209.02.16 Ark. Code R. 002
The Uniform Laws and Regulations1 in this handbook comprise all of those adopted by the National Conference on Weights and Measures, Inc. (NCWM). Contact NCWM at:
1135 M Street, Suite 100 | Phone: | (402) 434-4880 | E-mail: infor@ncwm.net |
Lincoln, NE 68508 | Fax: | (402) 434-4878 | URL: www.ncwm.net |
The NCWM is supported by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), which provides its Executive Secretary and publishes its documents. NIST also develops technical publications for use by weights and measures agencies; these publications may subsequently be endorsed or adopted by the NCWM.
All of the Uniform Laws and Regulations given herein are recommended by NCWM for adoption by states when reviewing or amending their official laws and regulations in the areas covered. A similar recommendation is made with regard to the local jurisdictions within a state in the absence of the promulgation of such laws and regulations at the state level.
(Amended 2015)
The purpose of these Uniform Laws and Regulations is to achieve, to the maximum extent possible, uniformity in weights and measures laws and regulations among the various states and local jurisdictions in order to facilitate trade between the states, permit fair competition among businesses, and provide uniform and sufficient protection to all consumers in commercial weights and measures practices.
Proposed amendments to NIST Handbook 130 are deliberated and developed by NCWM's Committee on Laws and Regulations before presentation to the general membership for vote. In some instances amendments that significantly affect other NIST Handbooks may be processed jointly by two or more committees.
Amendments to the handbooks are made in accordance with NCWM procedures and policies. The process begins at the regional weights and measures association meetings in the fall of each year and it is culminated at the NCWM Annual Meeting in July. After passing through one or more of the regional associations, the proposed amendment is placed on the agenda of the appropriate NCWM committee for consideration at the NCWM's Interim Meeting in January, and after final deliberation and development by the committee the amendment may be presented to the membership for a vote at the annual NCWM meeting in July. NCWM policy provides for exceptions to the process to accommodate urgent or priority items. NIST staff provides technical assistance and advice throughout the process.
The policy is available on the NCWM website at www.ncwm.net. For information on the regional weights and measures associations, visit www.ncwm.net/resources/regional associations.
(Amended 2015)
1When referring to the Uniform Laws and Regulations in Handbook 130, Laws and Regulations will be capitalized. When referring to general federal or state laws and regulations, no capitalization will be used.
(Amended 1998)
NIST may not publish a new edition if it determines that it is reasonable to forego an annual publication (e.g., amendments were minor or editorial in nature) to save printing, mailing, and other costs. If this occurs, NIST will issue a notice that the current edition is still valid and will explain its action. (Note: Section numbering may be changed from one edition of the handbook to another to accommodate additions or deletions.) (Amended 2008)
Beginning in 1971, amendments or additions to sections in the Uniform Laws and Regulations are delineated at the end of each section (e.g., "amended 1982") as a service to those states that are planning to update their own laws or regulations. The references to each revision and the year will enable legislators and rule makers to study the actual wording and rationale for changes (appearing in the Annual Report of NCWM for that year) and subsequently adopt changes in their own laws and regulations, modeling them after the Uniform Laws and Regulations.
Unless otherwise specified, the new or amended regulations listed in this section are intended to become effective and subject to enforcement on January 1 of the year following adoption by NCWM.
In most references made to specific sections or subsections in this handbook, the word "Section" is used, followed by the section number.
The "International System of Units," "SI," or "SI Units" means the modernized metric system as established in 1960 by the General Conference on Weights and Measures (GIPM). In 1988, Congress amended the Metric Conversion Act of 1975 (see Section 5164 of Public Law 100-418) to declare that it is the policy of the United States to designate the metric system of measurement as the preferred measurement system for U.S. trade and commerce, and it further defined "the metric system of measurement" to be the International System as established by the GIPM and as interpreted or modified for the United States by the Secretary of Commerce. [See Metric Conversion Law 15 U.S.C. 205, NIST Special Publication 330 - The International System of Units (SI); NIST Special Publication 814 - Metric System of Measurement; and, Interpretation of the International System of Units for the United States in Federal Register of May 16, 2008, ("Federal Register" Vol. 73, No. 96) or subsequent revisions]. In 1992, Congress amended the Federal Fair Packaging and Labeling Act to require certain consumer commodities to include the appropriate SI units along with the U.S. customary units in their quantity statements.
(Added 1993) (Revised 2008)
The mass of an object is a measure of the object's inertial property, or the amount of matter it contains. The weight of an object is a measure of the force exerted on the object by gravity, or the force needed to support it. The pull of gravity on the earth gives an object a downward acceleration of about 9.8 m/s2. In trade and commerce and everyday use, the term "weight" is often used as a synonym for "mass." The "net mass" or "net weight" declared on a label indicates that the package contains a specific amount of commodity exclusive of wrapping materials. The use of the term "mass" is predominant throughout the world, and is becoming increasingly common in the United States.
(Added 1993)
When used in this handbook, the term "weight" means "mass." The term "weight" appears when U.S. customary units are cited or when both U.S. customary and SI units are included in a requirement. The terms "mass" or "masses" are used when only SI units are cited in a requirement. The following note appears where the term "weight" is first used in a law or regulation.
NOTE 1: When used in this law (or regulation), the term "weight" means "mass." (See paragraphs K. "Mass" and Weight and L. Use of the Terms "Mass" and "Weight" in Section I. Introduction of NIST Handbook 130 for an explanation of these terms.)
(Added 1993)
Appendix A.Fundamental Considerations Associated with the Enforcement of Handbook 44 Codes
Another consideration supporting the recommendation for uniformity of requirements among weights and measures jurisdictions is the cumulative and regenerative effect of the widespread enforcement of a single standard of design and performance. The enforcement effort in each jurisdiction can then reinforce the enforcement effort in all other jurisdictions. More effective regulatory control can be realized with less individual effort under a system of uniform requirements than under a system in which even minor deviations from standard practice are introduced by independent state action.
Since the National Conference codes represent the majority opinion of a large and representative group of experienced regulatory officials, and since these codes are recognized by equipment manufacturers as their basic guide in the design and construction of commercial weighing and measuring equipment, the acceptance and promulgation of these codes by each state are strongly recommended.
The specifications, tolerances, and other technical requirements for weighing and measuring devices as recommended by the National Conference on Weights and Measures and published in the National Institute of Standards and Technology Handbook 44, "Specifications, Tolerances, and Other Technical Requirements for Weighing and Measuring Devices," and supplements thereto or revisions thereof, shall apply to commercial weighing and measuring devices in the state.
In some states, it is preferred to base technical requirements upon specific action of the state legislature rather than upon an act of promulgation by a state officer. The advantages cited above may be obtained and may yet be surrounded by adequate safeguards to insure proper freedom of action by the state enforcing officer if the legislature adopts the National Conference requirements by language somewhat as follows:
The specifications, tolerances, and other technical requirements for weighing and measuring devices as recommended by the National Conference on Weights and Measures shall be the specifications, tolerances, and other technical requirements for weighing and measuring devices of the state except insofar as specifically modified, amended, or rejected by a regulation issued by the state (insert title of enforcing officer).
Acceptance tolerances are applied to new or newly reconditioned or adjusted equipment, and are smaller than (usually one-half of) the maintenance tolerances. Maintenance tolerances thus provide an additional range of inaccuracy within which equipment will be approved on subsequent tests, permitting a limited amount of deterioration before the equipment will be officially rejected for inaccuracy and before reconditioning or adjustment will be required. In effect, there is assured a reasonable period of use for equipment after it is placed in service before reconditioning will be officially required. The foregoing comments do not apply, of course, when only a single set of tolerance values is established, as is the case with equipment such as glass milk bottles and graduates, which maintain their original accuracy regardless of use, and measure-containers, which are used only once.
Device testing is complicated to some degree when corrections to standards are applied. When using a correction for a standard, the uncertainty associated with the corrected value must be less than one-third of the applicable device tolerance. The reason for this requirement is to give the device being tested as nearly as practicable the full benefit of its own tolerance.
Accurate and dependable results cannot be obtained with faulty or inadequate field standards. If either the service person or official is poorly equipped, their results cannot be expected to check consistently. Disagreements can be avoided and the servicing of commercial equipment can be expedited and improved if service persons and officials give equal attention to the adequacy and maintenance of their testing apparatus.
This is the way the official learns whether or not the design and construction of the device conform to the specification requirements. But even a device of a type with which the official is thoroughly familiar and that he has previously found to meet specification requirements should not be accepted entirely on faith. Some part may have become damaged, or some detail of design may have been changed by the manufacturer, or the owner or operator may have removed an essential element or made an objectionable addition. Such conditions may be learned only by inspection. Some degree of inspection is therefore an essential part of the official examination of every piece of weighing or measuring equipment.
Specification requirements for a particular class of equipment are not all to be found in the separate code for that class. The requirements of the General Code apply, in general, to all classes of equipment, and these must always be considered in combination with the requirements of the appropriate separate code to arrive at the total of the requirements applicable to a piece of commercial equipment.
It is essential for the officials to familiarize themselves with the design and operating characteristics of the devices that he inspects and tests. Such knowledge can be obtained from the catalogs and advertising literature of device manufacturers, from trained service persons and plant engineers, from observation of the operations performed by service persons when reconditioning equipment in the field, and from a study of the devices themselves.
