VSL manages and develops primary measurement standards and primary reference materials on behalf of the Dutch government. These measurement standards are the foundation for reliable measurements in science, industry, fair trade and other areas. VSL also participates in research projects to develop newer and better measurement methods.

We make measurement results from companies, laboratories and institutes directly traceable to national and international standards. We also calibrate measuring instruments on behalf of customers, produce reference materials, organise interlaboratory comparisons and transfer our metrology knowledge by providing training and consultancy.