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The Minister hereby makes these Regulations in exercise of the powers conferred on him by section 57 of the Metrology Act, 2012, Cap. 23.33:
[Published 16th March 2023, Official Gazette No. 14 of 2023]
These Regulations may be cited as the Metrology Regulations, 2023.
In these Regulations, unless the context otherwise requires—
“automatic weighing machine” means a weighing instrument which does not require an operator for carrying out the weighing process and carries out an automatic feed of the load;
“beam scale” means an equal-arm oscillating weighing instrument with pans below the beam;
“bulk meter” means a measuring instrument designed to measure fuel for individual deliveries of 500 litres or more and includes a vehicle tank meter;
“Bureau” means the Bureau of Standards referred to in section 2 of the Bureau of Standards and Quality Act No. 19 of 2021;
“counter machine” means an equal-arm oscillating weighing instrument with pans above the beam, or a self-indicating machine to be used on a counter for general trade, any of which having capacity of not more than 50 kg;
“crane machine” means a suspended self-indicating, electronic, hydraulic or spring- actuated weighing machine of a capacity of 1000 kg or greater;
“Director” means the Director of the Bureau of Standards appointed under section 5 of the Bureau of Standards and Quality Act;
“discrimination” means the ability of a weighing instrument to react to small variations of load specified in regulations 26(2) and (3);
“electronic weighing machine” means any self-indicating weighing machine in which the load produces electrical signals which are processed so as to indicate or record weight, or mass;
“error of weighing machine” means the difference, when the machine is loaded with standard weight, between the indicated mass and the mass value assigned to that standard weight;
“fuel” means liquid fuel, lubricants or any mixture of liquid fuel and lubricants; “graduated measuring instrument” means an instrument allowing the direct reading
of the complete or partial weighing result;
“load receptor” means the part of the weighing instrument on which goods being weighed are placed or hooked;
“maximum permissible error”, in relation to a measuring instrument, means the extreme value of an error permitted for the measuring instrument;
“measure” has the meaning set out in section 2 of the Metrology Act;
“non-graduated measuring instrument” means an instrument not fitted with a scale numbered in appropriate units;
“OIML” means the International Organisation of Legal Metrology;
“OIML Recommendation” means such technical prescriptions as may be specified by the International Organisation of Legal Metrology;
“oscillating weighing instrument” means a weighing instrument with a beam or steelyard which oscillates about or returns to the position of equilibrium when disturbed from that position;
“petrol pump” means a measuring instrument for fuel which—
has a meter or one or more measuring chambers, and
is designed to measure individual deliveries of 500 litres or less;
“platform machine” means a weighing instrument other than a weighbridge with the load receptor being a platform 3m by 2m in size or less and a capacity of 5000 kg or less;
“price indicator”, in relation to a thing being delivered, means an indicator showing the value in money of a unit of the quantity delivered;
“scale interval” means the value expressed in appropriate units of the difference between—
the values corresponding to two consecutive scale marks, for analogue indication; or
two consecutive indicated values, for digital indication;
“self-indicating weighing machine” means a weighing instrument other than a spring balance on which the whole, or part of the weight or mass of the goods being weighed is indicated by means of a printed record or by a pointer moving over—
a scale or chart graduated in units of mass,
a graduated chart moving in relation to a fixed pointer, or
a digital display;
“sensitivity”, in relation to a weighing instrument not equipped with digital indication, means the displacement of the index produced by a small change of load specified in regulation 26(4);
“spring balance” means a mechanical weighing instrument in which the weight or mass is determined by the extension or compression of a spring, which is indicated by a pointer or a dial or by a moving graduated scale;
“steelyard” means an unequal-arm single-lever weighing instrument, the shorter arm of which carries a load-hook suspended from knife-edges whilst the longer arm has a poise weight moving over a graduated scale to indicate the mass of the load, and includes an instrument that is part of a platform machine, weighbridge or other similar weighing instrument;
“tare device” means a device for setting the indication to zero when a load is on a load receptor;
“vehicle tank meter” means a bulk meter installed on a vehicle;
“verification scale interval” means the value, expressed in units of mass, used for the classification and verification of a weighing instrument;
“volume indicator” means an indicator showing the volume of fuel delivered; “weighbridge” means a weighing instrument for weighing a load carried by a vehicle
where the load and vehicle are supported on rails or a platform either of which
is linked to a system of levers or load-cells; and includes any similar instrument prescribed as a weighbridge by the Director;
“zero setting device” means a device for setting the indication to zero when there is no load on the load receptor.
Unless specified otherwise, references in these Regulations to units of measurements in the International System of Units shall be construed to include references to units of measurements in the British Imperial System of Units.
Subject to regulation 4, for the purpose of assessing suitability of a weighing or measuring instrument, the manufacturer or importer of the instrument shall deposit a model of that instrument with the Director.
The Director shall inform the manufacturer or importer of the assessment not later than ninety days after the deposit of the model.
The Director may exempt a manufacturer or importer of weighing and measuring instruments from the deposit of models under regulation 3, after considering a request for exemption from the manufacturer or importer.
A request for exemption shall—
be in writing, and addressed to the Director; and
be accompanied by—
all necessary technical data;
all necessary technical drawings; and
proof of the approval of the pattern by a national body of legal metrology of the country of manufacture or any other body approved by the Director.
The examination of a weight, measure or weighing or measuring instrument for the purposes of pattern approval shall be carried out in accordance with the requirements specified in these Regulations, as applicable.
All weights and measures, and weighing and measuring instruments, described in these Regulations shall be constructed so that they are free of flaws.
Division 1– Weights for general trade
Weights for general trade shall be—
of a denomination specified in Table 1 of Schedule 1 or Table 1 of Schedule 2 and shall have that denomination marked on the top surface; and
made of iron, brass or bronze.
Weights of a denomination of less than 1 gram (m < 1g) shall be flat sheets or wires with appropriate shapes for easy handling and the shapes shall indicate the denomination of the weight.
Weights of denominations of 5 kilograms to 50 kilograms (5kg – 50kg) which are made of iron, shall be in the form of a rectangular parallelepiped with the corners rounded off and non-protruding handles.
Weights of denominations of not more than 50 grams and not less than 1 gram (1g < m < 50g) may be cylindrical.
Weights made of metal other than iron, of denominations of not more than 10 kilograms and not less than 50 grams (50g < m < 10kg) shall be cylindrical.
Weights of a denomination of 2 kilograms to 100 grams (100g - 2kg) made of iron shall be hexagonal.
Weights made of metal other than iron, of a denomination not more than 50 grams and not less than one gram (1g < m < 50g) shall be disc shaped.
Weights of the disc type shall be circular disc, the thickness, (td) of which is not
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1 dt td 1 dt
less than one-sixth or more than one-third of the diameter 6 3
Weights of denominations of not more than 500 milligrams and not less than 10 milligrams (10mg < m < 500mg) shall be flat;
In rectangular weights—
the difference in length of the weight at the top and at the bottom shall not be more than 5 percent of the smaller length; and
the difference in width of the weight at the top and at the bottom shall not be more than 5 percent of the smaller width.
Weights which are cylindrical shall be such that—
any horizontal section is circular; and
any vertical section through the axis is in the form of a cylinder with a flattened knob.
Hexagonal weights shall be such that—
any horizontal section is a regular hexagon;
all the sides are flat; and
in the case of weights made of iron of a particular set, they are of proportional size and can nest or be stacked within each other.
Weights of denominations of 50 milligrams or less may be of wire.
No weight of a denomination of 100g or less may be made of iron.
Weights made of iron shall be black leaded, oxidized, or protected by galvanization or painted.
No weight may be adjusted otherwise than by means of an adjusting hole, subject to the following conditions—
no weight of 10 grams or less may have an adjusting hole; and
no other weight may have more than one adjusting hole.
The adjusting hole—
may be in an internal cavity in the weight or in the handle;
shall be partly filled with lead permitting future adjustment; and
shall be tapered so as to prevent the lead from being dislodged by shock or wear, or closed by a plug or disc made of brass or steel.
Where an adjusting hole is closed with a plug or disc, the plug or disc shall be secured by a lead pellet driven into an undercut recess or, if the cavity is threaded, into the thread.
