Simple terms explainer
Local authorities must regulate weighing and measuring equipment used in trade. This includes inspecting, testing, verifying and certifying equipment such as weighing scales, fuel dispensers and spirit measures to ensure they meet legal standards of accuracy. Where equipment is used in transactions, Trading Standards must ensure it is suitable, accurate and properly used for trade. Local authorities can also requalify equipment following repair or adjustment and issue calibration certificates that trace measurements back to national standards. Common examples include fuel pumps, pub spirit measures, and supermarket checkouts where goods are weighed and price is calculated.
Legal status
Statutory
Duty category
Trading Standards
Duty type
Compliance
Social determinant of health
Economic Stability
Emerging policy and legislation
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National bodies with shared interest
Society of Chief Officers of Trading Standards in Scotland (SCOTSS)
National Measurement and Regulation Office (NMO)
Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI)
Office for Product Safety & Standards (OPSS)
Standards and frameworks
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