What is the role of the Weights and Measures Department (WMD)?
The Weights and Measures Department (WMD) ensures that a uniform and accurate system of weights and measures is used in Nigeria. With the system, consumers and traders are assured that they get what they pay for when buying goods that are weighed, measured or pre-packed. It also provides a correct measurement for excise tax computation for the Government.
Why is there a need for a Weights & Measures Act?
The Weights and Measures Act ensures fair trading and penalizes traders for short-weights and measures. It enables WMO to enforce controls on weighing and measuring instruments used for trade, the net contents of pre-packaged goods as well as prevent unfair trading due to short-weights or measures.
What are the main functions of WMD?
WMD performs the following functions:
- Designating Inspectors for weighing and measuring instruments for trade use.
- Registering pattern of approved weighing and measuring instruments.
- Verifying (for accuracy) and stamping/sealing (to indicate approval and prevent tampering) all new or repaired weighing and measuring instruments for trade use.
- Inspecting such instruments for trade use for inaccuracies and tampering.
- Inspecting pre-packaged goods or goods sold by weight or measure for short-weight or measure.
- Investigating complaints pertaining to weights and measures matters from consumers or traders.
My business requires the use of weighing and measuring instruments. What should I do? How can I get my weighing or measuring instruments verified/stamped?
Your weighing or measuring instrument needs to be verified before it can be used for trade. Contact an Inspector to make arrangements to have your weighing or measuring instrument verified/stamped. A list of theInspectors can be found at List of Inspectors of Weighing and Measuring Instruments.
Why is there a need to register the pattern of weighing and measuring instruments for trade use?
The pattern of a weighing and measuring instrument refers to the design of an instrument with all components affecting its measurement properties suitably specified. Such instruments must show proof that they have undergone various tests and are in compliance with the relevant international standards. This is to ensure that the instruments can maintain their accuracy under different climatic and operating conditions.
By registering the pattern of the weighing and measuring instrument, it ensures that no substandard design of weighing and measuring instruments for trade use are used in Nigeria.