Legal metrology has come into force by means of a Legal Notice entitled Measurements Subject to Metrological Control Regulations and published in the Government Gazette of 6 June.
While seemingly very technical, these regulations make the verification of metrology tools and apparatus possible. The latter are to be calibrated every so often. In other words, it’s a system of checks and balances to ensure that there is no fiddling.
The Malta Competition and Consumer Affairs Authority (MCCAA), which was recently set up following a parliamentary debate on the matter, will be responsible for such checks held on:
• Machines that bottle gas cylinders
• CVA cameras
• Speed cameras
• Taxi meters
• Petrol pumps
• All types of weighing scales found in grocery stores and supermarkets.
In a statement, the government explained this is another initiative in favour of consumers and by which it will be ensured that all types of meters and weighing scales mentioned will be working as expected.
When contacted, a spokesperson for the parliamentary secretariat of Chris Said, who is responsible for consumer affairs, explained that every so often metrological equipment needs to be checked because they tend to lose calibration.
The new regulations therefore give consumers better peace of mind that they are getting the right amount for what they are paying.
Machines that bottle gas cylinders, CVA cameras, speed cameras, taxi meters and petrol pumps will be checked every year. Normal measuring scales will be checked every five years while other scales that measure objects of value will be checked every three years.
Digital or electronic scales will be checked every five years, while weighing scales for heavy vehicles will be checked every year.
Catchweighers will be checked every two years.
MCCAA urged all those using scales of the sort mentioned to ensure they work properly and calibrate their equipment if necessary.
The authority added it will be working hand in hand with business owners and assist them in giving a proper service to their customers.
Shop owners may contact the MCCAA for any type of information on the matter on 2395-2000 or by email: [email protected].