Twinning Project Fiche

1. Basic Information

1.1. Programme: ENPI 20081.2. Twinning number: GE10/ENP-PCA/TR/051.3. Title: Strengthening of the metrology and standardisation infrastructure according to the best practice in the EU member states.1.4. Sector: Trade and Industry1.5 Beneficiary country: Georgia (Ministry of Economic Development of Georgia, National Agency for Standards, Technical Regulations and Metrology).

2. Objectives

2.1 Overall Objective

To implement internationally recognised best practices in the sector with the aim of preparation for wider international agreements concerning free movement of goods. 2.2 Project Purpose

To upgrade metrology and standardisation sectors through (1) transposition of the relevant EU legislation, (2) implementation of quality management systems, (3) achieving international recognition of calibration and measurement capabilities, (4) increasing awareness among economic operators in the course of preparation for Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement.

2.3 Contribution to the Partnership and Cooperation Agreement and ENP Action Plan:

Article 51 of the EU-Georgia Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (PCA) adopted in April 1996 and entered into force in July 1999 promotes cooperation between the contracting parties in the field of standards and conformity assessment. ‘This cooperation shall promote alignment with internationally agreed criteria, principle and guidelines followed in the field of quality. The required actions will facilitate progress towards mutual recognition in the field of conformity assessment, as well as the improvement of the quality of Georgian products. To this end the parties shall seek to cooperate in technical assistance projects which will promote appropriate cooperation with organisations and institutions specialised in these fields (i), promote the use of Community technical regulations and the application of European standards conformity assessment procedures (ii), permit the sharing of experience and technical information in the field of quality management (iii). Georgia undertakes to implement European standards in practice.’ In the framework of the European Neighbourhood Plan, an Action Plan has been adopted for Georgia in November 2006. The Twinning Project will be particularly relevant for Chapter 4.5

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of the Action Plan “Trade- related issues, market and regulatory reform” and its section on “Standards, technical regulation and conformity assessment procedures”.

This Twinning project should contribute favourably to the above Action Plan priority actions and objectives through concrete and measurable results. The project aims at building upon previous technical assistance activities. Through the support of a well-established Member State Institution, National Agency for Standards, Technical Regulations and Metrology (GEOSTM) will, inter alia, be able: 1. perform as a modern and effective institution in metrology, standardisation and technical regulations field; 2. participate in international work of international and regional metrology and standardisation organisations; 3. provide for necessary platform in setting up institutional capacities in conformity assessment field; and 4. improve business environment.

3. Description

3.1 Background and justification:

AP – Action PlanBC – Beneficiary countryCEN - the European Committee for StandardizationCIPM MRA - the Arrangement on Mutual recognition of national measurement standards and of calibration and measurement certificates issued by national metrology institutes of the International Committee of weights and measuresCOOMET - Euro-Asian Co-operation of governmental metrology institutionsDCFTA- Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade AgreementENP - European Neighbourhood PolicyGC – gas chromatographGCPM - General Conference on Weights and MeasuresGEOSTM - National Agency for Standards, Technical Regulations and MetrologyHPLC – high pressure liquid chromatographISO – International Organisation for StandardisationPCA –Partnership and Co-operation agreementPL – Project LeaderRTA – Residential Twinning AdviserSTE – short term expertTBT – Technical Barriers to Trade WTO – World Trade Organisation

Area of Technical Barriers to Trade (TBTs) has been considered as one of the key priorities in the preparatory process for future negotiations of DCFTA between the EU and Georgia. To the overall EC assessment, Georgia has so far made some progress in the implementation of the PCA and ENP AP objectives of establishment of a legislative and institutional framework in the TBTs areas compatible with the EU and international standards.

To be ready for the DCFTA negotiations, Georgia is requested to accelerate legislative harmonisation and improvement of the quality infrastructure. Specifically, the actions are to concentrate to (1) achieve progress in the establishment of a domestic institutional system in the area of technical regulation, standardisation, accreditation, metrology, conformity

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assessment and market surveillance; and (2) adopt and start implementing a government programme of adoption of technical regulations in line with the EU acquis in the priority industrial sectors.By the end of 2005 essential and substantive amendments were made in relevant laws regulating the systems of technical regulation for transition period considering further revision thereof in line with international practice. The legislative reform introduced a number of innovations in line with international practice: transition from mandatory standardization system to voluntary one; introduction of a concept of technical regulations, i.e. all Georgian standards became voluntary.

On international scale, GEOSTM is member of International standardisation organisation (ISO), an affiliated member of the European Committee for Standardization (CEN), GEOSTM is an associated member of the GCPM (General Conference on Weights and Measures) since 2008, GEOSTM signed the Arrangement on Mutual recognition of national measurement standards and of calibration and measurement certificates issued by national metrology institutes of the International Committee of weights and measures (CIPM MRA), GEOSTM is a member of Euro-Asian Co-operation of governmental metrology institutions (COOMET), Georgia has signed a code of good practice for the preparation, adoption and application of standards (annex 3 of WTO TBT).

Up to present, the GEOSTM was one of the beneficiaries supported by the EU Technical Assistance 2007 with project Technical assistance 2007 Georgia Metrology”, which aimed mostly at setting up the very basic infrastructure in the fields concerned with limited supply of equipment in chemistry field (e.g. HPLC, GC). More information is stated in 3.2 of the fiche.