An adjusting hole which is on a plane surface of a weight shall not extend to the opposite surface.
The placement of the adjusting hole for weights made of iron shall be as follows—
hexagonal and cylindrical weights shall have the adjusting hole centred, and situated only on the bottom surface of the weight; and
rectangular weights may have the adjusting hole either in one of the uprights opening to the side or top surface of the weight or in the handle.
The error of a weight for general trade shall not be greater than the limit of error corresponding to the denomination, as specified in Table 1 of Schedule 1 or in Table 1 of Schedule 2.
Division 2 – Precision Weights for Trade with Valuable Goods
A precision weight for trade with valuable goods shall be of a denomination specified in Table 2 of Schedule 1 or in Table 2 of Schedule 2 and shall have its denomination marked on the top surface except for wire weights specified in subregulation 11(a).
The error of a weight for trade with valuable goods shall not be greater than the limit of error corresponding to the denomination specified in Table 2 of Schedule 1 or Table 2 of Schedule 2.
Subject to subregulation (4), a precision weight for trade with valuable goods shall be made of brass, bronze or stainless steel.
A precision weight for trade with valuable goods may be made of aluminium alloy if it is of a denomination 500 milligrams or less.
A precision weight for trade with valuable goods—
in the case of a weight of a denomination of 500 milligrams or less (m < 500mg), shall be a wire shaped into one, two or five segments, or shall be a flat sheet; and
in the case of a weight of a denomination of more than 500 milligrams (m > 500mg), shall be cylindrical in shape.
Division 3 – Measures of Volume
Every measure of volume for trade shall be of a denomination specified in Schedule 3 or Schedule 4 and have that denomination indelibly marked on the outside of it in legible figures or letters.
In metric measures provided with sub-divisions, only intervals of sub-divisions corresponding to the figures 1, 2 or 5 divided or multiplied by 10 as appropriate are permitted.
The denomination shall be marked on a measure made of—
glass on which the value is defined by a line, at the line;
enamelled metal, in a distinctly different colour to that of the body of the measure; and
sheet metal, by means of embossing, engraving or impressing the denomination on the upper part of the body of the measure or on a metal plate permanently secured to the upper part of the body of the measure.
Every liquid measure of volume shall be made of glass, aluminium, brass, bronze, copper, nickel, sheet iron, steel, stainless steel, tinplate, tin alloys or white metal.
The metal in sub-regulation (1), may be anodised, electroplated, enamelled, galvanised, tinned or otherwise protected.
Every liquid measure of volume made of brass, bronze or copper shall, unless otherwise coated, have the inside surface well tinned with pure tin.
The coating of a coated liquid measure of volume shall show no signs of peeling.
Where any liquid measure of volume has strengthening bands or ribs, the bands or ribs shall not take a form that may be mistaken for graduations.
A graduated glass measure shall—
be conical or cylindrical; and
have a level base at right angles to the axis of the measure.
The scale marks of a graduated glass measure shall be—
parallel to the base of the measure; and
not less than 1.5 mm apart.
The volume of a measure of liquid other than in a graduated glass measure shall be defined by the—
bottom of the lip or retaining edge of a measure having a lip or retaining edge;
bottom of the neck of a milk can;
brim of a measure or indelible line of a glass measure; or
brim of a measure of any other ungraduated type.
The thickness of metal used in measures of volume shall be not less than the thickness specified in international recommendations.
A liquid measure of volume shall not have a false bottom.
Every liquid measure of volume shall be of a shape and form, in accordance with international recommendations and approved by the Director.
If the liquid measure of volume has no tap, it shall drain completely when tilted to an angle of 30 degrees below the horizontal.
If the liquid measure of volume has a tap, it shall drain completely without a prolonged dribble when the tap is open and the measure is levelled.
A measure of volume shall not be greater than nor less than the limit of error for its denomination or for the respective graduation as specified in—
Schedule 3 for metric measures; or
Schedule 4 for British – Imperial measures.
Measures for dispensing of medicine shall comply with such specifications as are set out in Schedule 5.
Division 4 – Measures of Length
All measures of length shall be denominated and graduated clearly and indelibly.
A metric measure of length shall be sub-divided only in metres, centimetres or millimetres.
An imperial measure of length shall be sub-divided only in yards, feet and inches.
All marks and inscriptions on a measure of length shall be so arranged so as not to interfere with the reading of lengths.
A measure of length other than a calliper for use of trade shall be made of brass, hardened steel, hardwood or woven tape.
A measure of length other than a measure made of woven tape or metal tape or chains made of metal shall be made so that it cannot be easily bent.
A measure of length made of wood shall have both its ends capped with metal.
The width of the ribbon of a tape measure of length shall be at least 15 millimetres and its minimum thickness shall be 0.4 millimetres.
A measure of length shall not have an error greater than the limit of error for its denomination, or any intermediate value of graduation as specified in Schedule 6 or Schedule 7.
A calliper measure used for the measurement of thickness or diameter shall be made of steel, steel alloy or an approved material.
A calliper measure shall not have—
errors greater than ± 0.2 mm for callipers measuring less than 200 mm; and
errors greater than ± 0.5 mm for callipers measuring 200 mm or greater but less than 500 mm.
Division 5 – Weighing Instruments – General Requirements
A weighing instrument for use in accordance with the Act shall be—
an oscillating equal-arm beam scale, either suspended without arrestment device or otherwise supported with or without arrestment device;
a counter machine of Roberval or Beranger pattern or other approved machine, equipment or technology designed for measuring equal load on each load receptor, but not a counter machine with sliding or tare weights nor a machine with an unstable position of equilibrium;
a steel-yard of a capacity exceeding 50 kg but not exceeding 1000 kg, for use only for weighing animals or bulk agricultural products;
a spring balance or a crane machine if individually approved by the Director for a particular use; or
one of the following if it complies with the specifications prescribed by the Director—
a platform machine;
a weighbridge;
a precision balance;
a self-indicating weighing instrument, including one that computes price or prints; or
an automatic weighing machine.
The classification of weighing instruments into different classes of accuracy is to be based on—
the value of the verification scale interval as defined in Table 1 of Schedule 8, which fixes a value of the minimum verification scale interval for each class;
the number of verification scale intervals as defined in Table 2 of Schedule 8; and
the minimum capacity, which fixes a lower limit to the permissible range of weighing.
In accordance with subregulation (1), non-automatic weighing instruments are to be categorised into the classes of accuracy and have the corresponding symbols as follows—
Special accuracy - Class 1 - Symbol I;
High accuracy - Class 2 - Symbol II;
Medium accuracy - Class 3 - Symbol III; and
Ordinary accuracy - Class 4 - Symbol IV.
The verification scale interval, number of verification scale intervals and minimum capacity, in relation to the accuracy class of an instrument, shall be as specified in Table 1 and Table 2 of Schedule 8.
The maximum permissible error of a weighing instrument at initial verification is as specified in Table 3 of Schedule 7.
The maximum permissible error of a weighing instrument at in-service verification is twice the maximum permissible error on initial verification.
A weighing instrument shall comply with the requirements of this regulation at every verification.
A weighing instrument not equipped with digital identification shall show a clearly visible change of identification, when a load, equal to half the maximum permissible error specified in regulation 25, is applied at no load and at full load to the receptor without shock.
A weighing instrument equipped with digital indication shall change its indication at no load and at full load when an extra load of not more than one and half scale intervals is applied on the load receptor without shock.
A non-self-indicating weighing instrument shall have a sensitivity such that, for any load, a change of load equal to the maximum permissible error specified in regulation 25 shows a permanent displacement of the index of at least—
two mm for weighing instruments of class III or IV, with a maximum capacity of 30 kilograms or less; or
five mm for a weighing instrument of class III or IV, with a maximum capacity greater than 30 kilograms.
When the same load is weighed three or more times, the difference between the indications of any two weighings, shall not exceed the absolute value of the maximum permissible error specified in regulation 25.
When a load of one-third of the maximum capacity of the instrument is displaced from the centre of the load receptor to the extreme off-centre position on the load receptor, the indicated mass shall remain within the maximum permissible error specified in regulation 25.