Inspection should include any auxiliary equipment and general conditions external to the device that may affect its performance characteristics. In order to prolong the life of the equipment and forestall rejection, inspection should also include observation of the general maintenance of the device and of the proper functioning of all required elements. The official should look for worn or weakened mechanical parts, leaks in volumetric equipment, or elements in need of cleaning.
measure-containers, milk and lubricating-oil bottles, farm milk tanks, dry measures, and some of the more simple types of scales are in this category. Other types (for example, taximeters and odometers and some metering devices) may be adjusted in the field, but only by changing certain parts such as gears in gear trains.
Some types, of which fabric-measuring devices and cordage-measuring devices are examples, are not intended to be adjusted in the field and require reconditioning in shop or factory if inaccurate. Liquid-measuring devices and most scales are equipped with adjustable elements, and some vehicle-tank compartments have adjustable indicators. Field adjustments may readily be made on such equipment. In the discussion that follows, the principles pointed out and the recommendations made apply to adjustments on any commercial equipment, by whatever means accomplished.
Some officials contend that it is justifiable for the official to make minor corrections and adjustments if there is no service agency nearby or if the owner or operator depends on this single device and would be "out of business" if the use of the device were prohibited until repairs could be made. Before adjustments are made at the request of the owner or the owner's representative, the official should be confident that the problem is not due to faulty installation or a defective part, and that the adjustment will correct the problem. The official should never undertake major repairs, or even minor corrections, if services of commercial agencies are readily available. The official should always be mindful of conflicts of interest before attempting to perform any services other than normal device examination and testing duties.
(Amended 1995)
These broad powers should be used by the official with discretion. The director should always keep in mind the property rights of an equipment owner, and cooperate in working out arrangements whereby an owner can realize at least something from equipment that has been rejected. In cases of doubt, the official should initially reject rather than condemn outright. Destruction and confiscation of equipment are harsh procedures. Power to seize and destroy is necessary for adequate control of extreme situations, but seizure and destruction should be resorted to only when clearly justified.
On the other hand, rejection is clearly inappropriate for many items of measuring equipment. This is true for most linear measures, many liquid and dry measures, graduates, measure-containers, milk bottles, lubricating-oil bottles,
and some scales. When such equipment is "incorrect," it is either impractical or impossible to adjust or repair it, and the official has no alternative to outright condemnation. When only a few such items are involved, immediate destruction or confiscation is probably the best procedure. If a considerable number of items are involved (as, for example, a stock of measures in the hands of a dealer or a large shipment of bottles), return of these to the manufacturer for credit or replacement should ordinarily be permitted provided that the official is assured that they will not get into commercial use. In rare instances, confiscation and destruction are justified as a method of control when less harsh methods have failed.
In the case of incorrect mechanisms such as fabric-measuring devices, taximeters, liquid-measuring devices, and most scales, repair of the equipment is usually possible, so rejection is the customary procedure. Seizure may occasionally be justified, but in the large majority of instances this should be unnecessary. Even in the case of worn-out equipment, some salvage is usually possible, and this should be permitted under proper controls.
(Amended 1995)
(Amended 1995)
Where the official finds in the same establishment, equipment that is in commercial use and also equipment suitable for commercial use that is not presently in service, but which may be put into service at some future time, he may treat the latter equipment in any of the following ways:
Where the official finds commercial equipment and noncommercial equipment installed or used in close proximity, he may treat the noncommercial equipment in any of the following ways:
The official will need more than one form of seal to meet the requirements of different kinds of equipment. Good quality, weather-resistant, water-adhesive, or pressure-sensitive seals or decalcomania seals are recommended for fabric-measuring devices, liquid-measuring devices, taximeters, and most scales, because of their permanence and good appearance. Steel stamps are most suitable for liquid and dry measures, for some types of linear measures, and for weights. An etched seal, applied with suitable etching ink, is excellent for steel tapes, and greatly preferable to a seal applied with a steel stamp. The only practicable seal for a graduate is one marked with a diamond or carbide pencil, or one etched with glass-marking ink. For a vehicle tank, the official may wish to devise a relatively large seal, perhaps of metal, with provision for stamping data relative to compartment capacities, the whole to be welded or otherwise permanently attached to the shell of the tank. In general, the lead-and-wire seal is not suitable as an approval seal.
Another exception to the general rule for sealing approved equipment is found in certain very small weights whose size precludes satisfactory stamping with a steel die.
It is important to remember that, when there are two or more figures to the right of the place where the last significant figure of the final result is to be, the entire series of such figures must be rounded off in one step and not in two or more successive rounding steps. [Expressed differently, when two or more such figures are involved, these are not to be rounded off individually, but are to be rounded off as a group.] Thus, when rounding off 47.3499 to the first decimal place, the result becomes 47.3. In arriving at this result, the figures "499" are treated as a group. Since the 4 next beyond the last figure to be retained is less than 5, the "499" is dropped (see subparagraph (a) above). It would be incorrect to round off these figures successively to the left so that 47.3499 would become 47.350 and then 47.35 and then 47.4.
In the case where, as nearly as can be determined, the indicator is midway between two graduations, the odd-and-even rule is invoked, and the value to be read or recorded is that of the graduation whose value is even. For example, if the indicator lies exactly midway between two graduations having values of 471 and 472, respectively, the indication should be read or recorded as 472, this being an even value. If midway between graduations having values of 474 and 475, the even value 474 should be read or recorded. Similarly, if the two graduations involved had values of 470 and 475, the even value of 470 should be read or recorded.
A special case not covered by the foregoing paragraph is that of a graduated scale in which successive graduations are numbered by twos, all graduations thus having even values; for example, 470, 472, 474, etc. When, in this case, an indication lies midway between two graduations, the recommended procedure is to depart from the practice of reading or recording only to the value of the nearest graduation and to read or record the intermediate odd value. For example, an indication midway between 470 and 472 should be read as 471.
For example, a series of values might be 11/32, 12/32, 13/32, 14/32, 15/32, 16/32, 17/32, 18/32, 19/32. Assume that these values are to be rounded off to the nearest eighth (4/32). Then,
11/32 becomes 1. (1/32 is less than half of 4/32 and accordingly is dropped.)
12/32 becomes 1. (2/32 is exactly one-half of 4/32; it is dropped because it is rounded (down) to the "even" eighth, which in this instance is 0/8.)
13/32 becomes 14/32 or 11/8. (3/32 is more than half of 4/32, and accordingly is rounded "up" to 4/32 or 1/8).
14/32 remains unchanged, being an exact eighth (11/8).
15/32 becomes 14/32 or 11/8. (5/32 is 1/32 more than an exact 1/8; 1/32 is less than half of 4/32 and accordingly is dropped.)
16/32 becomes 12/8 or 11/4. (6/32 is 2/32 more than an exact 1/8; 2/32 is exactly one-half of 4/32, and the final fraction is rounded (up) to the "even" eighth, which in this instance is 2/8.)
17/32 becomes 12/8 or 11/4. (7/32 is 3/32 more than an exact 1/8; 3/32 is more than one-half of 4/32 and accordingly the final fraction is rounded (up) to 2/8 or 1/4.)
18/32 remains unchanged, being an exact eighth (12/8 or 11/4.)
19/32 becomes 12/8 or 11/4. (9/32 is 1/32 more than an exact 1/8; 1/32 is less than half of 4/32 and accordingly is dropped.)
Appendix B.Units and Systems of Measurement Their Origin, Development, and Present Status
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) (formerly the National Bureau of Standards) was established by Act of Congress in 1901 to serve as a national scientific laboratory in the physical sciences, and to provide fundamental measurement standards for science and industry. In carrying out these related functions the Institute conducts research and development in many fields of physics, mathematics, chemistry, and engineering. At the time of its founding, the Institute had custody of two primary standards - the meter bar for length and the kilogram cylinder for mass. With the phenomenal growth of science and technology over the past century, the Institute has become a major research institution concerned not only with everyday weights and measures, but also with hundreds of other scientific and engineering standards that are necessary to the industrial progress of the nation. Nevertheless, the country still looks to NIST for information on the units of measurement, particularly their definitions and equivalents.
The subject of measurement systems and units can be treated from several different standpoints. Scientists and engineers are interested in the methods by which precision measurements are made. State weights and measures officials are concerned with laws and regulations that assure equity in the marketplace, protect public health and safety, and with methods for verifying commercial weighing and measuring devices. But a vastly larger group of people is interested in some general knowledge of the origin and development of measurement systems, of the present status of units and standards, and of miscellaneous facts that will be useful in everyday life. This material has been prepared to supply that information on measurement systems and units that experience has shown to be the common subject of inquiry.
The expression "weights and measures" is often used to refer to measurements of length, mass, and capacity or volume, thus excluding such quantities as electrical and time measurements and thermometry. This section on units and measurement systems presents some fundamental information to clarify the concepts of this subject and to eliminate erroneous and misleading use of terms.
It is essential that the distinction between the terms "units" and "standards" be established and kept in mind.
A unit is a special quantity in terms of which other quantities are expressed. In general, a unit is fixed by definition and is independent of such physical conditions as temperature. Examples: the meter, the liter, the gram, the yard, the pound, the gallon.
