Which action should an IA take if a tool is found out of calibration during maintenance?

Which action should an IA take if a tool is found out of calibration during maintenance?

• A. Continue using the tool but note calibration status.
• B. Ignore the calibration status if results are within expectation.
• C. Do not rely on measurements from that tool; replace or recalibrate before continuing.
• D. Use a backup uncalibrated tool without verification.

Answer: (C)

When a tool is out of calibration, its readings can be biased or inaccurate, and relying on those measurements can lead to improper maintenance decisions or unsafe conditions. In aviation maintenance, measurements used to verify tolerances, fit, or function must come from tools that are within their calibrated limits and traceable to standards. The correct approach is to remove the tool from service and either have it recalibrated or replace it with a known-good, calibrated tool before continuing. This ensures the work is based on trustworthy data and helps prevent hidden errors from slipping through. Using a backup tool is acceptable only if that tool is calibrated and its calibration status verified; using an uncalibrated backup without verification is not acceptable because it could yield unreliable results. Continuing with the out-of-calibration tool or ignoring its status could compromise airworthiness.

When a tool is out of calibration, its readings can be biased or inaccurate, and relying on those measurements can lead to improper maintenance decisions or unsafe conditions. In aviation maintenance, measurements used to verify tolerances, fit, or function must come from tools that are within their calibrated limits and traceable to standards. The correct approach is to remove the tool from service and either have it recalibrated or replace it with a known-good, calibrated tool before continuing. This ensures the work is based on trustworthy data and helps prevent hidden errors from slipping through.

Using a backup tool is acceptable only if that tool is calibrated and its calibration status verified; using an uncalibrated backup without verification is not acceptable because it could yield unreliable results. Continuing with the out-of-calibration tool or ignoring its status could compromise airworthiness.