Frequently asked Weights and Measures Questions
Q1. I have bought some goods and when I got home I weighed them on my own scales and the weight seems to be wrong, what can I do?
A1. You should contact your local trading standards service........
Please bear in mind that kitchen scales are not required to be as accurate as the trader's scales, so don't be surprised if the goods are later found to be correct.
Q2. How do I know the trader's scales are accurate?
A2. All equipment is required to pass an independent accuracy test before it can be used to weigh or measure goods.
Q3. Should my local shop provide a scale for my use?
A3. No, but when the goods are weighed the trader must make the weight known to you by one of the following ways:-
- telling you
- on a receipt or ticket
- allowing you to see the weight display on the scale
Q4. Should goods be sold in metric quantities?
A4. Yes, the exceptions to the rule are:-
* Free flow beers, ciders and milk in returnable bottles - the pint may still be used.
* Precious metals and stones - the ounce troy may still be used
Q5. Can I still ask for a pound (lb) of apples and a quarter (1/4) of boiled ham?
A5. Yes, but the trader must weigh them in metric units.
Q6. How do I convert to metric units?
A6. link to Exeter University website:
Volume Calculator link
Weight (mass) calculator
Q7. My packet of crisps is marked with 30g e. What does this mean?
A7. Some bags of crisps may contain more than 30g and some less. The manufacturer must ensure that on average the contents of the bags in a batch are 30g.
Q8. I put £10 worth of petrol in my car and the gauge didn't move as far as it normally does. Is the pump giving short measure?
A8. All petrol pumps are tested before being used by the public and sealed to prevent them being tampered with. However, this may occur because of the following:-
* the price per litre has increased since you last used the garage, or
* your gauge may be faulty or inaccurate, or
* since the pump was last checked it may have developed a fault giving you short measure.
If you still think there is a problem with the pump then please remember to record the pump number, grade of fuel and time it was used.
Q9. I bought a pint of beer in my local pub and the glass was not full, is this legal?
A9. It is illegal to give short measure, however the pub must measure the beer in one of the following ways:-
* Crown Stamped Lined Glass
* Crown Stamped Brim Glass
* Unstamped Oversized Glass
Q10. Who do I complain to about short weight or measure?
A10. Staffordshire Trading Standards
Business Advice
Tel: 08453 303 313
E mail: businessadvice@staffordshire.gov.uk
Minicom: 01785 854156
Last Modified:
19/04/2006 12:51:30
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