All goods, whether pre-packed or not, should be of the correct weight or measure stated on the packaging or indicated on the premises. Staffordshire County Council's Trading Standards Team deal with weights and measures queries in the Cannock Chase District.


The National Weights and Measures Laboratory examine patterns of weighing and measuring equipment (submitted in the UK) to determine whether their design or manufacture is such to facilitate fraud. Once such equipment has a certificate, it must conform to the pattern and pass accuracy tests carried out by an Inspector. Once the equipment has been verified or stamped by an Inspector it may be used for trade (this system is known as verification). There is also a system of European Community approval removing technical barriers to trade.

So, Inspectors of Weights and Measures (or Trading Standards Officers as they are more commonly known) visit trade premises and carry out inspections and verification of weighing and measuring equipment. Examples include counter weighing machines, weighbridges, weights, petrol pumps, spirit measuring instruments, wine and beer glasses, metre measures to name some common examples. Prepacked goods, breads, textiles etc., are tested to ensure correct weight or measure.


Other useful information can be obtained from the following websites:

• Trading Standards Central - A one stop shop for consumer protection information in the UK. Provides information for businesses and consumers.
• HM Customs and Excise - Provides information and advice for the public and for businesses.
• Office of Fair Trading (OFT) - The OFT is designed with two purposes: to protect consumers and explain their rights; and to ensure that businesses compete and operate fairly.
• Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) - Working with businesses, employees and consumers to drive up UK productivity and competitiveness to deliver prosperity for all.
• Food Standards Agency (FSA) - An independent food safety watchdog set up by an Act of Parliament in 2000 to protect the public's health and consumer interests in relation to food.

Telephone: 0845 3303313

Visit: http://www.staffordshire.gov.uk