A standard is a physical realization or representation of a unit. In general, it is not entirely independent of physical conditions, and it is a representation of the unit only under specified conditions. For example, a meter standard has a length of one meter when at some definite temperature and supported in a certain manner. If supported in a different manner, it might have to be at a different temperature to have a length of one meter.
Man understandably turned first to parts of the body and the natural surroundings for measuring instruments. Early Babylonian and Egyptian records and the Bible indicate that length was first measured with the forearm, hand, or finger and that time was measured by the periods of the sun, moon, and other heavenly bodies. When it was necessary to compare the capacities of containers such as gourds or clay or metal vessels, they were filled with plant seeds which were then counted to measure the volumes. When means for weighing were invented, seeds and stones served as standards. For instance, the "carat," still used as a unit for gems, was derived from the carob seed.
Our present knowledge of early weights and measures comes from many sources. Archaeologists have recovered some rather early standards and preserved them in museums. The comparison of the dimensions of buildings with the descriptions of contemporary writers is another source of information. An interesting example of this is the comparison of the dimensions of the Greek Parthenon with the description given by Plutarch from which a fairly accurate idea of the size of the Attic foot is obtained. In some cases, we have only plausible theories and we must sometimes select the interpretation to be given to the evidence.
For example, does the fact that the length of the double-cubit of early Babylonia was equal (within two parts per thousand) to the length of the seconds pendulum at Babylon suggest a scientific knowledge of the pendulum at a very early date, or do we merely have a curious coincidence? By studying the evidence given by all available sources, and by correlating the relevant facts, we obtain some idea of the origin and development of the units. We find that they have changed more or less gradually with the passing of time in a complex manner because of a great variety of modifying influences. We find the units modified and grouped into measurement systems: the Babylonian system, the Egyptian system, the Phileterian system of the Ptolemaic age, the Olympic system of Greece, the Roman system, and the British system, to mention only a few.
Units of length: The cubit was the first recorded unit used by ancient peoples to measure length. There were several cubits of different magnitudes that were used. The common cubit was the length of the forearm from the elbow to the tip of the middle finger. It was divided into the span of the hand (one-half cubit), the palm or width of the hand (one sixth), and the digit or width of a finger (one twenty-fourth). The Royal or Sacred Cubit, which was 7 palms or 28 digits long, was used in constructing buildings and monuments and in surveying. The inch, foot, and yard evolved from these units through a complicated transformation not yet fully understood. Some believe they evolved from cubic measures; others believe they were simple proportions or multiples of the cubit. In any case, the Greeks and Romans inherited the foot from the Egyptians. The Roman foot was divided into both 12 unciae (inches) and 16 digits. The Romans also introduced the mile of 1000 paces or double steps, the pace being equal to five Roman feet. The Roman mile of 5000 feet was introduced into England during the occupation. Queen Elizabeth, who reigned from 1558 to 1603, changed, by statute, the mile to 5280 feet or 8 furlongs, a furlong being 40 rods of 51/2 yards each.
The introduction of the yard as a unit of length came later, but its origin is not definitely known. Some believe the origin was the double cubit, others believe that it originated from cubic measure. Whatever its origin, the early yard was divided by the binary method into 2, 4, 8, and 16 parts called the half-yard, span, finger, and nail. The association of the yard with the "gird" or circumference of a person's waist or with the distance from the tip of the nose to the end of the thumb of Henry I are probably standardizing actions, since several yards were in use in Great Britain.
The point, which is a unit for measuring print type, is recent. It originated with Pierre Simon Fournier in 1737. It was modified and developed by the Didot brothers, Francois Ambroise and Pierre Francois, in 1755. The point was first used in the United States in 1878 by a Chicago type foundry (Marder, Luse, and Company). Since 1886, a point has been exactly 0.351 459 8 millimeters, or about 1/72 inch.
Units of mass: The grain was the earliest unit of mass and is the smallest unit in the apothecary, avoirdupois, Tower, and Troy systems. The early unit was a grain of wheat or barleycorn used to weigh the precious metals silver and gold. Larger units preserved in stone standards were developed that were used as both units of mass and of monetary currency. The pound was derived from the mina used by ancient civilizations. A
smaller unit was the shekel, and a larger unit was the talent. The magnitude of these units varied from place to place. The Babylonians and Sumerians had a system in which there were 60 shekels in a mina and 60 minas in a talent. The Roman talent consisted of 100 libra (pound) which were smaller in magnitude than the mina. The Troy pound used in England and the United States for monetary purposes, like the Roman pound, was divided into 12 ounces, but the Roman uncia (ounce) was smaller. The carat is a unit for measuring gemstones that had its origin in the carob seed, which later was standardized at 1/444 ounce and then 0.2 gram.
Goods of commerce were originally traded by number or volume. When weighing of goods began, units of mass based on a volume of grain or water were developed. For example, the talent in some places was approximately equal to the mass of one cubic foot of water. Was this a coincidence or by design? The diverse magnitudes of units having the same name, which still appear today in our dry and liquid measures, could have arisen from the various commodities traded. The larger avoirdupois pound for goods of commerce might have been based on volume of water, which has a higher bulk density than grain. For example, the Egyptian hon was a volume unit about 11 % larger than a cubic palm and corresponded to one mina of water. It was almost identical in volume to the present U.S. pint.
The stone, quarter, hundredweight, and ton were larger units of mass used in Great Britain. Today only the stone continues in customary use for measuring personal body weight. The present stone is 14 pounds, but an earlier unit appears to have been 16 pounds. The other units were multiples of 2, 8, and 160 times the stone, or 28, 112, and 2240 pounds, respectively. The hundredweight was approximately equal to two talents. In the United States the ton of 2240 pounds is called the "long ton." The "short ton" is equal to 2000 pounds.
Units of time and angle: We can trace the division of the circle into 360 degrees and the day into hours, minutes, and seconds to the Babylonians who had a sexagesimal system of numbers. The 360 degrees may have been related to a year of 360 days.
The adoption of the metric system in France was slow, but its desirability as an international system was recognized by geodesists and others. On May 20, 1875, an international treaty known as the International Metric Convention or the Treaty of the Meter was signed by seventeen countries including the United States. This treaty established the following organizations to conduct international activities relating to a uniform system for measurements:
The National Institute of Standards and Technology provides official United States representation in these organizations. The CGPM, the CIPM, and the BIPM have been major factors in the continuing refinement of the metric system on a scientific basis and in the evolution of the International System of Units.
Multiples and submultiples of metric units are related by powers of ten. This relationship is compatible with the decimal system of numbers and it contributes greatly to the convenience of metric units.
International System of Units. - At the end of World War II, a number of different systems of measurement still existed throughout the world. Some of these systems were variations of the metric system, and others were based on the customary U.S. customary system of the English-speaking countries. It was recognized that additional steps were needed to promote a worldwide measurement system. As a result the 9th GCPM, in 1948, asked the ICPM to conduct an international study of the measurement needs of the scientific, technical, and educational communities. Based on the findings of this study, the 10th General Conference in 1954 decided that an international system should be derived from six base units to provide for the measurement of temperature and optical radiation in addition to mechanical and electromagnetic quantities. The six base units recommended were the meter, kilogram, second, ampere, Kelvin degree (later renamed the kelvin), and the candela.
In 1960, the 11th General Conference of Weights and Measures named the system based on the six base quantities the International System of Units, abbreviated SI from the French name: Le Système International d'Unités. The SI metric system is now either obligatory or permissible throughout the world.
The meter was originally intended to be one ten-millionth part of a meridional quadrant of the earth. The Meter of the Archives, the platinum length standard which was the standard for most of the 19th century, at first was supposed to be exactly this fractional part of the quadrant. More refined measurements over the earth's surface showed that this supposition was not correct. In 1889, a new international metric standard of length, the International Prototype Meter, a graduated line standard of platinum-iridium, was selected from a group of bars because precise measurements found it to have the same length as the Meter of the Archives. The meter was then defined as the distance, under specified conditions, between the lines on the International Prototype Meter without reference to any measurements of the earth or to the Meter of the Archives, which it superseded. Advances in science and technology have made it possible to improve the definition of the meter and reduce the uncertainties associated with artifacts. From 1960 to 1983, the meter was defined as the length equal to 1 650 763.73 wavelengths in a vacuum of the radiation corresponding to the transition between the specified energy levels of the krypton 86 atom. Since 1983 the meter has been defined as the length of the path traveled by light in a vacuum during an interval of 1/299 792 458 of a second.
The kilogram, originally defined as the mass of one cubic decimeter of water at the temperature of maximum density, was known as the Kilogram of the Archives. It was replaced after the International Metric Convention in 1875 by the International Prototype Kilogram which became the unit of mass without reference to the mass of a cubic decimeter of water or to the Kilogram of the Archives. Each country that subscribed to the International Metric Convention was assigned one or more copies of the international standards; these are known as National Prototype Meters and Kilograms.
The liter is a unit of capacity or volume. In 1964, the 12th GCPM redefined the liter as being one cubic decimeter. By its previous definition - the volume occupied, under standard conditions, by a quantity of pure water having a mass of one kilogram - the liter was larger than the cubic decimeter by 28 parts per 1 000 000. Except for determinations of high precision, this difference is so small as to be of no consequence.
The modern metric system (SI) includes two classes of units:
For details, see NIST Special Publication 330 (2008), The International System of Units (SI) and NIST Special Publication 811 (2008), Guide for the Use of the International System of Units.
