Integrated accreditation and control of apparent losses: empirical evidence from the implementation of 17025–17020 standards in urban micro-metering (2011–2025)
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.71112/ren4q111Keywords:
ISO/IEC 17025–17020 accreditation, apparent losses, weighted meter error, metrological data governance, meter fleet managementAbstract
The reliability of water metering affects tariff fairness, financial sustainability, and the control of apparent losses. Although the literature has mainly focused on laboratories accredited under ISO/IEC 17025, the contribution of inspection bodies accredited under ISO/IEC 17020 remains underexplored. This study evaluates whether integrated ISO/IEC 17025–17020 accreditation is associated with measurable improvements in the metrological performance of the urban micro-metering fleet through a longitudinal case study at Aguas de Cartagena S.A. E.S.P. (2011–2025). Two indicators were analyzed: weighted average fleet error and the percentage of nonconforming meters detected and removed. Pearson and Spearman correlations were applied, complemented by semi-structured interviews with technical operations directors from Veolia and Acuacar. The results show a significant negative association between both variables (r = −0.589; p = 0.021; ρ = −0.836; p < 0.001). It is concluded that integrated accreditation strengthens decision traceability, reduces discretion, and contributes to the regulated control of apparent losses.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Dr. Javier Alfonso Mendoza Betin, Ferney Jose Arias Caseres, Brahayan Camilo Sierra García (Autor/a)
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