NCCO International It would be easy to assume that all weigh scales are the same. How different can they be, after all? The truth of the matter is that there are several differences in quality and type of scale. And, more importantly, there are differences in the way scales are regulated based on type of industry and the state in which your business operates.
These regulated scales are termed legal for trade. In the following article we will discuss the reason for these differences, what is required for a weigh scale to be considered legal for trade, and how to ensure your scale is in compliance with local regulations to avoid legal consequences and guarantee commercial transactions are accurate and fair.
Legal for Trade Weigh Scales
Businesses that sell goods by weight – e.g., grocery stores and markets, butcher shops, delis, meat packing facilities – are required by law to use a scale that has been verified as legal for trade. Weigh scales can only be considered legal for trade if they have undergone rigorous testing to determine accuracy and reliability.
There are two organizations responsible for this determination. The first is the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). This is a federal agency that is responsible for creating rules and regulations on a national level that local inspectors and manufacturers must follow.
The second organization, the one responsible for implementing the standards set by the NIST, is the National Conference of Weights and Measures (NCWM). This organization not only enforces the rules, but also develops the standards and the evaluation program that determines scale performance.
Important to note: The standards and certifications of these two agencies are only recognized in the United States. Different rules apply in different parts of the world – run by the EURAMET in Europe, for example, or Measure Canada for our neighbors to the north.
After the successful completion of testing, the scale receives a number that signifies its National Type Evaluation Program (NTEP) Certificate of Conformance (CC). This number can be found on the scale itself or an added metal tag along with the make, model, and weigh capacity of the scale – this number is the most important thing to look for when buying a legal for trade scale. It is the one thing that ensures your business is protected from the use of unverified or fraudulent weigh scales.
Verifying Your Weigh Scale
The next step after purchasing a scale approved by NTEP and checking for the CC is making an appointment with your local weights and measures inspector to get it inspected and verified. Local weights and measures departments will have the specific verifications for scales that vary from state to state, as mentioned above. Your scale must be verified by the inspector to ensure it meets the standards per the regulations of your state and industry.
The weights and measures inspector will check for a valid certification mark, as well as accuracy and functionality. They may also perform any necessary adjustments and calibrations to ensure the scale is operating as it should, and that it meets all legal requirements. If the scale passes the inspector’s test, it will receive either an official approval, or a security seal – or both, in certain cases – which is a stamp of approval that your scale has been inspected and is ready to be used for retail sales.
Important to note: This is a recurring inspection, not just a one-time thing, and your weigh scale’s seal will be adjusted at each new verification session. The NIST recommends getting inspected regularly – depending on frequency of use – no less than annually. It is also important to know some states employ inspectors to show up at random points to check on your scale and confirm it is functioning properly.
The Importance of Scale Certification
Why is certification so important, you ask? There are several reasons why a commercial business where products are sold by weight should have a certified scale, and there are many benefits:
Scale readings are accurate
The importance of an accurate weigh scale cannot be understated. Correct readings from an accurate weigh scale allow for fair pricing on commercial transactions, ensuring the transaction is fair to both buyers and sellers.
Your customers are protected
Certification ensures a consumer is protected from inaccurate or fraudulent transactions. This is not only (very) important from a legal standpoint to keep your business safe, but it also builds trust with the customer.
The scale is in compliance
A certified scale allows your business to avoid legal repercussions by ensuring their scales are compliant and following set rules and regulations. Your establishment can face several consequences the scale fails to meet these requirements. These consequences include fines, fees, or penalties, seizure of the scale, or legal action including the potential shutdown of the business.
Legal ramifications aside, having a certified scale that meets requirements ensures accurate measurement, and leads to profitability for the retailer, avoiding any negatives and adding multiple positives for your operation.
Certified Brecknell Portion Scale from NCCO
Whether you’re measuring ingredients, weighing products, or portioning food in commercial kitchens, the 10″ x 10″ 30lb capacity with Lbs Display Brecknell 6710 Portion Scale is certified to deliver the accuracy you need for precision and perfection every time. Simply get your scale inspected after purchase by your local inspector for weights and measures and you’re ready to go.
Plus, the seamless integration of the Brecknell Portion Scale with the DateCodeGenie® lets you weigh, label, and date your products in one streamlined process, reducing labor costs and improving overall kitchen efficiency. It works with several of our DateCodeGenie model types, including the DateCodeGenie X Series, and the DateCodeGenie Fit.