From 1893 until 1959, the yard was defined as equal exactly to 3600/3937 meter. In 1959, a small change was made in the definition of the yard to resolve discrepancies both in this country and abroad. Since 1959, we define the yard as equal exactly to 0.9144 meter; the new yard is shorter than the old yard by exactly two parts in a million. At the same time, it was decided that any data expressed in feet derived from geodetic surveys within the United States would continue to bear the relationship as defined in 1893 (one foot equals 1200/3937 meter). We call this foot the U.S. Survey Foot, while the foot defined in 1959 is called the International Foot. Measurements expressed in U.S. statute miles, survey feet, rods, chains, links, or the squares thereof, and acres should be converted to the corresponding metric values by using pre-1959 conversion factors if more than five significant figure accuracy is required.
Since 1970, actions have been taken to encourage the use of metric units of measurement in the United States. A brief summary of actions by Congress is provided below as reported in the Federal Register Notice dated July 28, 1998.
Section 403 of Public Law 93-380, the Education Amendment of 1974, states that it is the policy of the United States to encourage educational agencies and institutions to prepare students to use the metric system of measurement as part of the regular education program. Under both this act and the Metric Conversion Act of 1975, the "metric system of measurement" is defined as the International System of Units as established in 1960 by the General Conference on Weights and Measures and interpreted or modified for the United States by the Secretary of Commerce (Section 4(4)- Public Law 94-168; Section 403(a)(3)- Public Law 93-380). The Secretary has delegated authority under these subsections to the Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology.
Section 5164 of Public Law 100-418, the Omnibus Trade and Competitiveness Act of 1988, amends Public Law 94-168, The Metric Conversion Act of 1975. In particular, Section 3, The Metric Conversion Act is amended to read as follows:
" Sec. 3. It is therefore the declared policy of the United States-
The Code of Federal Regulations makes the use of metric units mandatory for agencies of the federal government. (Federal Register, Vol. 56, No. 23, page 160, January 2, 1991.)
After 1959, the U.S. and the British inches were defined identically for scientific work and were identical in commercial usage. A similar situation existed for the U.S. and the British pounds, and many relationships, such as 12 inches = 1 foot, 3 feet = 1 yard, and 1760 yards = 1 international mile, were the same in both countries; but there were some very important differences.
In the first place, the U.S. customary bushel and the U.S. gallon, and their subdivisions differed from the corresponding British Imperial units. Also the British ton is 2240 pounds, whereas the ton generally used in the United States is the short ton of 2000 pounds. The American colonists adopted the English wine gallon of 231 cubic inches. The English of that period used this wine gallon and they also had another gallon, the ale gallon of 282 cubic inches. In 1824, the British abandoned these two gallons when they adopted the British Imperial gallon, which they defined as the volume of 10 pounds of water, at a temperature of 62 °F, which, by calculation, is equivalent to 277.42 cubic inches. At the same time, they redefined the bushel as 8 gallons.
In the customary British system, the units of dry measure are the same as those of liquid measure. In the United States these two are not the same; the gallon and its subdivisions are used in the measurement of liquids and the bushel, with its subdivisions, is used in the measurement of certain dry commodities. The U.S. gallon is divided into four liquid quarts and the U.S. bushel into 32 dry quarts. All the units of capacity or volume mentioned thus far are larger in the customary British system than in the U.S. system. But the British fluid ounce is smaller than the U.S. fluid ounce, because the British quart is divided into 40 fluid ounces whereas the U.S. quart is divided into 32 fluid ounces.
From this we see that in the customary British system an avoirdupois ounce of water at 62 °F has a volume of one fluid ounce, because 10 pounds is equivalent to 160 avoirdupois ounces, and 1 gallon is equivalent to 4 quarts, or 160 fluid ounces. This convenient relation does not exist in the U.S. system because a U.S. gallon of water at 62 °F weighs about 8[1/3] pounds, or 133[1/3] avoirdupois ounces, and the U.S. gallon is equivalent to 4 x 32, or 128 fluid ounces.
1 U.S. fluid ounce | = 1.041 British fluid ounces |
1 British fluid ounce | = 0.961 U.S. fluid ounce |
1 U.S. gallon | = 0.833 British Imperial gallon |
1 British Imperial gallon | = 1.201 U.S. gallons |
Among other differences between the customary British and the United States measurement systems, we should note that they abolished the use of the troy pound in England January 6, 1879; they retained only the troy ounce and its subdivisions, whereas the troy pound is still legal in the United States, although it is not now greatly used. We can mention again the common use, for body weight, in England of the stone of 14 pounds, this being a unit now unused in the United States, although its influence was shown in the practice until World War II of selling flour by the barrel of 196 pounds (14 stone). In the apothecary system of liquid measure the British add a unit, the fluid scruple, equal to one third of a fluid drachm (spelled dram in the United States) between their minim and their fluid drachm. In the United States, the general practice now is to sell dry commodities, such as fruits and vegetables, by their mass.
For example, if we are concerned only with measurements of length to moderate precision, it is convenient to measure and to express these lengths in feet, inches, and binary fractions of an inch, thus 9 feet, 43/8 inches. However, if these lengths are to be subsequently used to calculate area or volume, that method of subdivision at once becomes extremely inconvenient. For that reason, civil engineers, who are concerned with areas of land, volumes of cuts, fills, excavations, etc., instead of dividing the foot into inches and binary subdivisions of the inch, divide it decimally; that is, into tenths, hundredths, and thousandths of a foot.
The method of subdivision of a unit is thus largely made based on convenience to the user. The fact that units have commonly been subdivided into certain subunits for centuries does not preclude their also having another mode of subdivision in some frequently used cases where convenience indicates the value of such other method. Thus, while we usually subdivide the gallon into quarts and pints, most gasoline-measuring pumps, of the price-computing type, are graduated to show tenths, hundredths, or thousandths of a gallon.
Although the mile has for centuries been divided into rods, yards, feet, and inches, the odometer part of an automobile speedometer shows tenths of a mile. Although we divide our dollar into 100 parts, we habitually use and speak of halves and quarters. An illustration of rather complex subdividing is found on the scales used by draftsmen. These scales are of two types:
The dictum of convenience applies not only to subdivisions of a unit but also to multiples of a unit. Land elevations above sea level are given in feet although the height may be several miles; the height of aircraft above sea level as given by an altimeter is likewise given in feet, no matter how high it may be.
On the other hand, machinists, toolmakers, gauge makers, scientists, and others who are engaged in precision measurements of relatively small distances, even though concerned with measurements of length only, find it convenient to use the inch, instead of the tenth of a foot, but to divide the inch decimally to tenths, hundredths, thousandths, etc., even down to millionths of an inch. Verniers, micrometers, and other precision measuring instruments are usually graduated in this manner. Machinist scales are commonly graduated decimally along one edge and are also graduated along another edge to binary fractions as small as 1/64 inch. The scales with binary fractions are used only for relatively rough measurements.
It is seldom convenient or advisable to use binary subdivisions of the inch that are smaller than 1/64. In fact, 1/32-, 1/16-, or 1/8-inch subdivisions are usually preferable for use on a scale to be read with the unaided eye.
The yard is defined5 as follows:
1 yard = 0.914 4 meter, and
1 inch = 25.4 millimeters exactly.
NIST does not calibrate carpenters' rules, machinist scales, draftsman scales, and the like. Such apparatus, if they require calibration, should be submitted to state or local weights and measures officials.
In Colonial Times the British standards were considered the primary standards of the United States. Later, the U.S. avoirdupois pound was defined in terms of the Troy Pound of the Mint, which is a brass standard kept at the United States Mint in Philadelphia. In 1911, the Troy Pound of the Mint was superseded, for coinage purposes, by the Troy Pound of the Institute.
The avoirdupois pound is defined in terms of the kilogram by the relation:
1 avoirdupois pound = 0.453 592 37 kilogram.6
These changes in definition have not made any appreciable change in the value of the pound.
5 See Federal Register for July 1, 1959. Also see next-to-last paragraph of 2.2.5.
6 See Federal Register for July 1, 1959.
The grain is 1/7000 of the avoirdupois pound and is identical in the avoirdupois, troy, and apothecary systems. The troy ounce and the apothecary ounce differ from the avoirdupois ounce but are equal to each other, and equal to 480 grains. The avoirdupois ounce is equal to 437.5 grains.
Standards of mass are ordinarily calibrated by comparison to a reference standard of mass. If two objects are compared on a balance and give the same balance indication, they have the same "mass" (excluding the effect of air buoyancy). The forces of gravity on the two objects are balanced. Even though the value of the acceleration of gravity, g, is different from location to location, because the two objects of equal mass in the same location (where both masses are acted upon by the same g) will be affected in the same manner and by the same amount by any change in the value of g, the two objects will balance each other under any value of g.
However, on a spring balance the mass of a body is not balanced against the mass of another body. Instead, the gravitational force on the body is balanced by the restoring force of a spring. Therefore, if a very sensitive spring balance is used, the indicated mass of the body would be found to change if the spring balance and the body were moved from one locality to another locality with a different acceleration of gravity. But a spring balance is usually used in one locality and is adjusted or calibrated to indicate mass at that locality.
