Weights and measures

Part of our job is to ensure that you receive the correct amount of the products you buy. In factories we check products are the correct weights as well as the weighing equipment, in shops we will check the weighing machines and in pubs and petrol stations we will check the measures to make sure you get what you pay for.

Testing services

We provide a limited testing and verification service for weighing and measuring equipment, for example: petrol pumps, trader's scales, trader weights. We will also issue certificates of accuracy for weights being used in factories.

Officers examine traders' weighing and measuring equipment, using Local and Working Standards set by the Weights and Measures Act 1985.

As well as maintaining the accuracy of weights and measuring equipment, we carry out procedures for checking that packaged goods are the correct weight or measure and that labelling that declares the weight or volume of a product is clear, so that they can be easily understood by consumers. Pre-packaged products are checked for accuracy at the factory, at the place of importation, at wholesale and at retail level.

These tests are carried out using computerised electronic weighing equipment. This then ensures that goods sold by weight or measure are of the correct quantity.

In addition to protecting consumers from short weights and measures, we can also advise businesses on their weighing and measuring procedures.

If you are a business and would like further information about this service together with our fees, call Trading Standards on 01495 235291 or email tradingstandards@caerphilly.gov.uk.