for accreditation;
 Measurement traceability:
to find solutions for self sustainable approach in assuring regular calibrations of Albanian
national/reference measurement standards,
 Participation in international comparisons and/or proficiency testing by achieving
good results;
 Transition from legal to industrial metrology (increase in industrial metrology
calibrations).
 Preparation of EU harmonised secondary legislation.
 Introducing new important areas (metrology in chemistry, etc);
 Developments in quality management system (scientific and industrial metrology,
legal metrology, metrological surveillance).
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Support for Metrology Infrastructure in Albania
IPA 2008 project
Annex V
List of relevant laws and Regulations
Laws:
Reference list of relevant laws and regulations:
 Law no.9875 date 14.02.2008 “ On metrology”
 Decision of Council of Ministers nr. 1160 date 13.08.2008 “On approval of
Regulation on national measurement standards
 Decision of Council of Ministers nr. 1162 date 13.08.2008 “On legal units of
measurements”.
 Decision of Council of Ministers no. 1161 date 13.08.2008 “Regulation on bottles as
measuring containers.
 Decision of Council of Ministers no. 1351, date 03.10.2008 «On technical and
metrological requirements of legally controlled measuring instruments”.
 Decision of Council of Ministers
 Decision of Council of Ministers no. 410, date 21.06.2006 “On technical
requirements and conformity assessment procedures of non-automatic weighting
instruments”, but not fully implemented
Reference to National Action Plan for the implementation of the SAA
More specifically, the legislative initiatives to be taken, in the medium term have
been listed by the Albanian authorities as:
 Revision of Law no. 9875 date 14.02.2008 “ On metrology”
 Revision of Decision of Council of Ministers no. 410, date 21.06.2006 “On
technical requirements and conformity assessment procedures of non-automatic
weighting instruments”, but not fully implemented
 Decision of Council of Ministers nr. 1160 date 13.08.2008 “On approval of
Regulation on national measurement standards
 To transpose the New Approach Directive 2004/22 EC (MID) into a decision of
Council of Ministers
Reference to MIPD
The MIPD 2007-2009 has among its stated objectives under European Standards - trade:
defines the need to support the establishment and capacity building of agencies and
institutions required for the implementation and enforcement of the sectoral policies,
including mechanisms for verification of EU compatibility of government policies and
draft laws.
Reference to National Development Plan
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Support for Metrology Infrastructure in Albania
IPA 2008 project
The National Strategy for Integration and Development (2007-2013), emphasizes that
Albanian Government will further work in fulfilling of the obligations deriving from SAA,
chapter of Internal Market, free movement of goods (metrology, standardization,
certification, and accreditation).
Reference to national / sectoral investment plans
Existing Metrology System in Albania is not completely compatible with international
and EU practices. However all the stakeholders realize this and there is a strong
commitment to transform the existing system to an EU and WTO acceptable one.
Since most of the experience comes from old classical legal metrology, almost all staff
needs coaching in industrial and scientific metrology. It may even take some time to go
from verification to calibration mentally. This is also mentioned in the CARDS Inception
Report
Most of the existing equipment is old, and in some case almost missed. A major upgrade
is necessary. There are some new equipment procured within CARDS 2003 Programme
and there will be some equipment to be purchased within the IPA Project. Many systems
are used both for metrology and verification. This is allowable, provided that traceability
is sustained according to metrological rules.
Traceability is established only in limited areas. Some laboratories use the traceability
obtained from the manufacturer, some get their equipment calibrated by other metrology
institutes, and rest have no traceability. The existing system is not up to the international
standards. Along with the investment and procurement programs, the training of the
technical staff has to be solved.
End of Twinning Fiche
____________________________________________________
28