When, for a balanced equal-arm weighing instrument, the load and working standard weights are interchanged on the load receptors, the indicated weight shall not change by more than twice the absolute value of the maximum permissible error specified in regulation 25.
The graduations of a weighing instrument shall—
be distinct and clearly legible to the operator and the customer;
be uniformly spaced; and
in the case of instruments graduated in metric units, be expressed in permitted units of mass corresponding to figures 1, 2 or 5 divided or multiplied by 10 as appropriate;
For self-indicating weighing machines, the scale intervals shall not be greater than the limit of error on initial verification specified in regulation 25.
Greater scale intervals may be permitted for weighing machines used for animal weighing and weighing of bulk agricultural products, provided that the total number of scale intervals of the machine is not less than 500.
The balance position of a weighing instrument set out in column 1 of Schedule 9 shall be indicated in the manner set out in column 2 of Schedule 9.
Any balance box or balance screw or gravity ball on a weighing instrument is to be adjustable only by the use of a mechanical appliance.
A weighing instrument shall carry the following markings—
the manufacturer’s name written in full;
the maximum capacity in the form “Max… ”;
the minimum capacity in the form “Min ”; and
the verification scale interval in the form “e =….”.
The following information shall also be marked on an electronically or electrically operated weighing instrument—
the limits of temperature between which the instrument functions properly; and
the potential of the electricity supply.
The markings referred to in subregulations (1) and (2) shall be—
indelible and of a size, shape and clarity allowing for easy reading; and
grouped together in a clearly visible position either on a descriptive plate fixed to an instrument or on a part of the instrument itself.
Each weighing instrument shall have a permanent place for the application of the verification mark that—
cannot be removed from the machine without destroying the impression;
permits the easy application of the mark without altering the metrological qualities of the instrument; and
is easily visible to a person who wishes to check the verification mark.
A weighing instrument shall be—
free from features that are liable to facilitate fraudulent use;
constructed in such a manner that normal adjustments that disturb its proper operation cannot be accidentally made; and
complete in itself and be strong enough to withstand the wear and tear of ordinary use.
A weighing instrument shall not have—
interchangeable or reversible parts, unless the interchange or reversal of the parts does not affect the accuracy of the instrument;
a load receptor of a size or shape which may cause incorrect weighing by fouling the housing of the instrument;
a load receptor which is readily absorbent due to imperfect glazing or extensive cracks or chippings; or
bearings or knife-edges which are loose, not aligned, worn out or otherwise defective for the intended operation of the instrument.
A weighing instrument shall not bear a manufacturer’s mark or other mark which might be mistaken for a verification stamp.
A friction plate, friction stay, friction hook or friction loop used in a weighing instrument shall be made of hardened steel or other approved material.
No person shall use a weighing instrument that is—
erected on a loose, weak or unstable base;
not levelled as its construction requires; or
exposed to wind or draught which affects the indication.
No person shall use a weighing instrument for a load greater than its maximum capacity.
No person shall use a weighing instrument for retail trade in the presence of the purchaser unless it is constructed and sited so that the weighing of goods and the indicated mass are simultaneously clearly visible to the purchaser.
No person shall use a platform machine or weighbridge unless its platform or rails support the load completely.
Division 6- Weighing Instruments – Requirements for Self- or Semi-self- indicating Instruments
Self-indicating weighing instruments or semi-self-indicating weighing instruments shall comply with the requirements of this regulation and regulations 22 to 31.
The scale interval shall be in the form “1 x 10k”, “2 x 10k” or 5 x 10k units in which the result is expressed, the index “k” being a positive or negative whole number or zero.
The weighing result shall contain the names or symbols of the unit of mass in which it is expressed.
All indicating, printing and tare-weighing devices of a self or semi-self-indicating weighing instrument shall have the same scale interval for any given load.
In a self-indicating weighing instrument or semi-self-indicating weighing instrument—
a digital indication shall display at least one figure beginning at the extreme right; and
a decimal fraction shall be separated from its integer by a decimal mark (point or comma), with the indication showing at least one figure to the left of the mark and all figures to the right.
The damping of the oscillations of the indicating element or of the moveable scale shall be adjusted to a value slightly below “critical damping”.
An instrument shall be fitted with a levelling device and a level indicator.
The level indicator referred to in subregulation (7) shall be fixed firmly on the instrument in a place clearly visible to the user.
The following instruments are exempt from the requirements of subregulation (7)—
freely suspended instruments; and
instruments installed in a fixed position.
Division 7 – Requirements of Electronic Instruments
Electronic instruments shall comply with the requirements of this regulation and regulations 22 to 32.
An electronic instrument shall be designed and manufactured so that, when the electronic instrument is exposed to disturbances—
significant faults do not occur; or
if any significant fault occurs, the significant fault—
is detected or indicated in a way that is not confusing with other messages that may appear in the display, and
is acted upon by means of a checking facility.
A pattern of an electronic instrument is presumed to comply with subregulation (2) and regulation 36(1) if a certificate of approval, from a recognised laboratory, is presented and approved by the Director.
The requirements of subregulation (2) may be applied separately to—
each individual cause of significant fault; or
each part of the instrument.
The choice whether subregulation (2)(a) or (b) is applied is left to the manufacturer.
When a significant fault has been detected, a visual or audible indication is to be provided automatically and continue until the user takes action or the fault disappears.
An instrument with a checking facility shall be manufactured so that it is possible during pattern evaluation to verify the presence and correct functioning of the checking facilities.
Subregulations (1) and (2) do not apply to an electronic instrument or any part of an electronic instrument equipped with checking facilities if the manufacturer claims compliance with regulation 33(2)(a).
The manufacturer of an instrument shall ensure that the instrument is manufactured in such a way that—
one measuring process for which the instrument is intended can be performed or simulated at the discretion of the operator or at switch on, or, in the case of an instrument permanently connected to the mains power supply, at switch-on of indication;
at switch-on, or switch-on of indication, a special procedure is performed which shows all relevant signs of the indicator in their active and non-active state sufficiently long to be checked by the operator;
all relevant measurement data are checked for correct value whenever they are stored internally or transmitted to peripherals by interface, through such means as parity bit, check sum, double storage, or hand shake routine with retransmission;
when significant durability error has been detected automatically, a visual or audible indication is provided that continues until the user takes action or the error disappears; and
during pattern evaluation it is possible to verify the presence and correct functioning of durability protection features.
An electronic instrument shall comply with the requirements under a relative humidity of 93% at the maximum high temperature specified for the instrument.
Subregulation (1) does not apply to—
an electronic instrument of Class I; or
an electronic instrument of Class II, if the verification scale interval is less than one gram.
During the warm-up time of an electronic instrument, there is to be no indication or transmission of the weighing result.
An electronic instrument may be equipped with an interface permitting the coupling of the instrument to external equipment. When external equipment is connected, the electronic instrument shall continue to function correctly and its metrological functions shall not be influenced.
A battery-powered electronic instrument shall either continue to function correctly or automatically be put out of service whenever the voltage drops below the manufacturer’s specified minimum value.
Division 8 – Weighing Instruments – Requirements of Non-self-indicating Instruments
A non-self-indicating instrument shall comply with regulation 5 as far as applicable.
A non-self-indicating instrument shall be manufactured so that—
the two indices of relative displacement are of the same thickness; and
the distance between the two indices does not exceed the thickness of an index.
If the thickness of the indices is less than one mm, the distance between the indices may be one mm.
A non-self-indicating instrument shall be manufactured so that the sliding poises, the removal masses and the adjusting cavities or the housing of such devices can be sealed.
Where a device permits printing, the device shall be manufactured so that printing can only be done if—
sliding bars or poises or a mass switching mechanism are each in a position corresponding to a whole number of scale divisions; and
the equilibrium index is in the reference position to within the nearest half scale interval, except for accessible sliding poises or bars.
Sliding poise instruments shall be manufactured so that—
on bars on which the scale interval is the verification scale interval, the scale marks are lines of constant thickness; and
on other major or minor bars, the scale marks are notches.
The distance between scale marks on an instrument shall be
a minimum of 2 mm or more; and
of sufficient length so that the normal machining tolerances for notches or scale marks do not cause an error in the weighing result exceeding 0.2 of the verification scale interval.