During the drafting of this project fiche the key recommendations given in the reports of the EU Technical assistance project, German-Georgian bilateral projects and others were taken into account:

1. Developing of the necessary legislation 2. Improving traceability of measurements 3. Improving quality management systems 4. Preparation for setting up infrastructure for conformity assessment in priority areas

In the field of standardisation, recommendations on strategic direction for the development of standardization including recommendations for review of underpinning regulations, key industrial sectors and capacity development have been prepared and delivered to the Ministry of Economic Development. GEOSTM employees in the standardisation field were trained on WTO TBT issues, international standardisation issues with a stress on copyrights, and a draft Law on Standardisation was developed and submitted to the Government of Georgia in 2009. With the support given through EU Technical assistance project, Lithuanian technical assistance and bilateral Georgia-German co-operation project and in view of experts’ opinion, there are challenges on the level of basic requirements for a standardisation and metrological infrastructure ending up in international recognition of the metrology and standardisation infrastructure. As a means, training of Georgian experts in Member state’s institutions should be seen as an important step into European work methods. Increasing number of businesses interested in and implementing quality management systems to ISO 9001, requests for further

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development of metrology and standardization fields due the need for application of international standards. To cope with highly demanding tasks to be performed by GEOSTM as Georgian National Metrology Institute (i.e. recognition of its calibrations and measurement capabilities), an involvement of its staff in the project activities shall be made to the widest possible extent. This relates to the calibrations and measurements, participation in international and bilateral inter-comparisons and in presentation of its quality management system, participation in other international research and other projects and activities as well as. Seminars for industry, calibration and test, public institutions interested in market surveillance issues and other interested parties are seen to contribute to increasing the quality of measurements in the country. Nevertheless, this does not necessary mean to increase the overall number of GEOSTM personnel, but is mostly aimed at ensuring sustainability of the results of the project.

3.2 Linked activities

In the recent years, a number of projects financed by different donors have been contributing for development and strengthening of the Georgian quality infrastructure institutions (standardisation, metrology, and accreditation). Below is a summary of the main interventions.

EU TACIS project “Support to Implementation art. 51 (Quality Management System) of PCA” (ongoing till June 2010) covers three main elements of quality infrastructure - standardization, metrology, accreditation. Within the framework of the project seminars, trainings and study-visits in EU member countries are carrying out in order to get experience on advance practices and methods. In the framework of the project reference laboratory in the field of chemical measurements will be created which will provide services in conformance with requirements of international and European standards in two priority fields – agriculture (inter alia reference materials for food sector) and oil-gas sector.

Bilateral Georgia-German cooperation project “Promotion of Quality Infrastructure in Georgia with special regard to legal Metrology” (ongoing, planned for 2007-2013; 2 phases, of 3 years each). The aim of the project is to develop demand oriented quality infrastructure according to the priorities of the country and requirements of business sectors. Within the framework of this project Mass Reference Laboratory in conformance with the existing international requirements will be established, equipped and international recognition thereof will be ensured. The services provided by this laboratory will cover the existing needs of the country in this field.

EU funded project “Georgian-European Policy and Legal Advice Center – GEPLAC” (ongoing until May 2010; further phase is expected for additional 21 months from May 2010) assisted the Georgian National Agency for Standards, Technical Regulations and Metrology to harmonize the Law on Standardization with WTO TBT and EU legislation and drafting of secondary legislation. This assistance took place in 2006. Currently the GEPLAC Project delivers training sessions on technical regulations.

Strengthening of technical base of WTO TBT enquiry point of GEOSTM (completed in 2008); The activity has been carried out in the framework of Lithuanian technical assistance project in order to increase effectiveness and improve information services provided thereof, as well as trainings of personnel has been performed to meet increased requirements of clients.

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It should be highlighted that the Twinning Project must as well be fully coordinated with the European Commission's activities, notably with regard to the preparation for a Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement and other donors’ initiatives.

3.3 Results:

Five mandatory results have been identified for the twinning project, which are grouped in two main headings as follows:

Results relating to the legal approximation conforming with the model employed in the organisation of the EU’s internal market: 1. Two New and Old Approach EU directives in legal metrology field transposed,

Results relating to the infrastructure capacity building implementation and improving quality management system: 2. Internationally recognised quality management system for GEOSTM in place;

3. Relevant conformity assessment infrastructure for measuring instruments directive in place;

4. Good knowledge by conformity assessment operators about the roles and obligations under New Approach principles achieved; knowledge on CE marking and other relevant markings disseminated.

5. In standardization field a fully operational WTO TBT enquiry point available and relevant harmonized standards and documents identified, translated and adopted;

3.4. Activities

The Twinning will allow for the development of a close relationship with a Metrology, Standardisation and Conformity Assessment body of an EU Member state1. The listed activities and the proposed means for achieving the activities are indicative and can be revised in the framework of the preparation of the contract between the twinned institutions.

A.0 General Activities

A.0.1 Kick-off Workshop

MethodThe first month of the project will be used to allow the installation of the Resident Twinning Adviser (RTA) in Georgia. The RTA will have to be installed in his/her office at the GEOSTM. S/he will be introduced to the BC stakeholders of the project and to his counterparts and staff. He will also hire an Assistant (RTA Assistant) through an appropriate selection procedure.A one-day kick-off meeting will be organised in the first month aiming at launching and presenting the project to the stakeholders, the media and the public at large. In order to guarantee large public information about the start of the project, the meeting will be concluded with a press conference and a press release.Benchmarks: Stakeholders, media and public informed about the start and content of

the project by start of month 2

1 Several MS, in case of a consortium

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Resources: RTA, PL, translation, rent of premises.

A.0.2 Final Closing Conference

Method During the last two months of the project, a closing conference will be organised at which the results of the project will be presented. The state of play in the areas of the project’s interventions will be discussed with the beneficiary, the Georgian Government, the civil society and other donors. The conference will be concluded with some recommendations for possible follow-up and lessons learnt for similar projects.Benchmarks: Closing Conference organised,

Recommendations and Lessons learnt formulated and discussedStakeholders, media and public informed about the results of the project at its end.

Resources: RTA, PL, translation, rent of premises

Legal Approximation activities

The following activities group is linked to the achievement of the result 1 ‘Two New and Old Approach EU directives in legal metrology field transposed’:

1.1. Seminar on the Principles of Technical Regulation.MethodEU experts will develop necessary material and carry out seminar on how EU directives are being transposed in several EU member states.Benchmarks: Seminar carried out, material distributed.Resources: RTA, STEs, translations, rent of premises

1.2 An information conference/seminar on the principles of the European quality infrastructure. MethodEU experts will develop necessary material and carry out seminar with political backing for high ranking civil servants from relevant Ministries and legislative organisations in Georgia, other regulatory institutions and enforcement executives (e.g. Customs) and representatives of industry and sectors (Chambers of Commerce, Associations, etc…).Benchmarks: Seminar carried out, material distributed.Resources: RTA, STEs, translations, rent of premises

1.3. Two similar conferences/seminars for practitioners in the GEOSTM departments and units, calibration and testing laboratories, certification and inspection bodies.

