The Tribune

By DENISE MAYCOCK

Tribune Freeport Reporter

dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

A MOBILE metrology lab - aiming to improve measurement standards - has been developed by the Bahamas Bureau of Standards and Quality (BBSQ). 

The lab was detailed by Devin Griffith, a marketing consultant at G&A Communications, who said the BBSQ team went to Grand Bahama, and held a metrology workshop to increase standards and strengthen quality infrastructure.

He said increased standards will bring value and allow Bahamians access to bigger markets such as the United States.

“We want to ensure they understand this initiative in terms of the value it can bring, increasing standards, and having a national quality of infrastructure where we use the system of metrology, which is the science of measurement, to ensure there is consistency in how we do business in the Bahamas,” he said.

The goal is to engage with stakeholders in Freeport both in government agencies and private commercial entities. During the workshop, participants were be educated on metrology and standards.

According to Griffith, BBSQ provides services such as calibration of scales, equipment, etc, in manufacturing. 

“This would be done in the country and would reduce cost, and ensure that there is consistency, enhance standards, enhance the verification process, and the management and control of compliance of standards,” he explained. 

“The BBSQ will take on that responsibility and make it more convenient for businesses to be able to access those services right here in The Bahamas.”

With this, he said businesses will increase standards of their products and services and be able to compete on the world stage and have access to bigger markets.

In the US, there are strict regulations and requirements for the importation of products.

BBSQ is based in Nassau and employs about 25 employees. He said one of the key facets of the programme is training and education.

Mr Griffith said a metrology consultant will remain in Grand Bahama for three weeks to engage with people. He said they also share information via the web, social media, and traditional media to educate the public.

“We want to get the message across about the programme and the value of it over the next few weeks and to keep people engaged,” he said.