Legal Metrology in the Age of AI Regulation 2024/1689: Evolving with the Digital Future

The adoption of the EU AI Regulation 2024/1689 marks a pivotal moment for regulated industries across Europe. As the first comprehensive legal framework governing artificial intelligence in the EU, this regulation introduces strict obligations for high-risk AI systems — with the goal of ensuring safety, transparency, and fundamental rights.

But what does this mean for legal metrology?

At first glance, instruments under the Measuring Instruments Directive (MID) may not fall directly within the scope of high-risk AI systems. However, the implications for legal metrology are significant. AI is increasingly being integrated into measuring instruments — such as smart utility meters — and with that comes a new set of challenges, responsibilities, and opportunities.

What the AI Regulation Covers

The AI Regulation introduces a risk-based approach, classifying AI systems according to their potential impact on safety, rights, and critical infrastructure. High-risk systems — such as those used in healthcare, law enforcement, or safety-critical environments — are now subject to mandatory requirements, including:

• Robust quality management systems
• Conformity assessments before market entry
• Detailed technical documentation and logs
• Transparency and human oversight mechanisms

This regulation is designed not just to prevent harm, but to build trust in AI across industries.

Why It Matters for Legal Metrology

Although most legal metrology instruments are not yet defined as high-risk AI systems under the regulation, the direction of travel is clear. As AI becomes more embedded in measuring instruments — whether for automated readings, data-driven calibration, or dynamic adjustments — the sector must prepare to align with AI regulatory principles.

Challenges legal metrology will need to address include:

• Ensuring transparency and explainability in AI-assisted measurements
• Managing data quality and algorithmic bias
• Assessing ongoing compliance in systems that may evolve post-deployment
• Incorporating cybersecurity safeguards into interconnected devices

The Role of Notified Bodies and Standards Bodies

With AI introducing new layers of complexity, Notified Bodies (NoBos) must also evolve. Expertise in AI risk management, data governance, and machine learning behavior will be crucial to effectively assess next-generation measuring instruments.

Standards bodies like WELMEC and OIML are already working toward defining testing and conformity methods for AI in legal metrology. For example, OIML D31:2023 introduces transparency and labeling requirements for AI-powered software in measuring instruments — a clear signal that change is underway.

A Call for Collaboration:

To ensure continued trust in the instruments that underpin trade, safety, and public services, all stakeholders must collaborate:

• Regulators must consider how existing directives like the MID can incorporate AI considerations
• Manufacturers should design for traceability, explainability, and resilience
• Notified Bodies need to upskill and develop joint conformity protocols with AI experts
• Policymakers must promote alignment across the AI Regulation, MID, and Cyber Resilience Act

Legal metrology has long been a benchmark for precision and trust. In the age of AI, it must also become a model for responsible innovation.

Want to explore how AI may impact your measuring instruments or compliance strategy?

Contact Valentina D’Amelio or reach out to our NMi team. Let’s shape the future of legal metrology together.