MethodFollowing activity 1.2, EU experts will develop necessary material and carry out seminar. The points to be explained are relating to the European market regulation model (Standardisation Directive, New Approach, Old Approach, Global Approach, Notifications system) and WTO system for technical harmonisation.Benchmarks: Seminar carried out, material distributed.Resources: STEs, local intercity travels, printing costs for material, interpretation, rent of

premises

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1.4. Review and drafting of relevant laws. MethodEU experts will revise the existing laws in force in metrology, conformity assessment and standardisation field and deliver written recommendations on improving them. After discussion with the beneficiary, the other experts will submit new drafts of laws to the BC authorities. Benchmarks: Final draft laws accepted by the Beneficiary.Resources: STE, translation, printing costs for material.

1.5. Drafting of technical regulations transposing 2004/22/EC measuring instruments directive and directives 71/317/EEC and 74/148/EEC (Medium and Above-Medium Accuracy Weights) and submitting drafts to the GEOSTM.MethodEU experts will revise the existing relevant technical regulations in force they will submit drafts technical regulations to the BC authorities. After review and discussion, an EU expert or experts will finalise the draft technical regulations.Benchmarks: Draft technical regulations accepted by the Beneficiary.Resources: STE, translation, printing costs for material.

1.6. Study visits to at least 2 member state administrations for Georgian specialists.MethodDuring the technical regulation drafting period the six specialists in charge of this task in the GEOSTM will be given an opportunity of a study visit in a similar institution of the EU. They will use this period to discuss the draft laws and technical regulations and discuss enforcement issues, organisation and management of conformity assessment, market surveillance, accreditation, testing fields. As a part of mission, due attention and exchange of information shall take on experience in preparation of legal metrology experts.Benchmarks: Study visit report (to be submitted in two weeks after the visit).Resources: 6 flight tickets for experts, 60 per diems

Infrastructure capacity building activities

The following activities group is linked to the achievement of the result 2 ‘National systems for metrology and standardization aligned with internationally recognised best practices through implementation of international standards in quality management’:

2.1 Training on ISO 17025 relevant issues.MethodEU experts will discuss the existing needs with the beneficiary, develop necessary training material on relevant issues, such as uncertainty of measurements for calibration and testing laboratories with practical examples in at least three fields (metrology in chemistry being one) and carry out training. GEOSTM and selected private calibration laboratories staff will participate in the training event.Benchmarks: Training carried out, certificates issued.Resources: STEs, translation, rent of premises, costs of printing material

2.2. Training of lead assessors and technical assessors,

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MethodEU experts will discuss the existing needs with the beneficiary, selection procedure of the experts to be trained, develop necessary training material on relevant issues with practical examples and carry out training. GEOSTM and selected private calibration laboratories’ staff will participate in the training event.Benchmarks: Training carried out, certificates issued.Resources: STEs, translation, rent of premises, costs of printing material

2.3. Training on ISO 9001.MethodEU experts will discuss the existing needs with the beneficiary, develop necessary training material on relevant issues with practical examples and carry out training for staff of GEOSTM and for Ministry of Economic Development.Benchmarks: Training carried out, certificates issued.Resources: STEs, translations, rent of premises, costs of printing material

2.4. Training of GEOSTM auditors MethodEU experts will discuss the existing needs with the beneficiary, develop necessary training material on relevant issues with practical examples and carry out training for selected staff of GEOSTM.Benchmarks: Training carried out, certificates issued.Resources: RTA, STE, translation, rent of premises, costs of printing material

2.5. A seminar on setting mission, policy, quality manual, other quality management system documents with practical examplesMethodEU experts will assess the existing situation in the GEOSTM with regard to the state of art of the quality management system, discuss the existing needs with the beneficiary, develop necessary training material on the basis of the SWOT analysis, provide with practical examples and carry out training for selected staff of GEOSTM. Benchmarks: SWOT analysis performed, seminar carried out, certificates issued.Resources: RTA, STE, translation, rent of premises, costs of printing material

2.6. Identification of priority laboratories within the GEOSTM for implementation of quality systems.MethodEU experts will assess, discuss and make written recommendations on the implementation of ISO 17025 and ISO 9001 in selected priority laboratories. These written recommendations shall be summarised in the report and discussed with the beneficiary. Task groups will be made.Benchmarks: Recommendations and task groups.Resources: RTA, STE

2.7. Advice on interlaboratory comparisons. Method EU experts will assess the existing situation in the GEOSTM, discuss the existing needs with the beneficiary, Centre of Accreditation, develop necessary training material based on international standards and provide relevant background through a means of a seminar on organisation of

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interlaboratory comparisons of measuring instruments or standards in priority areas. The priority areas shall be described in the recommendations and submitted in written form. Discussion should be held for the finalisation of the list. Benchmarks: Recommendations and training.Resources: STE, translation, rent of premises, costs of printing material 2.8. Development of all necessary quality management documents. MethodIn order to establish the quality management system in the GEOSTM, EU experts will assess the existing situation in the GEOSTM and its laboratories, discuss the existing situation with the beneficiary, develop the first draft of the relevant quality management documents. After the discussion and input of the task groups of the beneficiary, the final draft documents will be submitted for the acceptance. The documents shall be provided in both English and Georgian. At least three visits of the 2 experts will be necessary for the implementation of the activity. Benchmarks: Draft documents and recommendations.Resources: RTA, STEs, translation,

2.9. Internships in the national metrology institute operating QMS to ISO 17025 and/or NMI certified to ISO 9001 for GEOSTM staffMethodDuring the development of the quality management system documentation, four specialists of the GEOSTM will be given an opportunity of 28 days internship each in similar institutions of the EU. In addition, the institution should be a notified body to relevant conformity assessment procedures according to the MID directive. They will draft a report in which they will underline the benefit of the new practices introduced and, if relevant, propose amendments to the draft documents of the quality management systems.Benchmarks: Internship report (within two weeks after return).Resources: 4 international flights, 112 per diems (4 persons 28 days each)

