Austria's Measurement System: Metric Or Not?

The metric system, or International System of Units (SI), is used by 95% of the world's population. It was first introduced in France during the 1790s and has since spread to almost every country. The process of metrication is typically initiated by a country's government, which aims to establish a uniform system of measurement to facilitate international cooperation in trade and science. Austria adopted the metric system in 1875, and it became compulsory in 1876. Prior to this, Austria used various traditional units of measurement, including the Viennese klafter and the Viennese cubit.

When did Austria adopt the metric system?

The metric system was introduced in Austria-Hungary by act of Parliament on 23 July 1871. The act contained tables of the metric system and listed the various weights and measures then in use in every part of the Monarchy, along with their metric equivalents. A transition period of four years and six months was allowed for the new system to be implemented, after which the metric system was made compulsory on 1 January 1876.

The adoption of the metric system in Austria-Hungary was part of a broader process of metrication that began in France during the 1790s and has since spread across the world. By 2011, 95% of the world's population lived in countries where the metric system is the only legal system of measurement.

Prior to the introduction of the metric system, Austrian units of measurement were used in Austria. In 1756, the ruling Archduchess of Austria, Maria Theresa, ordered that the Viennese klafter and its multiples and fractions should be the state-defined measure of length in the Archduchy of Austria and the Kingdom of Hungary. The Viennese cubit, which was 3/4 of the Roman cubit, was also used as a measure of length.

What were the previous units of measurement in Austria?

Austria, like many other countries, used a variety of units for measurement before the introduction of the metric system.

In 1756, the ruling Archduchess of Austria, Maria Theresa, ordered that the Viennese Klafter and its multiples and fractions should be the state-defined measure of length in the Archduchy of Austria and the Kingdom of Hungary. The Viennese cubit, which is 3/4 of the Roman cubit (cubitus or elbow), was also used as a measure of length. One source mentions that the Archduchess's law should also have applied to the Lands of the Bohemian Crown, of which she was queen, but the traditional Roman foot remained in common use in Prague.

The Austrian post-mile, police-mile, and geographic mile were all equivalent to 3,910 Viennese Klafters. The exact length of a Klafter was established as 1.89648384 meters when the metric system was introduced.

Before the metric system was introduced, many German-speaking countries, including Austria, used a variety of units with varying local standard definitions. For example, the measure of cloth was the "Elle," which stood for a different length in each region. An "Elle" of textile material in Frankfurt would get you 54.7 cm of cloth, while in Mainz, it would be 55.1 cm, and in Nuremberg, it would be 65.6 cm.

Another unit of measurement was the German geographic mile (geographische Meile), defined as 1/15 equatorial degrees, equal to 7,420.54 meters or 24,345.6 feet. The German mile, land mile, or post mile (Gemeine deutsche Meile, Landmeile, Postmeile) also had various definitions in different places and at different times.

The Fuß, or German foot, also varied widely from place to place and over time in the German-speaking world. In some places, more than one type of Fuß was in use.

The Rute or Ruthe was a unit of land measure with many different kinds and lengths used at various times in different parts of the German-speaking world.

The Lachter was the most common unit of length used in mining in German-speaking areas, with a length of roughly between 1.9 and 2.1 meters.

What is the impact of Austria's adoption of the metric system?

Austria adopted the metric system in 1871, and it became obligatory in 1876. The impact of this adoption was felt across the country, with the new system of measurement bringing about a range of changes and benefits.

One of the most significant impacts of Austria's adoption of the metric system was the standardisation of measurements. Prior to the introduction of the metric system, Austria used a variety of traditional units of measurement, with different regions and even towns having their own definitions. This lack of uniformity made trade and commerce difficult, as merchants had to navigate a complex array of varying measurements. With the metric system, Austria established a single, uniform system of measurement that applied across the entire country. This standardisation streamlined trade and commerce, making it easier for merchants to conduct business and facilitating mercantile operations, particularly with other countries in Europe that had already adopted the metric system.