The greater the difference in volume, and the greater the density of the air in which we make the comparison weighing, the greater will be the apparent difference in mass. For that reason, in assigning a precise numerical value of mass to a standard, it is necessary to base this value on definite values for the air density and the density of the mass standard of reference.
The apparent mass of an object is equal to the mass of just enough reference material of a specified density (at 20 °C) that will produce a balance reading equal to that produced by the object if the measurements are done in air with a density of 1.2 mg/cm3 at 20 °C. The original basis for reporting apparent mass is apparent mass versus brass. The apparent mass versus a density of 8.0 g/cm3 is the more recent definition, and is used extensively throughout the world. The use of apparent mass versus 8.0 g/cm3 is encouraged over apparent mass versus brass. The difference in these apparent mass systems is insignificant in most commercial weighing applications.
A full discussion of this topic is given in NIST Monograph 133, Mass and Mass Values, by Paul E. Pontius [for sale by the National Technical Information Service, 5285 Port Royal Road, Springfield, VA 22161 (COM 7450309)].
As weighing and measuring are important factors in our everyday lives, it is quite natural that questions arise about the use of various units and terms and about the magnitude of quantities involved. For example, the words "ton" and "tonnage" are used in widely different senses, and a great deal of confusion has arisen regarding the application of these terms.
The ton is used as a unit of measure in two distinct senses:
In the first sense, the term has the following meanings:
In the second sense (capacity), it is usually restricted to uses relating to ships and has the following meaning:
In the United States and Canada the ton (mass) most commonly used is the short ton. In Great Britain, it is the long ton, and in countries using the metric system, it is the metric ton. The register ton and the measurement ton are capacity or volume units used in expressing the tonnage of ships. The English water ton is used, chiefly in Great Britain, in statistics dealing with petroleum products.
There have been many other uses of the term ton such as the timber ton of 40 cubic feet and the wheat ton of 20 bushels, but their uses have been local and the meanings have not been consistent from one place to another. Properly, the word "tonnage" is used as a noun only in respect to the capacity or volume and dimensions of ships, and to the amount of the ship's cargo. There are two distinct kinds of tonnage; namely, vessel tonnage and cargo tonnage and each of these is used in various meanings. The several kinds of vessel tonnage are as follows:
Gross tonnage, or gross register tonnage, is the total cubical capacity or volume of a ship expressed in register tons of 100 cubic feet, or 2.83 cubic meters, less such space as hatchways, bakeries, galleys, etc., as are exempted from measurement by different governments. There is some lack of uniformity in the gross tonnages as given by different nations due to lack of agreement on the spaces that are to be exempted. Official merchant marine statistics of most countries are published in terms of the gross register tonnage. Press references to ship tonnage are usually to the gross tonnage.
The net tonnage, or net register tonnage, is the gross tonnage less the different spaces specified by maritime nations in their measurement rules and laws. The spaces deducted are those totally unavailable for carrying cargo, such as the engine room, coal bunkers, crew quarters, chart and instrument room, etc. The net tonnage is used in computing how much cargo that can be loaded on a ship. It is used as the basis for wharfage and other similar charges.
The register under-deck tonnage is the cubical capacity of a ship under her tonnage deck expressed in register tons. In a vessel having more than one deck, the tonnage deck is the second from the keel.
There are several variations of displacement tonnage.
The dead weight tonnage is the difference between the "loaded" and "light" displacement tonnages of a vessel. It is expressed in terms of the long ton of 2240 pounds, or the metric ton of 2204.6 pounds, and is the weight of fuel, passengers, and cargo that a vessel can carry when loaded to its maximum draft.
The second variety of tonnage, cargo tonnage, refers to the weight of the particular items making up the cargo. In overseas traffic it is usually expressed in long tons of 2240 pounds or metric tons of 2204.6 pounds. The short ton is only occasionally used. Therefore, the cargo tonnage is very distinct from vessel tonnage.
Appendix C. General Tables of Units of Measurement
These tables have been prepared for the benefit of those requiring tables of units for occasional ready reference. In Section 4 of this Appendix, the tables are carried out to a large number of decimal places and exact values are indicated by underlining. In most of the other tables, only a limited number of decimal places are given, therefore making the tables better adapted to the average user.
In the metric system of measurement, designations of multiples and subdivisions of any unit may be arrived at by combining with the name of the unit the prefixes deka, hecto, and kilo meaning, respectively, 10, 100, and 1000, and deci, centi, and milli, meaning, respectively, one-tenth, one-hundredth, and one-thousandth. In some of the following metric tables, some such multiples and subdivisions have not been included for the reason that these have little, if any currency in actual usage.
In certain cases, particularly in scientific usage, it becomes convenient to provide for multiples larger than 1000 and for subdivisions smaller than one-thousandth. Accordingly, the following prefixes have been introduced and these are now generally recognized:
yotta, | (Y) | meaning 1024 |
zetta, | (Z), | meaning 1021 |
exa, | (E), | meaning 1018 |
peta, | (P), | meaning 1015 |
tera, | (T), | meaning 1012 |
giga, | (G), | meaning 109 |
mega, | (M), | meaning 106 |
kilo, | (k), | meaning 103 |
hecto, | (h), | meaning 102 |
deka, | (da), | meaning 101 |
deci, | (d), | meaning 10-1 |
centi, | (c), | meaning 10-2 |
milli, | (m), | meaning 10-3 |
micro, | (µ), | meaning 10-6 |
nano, | (n), | meaning 10-9 |
pico, | (p), | meaning 10-12 |
femto, | (f), | meaning 10-15 |
atto, | (a), | meaning 10-18 |
zepto, | (z), | meaning 10-21 |
yocto, | (y), | meaning 10-24 |
Thus a kilometer is 1000 meters and a millimeter is 0.001 meter.
Units of Length
10 millimeters (mm) | = 1 centimeter (cm) |
10 centimeters | = 1 decimeter (dm) = 100 millimeters |
10 decimeters | = 1 meter (m) = 1000 millimeters |
10 meters | = 1 dekameter (dam) |
10 dekameters | = 1 hectometer (hm) = 100 meters |
10 hectometers | = 1 kilometer (km) = 1000 meters |
Units of Area
100 square millimeters (mm2) | = 1 square centimeter (cm2) |
100 square centimeters | = 1 square decimeter (dm2) |
100 square decimeters | = 1 square meter (m2) |
100 square meters | = 1 square dekameter (dam2) = 1 are |
100 square dekameters | = 1 square hectometer (hm2) = 1 hectare (ha) |
100 square hectometers | = 1 square kilometer (km2) |
Units of Liquid Volume
10 milliliters (mL) | = 1 centiliter (cL) |
10 centiliters | = 1 deciliter (dL) = 100 milliliters |
10 deciliters | = 1 liter7 = 1000 milliliters |
10 liters | = 1 dekaliter (daL) |
10 dekaliters | = 1 hectoliter (hL) = 100 liters |
10 hectoliters | = 1 kiloliter (kL) = 1000 liters |
Units of Volume
1000 cubic millimeters (mm3) | = 1 cubic centimeter (cm3) |
1000 cubic centimeters | = 1 cubic decimeter (dm3) |
= 1 000 000 cubic millimeters | |
1000 cubic decimeters | = 1 cubic meter (m3) |
= 1 000 000 cubic centimeters | |
= 1 000 000 000 cubic millimeters |
Units of Mass
10 milligrams (mg) | = 1 centigram (cg) |
10 centigrams | = 1 decigram (dg) = 100 milligrams |
10 decigrams | = 1 gram (g) = 1000 milligrams |
10 grams | = 1 dekagram (dag) |
10 dekagrams | = 1 hectogram (hg) = 100 grams |
10 hectograms | = 1 kilogram (kg) = 1000 grams |
1000 kilograms | = 1 megagram (Mg) or 1 metric ton (t) |
8In these tables where foot or mile is underlined, it is survey foot or U.S. statute mile rather than international foot or mile that is meant.
Units of Length
12 inches (in) | = 1 foot (ft) |
3 feet | = 1 yard (yd) |
161/2 feet | = 1 rod (rd), pole, or perch |
40 rods | = 1 furlong (fur) = 660 feet |
8 furlongs | = 1 U.S. statute mile (mi) = 5280 feet |
1852 meters (m) | = 6076.115 49 feet (approximately) |
= 1 international nautical mile |
7 By action of the 12th General Conference on Weights and Measures (1964), the liter is a special name for the cubic decimeter.
8 This section lists units of measurement that have traditionally been used in the United States. In keeping with the Omnibus Trade and Competitiveness Act of 1988, the ultimate objective is to make the International System of Units the primary measurement system used in the United States.