2.10 Performing of preliminary peer-assessment and discussion of findings, MethodEU experts will carry out the preliminary peer-assessment in the GEOSTM following the best practice adopted in the regional metrology organisation. The recommendations and findings shall be summarised in the report and advice given for improvement if necessary. Benchmarks: Recommendations.Resources: RTA, STE, translation, costs of printing material

2.11. Study visits to the meetings of metrology, technical and management committees, participation in international conferences and workshops for GEOSTM personnel.MethodGeorgian specialists will have an opportunity to participate in the meetings of regional metrology organisations, their technical committees, other training events related to quality management systems, calibration and measurement capabilities, developments in measuring techniques and technologies. Benchmarks: Study visit reports.Resources: 14 flight tickets, 80 per diems

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2.12. Performing peer-assessment according to the rules of the relevant regional metrology organisationMethodOther EU experts than in the activity 2.10 will carry out the peer-assessment in the GEOSTM following the best practice adopted in the relevant regional metrology organisation. The recommendations and findings shall be summarised in the report on the implementation of the quality management system in the GEOSTM. Benchmarks: Report and recommendations.Resources: STE, translation

2.13. Advice on procurement of measuring equipment. MethodEU expert will carry out SWOT analysis, discuss the needs for the equipment and deliver draft technical specifications according to the rules applicable in particular case. Priority list will be made jointly with the beneficiary. Procurement schedule and price estimate should be a part of the list. Benchmarks: Recommendations.Resources: STE, translation, costs of printing material

2.14. Organisation of a bilateral interlaboratory comparison.MethodThe aim of the intercomparison is to support CMCs to be submitted through COOMET organisation. EU experts will agree on a kind of interlaboratory comparison with the beneficiary, prepare necessary documentation for registration of it within the regional metrology organisation, act as a pilot laboratory, and produce and submit the intermediate and final reports for approval. The equipment for intercomparison should be easily transportable by plane. If necessary, the equipment at a cost not exceeding 5000 EUR should be procured following suitable procedures.Benchmarks: Final interlaboratory comparison report.Resources: RTA, STE, translation, costs of printing material, measurement standards up to

5000 EUR.

2.15. Development of strategy and business plan for GEOSTM. MethodEU experts will carry out SWOT analysis, market analysis, human and technical capability analysis, political environment analysis for development of recommendations on optimisation of GEOSTM activities in metrology and standardisation field and deliver the findings in the form of business plan and in interactive way. Furthermore, inception and final workshops for the Ministry of Economic Development and GEOSTM as well as the other stakeholders should be organised adding some managerial capacity. Business plan should be discussed and agreed upon by the BeneficiaryBenchmarks: Business plan drafted and introduced to the beneficiary.Resources: STE, translation, costs of printing material

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The following activities group is linked to the achievement of the result 3 ‘Measuring instruments directive relevant conformity assessment infrastructure matching the EU internal market regulation requirements developed’:

3.1. Advice on conformity assessment of utility meters. MethodEU experts will develop a training programme, draft inspection, calibration and testing procedures based on relevant tests and calibrations based on harmonised standards, other international documents and WELMEC documents in the field of utility meters in the scope of MID directive and deliver theoretical and practical training including demonstration of practical tests on installations with a view of GEOSTM as a future notified body. Recommendations on suitable conformity assessment module to be implemented in GEOSTM should be delivered in written form.Benchmarks: Recommendations, training performed, certificates issued.Resources: STEs, translation, costs of printing material

3.2. Advice on conformity assessment of automatic weighing instrumentsMethodEU experts will develop a training programme, draft inspection, calibration and testing procedures based on relevant tests and calibrations based on harmonised standards, other international documents and WELMEC documents in the field of automatic weighing instruments in the scope of MID and deliver theoretical and practical training including demonstration of practical tests on installations with a view of GEOSTM as a future notified body. Recommendations on suitable conformity assessment module to be implemented in GEOSTM should be delivered in written form.Benchmarks: Recommendations, training performed, certificates issued.Resources: STE, translation, costs of printing material

3.3. Advice on conformity assessment of measuring systems for liquids other than water MethodEU experts will develop a training programme, draft inspection, calibration and testing procedures based on relevant tests and calibrations based on harmonised standards, other international documents and WELMEC documents in the field of a measuring systems for liquids other than water in the scope of MID and deliver theoretical and practical training including demonstration of practical tests on installations with a view of GEOSTM as a future notified body. Recommendations on suitable conformity assessment module to be implemented in GEOSTM should be delivered in written form.Benchmarks: Recommendations, training performed, certificates issued.Resources: STE, translation, costs of printing material

3.4. Advice on conformity assessment of gas exhaust analysers, dimensional instruments, capacity and length measures MethodEU experts will develop a training programme, draft inspection, calibration and testing procedures based on relevant tests and calibrations based on harmonised standards, other

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international documents and WELMEC documents in the field of gas exhaust analysers, dimensional instruments, capacity and length measures in the scope of MID and deliver theoretical and practical training including demonstration of practical tests on installations with a view of GEOSTM as a future notified body. Recommendations on suitable conformity assessment module to be implemented in GEOSTM should be delivered in written form.Benchmarks: Recommendations, training performed, certificates issued.Resources: STE, translation, costs of printing material

3.5. Support in interlaboratory comparison of a measuring instrument. MethodEU experts will agree on a kind of interlaboratory comparison related to conformity assessment with the beneficiary, prepare necessary documentation for it, assist GEOSTM as a pilot laboratory, and produce and submit the draft report. Practical organisation of an interlaboratory comparison of a priority measuring instrument for (ready-to-be) accredited laboratories in the country and evaluation of results in a one day conference

Benchmarks: Recommendations and report on interlaboratory comparison.Resources: RTA, STE, translation, costs of printing material, rent of premises

3.6. Advice on quality standards used in conformity assessment.MethodEU experts will develop a training programme in agreement with the beneficiary, draft training material on ISO 17020, carry out training for GEOSTM and relevant private sector laboratories. Benchmarks: Recommendations, training performed, certificates issued.Resources: STE, translation, costs of printing material, rent of premises

3.7. Study visit on conformity assessment and market surveillance issues.Method3 Georgian experts will have an opportunity to discuss conformity assessment and market surveillance related issues during the study visit to at least two EU member state administrations, including customs authorities. Benchmarks: Study visit reports.Resources: 6 return flights, 36 per diems, Georgian experts, hosting institutions.

