Measuring and control instruments | 2025 guide to buying and standards
Introduction
In construction and industry, accuracy in measuring and controlling physical parameters is a fundamental requirement for the quality, safety and regulatory compliance of the work. This guide is designed to support purchasing departments, technical managers and professional operators in choosing the instruments best suited to their operating needs, in line with current standards (UNI, ISO, CE, MID, etc.) and the technology available on the market.
1. Analogue distance measuring tools
Overview
Analogue distance measuring tools (measuring wheels, tape rules, tape measures) are simple but essential instruments for quick measurements on building sites and uneven surfaces.
Selection criteria
- Materials: steel, fibreglass or plastic (strength and light weight)
- Accuracy class: per the standard EN 13363
- Ergonomics: grips, automatic rewind, legibility
2. Levelling and marking-out instruments
Overview
Fundamental instruments for checking flatness, alignment and marking out during installation or construction.
Types
- Spirit levels and digital levels
- Line or laser markers
- Plumb bobs and optical levels
Reference standards
- UNI 10127 (Levelling)
- ISO 12858-1 (Optical instruments)
3. Laser measuring devices
Overview
Laser measuring devices allow fast, accurate readings over long distances, with the option of integrating the data via Bluetooth or USB.
Technical features
- Range (up to >100 m)
- Accuracy (±1 mm or better)
- Smart functions: data storage, calculation of areas and volumes
- IP ratings: resistance to dust and water
4. Moisture, pressure and atmospheric meters
Moisture
- Fields of use: construction, restoration, joinery
- Types: contact (probes), infrared
- Standards: UNI EN ISO 12570 (measurement of moisture in building materials)
Pressure and atmosphere
- Barometers, pressure gauges, anemometers and thermo-hygrometers
- Regulations: instruments compliant with MID (Measuring Instruments Directive) for industrial applications
5. Material hardness testers
Fields of use
-
Quality control of metals, plastics, coatings and concrete
Main technologies
- Shore (A/D) for plastics and rubber
- Leeb and Brinell/Vickers/Rockwell for metals
Reference standards
- ISO 6508, ISO 868, ASTM D2240
6. Dial indicators, dynamometers and scales
Dial indicators
Used for dimensional checks in precision engineering and metal construction.
Dynamometers
Measurement of tensile/compressive forces:
- Mechanical or digital
- Certified to EN ISO 7500-1
Industrial scales
- Variable capacity and accuracy
- Can be verified for legal-for-trade use (class I-II-III, per OIML R76)
7. Sound level meters and breathalysers
Sound level meters
Measurement of sound level for safety and environmental impact.
- Compliant with IEC 61672-1 (class 1 or 2)
- Can be integrated with continuous monitoring systems
Breathalysers
Portable or fixed instruments for alcohol testing, used in workplace safety.
Certified to EN 15964, EN 50436
8. Compasses and protractors
Use
Instruments for technical drawing, measuring and marking out angles on building sites and in workshops.
Features
- Digital protractors for quick, precise angle measurements
- Technical compasses in steel or aluminium for marking out on metal, wood or concrete
Conclusions and advice for the purchasing department
Deciding factors:
- Accuracy and reliability
- Regulatory compliance
- Resistance to environmental agents
- Compatibility with digital tools and management software
- Certifications and manufacturer's warranty
Practical tip:
Before buying, always check:
- Detailed technical data sheet
- CE, MID, ISO and EN certifications
- Availability of calibration and after-sales service
Contact us
Our technical team is available to support purchasing departments and technical operators in choosing the most suitable instruments, including with customised offers, operating leases and solutions for complex sites.
[Contact technical support] – [Request a quote]
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