The displacement of the balanced equal-arm sliding poises and minor bars of an instrument shall be limited to the graduated part of major and minor bars.
Each sliding poise of an instrument shall have a reading index.
A sliding poise device shall not have—
moving parts except for a minor bar; and
cavities that could accidentally hold foreign bodies.
A sliding poise device shall be manufactured so that—
detachable parts can be sealed;
the displacement of its sliding poises and minor bars requires some effort;
indication shall be effected by metrologically controlled weights; and
its reduction ratios are in the form 10k , where k is an integer or zero.
On an instrument intended for direct selling to the public, the height of the raised edge of the weights receptor platform shall not exceed one tenth of the greatest dimension of the platform, without being more than 25 mm.
An instrument shall have two moving indices or one moving index and a fixed datum mark, the respective position of which indicates the reference position of equilibrium.
On an instrument of class III or IV designed to be used for direct selling to the public, the indices and scale marks shall allow equilibrium to be seen from the opposite sides of the instrument.
Levers on an instrument shall be fitted with knives only and they shall be pivoted on bearings.
The line of contact between knives and bearings shall be a straight line.
Counter-beams shall be pivoted on knife-edges.
The knives shall be fitted to the levers in such a way that the invariability of the ratios of the lever arms is ensured with the result that the knives shall not be welded or soldered.
The edges of the knives of a lever shall be practically parallel and shall be situated in one plane.
The bearings shall not be welded or soldered to their supports or in their mountings.
An instrument with ratio platforms and steelyards shall be manufactured so that—
its bearings can oscillate in all directions on their supports or in their mountings; and
it has anti-disconnection devices to prevent the disconnection of articulated parts.
An instrument shall be manufactured so that—
the longitudinal play of the knives is limited by friction plates;
there is point contact between knife and friction plates and situated on the extension of the line of contact between the knife and the bearings; and
the friction plate—
forms a plane through the point of contact with the knife,
is situated perpendicular to the line of contact with the knife and bearings, and
is not welded or soldered to the bearings or their support.
Contact parts of knives, bearings, friction plates, interlevers, interlever supports and links shall have a hardness of at least 58 Rockwell C or its equivalent.
A protective coating may be applied to the parts in contact of jointed components, so long as no change of metrological properties results.
An instrument shall not be fitted with a tare device.
An instrument shall be manufactured so that—
the instrument has two planes of symmetry, that is to say, a longitudinal plane of symmetry and a transversal plane of symmetry;
the instrument is in equilibrium with or without the pans; and
detachable parts which may be used equally well on either end of the beam are interchangeable and of equal mass.
Where an instrument of class III or IV is provided with a zero setting device—
the instrument shall be in a cavity below one of the pans; and
the cavity referred to in paragraph (a) may be sealed.
An instrument shall be manufactured so that—
the ratio shall be indicated legibly and permanently on the beam in the form, “1—10” or “1/10”; and
the beam shall have a longitudinal plane of symmetry.
Subregulation 47(2) applies to an instrument under this section.
An instrument shall be manufactured so that—
the scale marks are lines or notches, either on the edge or on the flat of the graduated shank;
the minimum scale spacing is 2 mm between notches and 4 mm between lines.
the load per unit length on the knives is not more than 10 kg/mm;
the bores of bearings in the form of an annulus have a diameter at least equal to
1.5 times the largest dimension of the cross section of the knife;
the length of the equilibrium index, taken from the edge of the fulcrum knife-
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edge of the instrument, is not less than 1/ of the major sliding poise bar;
of the length of the graduated part
in the case of an instrument with dual capacity—
the minimum distance between knife edges is 45 mm for the lower capacity and 20 mm for the higher capacity;
the suspension mechanism of the instrument is differentiated from the load suspension mechanism;
the scales corresponding to each of the capacities permits weighing from zero to maximum capacity with a break in continuity either without the two scales having a common part or with a common part not more than 1/5 of the highest value of the lower scale;
the scale intervals of each scale has a constant value; and
there is no zero-setting device;
in the case of an instrument with detachable sliding poises, the head and the sliding poise bear the same distinctive mark;
in the case of an instrument with single capacity, the minimum distance between knife-edges is 25 mm for maximum capacities less than or equal to 30 kg and 20 mm for maximum capacities exceeding 30 kg.;
the graduation extends from zero to the maximum capacity; and
in the case of an instrument of class III or IV provided with a zero-setting device, the device is a captive screw or nut arrangement with a maximum effect of four verification scale intervals per revolution.
An instrument shall be manufactured so that—
detachable symmetrical parts occurring in pairs are interchangeable and of equal mass;
if an instrument is provided with a zero-setting device, it shall be in a cavity below the support of one of the pans and the cavity may be sealed;
in the case of an instrument having a simple beam—
the distance between the outward ends of load knife-edge are at least equal to the diameter of the bottom of the pan, and
the distance between the outward ends of the centre knife edge are at least equal to 0.7 times the length of the load knife-edges; and
in the case of a double beam instrument, the stability of the mechanism shall be equal to that obtained with a simple beam instrument.
An instrument shall be manufactured so that—
the maximum capacity of the instrument is greater than 30 kg;
10”
the ratio between the weighed load and the equilibrium load is indicated legibly and permanently on the beam in the form “1—10” or “1/ ;
it has a zero-setting device consisting either of a cup with a greatly convex cover, or of a captive screw or nut arrangement, with a maximum effect of 4 verification scale intervals per revolution;
any complementary balancing device that avoids the use of weights which are of low value in relation to the maximum capacity is a graduated steelyard with a sliding poise so that the effect is additive and not more than 10 kg.; and
it has a manual device for locking the beam, the action of which prevents the equilibrium indices coinciding when at rest.
Regulations 38 to 45 relating to load measuring devices with accessible sliding poises apply to instruments under this section.
An instrument shall be manufactured so that—
the numbered scale of the instrument permits continuous weighing from zero to the maximum capacity;
the scale spacing ix of the different bars (x = 1, 2, 3...) corresponding to the scale interval dx of these bars, is 1x> (dx/e) 0.05 mm, but 1x > 2 mm;
10 100
the ratio between the value of weights placed on any ratio platform for extending the indicating range of the numbered scale to balance a load and the load itself is 1/ or 1/ ; and
the ratio referred to in paragraph (c) is indicated legibly and permanently on the beam in a position close to the ratio platform in the form “1—10”,
“1—100”, or “ 1 , 1 ”.
10 100
Regulations 52(c) and (e) apply to the instrument.
Division 9 -Weighing Instruments – Requirements of Automatic Weighing Machines
An automatic weighing machine and its integral parts shall, as far as practicable, satisfy the requirements of these regulations which are applicable, corresponding to its type and class to which the machine most nearly relates.
All beams of automatic weighing machines shall be identified with the machines to which they relate by means of an indelible number or other mark of recognition.
Any adjusting mechanism of an automatic weighing machine shall be so secured and protected that it cannot be readily tampered with.
Division 10 – Measuring Instruments – Requirements of Fuel Dispensing Instruments
A petrol pump shall be manufactured so that it—
delivers fuel at only one outlet;
has a clear and legible volume indicator;
has no counter or totalising device which might be confused with the volume indicator;
does not leak;
does not have a delivery hose longer than five metres, unless
the pump is used to refuel ships or aircraft; and
the Director has given written permission for a delivery hose longer than 5 m;
has the manufacturer’s name clearly marked on it; and
has any price indicator fitted with a device which clearly indicates the price per litre or price per gallon and regulates the registration on the indicator.
For the purpose of subregulation (1)(e), the length of the delivery hose includes the length of the nozzle but excludes the length of a swing or radial arm and, in the case of a retractable hose, shall be measured when fully extended from where it emerges from its housing.
If the pump is used to measure lubricating oil, its delivery hose shall be permanently filled to the nozzle.
A petrol pump of a fixed type shall be—
securely mounted on a solidly constructed level base;
sited so that a purchaser has an unobstructed view of the volume indicator, and of any price indicator, and
sited so that the adjusting mechanism, seal and place for the verification stamp are readily accessible.