The following activities group is linked to the achievement of the result 4 ‘Good knowledge by conformity assessment operators about the roles and obligations under New Approach principles achieved; knowledge on CE marking and other relevant markings disseminated’:

4.1. Conference on New Approach MethodEU experts will develop necessary material and carry out conference about the roles and obligations of notified bodies, manufacturers, importers, especially under New Approach principles, role of the CE marking and other relevant markings, their relation to the technical regulations. The conference is aimed at economic operators, consumer protection organisations, other interested parties.Benchmarks: Conference carried out, material distributed.

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Resources: STE, translation, costs of printing material, rent of premises

4.2. Preparation of information material. MethodEU experts will discuss with the GEOSTM on the kinds of information (relevant conformity assessment modules, market surveillance in the EU member states, RAPEX database etc.) and target groups, develop draft material and submit it for discussion with the beneficiary. Leaflets, brochures, will be printed and disseminated.Benchmarks: Information material produced.Resources: STEs, translation, costs of printing material

4.3. Training of future trainers MethodEU experts will develop necessary material and carry out training about the Old, New Approach directives, roles and obligations of notified bodies, manufacturers, importers, CE marking and other relevant markings, their relation to the technical regulations, conformity assessment modules. The training is aimed at preparation of the future trainers/experts from GEOSTM and private laboratories staff.Benchmarks: Seminar carried out, certificates issued.Resources: STE, translation, costs of printing material, rent of premises

4.4. Organising awareness seminars on “Conformity assessment and market surveillance of goods” MethodEU experts together with the future experts (activity 4.3.) will develop necessary material and carry out seminar open for all relevant parties e.g. responsible authorities, custom service, industry and consumer representatives etc. The seminar shall explain the essential requirements principles, the risk assessment principles, RAPEX, and legal and enforcement issues of market surveillance, the EC notification procedure and EU administrative cooperation committees (AdCo). Benchmarks: Seminar carried out, certificates issued.Resources: STE, translation, costs of printing material, rent of premises

The following activities group is linked to the achievement of the result 5 ‘In standardization field a fully operational WTO TBT enquiry point and relevant harmonized standards and documents identified, translated and adopted’:

5.1. Training of WTO TBT Enquiry point staff, MethodEU experts will carry out needs assessment, provide recommendations, develop necessary material, and carry out relevant training for the WTO TBT Enquire point staff.Benchmarks: Seminar carried out, certificates issued.Resources: STEs, translation, costs of printing material

5.2. Advice on priorities in the programme on the adoption of the EU standards

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MethodEU experts will carry out needs assessment with regard to the national programme on the adoption of the harmonised and other standards or OIML documents relevant to transposition of the New Approach directives in Georgia, assess needs of the conformity assessment bodies, exporters, manufacturers, market surveillance authorities and provide recommendations on improvement of the list.Benchmarks: Recommendations.Resources: RTA, STE

5.3. Advice on priority harmonised standardsMethodFollowing previous activity, EU experts will carry out pre-selection of relevant standards to be translated in the most urgent way. Furthermore, they will carry out assessment as to which the priority standards may need to be translated in the course of the project subject to the need of the beneficiary. The experts will provide recommendations on the priority list taking into account translation capacities available in Georgia.Benchmarks: Recommendations.Resources: STE, translation

5.4. Support in development of technical specifications for technical assistance part on provision of software based product for archiving documents and technical regulationsMethodEU expert will carry out needs assessment, provide recommendations, develop draft Terms of Reference including technical specifications, discuss EU procurement rules with the beneficiary and the EU Delegation, provide recommendations, finalise procurement documents. The amount of 10 000 EUR shall be budgeted in the Twinning budget as a private sector input (subcontract for software design, installation and training of specialists including 12 months next day on site support) and the above product shall be procured in the accordance to the procedures stated in the Practical guide (PRAG).Benchmarks: Recommendations, Terms of reference including technical specifications,

contracting by MSResources: STE, translation, costs of printing material, service contract max. 10 000 EUR

5.5. Internships, study visits and participation in work of technical and management committees of relevant standardisation bodies and organisationsMethodDuring the implementation of the project activities, specialists of the GEOSTM will be given an opportunity of internships and study visits to a similar institution of the EU, meetings of international committees or bodies on standardisation, etc. They will draft a report in which they will underline the benefit of the new practices introduced and, if relevant, propose amendments to the draft documents of the quality management systems.Benchmarks: Internship report (within two weeks after return).Resources: 9 flights, 100 per diems

5.6. Seminar on EU approach to adoption of technical regulations and awareness raising of WTO TBT enquiry point services MethodEU experts will carry out needs assessment, discuss the findings with the beneficiary, develop necessary material and carry out training EU approach to adoption of technical regulations and awareness

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raising of WTO TBT enquiry point services together with representatives of the GEOSTM . The training is aimed at public institutions of Georgia in charge of preparation technical regulations.Benchmarks: Seminar carried out, certificates issued.Resources: STEs, translation, costs of printing material

5.7. Information material on standardisation, technical regulations, technical barriers to trade. MethodEU experts will discuss with the GEOSTM and target groups on the kinds of information on standardisation, technical regulations, technical barriers to trade, work of international and national standardisation bodies, develop draft material and submit it for discussion with the beneficiary. Leaflets, brochures, will be printed and disseminated.Benchmarks: Information material on standardisation, technical regulations, technical

barriers to trade, work of international and national standardisation bodies produced.