Units of Area9
144 square inches (in2) | = 1 square foot (ft2) |
9 square feet | = 1 square yard (yd2) |
= 1296 square inches | |
2721/4 square feet | = 1 square rod (rd2) |
160 square rods | = 1 acre = 43 560 square feet |
640 acres | = 1 square mile (mi2) |
1 mile square | = 1 section of land |
6 miles square | = 1 township |
= 36 sections = 36 square miles |
Units of Volume3
1728 cubic inches (in3) | = 1 cubic foot (ft3) |
27 cubic feet | = 1 cubic yard (yd3) |
Gunter's or Surveyors Chain Units of Measurement
0.66 foot (ft) | = 1 link (li) |
100 links | = 1 chain (ch) |
= 4 rods = 66 feet | |
80 chains | = 1 U.S. statute mile (mi) |
= 320 rods = 5280 feet |
Units of Liquid Volume10
4 gills (gi) | = 1 pint (pt) = 28.875 cubic inches (in3) |
2 pints | = 1 quart (qt) = 57.75 cubic inches |
4 quarts | = 1 gallon (gal) = 231 cubic inches |
= 8 pints = 32 gills |
Apothecaries Units of Liquid Volume
60 minims | = 1 fluid dram (fl dr or f [OUNCE]) |
= 0.225 6 cubic inch (in3) | |
8 fluid drams | = 1 fluid ounce (fl oz or f ℥) |
= 1.804 7 cubic inches | |
16 fluid ounces | = 1 pint (pt) |
= 28.875 cubic inches | |
= 128 fluid drams | |
2 pints | = 1 quart (qt) = 57.75 cubic inches |
9 Squares and cubes of customary but not of metric units are sometimes expressed by the use of abbreviations rather than symbols. For example, sq ft means square foot, and cu ft means cubic foot.
10 When necessary to distinguish the liquid pint or quart from the dry pint or quart, the word "liquid" or the abbreviation "liq" should be used in combination with the name or abbreviation of the liquid unit.
= 32 fluid ounces = 256 fluid drams | |
4 quarts | = 1 gallon (gal) = 231 cubic inches |
= 128 fluid ounces = 1024 fluid drams |
Units of Dry Volume11
2 pints (pt) | = 1 quart (qt) = 67.200 6 cubic inches (in3) |
8 quarts | = 1 peck (pk) = 537.605 cubic inches |
= 16 pints | |
4 pecks | = 1 bushel (bu) = 2150.42 cubic inches |
= 32 quarts |
Avoirdupois Units of Mass12
[The "grain" is the same in avoirdupois, troy, and apothecaries units of mass.]
1 µlb | = 0.000 001 pound (lb) |
2711/32 grains (gr) | = 1 dram (dr) |
16 drams | = 1 ounce (oz) |
= 4371/2 grains | |
16 ounces | = 1 pound (lb) |
= 256 drams | |
= 7000 grains | |
100 pounds | = 1 hundredweight (cwt)13 |
20 hundredweights | = 1 ton (tn)14 |
= 2000 pounds7 |
In "gross" or "long" measure, the following values are recognized:
112 pounds (lb) | = 1 gross or long hundredweight (cwt)7 |
11 When necessary to distinguish dry pint or quart from the liquid pint or quart, the word "dry" should be used in combination with the name or abbreviation of the dry unit.
6 When necessary to distinguish the avoirdupois dram from the apothecaries dram, or to distinguish the avoirdupois dram or ounce from the fluid dram or ounce, or to distinguish the avoirdupois ounce or pound from the troy or apothecaries ounce or pound, the word "avoirdupois" or the abbreviation "avdp" should be used in combination with the name or abbreviation of the avoirdupois unit.
7 When the terms "hundredweight" and "ton" are used unmodified, they are commonly understood to mean the 100-pound hundredweight and the 2000-pound ton, respectively; these units may be designated "net" or "short" when necessary to distinguish them from the corresponding units in gross or long measure.
14 As of January 1, 2014, "tn" is the required abbreviation for "short ton." Devices manufactured between January 1, 2008, and December 31, 2013, may use an abbreviation other than "tn" to specify "short ton."
20 gross or long hundredweights | = 1 gross or long ton |
= 2240 pounds7 |
Troy Units of Mass
[The "grain" is the same in avoirdupois, troy, and apothecaries units of mass.]
24 grains (gr) | = 1 pennyweight (dwt) |
20 pennyweights | = 1 ounce troy (oz t) = 480 grains |
12 ounces troy | = 1 pound troy (lb t) |
= 240 pennyweights = 5760 grains |
Apothecaries Units of Mass
[The "grain" is the same in avoirdupois, troy, and apothecaries units of mass.]
20 grains (gr) | = 1 scruple (s ap or [SCRUPLE]) |
3 scruples | = 1 dram apothecaries (dr ap or [OUNCE]) |
= 60 grains | |
8 drams apothecaries | = 1 ounce apothecaries (oz ap or ℥) |
= 24 scruples = 480 grains | |
12 ounces apothecaries | = 1 pound apothecaries (lb ap) |
= 96 drams apothecaries | |
= 288 scruples = 5760 grains |
In Great Britain, the yard, the avoirdupois pound, the troy pound, and the apothecaries pound are identical with the units of the same names used in the United States. The tables of British linear measure, troy mass, and apothecaries mass are the same as the corresponding United States tables, except for the British spelling "drachm" in the table of apothecaries mass. The table of British avoirdupois mass is the same as the United States table up to 1 pound; above that point the table reads:
14 pounds | = 1 stone |
2 stones | = 1 quarter = 28 pounds |
4 quarters | = 1 hundredweight = 112 pounds |
20 hundredweight | = 1 ton = 2240 pounds |
The present British gallon and bushel - known as the "Imperial gallon" and "Imperial bushel" - are, respectively, about 20 % and 3 % larger than the United States gallon and bushel. The Imperial gallon is defined as the volume of 10 avoirdupois pounds of water under specified conditions, and the Imperial bushel is defined as 8 Imperial gallons. Also, the subdivision of the Imperial gallon as presented in the table of British apothecaries fluid measure differs in two important respects from the corresponding United States subdivision, in that the Imperial gallon is divided into 160 fluid ounces (whereas the United States gallon is divided into 128 fluid ounces), and a "fluid scruple" is included. The full table of British measures of capacity (which are used alike for liquid and for dry commodities) is as follows:
4 gills | = 1 pint |
2 pints | = 1 quart |
4 quarts | = 1 gallon |
2 gallons | = 1 peck |
8 gallons (4 pecks) | = 1 bushel |
8 bushels | = 1 quarter |
The full table of British apothecaries measure is as follows:
20 minims | = 1 fluid scruple |
3 fluid scruples | = 1 fluid drachm |
= 60 minims | |
8 fluid drachms | = 1 fluid ounce |
20 fluid ounces | = 1 pint |
8 pints | = 1 gallon (160 fluid ounces) |
(all underlined figures are exact)
Units of Length - International Measure15
Units | Inches | Feet | Yards | Miles | Centimeters | Meters |
1 inch = | 1 | 0.083 333 33 | 0.027 777 78 | 0.000 015 782 83 | 2.54 | 0.025 4 |
1 foot = | 12 | 1 | 0.333 333 3 | 0.000 189 393 9 | 30.48 | 0.304 8 |
1 yard = | 36 | 3 | 1 | 0.000 568 181 8 | 91.44 | 0.914 4 |
1 mile = | 63 360 | 5 280 | 1 760 | 1 | 160 934.4 | 1609.344 |
1 centimeter = | 0.393 700 8 | 0.032 808 40 | 0.010 936 13 | 0.000 006 213 712 | 1 | 0.01 |
1 meter = | 39.370 08 | 3.280 840 | 1.093 613 | 0.000 621 371 2 | 100 | 1 |
Units of Length - Survey Measure9
Units | Links | Feet | Rods | Chains | Miles | Meters |
1 link = | 1 | 0.66 | 0.04 | 0.01 | 0.000 125 | 0.201 168 4 |
1 foot = | 1.515 152 | 1 | 0.060 606 06 | 0.015 151 52 | 0.000 189 393 9 | 0.304 800 6 |
1 rod = | 25 | 16.5 | 1 | 0.25 | 0.003 125 | 5.029 210 |
1 chain = | 100 | 66 | 4 | 1 | 0.0125 | 20.116 84 |
1 mile = | 8 000 | 5 280 | 320 | 80 | 1 | 1609.347 |
1 meter = | 4.970 960 | 3.280 833 | 0.198 838 4 | 0.049 709 60 | 0.000 621 369 9 | 1 |