A petrol pump equipped with a meter shall—
not deliver fuel unless the volume indicator and any price indicator have been reset to zero;
have an air separator and a cut-off valve which ensures non-registration if the supply of fuel stops; and
have a delivery hose permanently filled to the nozzle.
A petrol pump which has one or more measuring chambers shall—
except when fitted with valves for automatic filling and emptying of the chambers, have visual indication that a chamber is full or is empty;
have the delivery hose so positioned as to allow complete discharge of the liquid flowing from one chamber into another; and
if it has more than one measuring chamber,
have a valve to prevent the liquid flowing from one chamber into another, and
have each chamber denominated.
A petrol pump, when new or in service, shall have no error exceeding ± 0.5% of the volume purported to be delivered or 50 ml, whichever is the greater.
A bulk meter, including a vehicle tank meter shall—
have devices which
prevent air from passing through the meter to such an extent as to affect the accuracy of delivery, and
ensure that no registration takes place when the supply of fuel fails;
have no leakage;
have figures on any indicator which are indelible, clear and legible;
have the maker’s name marked on it;
have clearly marked, the minimum and maximum rates of flow in litres or cubic meters per minute or gallons per minute;
have primary indicating or recording elements which can advance only by the flow of the liquid through the meter, provided that the meter reading may be cleared by an advance movement which cannot be stopped before zero is reached; and
when a pre-set mechanism is incorporated, automatically stop delivery registration and flow when the pre-set volume has been delivered.
A bulk meter, when new or in service, shall have no error exceeding ± 0.5% of the volume purported to be delivered or two litres, whichever is greater.
Except where permitted in accordance with subregulation (2), no person shall sell, or in a commercial transaction deliver, fuel in bulk from a mobile tanker except through a petrol pump, or through a bulk meter.
Vehicle tanks or compartments of vehicle tanks are permitted for trade of fuel if such tanks or compartments—
have been approved, verified and stamped by the Director within errors not exceeding ± 0.5% of the entire content of each tank compartment;
are used for one individual delivery of the entire content of one or more compartments; and
are so positioned during delivery as to assume complete emptying of the compartments.
Division 1 – General
Fees at the rates set out in Schedule 12 are payable for testing, verification, adjustment and stamping of weights, measures, and weighing and measuring instruments.
Every weight, measure, or weighing or measuring instrument which complies with these regulations and is correct shall be stamped or marked with—
the prescribed official verification mark; and
where practicable, symbol comprising a numeral indicating the month and the last two numerals of the year of verification;
Division 2 – Testing of Weights
A weight shall be tested by comparison with the equivalent working standard weight or group of working standard weights having errors less than one third of the limit of error specified in Table 2 of Schedule 1 and Table 2 of Schedule 2, by direct comparison on a class II or higher class balance.
If a weight does not conform to these Regulations it shall not be passed as correct at verification. A rejection mark may be stamped or affixed to the weight.
A weight for general trade that has been passed as correct at verification, shall be stamped—
if the weight has an adjusting hole, on the lead in that hole; or
in any other case, on the base surface of the weight.
A precision weight for trade with valuable goods that has been passed as correct at verification, shall be stamped—
on its base surface if it is of a denomination of 200 grams or more; or
on the identification plate on top of the storage box if it is of a denomination of 100 grams or less.
Division 3 – Testing of Liquid Measures
A measure of volume shall be tested—
by filling it to its capacity with water; and
by emptying those contents into a standard test measure having limits of error not exceeding one-fourth of those specified in Schedule 3 or Schedule 4 and by allowing a drainage time of 30 seconds.
A measure of volume may be tested by the gravimetric method instead of the method referred to in subregulation (1).
A fixed storage tank shall be tested by a geometric or volumetric method.
The reference temperature at the time of testing shall be 27 0C, or in the case of a measure of volume intended to be used at another temperature, at that other temperature.
If a measure does not conform to these Regulations it shall not be passed as correct at verification and a rejection mark may be stamped or affixed to the measure of volume.
A measure of volume which has been passed as correct at verification shall be stamped—
in the case of a metal measure, at the bottom of the inside of any lip or retaining edge; and
in any other case, near the marking of capacity.
Division 4 - Testing of Length Measures
A measure of length shall be tested—
against a standard measure of length having errors not exceeding one third of the limits specified in Schedule 5 and Schedule 6;
at a reference temperature of 27ÚC, unless intended for use at another temperature; and
in the case of a tape measure, while it is supported horizontal over its complete length and subjected to a tensile force of—
50 Newtons in the case of a metal measure; or
10 Newtons in the case of a measure not made of metal.
A measure of length which does not conform to the requirements of these regulations as applicable shall not be passed as correct at verification and a rejection mark may be stamped or affixed to the measure of length.
Division 5 - Testing of Weighing Instruments
In order to ensure the accuracy of a weighing instrument, tests to ensure that it is fit for its intended use shall be carried out on a new or repaired weighing instrument at verification, including—
a visual inspection of all parts of the instrument including those which may be dismantled and re-assembled without changing the correct operation of the instrument; and
the tests referred to in regulation 26.
At an in-service inspection of weighing instruments, the applicable parts of inspection and testing as specified in subregulation (1) shall be carried out and any stamps, seals and markings of the instrument and verification certificates shall be examined.
A weighing instrument shall be inspected—
in the case of a portable instrument, at a site where it is intended to be used or at a place and time to be determined by the Director; and
in the case of any other instrument, at the site of its intended use.
The limit of error of a weighing instrument shall be tested with working standard weights having errors of not more than one third of the limit of error for that instrument.
Except where otherwise provided in these Regulations, tests shall be carried out for all weighing instruments at the following loads—
at no load;
at half maximum capacity;
at maximum capacity, including if applicable, maximum additive tare; and
at loads at which the method of balancing is modified by addition or subtraction of a unit weight.
Self-indicating weighing machines, in addition to test loads specified in subregulation (5), shall be tested at—
capacity of self-indication if different from maximum capacity; and
at as many loads as is necessary to ensure that they are correct in view of their particular construction.
The following tests shall be carried out on platform machines and weighbridges at verification—
tests for discrimination, sensitivity and limit of error, which shall be carried out in compliance with regulation 25 provided that procedures and means for applying high test loads are available at the Bureau; and
tests for position of load, which shall be made in accordance with regulation 25, with weighbridges being tested using a vehicle with a total load not exceeding 80 percent of the sum of the maximum capacity and maximum tare which is successively immobilized at different points of the load receptor.
A weighbridge shall be checked for—
adequate drainage with no accumulation of water, mud or debris in the pit;
smooth, straight and horizontal approaches for a distance of at least half the length of the platform at each end of the weighbridge;
ensuring that the building with the indicating device is so constructed that the operator has an unobstructed view of the whole platform;
the platform being so protected that vehicles can only access it by using its ends to go onto it or leave it;
adequate foundations to support the platform and other components at maximum load without movement; and
a counterpoise weight of distinctive shape from other counterpoise weights which can accurately compensate for the weight of any loose receptor or frame used with the instrument and which has the words “TARE WEIGHT” legibly and conspicuously stamped on its edge.
Division 6 - Testing of Fuel Dispensing Instruments
A measuring instrument shall be tested under practical working conditions with the liquid fuel or lubricant that the instrument is intended to deliver.
No fuel dispensing instrument may be tested unless it is complete with all parts and attachments necessary for the operation of measurement and delivery.
An Inspector—
may open any lock or sealed tank or container from which liquid fuel or lubricant has been withdrawn, for the purposes of testing in order to return the fuel or lubricant to it; and
immediately after the fuel or lubricant has been returned, shall—
securely re-fasten the tank or container, and
replace any broken seal or link with another seal upon which he or she shall affix the official stamp.
Any liquid fuel or lubricant that is drawn from any tank or container for the purpose of the test shall be returned to the person in charge of the measuring instrument.
A petrol pump having a measuring chamber shall be tested, after passing 5 litres or more of fuel or lubricant through the delivery hose.
The standard test measures used to test a petrol pump shall not have limits of error exceeding ± 0.1 percent.
A petrol pump shall be tested by delivering the fuel into test measures in such numbers and volume as are necessary.
The meter shall be tested by a slow test at a rate of delivery not exceeding 10 litres per minute.