Resources: RTA, STEs, translation, costs of printing material

5.8. Assessment of activities in the field of standardisation, in comparison with the EU requirements. MethodEU experts will make SWOT analysis, discuss findings with the GEOSTM. They will make analysis of the organisational structure, responsibilities and relationships within the stakeholders. EU experts develop an action plan with a view to clarify a need for an additional Twinning project in standardisation field and submit it for discussion with the beneficiary along with a draft project fiche. Benchmarks: Recommendations, draft fiche.Resources: STEs, translation, costs of printing material 3.5 Means/Input from the MS Partner Administration

3.5.1 Profile and tasks of the Project Leader (PL)

The PL will be expected to devote a minimum of 3 days per month to the project in his home administration. In addition, he will coordinate, from the Member state side, the Project steering Committee (PSC), which will meet in Georgia every three months.

Profile:

at least 10 years experience either in the field of metrology, standardisation or conformity assessment with good understanding of other subjects and, during that period, he/she must be in an active senior management position in the Member State institution for at least 3 years;

Have experience in the field of project management, institutional issues and organisation of national quality infrastructures to the European requirements;

excellent command of English

Tasks: Overall coordination, guidance and monitoring of the project;

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Preparation of project progress reports with support of RTA; Timely achievement of the project results; Co-Chairing of project steering committees; Provision of legal and technical advice and analysis whenever needed.

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 and provide support in elaboration, implementation, auditing and peer-evaluation of QMS of GEOSTM

The RTA is expected to fill the following profile:

Minimum 7 years of experience in the field of metrology, standardisation or conformity assessment;

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, standardisation and conformity assessment legislation, work methods and procedures;

Previous experience in project management would be an asset; Experience in working on similar projects in transition countries would be a must; Good training, public speaking, diplomatic and written communication skills; Excellent computer literacy (Word, Excel, Power Point); Excellent command of spoken and written English; Fluency in Georgian or Russian would be an asset; Experience in implementation of QMS according ISO/IEC 17025 would be a must; Experience in implementation of QMS according ISO/IEC 9001 would be an asset.

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; Provide technical input to the project whenever needed and provision of advise in his

field of expertise; Liaise with MS and BC Project Leaders and daily contacts with BC RTA counterpart; Co-preparation of project progress reports with Project Leader; Liaison with EU Project Manager; Liaison with other relevant projects and Georgian institutions.

3.5.3 Profile and tasks of the medium/ short-term experts

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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.

The exact number of STEs per activity should be agreed during the contract negotiation process.

Profile of short-term expertise

There should be a pool of short term experts to ensure smooth implementation of the project during the overall implementation period. STEs should be identified by the Project Leader/RTA and have to be agreed with the Beneficiary administration in the course of designing and delivery of the project. The STE's shall have:

a university degree in a relevant subject; a minimum of five years experience in their respective field; an excellent command of written and spoken English; Georgian and/or Russian language knowledge would be an asset; experience in Phare/ENP-East countries or in other international projects relating to quality infrastructure development/management would be an advantage.

In order to achieve the result No 1, STEs involved shall have experience in drafting legislation, performing impact assessment, have good writing and presentation skills and be familiar with various

approaches in implementation of the EU legislation.

In order to achieve the result No 2, STEs shall have training and facilitation skills specific knowledge and experience in setting up and operating quality

management systems to ISO 17025, ISO 9001 and ISO 17020, where applicable,

experience in coaching/mentoring, experience of external/internal/technical assessors.

In order to achieve the result No 3, STEs shall be good communicators and motivators and should have specific knowledge and experience in conformity assessment of

measuring instruments, experience of piloting or running interlaboratory comparisons,

In order to achieve the result No 4, STEs should have training and facilitation skills specific knowledge and experience in New Approach and Old Approach related

issues, especially with regard to the interest of economic operators.

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good writing, training and presentation skills, experience in coaching/mentoring.

In order to achieve the result No 5, STEs should be good communicators and should have experience in standardisation field with

relevance to full operation of WTO TBT enquiry point Experience in preparation of technical specifications for the technical assistance

component in relation to the software based product for collecting, archiving and exchange of information on technical regulations is necessary at least for one of the STEs.

In addition to their missions in Georgia, the short-term experts are expected to contribute actively to elaborating the programmes of the foreseen study visits and internships.

4. Institutional Framework

In terms of the institutional set-up, the former monopolistic system of “Geostand”, which incorporated all administrative bodies of the technical regulation sphere, was abolished. As a result, Georgian National Agency for Standards, Technical Regulations and Metrology (GEOSTM) under the Ministry of Economic Development of Georgia was established.

It comprises of two structural units: (1) Institute of Metrology: the unit is in charge of development and maintenance of state

measurements standards and reference materials, maintenance of the register of types of legal measuring instruments, verification and approval of the measuring instruments; calibration – calibration of the measuring instruments except legal measuring instruments from any field of economy submitted by any interested entities, entrepreneurs; as of July 2009, the institute employees 50 persons;

(2) Department for Standards and Technical Regulations: the unite is in charge development, adoption and registration of standards and maintenance of the registry of standards and technical regulations, keep the registry of standards, ensure registration of national, international and regional as well as industrial standards submitted by any interested entity; consultative services – providing consultative services to all interested entities in the respect of the international standards, technical regulations and other normative documents in the field of technical regulation; WTO TBT enquiry point – providing information on the technical regulations of WTO member states, notifying WTO in the respect of technical regulations, standards, conformity assessment procedures in force in the field of technical regulation of Georgia; informational ensuring – providing informational services to all interested entities; ensure distribution of national, international and regional standards from INFORMATION FUND of the Agency in accordance with the legislation. Currently the Department employees 12 persons;

Main objectives of GEOSTM are participation in elaboration and implementation of the state policy on metrology and standardisation, ranging from national measurement standards to traceability of measurements to adoption and registration of standards and technical regulations.

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Furthermore, the other stakeholders as the Ministries, public agencies and private or semi-private organisations such as testing and calibration laboratories will be involved in the execution of the project activities. Universities should also be invited to take part in certain meetings and trainings.

5. Budget

The beneficiary will provide in kind contribution in the form foreseen in the twinning manual.

The maximum total budget available of the action is € 1.4 million.