Another impact of the metric system's adoption was increased accuracy and precision in measurements. The metric system is based on a decimal system, which makes conversions and calculations easier and reduces the risk of errors. This enhanced accuracy benefited various sectors, including science, industry, and commerce. It also improved international cooperation in fields such as trade and science, as Austria could now utilise a common system of measurement with other countries.

Additionally, the metric system simplified measurements in everyday life. While traditional units like the Viennese klafter, the Viennese cubit, and the Roman foot had complex conversions and fractions, the metric system offered a more straightforward and intuitive approach. This simplicity made it easier for people to understand and use measurements in their daily lives, from grocery shopping to home measurements.

The adoption of the metric system also had economic implications for Austria. There was a notable increase in trade and commerce following the adoption, with exports rising significantly between 1870 and 1880. While this growth was attributed to multiple factors, the metric system's role in facilitating trade with other metric-using countries contributed to this positive economic impact.

Moreover, the metric system's introduction led to a period of adjustment and learning for Austrians. Initially, there was some confusion during the transition from traditional units to the new system, particularly among merchants and retailers. However, over time, people adapted to the metric system, and it became an integral part of daily life in Austria.

In conclusion, Austria's adoption of the metric system had far-reaching impacts on the country. It standardised and simplified measurements, increased accuracy, and facilitated international cooperation. The economic benefits and ease of use that came with the metric system solidified its place in Austrian society, contributing to its continued use today.

What is the role of the BEV in Austria's use of the metric system?

The metric system was introduced in Austria by law on 23 July 1871, and became obligatory on 1 January 1876. The Bundesamt für Eich- und Vermessungswesen, or BEV (Federal Office of Metrology and Surveying) is the national metrology institute (NMI) and the national legal metrology authority in Austria.

The BEV is a subordinate agency of the Federal Ministry of Science, Research and Economy (BMWFW). It is responsible for maintaining the national measuring standards of the legal units of measurement, and for laying down methods of realisation of these units, as well as carrying out international comparisons. The BEV is also responsible for the calibration and testing of measuring instruments/devices, and the dissemination of the legal units of measurement.

The Physico-Technical Testing Service (PTP), a restricted legal entity, is entrusted with calibration, testing and related training. The BEV also provides training and seminars on metrology legislation and other metrology matters.

The BEV's tasks as a legal metrology authority include type approval and verification of measuring instruments, market oversight, control of pre-packages, and the authorisation and supervision of private verification bodies. The BEV also has a role in the enforcement of legislation, with infringements dealt with by a verbal warning as a first step, and administrative fines or criminal prosecution for more severe cases.

The BEV also produces topographic maps of Austria in various scales, which are available to the public and serve a variety of purposes, including leisure, economic, administrative, scientific, and military applications. These maps are regularly updated, with significant changes captured and published in interim editions if necessary.

How does Austria's adoption of the metric system compare to other countries?

Austria adopted the metric system on 23 July 1871, with the new system becoming obligatory on 1 January 1876. This was after the metric system was established in France in the late 1700s-1800s, following the French Revolution in 1789.

Austria's adoption of the metric system compares favourably to other countries, as it is one of the many countries to have fully adopted the system. While it is often stated that only three countries—the United States, Liberia, and Myanmar—do not use the metric system, this is not entirely accurate. In reality, every country uses the metric system to some extent. However, a few countries, including the aforementioned three, as well as Canada and the United Kingdom, have not fully converted to the metric system and instead use mixed systems.

The United States, despite legalising the use of the metric system in 1866 and being a founding signatory of the Treaty of the Metre in 1875, has never mandated universal adoption of the metric system. This is due to resistance from commercial industries and the general public, as well as the expense of switching over. Similarly, Canada and the United Kingdom have also not fully converted to the metric system, and their progress is considered stalled.

Liberia, a former colony of the United States, inherited the imperial system from its founder and has a blended system of measurement. However, the country is reportedly moving towards fully adopting the metric system to facilitate international trade. Myanmar, a traditionally isolationist country, also intends to convert to the metric system to streamline international trade, particularly for agricultural exports.

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