Weights & Measures

We test scales, weighbridges, spirit measuring instruments, petrol pumps, water meters and other weighing and measuring equipment used by traders to ensure accuracy. Checks are made to ensure that goods sold by weight or measure are the correct quantity.
We aim to:
  • Provide an initial response to requests for advice within 2 working days
  • Provide a detailed response to requests for advice within 10 working days
  • Give written notification of any alleged infringement at the time of our inspection or failing this within 10 working days of it coming to our notice.

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A question often asked of Weights and Measures Inspectors is “How do you know your weights and measures are correct?” The simple answer is that Trading Standards Services hold “Local Standards” of weight and measure that are in turn checked against the national standards. This does, however, fail to recognise the technology and expertise in the process. The Isle of Wight Trading Standards Service maintains a metrology laboratory housing the Isle of Wight “Local Standards” that are used to calibrate day to day working standards, and the testing equipment required for the calibration of standards.
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Below are photographs of some of the equipment used in our Laboratory to test the Working Standards.
This is a 5kg Equal Arm Balance of Precision which is used to calibrate a Working Standard of mass against a Local Standard of mass.
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Here are some of our Local Standards of mass that are used solely in the Laboratory. The Working Standard weights are used in the ‘field’ by Inspectors and are calibrated against the Local Standard.
These are some of the Local Standards of Volume that are used to test Working Standards of Volume. For example the measures we use for testing Petrol Pumps are calibrated against these Local Standards to ensure they are accurate and remain legal. Metal Working Standard measures have to be tested against a Local Standard every 6 months.
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Public Weighbridges


Below are the current Public Weighbridges available on the Isle of Wight.

Aggregate Industries - Bardon Vectis
St. Georges Down, Blackwater
Newport
P D Port Services Ltd
Medina Wharf, Arctic Road
Cowes


Fees


Please click here to view our fees for 2011/2012.


Related Links


National Weights and Measures Laboratory (NWML)


Business Advice – Weights & Measures


ERWIN (Everything Regulation Whenever It’s Needed)

Please click here for business advice on Weights and Measures.

Please note: If you require specific advice on this subject, please contact the Trading Standards Service for further assistance.



Page last updated on: 22/06/2011