6. Implementation Arrangements

6.1. Implementing Agency

The European Union Delegation in Tbilisi will be responsible for tendering, contracting, payments and financial reporting, and will work in close cooperation with the beneficiary. The person in charge of this project is:Ms Nino KochishviliProject Manager Delegation of the European Union to Georgia38 Nino Chkheidze str., 0102 Tbilisi, Georgia. Tel: + 995 32 943 763 Fax: +995 32 943 768 e-mail: nino.kochishvili@ec.europa.eu

PAO will support the TWG Project implementation process together with the EU Delegation. The person in charge of this project is: Mr Roman KakuliaDirectorEC Project: “Support to the Strengthening of the Twinning, TAIEX and SIGMA Program Administration Office (PAO) in Georgia”

Office Address:Project Administration Office (PAO) in GeorgiaOffice of the State Minister of Georgia on European and Euro-Atlantic Integration#7, Ingorokva Street, Tbilisi 0134, GeorgiaOffice tel./fax: (995 32) 99 89 14

6.2 Main counterpart in the Beneficiary Country:

Project leader: Mr. Zurab Alavidze , Deputy Minister; Ministry of Economic Development of Georgia, 12 Chanturia Str, Tbilisi, Georgia Phone: +995 32 99-10-80, Fax: + 995 32 93 28 46Email: ministry@economy.ge

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RTA counterpart:

Ms. Nino MikanadzeDirector of metrology institute of the National Agency for standards, technical regulation and metrologyChargali St 67, 0141 Tbilisi, GeorgiaPhone/Fax: +995 32 61 35 00

Email: nino_mikanadze@yahoo.com

6.3. Contracts:

The project will be implemented through one twinning contract.

6.4. Project Steering Committee:

A Project Steering Committee (PSC) will be established for the control and supervision of the project activities and the mandatory results. The Steering Committee will meet at regular intervals and will submit by the end of the meeting (as recorded in the minutes of meeting) an approval/not approval of the project reports. Official minutes of the PSC meetings will be kept in English and distributed to all parties within 15 days after the PSC meeting.

7. Implementation schedule (indicative) 7.1. Launching of the call for proposals (June 2010)7.2. Start of the project activities (March 2011) 7.3. Project completion (June 2013) 7.4. Duration of the execution period (number of months) 27 months with an implementation period of 24 months (presence of the RTA in Georgia)

8. Sustainability:

The sustainability of the project will be achieved through a suitable implementation of the project activities and availability of trained personnel in the metrology and standardisation infrastructure. Furthermore, needs of the local and international businesses in calibrations and measurements as well as needs of public authorities in technical issues and participation in (inter)national standardisation activities are expected to contribute to maintaining high level services on a constant basis in GEOSTM.

9. Cross cutting issues

9.1. Equal Opportunity

The principle of equal opportunity will be integrated into all stages of the project implementation.

9.2. Environment

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NA

10. Conditionality and sequencing

There is no precondition set for this twinning project.

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Support for quality infrastructure in Georgia ENPI 2009 project

ANNEXES TO PROJECT FICHE - ANNEX I

ANNEX I - LOGFRAME PLANNING MATRIX FOR twinning fiche Support for Metrology and Standardisation Infrastructure in Georgia

Programme name and number

Total budget: €1,400,000

Overall objective Objectively verifiable indicators Sources of Verification AssumptionsTo implement internationally recognised best practices in the sector with the aim of preparation for wider international agreements concerning free movement of goods.

Quality management system fully implemented and application for presentation submitted to relevant RMO,

Number of standards adopted Number of regulations/legal acts adopted Number of calibration services provided to

laboratories and industry Number of testing and calibration laboratories

traceable to GEOSTM Number of interlaboratory comparisons performed Number of international meetings attended Number of international comparisons

Number of calibration certificates issued Statistics report (trade sector) EC annual progress report Reports of ministries responsible for trade, and

finance Project reports Conference/meetings reports and photos Number of approved intercomparison reports

Government commitment on adoption of EU acquis continued. Delays in case of legislation preparation and modification delays.

Project purpose Objectively verifiable indicators Sources of Verification AssumptionsTo upgrade metrology and standardisation sectors through transposition of the relevant EU legislation, implementation of quality management systems, achieving international recognition of calibration and measurement capabilities, increasing awareness among economic operators in the

Gaps in legislation eliminated. Progress report to present the quality management

system at COOMET Quality Forum 3 GEOSTM services ready to be accredited by the

end of 2012

Official gazetteCOOMET TC Quality Forum reportReport of peer assessors

Government commitment on adoption of EU acquis continued. Delays in case of legislation preparation and modification delays.Failure in international comparisonsAvailability of local staff

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Support for quality infrastructure in Georgia ENPI 2009 project

course of preparation for Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement. Results Objectively verifiable indicators Sources of Verification Assumptions

Three New and Old Approach EU directives in legal metrology field transposed.

National systems for metrology and standardization aligned with internationally recognised best practices through implementation of international standards in quality management.

Measuring instruments directive relevant conformity assessment infrastructure matching the EU internal market regulation requirements developed.

Good knowledge by conformity assessment operators about the roles and obligations under New Approach principles achieved; knowledge on CE marking and other relevant markings disseminated

In standardization field a fully operational WTO TBT enquiry point available and relevant harmonized standards and documents identified,

Draft of the law on uniformity of measurements submitted for adoption. Technical regulations on transposition of the MID and other directives drafted and adopted.

Business plan for GEOSTM developed.

Quality management system in GEOSTM in place.

Interlaboratory comparison performed.Personnel trained. CMCs developed and submitted for international assessment. CMCs approved by the relevant COOMET TCs.Necessary reorganisations in GEOSTM done.Private laboratories implementing conformity assessment standards.Personnel trained.Standards translated.

Conferences run.Personnel trained

Quality system in place.Software application developed and operational.Personnel trained.

Project reports.Conference reports.Participants reports and certificates.

Report on peer assessment.Evaluation report by the COOMET Quality Forum.COOMET TC reports

New organisational structure.Project reports.

Certificates of training.List of translated standards approved by the GEOSTM.

Conference reports.

Final report.Certificates of training.