The pump shall be tested to ensure that it works correctly whether the fuel is delivered rapidly or slowly.
The pump shall be tested to ensure that when a delivery has been completed, no further operation can take place until the indicator for quantity has been reset to zero.
The pump shall be tested to ensure that over a number of deliveries, the indications on the price indicator correspond with the indications on the volume indicator and with the price per litre or gallon, as the case may be.
The pump shall be tested to ensure that the volume indicators and the price indicators both agree after a delivery, for pumps having more than one volume and price indicator.
In the case of a pump having a nozzle control valve, the pump shall be tested to ensure that no fuel is delivered when the valve is open and the pump is not operating.
A petrol pump not conforming to these Regulations shall not be passed as correct at verification and a rejection mark may be stamped or affixed to the petrol pump.
A pump which has been passed as correct at verification shall—
have a verification mark stamped on a lead plug inserted in a conspicuous and easily accessible part of the pump; and
have affixed to it a standard seal to prevent access to the adjusting device without breaking the seal.
A bulk meter shall be tested—
after any dry hose has been flushed and the instrument reset to zero;
using standard test measures or a calibrated master meter or a proving loop, which have limits of error not exceeding ± 0.15 percent;
by passing the liquid intended to be normally used, through the meter into standard test measures in several necessary deliveries and volumes, or by comparison of the indication of the meter under test with the indication of a calibrated master meter or proving loop;
with varying heads of liquid or with varying bore by manipulation of the delivery valve as far as is practicable.
A meter which has been passed as correct at verification shall—
have a verification mark stamped on a conspicuous and easily accessible part of the meter; and
have affixed to it a standard seal to prevent access to the working parts or adjusting device without breaking the seal.
In this Part–
“batch”, in relation to a package in which any goods is pre-packaged, means—
in the case of packages from a packing line, the number of similar packages produced during one hour;
in the case of packages stored, the number of packages, not exceeding 10,000, of the same type taken from the same production run; or
in the case of any goods pre-packaged outside Saint Kitts and Nevis, the number of packages, not exceeding 10,000, of the same type taken from the same consignment;
“combination package” means a package intended for retail sale, consisting of 2 or more individual packages of dissimilar goods;
“drained weight”, in relation to solid goods contained in a free-flowing liquid, means the net weight of the solid goods after the liquid has been drained for a period of 2 minutes;
“free sample” means a sample of pre-packaged goods distributed free of charge by an importer, manufacturer, packer, supplier or distributor for purposes of trade promotion, either in connection with the sale of the pre-packaged goods or otherwise;
“negative error” means the quantity by which the actual net quantity of a pre- packaged goods is less than the nominal quantity;
“net quantity” means the quantity of the pre-packaged goods contained in the package, exclusive of the package or any other material packed with such package;
“nominal quantity” means the net quantity of pre-packaged goods declared on the package;
“non-consumer package” means any package intended solely for industrial or institutional use, or packed for a specified customer;
“pre-packaged goods” means any goods which—
is made of an entity or unit and of which the quantity has been determined in advance and indicated on its label, prior to its being exposed for sale; and
is made up securely in a package in such a way that the contents cannot be altered without the package being opened or perceptibly modified;
“principal display panel” means the part of a label which is most likely to be displayed, presented, shown or examined under normal and customary conditions of display for sale;
“random sampling” means the taking of a specified number of packages from a batch in such a way that all possible combinations of numbers of packages selected have the same probability of being chosen;
“limit of error”, in relation to a particular nominal quantity expressed in terms of—
weight or volume, means the limit of negative error specified in Schedules 1, 2, 3 and 4; and
length, means the limit of negative error specified in Schedules 6 and 7.
This Part shall not apply to—
free samples; and
non-consumer packages.
Unless otherwise provided in these regulations, the manner of determining—
the net quantity of pre-packaged frozen goods;
tare values;
moisture allowances; and
drained weight,
shall be in accordance with the methods prescribed in OIML Recommendation 87.
For the purposes of checking the net weight or measure of pre-packaged goods, an inspector—
may subject to subregulation (2), use measuring devices that—
have been issued to him or her, or
are owned by the trade outlet;
shall consider as one lot, as large a number as possible of the goods being offered for sale and in store;
may draw random samples of the goods of a specified number of pre-packaged goods to be used as samples; and
shall determine the net weight or measure of the goods.
Where the inspector uses measuring devices owned by the trade outlet—
the measuring devices shall have been passed as correct at verification; and
the accuracy of the measuring devices shall be suitable for the type and quantity of the goods intended to be checked.
A measuring device used by an Inspector for the purpose of checking the quantity of pre-packaged goods shall be accurate to about 1 % of the measured quantity.
The limits of error for pre-packaged goods shall not be greater than the limits of error specified in Schedule 10.
The packages drawn as samples—
shall not have a net quantity less than the nominal quantity minus twice the limit of error; and
for pre-packages of variable net quantities, the pre-packaged goods shall be weighed individually after de-freezing, if necessary.
The sampling procedures referred to in paragraph (5) shall be carried out and Table 1, 2 or 3 of Schedule 8, as the case may be, shall be applicable in deciding the compliance of a batch with the requirements of these Regulations.
Where the pre-packaged goods are to be destroyed in deciding compliance of the batch of goods with the requirements of these regulations, a smaller sample size as specified in writing by the Director may be used.
The extent of deficiency in the net quantity of any pre-packaged commodity stocked for sale or offered or exposed for sale shall not be more than twice the limit of error.
For the purposes of the Act, every label on a package of a pre-packaged commodity shall—
be affixed to, attached to or printed on the package;
be prominent; and
satisfy the requirements specified in this regulation.
The letters and numbers contained in a label shall be—
legible, indelible and of such size and style as to be clear and conspicuous; and
presented in a colour that contrasts conspicuously with the colour of the background,
except where the letters and numbers are blown, embossed or moulded on a glass or plastic surface.
No label indicating the quantity of the product shall be made so as to require it to be read through any liquid commodity or other medium contained in the package.
Where a package, or a group of such packages, in which a commodity is pre-packaged is provided with an outside container or wrapper, the outside container or wrapper shall bear a label similar to the one appearing on the package, unless the container or wrapper is itself transparent and the label on the package can be read easily through the container or wrapper.
Each individual package in a combination package shall bear its own label.
The language used on the label shall be English.
The label of a commodity which is pre-packaged outside Saint Kitts and Nevis shall mention the name and address of the importer or distributor, preceded by the words “Manufactured for”, “Distributed by”, “Marketed by” or “Imported by”, as the case may be.
Where the label of a commodity pre-packaged outside Saint Kitts and Nevis makes no mention of the name and address of the importer and distributor, the retailer shall keep a record relating to the name and address of that importer and distributor for the period for which the commodity is sold or offered for sale.
Except as specified otherwise, the label of a commodity pre-packaged for sale in a package other than a hermetically-sealed container, shall bear the words “when packed” or words to the like effect with the declaration of quantity.
The declaration of quantity—
shall appear on the principal display panel;
shall be positioned on the principal display panel so that it can be read easily by any person when the package is exposed for sale; and
may be blown, embossed or moulded on a glass or plastic surface where all label information is blown, embossed or moulded on the surface.
The letters and numbers used for the declaration and which are contained in a label shall not, in any way, be hidden, obscured or interrupted by any other written or pictorial matter.
Subject to paragraph (4), the label shall, in relation to the declaration of weight, bear the words “net weight” or “net” which may either precede or follow the declaration of weight.
Where a solid commodity is contained in a liquid to be sold as such, the declaration of quantity shall be deemed to be in terms of the drained weight of the commodity, and the label shall bear the words “drained weight” instead of the words “net weight” or “net”.
Every symbol representing the units of measurement shall be written in singular form and shall not be followed by a full stop.
Except as specified otherwise, the declaration of quantity shall be expressed in terms of the unit of—
weight, where the commodity is solid, semi-solid or viscous, or a mixture of solid and liquid;
volume, where the commodity is liquid;
length, where the commodity is sold by linear measure;
area, where a commodity is sold by area measure; or
count, where the commodity is sold by number.
