In the UK, it has been estimated that goods to the value of a
billion pounds are traded at retail level by some form of
measurement of their quantity. However, do consumers stop to
think why or how it is that they can have confidence in their
purchases?
The law relating to weights and measures today evolved so
that:
- Security of uniform system of units of weights and measures
could be established;
- Controls could be placed over weighing and measuring equipment
in use for trade;
- The public could be protected against short quantity in the
sale of goods.
- The system of weights and measures has developed through:
- Legal frameworks,
- Adequate and even handed enforcement,
- Technological advances in equipment.
Weighing originated as man's first assessment of the weight of
goods was the load his strength could carry, length was determined
in terms of parts of body: breadth of palm, arm's length.
As things were made and traded more accurate means of
measurement became necessary.
Between 1965 and 2000 the United Kingdom gradually changed to
the International system of metric weights and measures. All
pre-packed goods are required to be sold in metric quantities, as
are goods sold by reference to length or area such as timber or
carpets. All price labels must show the price for metric units
There is a system of traceability in place to ensure that the
kilogram and metre is the same throughout the nation. The
working standard weights and measures that Inspectors take out with
them to test weighing and measuring equipment are tested against
local standards that never leave the office. Weights are tested
using equipment that the National Weights and Measures Laboratory
refer back to the copy of the international prototype of the
kilogram kept at their premises. The metre is defined by
reference to natural constant - the speed of light. It is therefore
a more perfect reference. All units are therefore defined by
ultimate references to either the metre or kilogram.
The National Weights and Measures Laboratory examine patterns of
weighing and measuring equipment (submitted in the UK) to determine
whether their design or manufacture is such to facilitate
fraud. Once such equipment has a certificate, it must conform
to the pattern and pass accuracy tests carried out by an Inspector.
Once the equipment has been verified or stamped by an Inspector it
may be used for trade (this system is known as verification).
There is also a system of European Community approval removing
technical barriers to trade.
So, Inspectors of Weights and Measures (or Trading Standards
Officers as they are more commonly known) visit trade premises and
carry out inspections and verification of weighing and measuring
equipment. Examples include counter weighing machines,
weighbridges, weights, petrol pumps, spirit measuring instruments,
wine and beer glasses, metre measures to name some common examples.
Prepacked goods, breads, textiles etc., are tested to ensure
correct weight or measure.
Further information:
For further information please contact Trading Standards.