Availability of human resources in the beginning and, especially, by the end of the project, due to the age of employees at the GEOSTM and their insufficient knowledge of foreign languages and up-to-date technical knowledge,Availability of suitable equipment to perform the necessary inter-laboratory comparisons both on an international scale and on national level,Availability of sufficient national financial resources for co-financing of the project activities by the GEOSTM,Poor level and speed of implementation of the quality management systems to ISO 17025 and to ISO 17020 in the relevant institutions,Delays in translation of the relevant harmonised standards and their adoption as Georgian

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Support for quality infrastructure in Georgia ENPI 2009 project

translated and adopted standards,Missing co-operation among the Georgian public institutions and other stakeholders,Availability of suitable premises for laboratories, training and conferences in the GEOSTM. Availability of widely accepted and approved strategy for GEOSTM by the end of the project.

Activities/Components or input Means (indicative) Assumptions0.1 Kick-off Workshop0.2 Final Closing Conference1.1. Seminar on the Principles of Technical Regulation.1.2. An information conference/seminar on the principles of the European quality infrastructure 1.3. Two similar conferences/seminars for practitioners in the GEOSTM departments and units, calibration and testing laboratories, certification and inspection bodies.1.4. Review and drafting of relevant laws.1.5. Drafting of technical regulations transposing 2004/22/EC measuring instruments directive and directives 71/317/EEC and 74/148/EEC (Medium and Above-Medium Accuracy Weights) and submitting drafts to the GEOSTM.1.6. Study visits to at least 2 member state administrations for Georgian specialists.

PL 1x3 m/dPL 1x3 m/dSTEs 2x4 m/dSTEs 2x4 m/d

STEs 2x8 m/d

STE 1x10 m/d,STE 1x10 m/d,

6 flight tickets for experts, 60 per diems.

Necessary local resources availableStrategy developed

2.1. Training on ISO 17025 relevant issues. STEs 2x5 m/d, Necessary local resources available

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Support for quality infrastructure in Georgia ENPI 2009 project

2.2. Training of lead assessors and technical assessors.

2.3. Training on ISO 9001

2.4. Training of GEOSTM auditors

2.5. A seminar on setting mission, policy, quality manual, other quality management system documents with practical examples

2.6. Identification of priority laboratories within the GEOSTM for implementation of quality systems

2.7. Advice on interlaboratory comparisons.

2.8. Development of all necessary quality management documents.

2.9. Internships in the national metrology institute operating QMS to ISO 17025 and/or another body certified to ISO 9001 for GEOSTM staff

2.10. Performing of preliminary peer-assessment and discussion of findings

2.11. Study tours to the meetings of metrology, technical and management committees, participation in international conferences and workshops for GEOSTM personnel

2.12. Performing peer-assessment according to the rules of the relevant regional metrology organisation

2.13. Advice on procurement of measuring equipment

2.14. Organisation of a bilateral interlaboratory comparison

STE 2x5 m/d

STE 2x4 m/d,

RTA, STE 2x5 m/d,

RTA, STE 2x4 m/d,

RTA, STE 5 m/d,

STE 2x5 m/d

RTA, 2 STEs 6 flights 60 m/d

4 international flights, 112 per diems, intercity travel

RTA, STE 2x5 m/d,

16 flight tickets, 80 per diems

STE 3x5 m/d,

STE 2x5 m/d,

RTA, STE 2x5 m/d

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Support for quality infrastructure in Georgia ENPI 2009 project

2.15. Development of business plan for GEOSTM RTA, STE 2x10 m/d,

3.1. Advice on conformity assessment of utility meters.

3.2. Advice on conformity assessment of automatic weighing instruments.

3.3. Advice on conformity assessment of measuring systems for liquids other than water.

3.4. Advice on conformity assessment of gas exhaust analysers, dimensional instruments, capacity and length measures.

3.5. Support in interlaboratory comparison of a measuring instrument

3.6. Advice on quality standards used in conformity assessment.

3.7. Study visit on conformity assessment and market surveillance issues.

STEs 3x8 m/d,

STE 1x5 m/d,

STE 1x5 m/d

STE 2x5 m/d,

RTA, STE 2x5 m/d

STE 2x5 m/d,

6 return flights, 36 per diems,

Necessary local resources available

4.1. Conference on New Approach.

4.2. Preparation of information material.

4.3. Training of future trainers.

4.4. Organising awareness seminars on “Conformity assessment and market

Means STE 2x5 m/d.

Means STE 2x10 m/d,

Means STE 2x10 m/d,

Necessary local resources available

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Support for quality infrastructure in Georgia ENPI 2009 project

surveillance of goods”. Means STE 2x5 m/d

5.1. Training of WTO TBT Enquiry point staff

5.2. Advice on priorities in the programme on the adoption of the EU standards.

5.3. Advice on priority harmonised standards.

5.4. Support in development of technical specifications for technical assistance part on provision of software based product for archiving documents and technical regulations.

5.5. Internships, study visits and participation in work of technical and management committees of relevant standardisation bodies and organisations.

5.6. Seminar on EU approach to adoption of technical regulations and awareness raising of WTO TBT enquiry point services

5.7. Information material on standardisation, technical regulations, technical barriers to trade.

5.8. Assessment of activities in the field of standardisation, in comparison with the EU requirements

STEs 2x5 m/d

Means RTA, STE 2x5 m/d

Means STE 5 m/d,

Means STE 1x10 m/d, service contract max. 30 000 EUR

10 flights, 100 per diems

STEs 2x5 m/d,

STEs 2x5 m/d,

2 STEs 2 flights 20 m/d,

Necessary local resources available

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Support for quality infrastructure in Georgia ENPI 2009 project

Annex II

Structure of GEOSTM 2010

Director General

Deputy Director

Service for International Relations samsaxuri

Department for Standards and Technical Regulations

Legalization Service

Human Resource Management Service

Legal Service

Radio-physics, Optics and

Acoustics Lab

Mechanics LabFinancial-Economic Department

Institute of MetrologyAdministration of the Director General

Physical

Chemistry Lab

Electricity LabDimensional

Measurements Lab

Radiation Metrology Lab

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Support for quality infrastructure in Georgia ENPI 2009 project

*NOTE: On this organigram are given structural units that are financed from state budget

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