No container or package of any commodity shall have a false bottom, false sidewalls, false lids or covering or be otherwise so constructed or filled, wholly or partially, in such a way as to deceive the purchaser, unless such characteristics are essential for the proper conservation of the commodity, taking into consideration any recognised and accepted production practices that may be necessary for the manufacturer or packer.
Every packer of pre-packaged goods shall—
verify, or cause to be verified, by a duly assized instrument the net quantity of pre-packaged goods on the packing line at regular intervals every day;
maintain, or cause to be maintained, a record of verifications made under paragraph (a) in a record book; and
on request, present the record-book to an authorised officer and provide him with such assistance as he may require.
Every importer, distributor or supplier of pre-packaged goods shall—
take such steps as may be required to ensure the correctness of the declaration of the net quantity of pre-packaged goods in respect of each consignment;
maintain, or cause to be maintained, a record of verifications made under paragraph (a) in a record book; and
on request, present the record-book to an authorised officer and provide him with such assistance as he may require.
A person who desires to obtain a licence to sell or repair or manufacture and sell any weight or measure or any weighing or measuring instrument for use in commercial trade, shall make an application to the Director in the form set out as Form A1 or A2 in Schedule 11 accompanied by the prescribed fee.
A licence to sell or repair or manufacture and sell a metric weight or measure or a metric weighing or measuring instrument—
shall be in the forms set out as Forms L1 and L2 in Schedule 11;
is an annual licence that expires on the anniversary of the date on which it was issued;
is subject to the conditions specified in it; and
may be renewed on payment of the prescribed annual fee.
If a licence is lost, damaged or destroyed, the licensee may be issued a certified copy of the licence—
on applying to the Director in writing; and
on payment of the prescribed fee.
(Regulations 7, 9, 10 and 60)
Denomination | Limit of Error, ± mg | ||
Initial verification | In-service verification | ||
1 g | 5 | 10 | |
2 g | 5 | 10 | |
5 g | 10 | 20 | |
10 g | 20 | 40 | |
20 g | 20 | 40 | |
50 g | 30 | 60 | |
100 g | 100 | 200 | |
200 g | 100 | 200 | |
500 g | 250 | 500 | |
1 kg | 500 | 1000 | |
2 kg | 1000 | 2000 | |
5 kg | 2500 | 5000 | |
10 kg | 5000 | 10 000 | |
20 kg | 10 000 | 20 000 | |
50 kg | 25 000 | 50 000 | |
Denomination | Limit of Error | |
Initial Verification | In-service Verification | |
10 mg | + 0.2 0 | ± 0.2 |
20 mg | + 0.5 0 | ± 0.5 |
50 mg | +0.5 0 | ± 0.5 |
100 mg | +0.5 0 | ± 0.5 |
200 mg | +1.0 0 | ± 1.0 |
500 mg | +1.0 0 | ± 1.0 |
1 g | +1.0 0 | ± 1.0 |
2 g | +1.0 0 | ± 1.0 |
5 g | +2.0 0 | ± 2.0 |
10 g | +4.0 0 | ± 4.0 |
20 g | +4.0 0 | ± 4.0 |
50 g | +5.0 0 | ± 5.0 |
100 g | +10.0 0 | ± 10.0 |
(Regulations 7, 8, 10 and 60)
Denomination | Limit of Error, mg | |
Initial Verification | In-service Verification | |
1 drams | 0.08 | 0.16 |
2 drams | 0.16 | 0.32 |
4 drams | 0.32 | 0.64 |
8 drams | 0.32 | 0.64 |
1 ounce | 0.5 | 1 |
2 ounces | 0.5 | 1 |
4 ounces | 1.5 | 3 |
8 ounces | 1.5 | 3 |
1 pound | 4 | 8 |
2 pounds | 8 | 16 |
4 pounds | 15 | 30 |
5 pounds | 20 | 40 |
7 pounds | 24 | 48 |
7 pounds | 35 | 70 |
14 pounds | 50 | 100 |
20 pounds | 95 | 190 |
28 pounds | 100 | 200 |
50 pounds | 175 | 350 |
56 pounds | 195 | 390 |
Denomination ounces troy | Limit of error, grains | |
Initial verification | In-service Verification | |
1 | + 0.1 0 | ± 0.1 |
2 | + 0.1 0 | ± 0.1 |
3 | +0.15 0 | ± 0.15 |
4 | + 0.2 0 | ± 0.2 |
5 | + 0.25 0 | ± 0.25 |
10 | + 0.5 0 | ± 0.5 |
20 | + 1 0 | ± 1 |
30 | +1.5 0 | ± 1.5 |
40 | + 2 0 | ± 2 |
50 | + 2.5 0 | ± 2.5 |
100 | + 5 0 | ± 5 |
200 | + 9 0 | ± 9 |
300 | + 14 0 | ± 14 |
400 | + 18 0 | ± 18 |
500 | + 22 0 | ± 22 |
(Regulations 12, 16 and 62)
Denomination | Limit of error, millilitres (ml) | |
Initial Verification | In-service Verification | |
20 ml | ± 1 | + 2 - 1 |
50 ml | ± 2 | + 4 - 2 |
100 ml | ± 3 | + 6 - 3 |
200 ml | ± 5 | + 10 - 5 |
250 ml | ± 5 | + 10 - 5 |
500 ml | ± 10 | + 20 - 10 |
1 l | ± 15 | + 30 - 15 |
2 l | ± 25 | + 50 - 25 |
5 l | ± 50 | + 100 - 50 |
10 l | ± 80 | + 160 - 80 |
201 lor more | ± 0.5 percent | + 1 percent - 0.5 percent |
(Regulations12, 16 and 62)
Denomination | Maximum permissible error | |
Initial Verification | In-service Verification | |
1 fluid ounce | ± 24 minims | + 48 minims - 24 |
2 fluid ounces | ±38 minims | + 76 minims - 38 |
4 fluid ounces | ± 57 minims | + 114 minims - 57 |
6 fluid ounces | ± 70 minims | + 140 minims - 70 |
8 fluid ounces | ± 70 minims | + 140 minims - 70 |
½ pint | ± 95 minims | + 190 minims - 95 |
1 pint | ± 190 minims | + 380 minims - 190 |
1 quart | ± 285 minims | + 570 minims - 285 |
½ gallon | ± 475 minims | + 950 minims - 475 |
1 gallon | ± 760 minims | + 1520 minims - 760 |
2 gallon | ± 2.5 ounce | + 5 ounce - 2.5 |
3 gallon | ± 3.8 ounce | + 7.6 ounce - 3.8 |
4 gallon | ± 5 ounce | + 10 ounce - 5 |
5 gallon or more | ± 0.5 percent | + 1 percent - 0.5 percent |
(Regulation 17)
Denomination or value at graduation | Limit of error, Millilitres (ml) |
500 ml | ± 5.00 |
200 ml | ± 2.00 |
100 ml | ± 1.00 |
50 ml | ± 0.50 |
25 ml | ± 0.25 |
20 ml | ± 0.02 |
10 ml | ± 0.10 |
5 ml | ± 0.05 |
2 ml | ± 0.02 |
1 ml | ± 0.01 |
(Regulations 20 and 64)
Denomination or value of graduation, m | Limit of error, ± mm | |
End measures | Line measures | |
0.5 | 1.2 | 0.8 |
1 | 1.4 | 1 |
1.5 | 1.6 | 1.2 |
2 | 1.8 | 1.4 |
3 | 2 | 1.8 |
4 | - | 2.2 |
5 | - | 2.6 |
10 | - | 4.6 |
15 | - | 6.6 |
20 | - | 8.6 |
25 | - | 10.6 |
30 | - | 12.6 |
50 | - | 20.6 |
60 | - | 24.6 |
100 | - | 40.6 |
(Regulations 20 and 64)
Denomination or value of graduation, inches | Limit of error, ± inches | |
End - measures | Line measures | |
1 | 0.04 | 0.02 |
6 | 0.04 | 0.02 |
12 | 0.04 | 0.02 |
24 | 0.06 | 0.04 |
36 | 0.06 | 0.04 |
48 | 0.06 | 0.04 |
60 | 0.06 | 0.04 |
72 | 0.08 | 0.06 |
96 | 0.08 | 0.06 |
120 | - | 0.08 |
240 | - | 0.12 |
396 | - | 0.18 |
600 | - | 0.26 |
792 | - | 0.34 |
1200 | - | 0.50 |
(Regulations 23, 24 and 25)
TABLE 1 - DEFINITION ON THE VERIFICATION SCALE INTERVAL (E)
Type of Instrument | Accuracy Class | Maximum Load “Max” | Value of the verification scale interval (e) |
Graduated | Classes I, II, III, and IV | - | equal to the scale interval (d) |
Non-graduated | Class I Special | From 100 mg to 1 g both inclusive | 1 mg |
From 1 g to 10 g both inclusive | Max /1000 | ||
above 100 g | Max/10 000 | ||
Class II High | From 1 g inclusive to 5 g exclusive | Max/1000 | |
From 5 g to 100 g both inclusive | 5 mg | ||
From 100 g to 200 g both exclusive | Max/20 000 | ||
Class III Medium | From 20 g to both inclusive | 0.1 g | |
From 100 g to 1 kg both exclusive | Max/1000 | ||
From 1 kg to both inclusive | 1 g | ||
Above 2 kg | Max/2000 | ||
Class IV Ordinary | From 1 kg to 2 kg both inclusive | 5 g | |
Above 2 kg | Max/400 |
