Metal Detector Calibration

Metal detector calibration is the process of checking that your inspection system is detecting metal contaminants at the correct sensitivity levels set by the manufacturer. Over time, performance can drift due to wear, environmental factors or product changes. Regular calibration helps ensure product safety, audit compliance and protection of your brand.

Calibration frequency depends on your production risk assessment, retailer requirements and audit standards such as BRCGS. Many food manufacturers schedule formal calibration annually, alongside routine in-house performance checks. MWS can advise on a suitable schedule based on your operation.

Our service supports compliance with recognised food safety and GMP standards, including BRCGS and EFSIS requirements. We also work in line with manufacturer specifications to ensure the equipment operates within its designed parameters.

Traceable test sticks contain certified samples of ferrous, non-ferrous and stainless steel. They are used to verify that your metal detector can identify different types of contamination at specified sizes. Because the test pieces are traceable, you have documented evidence for audits and inspections.

During a visit, our engineer checks that the system is functioning correctly and tests it using certified test pieces. We confirm sensitivity levels, review reject mechanisms and ensure the detector is operating as intended. Once complete, we issue a calibration certificate for your records.

Calibration confirms that the equipment meets the manufacturer’s settings. Performance validation goes further by verifying that the system consistently detects agreed test pieces under real production conditions. This is often required by major retailers and forms part of ongoing compliance programmes.

In most cases, yes. Many major supermarkets require documented proof of metal detection performance as part of their supplier approval process. Certification also supports compliance with BRCGS and GMP standards, which are widely expected across the food industry.

Yes. We deliver on-site training tailored to your team and equipment. This can cover the principles of metal detection, common faults, retailer codes of practice, product set-up and routine performance testing. Well-trained operators are key to maintaining consistent standards between formal calibration visits.

We can arrange calibration and validation for a wide range of industrial metal detection systems used in food production and packaging environments. If you are unsure whether your system is covered, speak to our team and we will advise.

Simply contact our team with details of your site and equipment. We will agree a suitable schedule, arrange a visit at a convenient time and provide the certification you need for compliance and audit purposes.