15 One international foot = 0.999 998 survey foot (exactly) One international mile = 0.999 998 survey mile (exactly)
Units of Area - International Measure16
(all underlined figures are exact)
Units | Square Inches | Square Feet | Square Yards |
1 square inch = | 1 | 0.006 944 444 | 0.000 771 604 9 |
1 square foot = | 144 | 1 | 0.111 111 1 |
1 square yard = | 1 296 | 9 | 1 |
1 square mile = | 4 014 489 600 | 27 878 400 | 3 097 600 |
1 square centimeter = | 0.155 000 3 | 0.001 076 391 | 0.000 119 599 0 |
1 square meter = | 1550.003 | 10.763 91 | 1.195 990 |
Note: 1 survey foot = 1 international foot = 1 international foot = | 1200/3937 meter (exactly) 12 x 0.0254 meter (exactly) 0.0254 x 39.37 survey foot (exactly |
Units | Square Miles | Square Centimeters | Square Meters |
1 square inch = | 0.000 000 000 249 097 7 | 6.451 6 | 0.000 645 16 |
1 square foot = | 0.000 000 035 870 06 | 929.030 4 | 0.092 903 04 |
1 square yard = | 0.000 000 322 830 6 | 8361.273 6 | 0.836 127 36 |
1 square mile = | 1 | 25 899 881 103.36 | 2 589 988.110 336 |
1 square centimeter = | 0.000 000 000 038 610 22 | 1 | 0.0001 |
1 square meter = | 0.000 000 386 102 2 | 10 000 | 1 |
Units of Area - Survey Measure10,17
Units | Square Feet | Square Rods | Square Chains | Acres |
1 square foot = | 1 | 0.003 673 095 | 0.000 229 568 4 | 0.000 022 956 84 |
1 square rod = | 272.25 | 1 | 0.062 5 | 0.006 25 |
1 square chain = | 4 356 | 16 | 1 | 0.1 |
1 acre = | 43 560 | 160 | 10 | 1 |
16 One square survey foot = 1.000 004 square international feet One square survey mile = 1.000 004 square international miles 10 One square survey foot = 1.000 004 square international feet One square survey mile = 1.000 004 square international miles
17 One international foot = 0.999 998 survey foot (exactly) One international mile = 0.999 998 survey mile (exactly)
1 square mile = | 27 878 400 | 102 400 | 6 400 | 640 |
1 square meter = | 10.763 87 | 0.039 536 70 | 0.002 471 044 | 0.000 247 104 4 |
1 hectare = | 107 638.7 | 395.367 0 | 24.710 44 | 2.471 044 |
Units | Square Miles | Square Meters | Hectares |
1 square foot = | 0.000 000 035 870 06 | 0.092 903 41 | 0.000 009 290 341 |
1 square rod = | 0.000 009 765 625 | 25.292 95 | 0.002 529 295 |
1 square chain = | 0.000 156 25 | 404.687 3 | 0.040 468 73 |
1 acre = | 0.001 562 5 | 4 046.873 | 0.404 687 3 |
1 square mile = | 1 | 2 589 998 | 258.999 8 |
1 square meter = | 0.000 000 386 100 6 | 1 | 0.000 1 |
1 hectare = | 0.003 861 006 | 10 000 | 1 |
Units of Volume
(all underlined figures are exact)
Units | Cubic Inches | Cubic Feet | Cubic Yards |
1 cubic inch = | 1 | 0.000 578 703 7 | 0.000 021 433 47 |
1 cubic foot = | 1 728 | 1 | 0.037 037 04 |
1 cubic yard = | 46 656 | 27 | 1 |
1 cubic centimeter = | 0.061 023 74 | 0.000 035 314 67 | 0.000 001 307 951 |
1 cubic decimeter = | 61.023 74 | 0.035 314 67 | 0.001 307 951 |
1 cubic meter = | 61 023.74 | 35.314 67 | 1.307 951 |
Units | Milliliters (Cubic Centimeters) | Liters (Cubic Decimeters) | Cubic Meters |
1 cubic inch = | 16.387 064 | 0.016 387 064 | 0.000 016 387 064 |
1 cubic foot = | 28 316.846 592 | 28.316 846 592 | 0.028 316 846 592 |
1 cubic yard = | 764 554.857 984 | 764.554 857 984 | 0.764 554 857 984 |
1 cubic centimeter = | 1 | 0.001 | 0.000 001 |
1 cubic decimeter = | 1 000 | 1 | 0.001 |
1 cubic meter = | 1 000 000 | 1000 | 1 |
Units of Capacity or Volume - Dry Volume Measure
Units | Dry Pints | Dry Quarts | Pecks | Bushels |
1 dry pint = | 1 | 0.5 | 0.062 5 | 0.015 625 |
1 dry quart = | 2 | 1 | 0.125 | 0.031 25 |
1 peck = | 16 | 8 | 1 | 0.25 |
1 bushel = | 64 | 32 | 4 | 1 |
1 cubic inch = | 0.029 761 6 | 0.014 880 8 | 0.001 860 10 | 0.000 465 025 |
1 cubic foot = | 51.428 09 | 25.714 05 | 3.214 256 | 0.803 563 95 |
1 liter = | 1.816 166 | 0.908 083 0 | 0.113 510 4 | 0.028 377 59 |
1 cubic meter = | 1 816.166 | 908.083 0 | 113.510 4 | 28.377 59 |
Units | Cubic Inches | Cubic Feet | Liters | Cubic Meters |
1 dry pint = | 33.600 312 5 | 0.019 444 63 | 0.550 610 5 | 0.000 550 610 5 |
1 dry quart = | 67.200 625 | 0.038 889 25 | 1.101 221 | 0.001 101 221 |
1 peck = | 537.605 | 0.311 114 | 8.809 768 | 0.008 809 768 |
1 bushel = | 2 150.42 | 1.244 456 | 35.239 070 166 88 | 0.035 239 070 166 88 |
1 cubic inch = | 1 | 0.000 578 703 7 | 0.016 387 064 | 0.000 016 387 064 |
1 cubic foot = | 1728 | 1 | 28.316 846 592 | 0.028 316 846 592 |
1 liter = | 61.023 74 | 0.035 314 67 | 1 | 0.001 |
1 cubic meter = | 61 023.74 | 35.314 67 | 1000 | 1 |
Units of Capacity or Volume - Liquid Volume Measure
(All underlined figures are exact)
Units | Minims | Fluid Drams | Fluid Ounces | Gills |
1 minim = | 1 | 0.016 666 67 | 0.002 083 333 | 0.000 520 833 3 |
1 fluid dram = | 60 | 1 | 0.125 | 0.031 25 |
1 fluid ounce = | 480 | 8 | 1 | 0.25 |
1 gill = | 1 920 | 32 | 4 | 1 |
1 liquid pint = | 7 680 | 128 | 16 | 4 |
1 liquid quart = | 15 360 | 256 | 32 | 8 |
1 gallon = | 61 440 | 1024 | 128 | 32 |
1 cubic inch = | 265.974 0 | 4.432 900 | 0.554 112 6 | 0.138 528 1 |
1 cubic foot = | 459 603.1 | 7660.052 | 957.506 5 | 239.376 6 |
1 milliliter = | 16.230 73 | 0.270 512 2 | 0.033 814 02 | 0.008 453 506 |
1 liter = | 16 230.73 | 270.512 2 | 33.814 02 | 8.453 506 |
Units | Liquid Pints | Liquid Quarts | Gallons | Cubic Inches |
1 minim = | 0.000 130 208 3 | 0.000 065 104 17 | 0.000 016 276 04 | 0.003 759 766 |
1 fluid dram = | 0.007 812 5 | 0.003 906 25 | 0.000 976 562 5 | 0.225 585 94 |
1 fluid ounce = | 0.062 5 | 0.031 25 | 0.007 812 5 | 1.804 687 5 |
1 gill = | 0.25 | 0.125 | 0.031 25 | 7.218 75 |
1 liquid pint = | 1 | 0.5 | 0.125 | 28.875 |
1 liquid quart = | 2 | 1 | 0.25 | 57.75 |
1 gallon = | 8 | 4 | 1 | 231 |
1 cubic inch = | 0.034 632 03 | 0.017 316 02 | 0.004 329 004 | 1 |
1 cubic foot = | 59.844 16 | 29.922 08 | 7.480 519 | 1 728 |
1 milliliter = | 0.002 113 376 | 0.001 056 688 | 0.000 264 172 1 | 0.061 023 74 |
1 liter = | 2.113 376 | 1.056 688 | 0.264 172 1 | 61.023 74 |
Units | Cubic Feet | Milliliters | Liters |
1 minim = | 0.000 002 175 790 | 0.061 611 52 | 0.000 061 611 52 |
1 fluid dram = | 0.000 130 547 4 | 3.696 691 | 0.003 696 691 |
1 fluid ounce = | 0.001 044 379 | 29.573 53 | 0.029 573 53 |
1 gill = | 0.004 177 517 | 118.294 1 | 0.118 294 1 |
1 liquid pint = | 0.016 710 07 | 473.176 5 | 0.473 176 5 |
1 liquid quart = | 0.033 420 14 | 946.352 9 | 0.946 352 9 |
1 gallon = | 0.133 680 6 | 3785.411 784 | 3.785 411 784 |
1 cubic inch = | 0.000 578 703 7 | 16.387 06 | 0.016 387 06 |
1 cubic foot = | 1 | 28 316.85 | 28.316 85 |
1 milliliter = | 0.000 035 314 67 | 1 | 0.001 |
1 liter = | 0.035 314 67 | 1 000 | 1 |
Units of Mass Not Less Than Avoirdupois Ounces
(all underlined figures are exact)
Units | Avoirdupois Ounces | Avoirdupois Pounds | Short Hundredweights | Short Tons |
1 avoirdupois ounce = | 1 | 0.0625 | 0.000 625 | 0.000 031 25 |
1 avoirdupois pound = | 16 | 1 | 0.01 | 0.000 5 |
1 short hundredweight = | 1 600 | 100 | 1 | 0.05 |
1 short ton = | 32 000 | 2 000 | 20 | 1 |
1 long ton = | 35 840 | 2 240 | 22.4 | 1.12 |
1 kilogram = | 35.273 96 | 2.204 623 | 0.022 046 23 | 0.001 102 311 |
1 metric ton = | 35 273.96 | 2204.623 | 22.046 23 | 1.102 311 |
Units | Long Tons | Kilograms | Metric Tons |
1 avoirdupois ounce = | 0.000 027 901 79 | 0.028 349 523 125 | 0.000 028 349 523 125 |
1 avoirdupois pound = | 0.000 446 428 6 | 0.453 592 37 | 0.000 453 592 37 |