Accuracy Class | Verification Scale interval (e) | Number of verification Scale intervals (n)*, min | Minimum Capacity Min |
Special Class I | e > 0.001 g | 50 000 | 100 e |
High Class II | 0.05 g > e > 0.001 g | 100 | 20 e |
e > 0.1 g | 5000 | 50 e | |
Medium Class III | 2 g > e > 0.1 g | 100 | 20 e |
e > 5 g | 500 | 20 e | |
Ordinary Class IV | e > 5 g | 100 | 10 e |
* NOTE — Number of verification scale intervals = Max capacity
e
Maximum permissible error on initial verification | Load Range | |||
Class I | Class II | Class III | Class IV | |
± 0.5 e | 0 to 50 000 e both inclusive | 0 to 5000 e both inclusive | 0 to 500 e both inclusive | 0 to 50 e both inclusive |
± 1 e | 50 000 e to 200 000 e inclusive | 5000 e to 20 000 e inclusive | 500 e to 2000 e inclusive | 200 e to 1000 e inclusive |
± 1.5 e | Over 200 000 e | 20 000 e to 100 000 e inclusive | 2000 e to 10000 e inclusive | 200 e to 1000 e inclusive |
e - verification scale interval in mass units
(Regulation 28)
COLUMN 1 | COLUMN 2 |
Type of Weighing Instrument | Indication of Balance |
Oscillating | Beam returns to position of equilibrium when disturbed from it |
Self indicating by pointer or with graduated indicating plate in or with difference chart | Pointer or plate comes to rest at the position of equilibrium or zero scale mark, the bubble of any spirit level being its correct position |
Counter machine of Beranger pattern | Two pointers, each attached to a subsidiary beam, coming to rest directly opposite each other |
Indicating by digital display or load printed statement | The figure zero (0) being indicated or printer at no load |
(Regulation 72)
Nominal quantity (Qn) in grams or millilitres | Tolerable deficiency | |
As a percentage of nominal quantity | Grams or millilitres | |
0 to 50 | 9 | - |
From 50 to 100 | - | 4.5 |
From 100 to 200 | 4.5 | - |
From 200 to 300 | - | 9 |
From 300 to 500 | 3 | - |
From 500 to 1000 | - | 15 |
From 1000 to 10000 | 1.5 | - |
Above 15000 | 1.0 | 0 |
(Regulations 77 and 78)
Name .
Address of premises where the selling is to be carried on-----------------------------------
Proof of licence to carry on business
Please attach the prescribed fee---$ -----------------------
The applicant hereby declares that all the information provided in this application and any other document provided in support of it is true and correct. Applicant further undertakes to inform the Director without delay of any changes to the information supplied with this application.
Authorized Signature Date
By—
Name .
Address of premises where the selling is to be carried on
Proof of licence to carry on business
FOR MANUFACTURERS—
Proof of submission and approval by the Director of the design and specimens of weights, measures or instruments to be manufactured for sale
FOR REPAIRERS—
Proof of competency in repairing weights, measures, or instruments to be repaired
FOR REPAIRERS—
Proof that the Applicant possesses the equipment necessary to undertake the repairs—
Please attach the prescribed fee— $ .
The applicant hereby declares that all the information provided in this application and any other document provided in support of it is true and correct. Applicant further undertakes to inform the Director without delay of any changes to the information supplied with this application.
Authorized Signature Date
By—
Licence to sell metric weights, measures and weighing and measuring instruments
is / are hereby licensed under the Metrology Regulations to sell weights, measures and weighing and measuring instruments
at from the date of issuance until the thirty-first day of
December, 20 .
Date of issuance Director
Saint Kitts and Nevis Bureau of Standards
Licence to manufacture and sell weights or measures or weighing or measuring instruments or to repair weights and measures or weighing or measuring instruments
is / are hereby licensed under the Metrology Regulations to manufacture and sell weights, measures and weighing and measuring instruments, or to repair weights, measures or weighing and measuring instruments (strike out what is not applicable) at from the date of issuance until the thirty-first day of December, 20 .
Date of issuance
Director
Saint Kitts and Nevis Bureau of Standards
Conditions of the licence For Manufacturers—
A person licensed to manufacture weights or measures or weighing instruments shall submit to the Director for his approval, the design of every weight or measure or weighing or measuring instrument which the person proposes to manufacture.
A person licensed to manufacture weights and measures or weighing or measuring instruments shall submit to the Director for his approval a specimen of every weight or measure or weighing or measuring instrument which the person proposes to manufacture.
A person licensed to repair weights or measures or weighing or measuring instruments, shall either be competent to repair them or employ personnel who are competent to do so.
A person licensed to repair metric weights or measures or weighing or measuring instruments shall always maintain at the place or places mentioned above, equipment as necessary for the repair of weights or measures or weighing or measuring instruments and for which a licence has been issued.
A person licensed to repair weights shall not charge more for a repair than the maximum amount set out in Schedule 12.
Pattern Approval of measuring devices
(Regulations 58, 77 and 79)
Model granted approval from recognized body 2,000.00
Model granted approval from recognized body Cost of obtaining approval where the cost exceeds $2000.00
Blood pressure instrument
Sphygmomanometer 50.00
Verification of Fuel Dispensing devices
Petrol pumps 75.00
Verification of Electricity Meters 30.00
Verification of Weight Pieces
Weights of denomination up to 2kg (4lbs) 10.00
Weights of denomination above 2kg (4lbs ) 30.00
Verification of Weighbridges 1500.00
Verification of Weighing Instruments
up to 10kg inclusive (up to 22 lbs inclusive) 75.00
above 10 kg to 50 kg inclusive (above 22 lbs to 110 lbs inclusive) 100.00
above 50 kg to 150 kg inclusive (above 110 lbs to 331 lbs inclusive) 200.00
above 150 kg to 250 kg (above 331 lbs to 551 lbs inclusive) 325.00
above 250kg to 350kg inclusive (above 551 lbs to 772 inclusive) 425.00
above 350kg to 450kg inclusive (above 772 lbs to 992 lbs inclusive) 525.00
above 450kg to 550kg inclusive (above 992 lbs to 1213 lbs inclusive) 625.00
above 550kg to 1500kg inclusive (above 1213 lbs to 3307 lbs inclusive) 725.00
above 1500kg to 2500kg inclusive (above 3307 lbs to 5512 lbs inclusive) 825.00
above 2500kg inclusive (above 5512 lbs) 925.00
Verification of Price Scanners 100.00
Fee for application for licence to sell, repair, or manufacture and sell weights, measures, or weighing and measuring instruments
Licence for Repair Personnel 100 per year
Licence for Manufacturers of Measuring Devices 250 per year
Licence for Importers and Suppliers of Measuring Devices 250 per year
Made this 10th day of February, 2023.
DENZIL L DOUGLAS
Minister with responsibility for Commerce and Consumer Affairs
GOVERNMENT PRINTERY ST KITTS W I