Understanding Instrument Terminology

Overview

Different industries, countries and manufacturers often use different terminology to describe the same thing.

For example, one organisation may refer to an asset, another may call it plant, while another simply calls it equipment.

Within JGID, all of these are referred to as Instruments.

This article explains why JGID uses this terminology and how it relates to the language used throughout your industry.

Why Does JGID Use the Term "Instrument"?

The term Instrument has been part of JGID since the early development of the software and remains the standard terminology used throughout the system.

While many organisations use terms such as Equipment, Plant, Tools or Assets, these are all managed as Instruments within JGID.

Although the terminology may differ, the functionality remains the same.

What Is an Instrument?

In JGID, an Instrument is any item that your organisation owns, hires, maintains or inspects.

Examples include:

• Rope access equipment
• Height safety PPE
• Harnesses
• Helmets
• Lanyards
• Descenders
• Ascenders
• Anchor Testers
• Torque Wrenches
• Pull Test Equipment
• Electrical Test Equipment
• Vehicles
• Trailers
• Machinery
• Tools
• Fire Extinguishers

Each Instrument belongs to an Instrument Type, allowing your organisation to group similar items together.

Note: Installed products such as Anchor Points and Static Lines are typically managed as Materials, not Instruments.

Inspections, Servicing and Calibration

Many Instruments require periodic inspections to remain compliant or fit for purpose.

The type and frequency of these inspections depends on the Instrument, the manufacturer's requirements and the standards applicable to your industry.

For example:

• Rope access equipment is commonly inspected every six months in accordance with IRATA guidance.
• Anchor Testers typically require annual calibration.
• Electrical equipment may require periodic inspection and testing depending on local regulations.
• Vehicles and machinery may require scheduled servicing and maintenance.

JGID allows you to record and manage these requirements within your Instrument Register.

Common Industry Terminology

Depending on your industry or location, you may hear different terms that all refer to the same concept within JGID.

Regardless of the terminology used, these items are all managed within the Instrument Register.

Instrument Types

Instrument Types allow you to organise similar Instruments into categories that suit your organisation.

For example:

• Harnesses
• Helmets
• Vehicles
• Trailers
• Power Tools
• Anchor Testers
• Fire Extinguishers

The Instrument Types you create are entirely up to your organisation.

Tip

If you're searching the Help Centre for terms such as Equipment, Plant, Asset or Tool, look for articles relating to Instruments.

Within JGID, these terms generally refer to the same concept.

Best Practice

• Create Instrument Types that reflect the way your organisation operates.
• Be consistent when naming Instrument Types.
• Focus on the purpose of the item rather than the terminology used to describe it.
• Remember that different industries and countries often use different names for the same type of Instrument.

Related Articles

• Understanding Equipment Statuses
• Understanding Item Types
• Instrument Types
• Instrument Register