1 short hundredweight = | 0.044 642 86 | 45.359 237 | 0.045 359 237 |
1 short ton = | 0.892 857 1 | 907.184 74 | 0.907 184 74 |
1 long ton = | 1 | 1016.046 908 8 | 1.016 046 908 8 |
1 kilogram = | 0.000 984 206 5 | 1 | 0.001 |
1 metric ton = | 0.984 206 5 | 1 000 | 1 |
Units of Mass Not Greater Than Pounds and Kilograms
(all underlined figures are exact)
Units | Grains | Apothecaries Scruples | Pennyweights | Avoirdupois Drams |
1 grain = | 1 | 0.05 | 0.041 666 67 | 0.036 571 43 |
1 apoth. scruple = | 20 | 1 | 0.833 333 3 | 0.731 428 6 |
1 pennyweight = | 24 | 1.2 | 1 | 0.877 714 3 |
1 avdp. dram = | 27.343 75 | 1.367 187 5 | 1.139 323 | 1 |
1 apoth. dram = | 60 | 3 | 2.5 | 2.194 286 |
1 avdp. ounce = | 437.5 | 21.875 | 18.229 17 | 16 |
1 apoth. or troy oz. = | 480 | 24 | 20 | 17.554 29 |
1 apoth. or troy pound = | 5 760 | 288 | 240 | 210.651 4 |
1 avdp. pound = | 7 000 | 350 | 291.666 7 | 256 |
1 milligram = | 0.015 432 36 | 0.000 771 617 9 | 0.000 643 014 9 | 0.000 564 383 4 |
1 gram = | 15.432 36 | 0.771 617 9 | 0.643 014 9 | 0.564 383 4 |
1 kilogram = | 15432.36 | 771.617 9 | 643.014 9 | 564.383 4 |
Units | Apothecaries Drams | Avoirdupois Ounces | Apothecaries or Troy Ounces | Apothecaries or Troy Pounds |
1 grain = | 0.016 666 67 | 0.002 285 714 | 0.002 083 333 | 0.000 173 611 1 |
1 apoth. scruple = | 0.333 333 3 | 0.045 714 29 | 0.041 666 67 | 0.003 472 222 |
1 pennyweight = | 0.4 | 0.054 857 14 | 0.05 | 0.004 166 667 |
1 avdp. dram = | 0.455 729 2 | 0.062 5 | 0.56 966 15 | 0.004 747 179 |
1 apoth. dram = | 1 | 0.137 142 9 | 0.125 | 0.010 416 67 |
1 avdp. ounce = | 7.291 667 | 1 | 0.911 458 3 | 0.075 954 86 |
1 apoth. or troy ounce = | 8 | 1.097 143 | 1 | 0.083 333 333 |
1 apoth. or troy pound = | 96 | 13.165 71 | 12 | 1 |
1 avdp. pound = | 116.666 7 | 16 | 14.583 33 | 1.215 278 |
1 milligram = | 0.000 257 206 0 | 0.000 035 273 96 | 0.000 032 150 75 | 0.000 002 679 229 |
1 gram = | 0.257 206 0 | 0.035 273 96 | 0.032 150 75 | 0.002 679 229 |
1 kilogram = | 257.206 0 | 35.273 96 | 32.150 75 | 2.679 229 |
Units | Avoirdupois Pounds | Milligrams | Grams | Kilograms |
1 grain = | 0.000 142 857 1 | 64.798 91 | 0.064 798 91 | 0.000 064 798 91 |
1 apoth. scruple = | 0.002 857 143 | 1 295.978 2 | 1.295 978 2 | 0.001 295 978 2 |
1 pennyweight = | 0.003 428 571 | 1 555.173 84 | 1.555 173 84 | 0.001 555 173 84 |
1 avdp. dram = | 0.003 906 25 | 1 771.845 195 312 5 | 1.771 845 195 312 5 | 0.001 771 845 195 312 5 |
1 apoth. dram = | 0.008 571 429 | 3 887.934 6 | 3.887 934 6 | 0.003 887 934 6 |
1 avdp. ounce = | 0.062 5 | 28 349.523 125 | 28.349 523 125 | 0.028 349 523 125 |
1 apoth. or troy ounce = | 0.068 571 43 | 31 103.476 8 | 31.103 476 8 | 0.031 103 476 8 |
1 apoth. or troy pound = | 0.822 857 1 | 373 241.721 6 | 373.241 721 6 | 0.373 241 721 6 |
1 avdp. pound = | 1 | 453 592.37 | 453.592 37 | 0.453 592 37 |
1 milligram = | 0.000 002 204 623 | 1 | 0.001 | 0.000 001 |
1 gram = | 0.002 204 623 | 1 000 | 1 | 0.001 |
1 kilogram = | 2.204 623 | 1 000 000 | 1 000 | 1 |
In these tables it is necessary to differentiate between the "international foot" and the "survey foot." Therefore, the survey foot is underlined.
When the name of a unit is enclosed in brackets (thus, [1 hand] . . .), this indicates (1) that the unit is not in general current use in the United States, or (2) that the unit is believed to be based on "custom and usage" rather than on formal authoritative definition.
Equivalents involving decimals are, in most instances, rounded off to the third decimal place except where they are exact, in which cases these exact equivalents are so designated. The equivalents of the imprecise units "tablespoon" and "teaspoon" are rounded to the nearest milliliter.
Units of Length | |
angstrom (A)18 | 0.1 nanometer (exactly) 0.000 1 micrometer (exactly) 0.000 000 1 millimeter (exactly) 0.000 000 004 inch |
1 cable's length | 120 fathoms (exactly) 720 feet (exactly) 219 meters |
1 centimeter (cm) | 0.393 7 inch |
1 chain (ch) (Gunter's or surveyors) | 66 feet (exactly) 20.116 8 meters |
1 decimeter (dm) | 3.937 inches |
1 dekameter (dam) | 32.808 feet |
1 fathom | 6 feet (exactly) 1.828 8 meters |
1 foot (ft) | 0.304 8 meter (exactly) |
1 furlong (fur) | 10 chains (surveyors) (exactly) 660 feet (exactly) 1/8 U.S. statute mile (exactly) 201.168 meters |
[1 hand] | 4 inches |
1 inch (in) | 2.54 centimeters (exactly) |
1 kilometer (km) | 0.621 mile |
1 league (land) | 3 U.S. statute miles (exactly) 4.828 kilometers |
1 link (li) (Gunter's or surveyors) | 0.66 foot (exactly) 0.201 168 meter |
18 The angstrom is basically defined as 10-10 meter.
1 meter (m) | 39.37 inches 1.094 yards |
1 micrometer | 0.001 millimeter (exactly) 0.000 039 37 inch |
1 mil | 0.001 inch (exactly) 0.025 4 millimeter (exactly) |
1 mile (mi) (U.S. statute)19 | 5280 feet survey (exactly) 1.609 kilometers |
1 mile (mi) (international) | 5280 feet international (exactly) |
1 mile (mi) (international nautical)20 | 1.852 kilometers (exactly) 1.151 survey miles |
1 millimeter (mm) | 0.039 37 inch 0.001 meter (exactly) |
1 nanometer (nm) | 0.000 000 039 37 inch |
1 Point (typography) | 0.013 837 inch (exactly) 1/72 inch (approximately) 0.351 millimeter |
1 rod (rd), pole, or perch | 161/2 feet (exactly) 5.029 2 meters |
1 yard (yd) | 0.914 4 meter (exactly) |
19 The term "statute mile" originated with Queen Elizabeth I who changed the definition of the mile from the Roman mile of 5000 feet to the statute mile of 5280 feet. The international mile and the U.S. statute mile differ by about 3 millimeters although both are defined as being equal to 5280 feet. The international mile is based on the international foot (0.3048 meter) whereas the U.S. statute mile is based on the survey foot (1200/3937 meter).
20 The international nautical mile of 1852 meters (6076.115 49 feet) was adopted effective July 1, 1954, for use in the United States. The value formerly used in the United States was 6080.20 feet = 1 nautical (geographical or sea) mile.
Units of Area | |
1 acre21 | 43 560 square feet (exactly) 0.405 hectare |
1 are | 119.599 square yards 0.025 acre |
1 hectare | 2.471 acres |
[1 square (building)] | 100 square feet |
1 square centimeter (cm2) | 0.155 square inch |
1 square decimeter (dm2) | 15.500 square inches |
1 square foot (ft2) | 929.030 square centimeters |
1 square inch (in2) | 6.451 6 square centimeters (exactly) |
1 square kilometer (km2) | 247.104 acres 0.386 square mile |
1 square meter (m2) | 1.196 square yards 10.764 square feet |
1 square mile (mi2) | 258.999 hectares |
1 square millimeter (mm2) | 0.002 square inch |
1 square rod (rd2), sq pole, or sq perch | 25.293 square meters |
1 square yard (yd2) | 0.836 square meter |
Units of Capacity or Volume | |
1 barrel (bbl), liquid | 31 to 42 gallons22 |
1 barrel (bbl), standard for fruits, vegetables, and other dry commodities, except cranberries | 7056 cubic inches 105 dry quarts 3.281 bushels, struck measure |
1 barrel (bbl), standard, cranberry | 5826 cubic inches 8645/64 dry quarts |
21 The question is often asked as to the length of a side of an acre of ground. An acre is a unit of area containing 43560 square feet. It is not necessarily square, or even rectangular. But, if it is square, then the length of a side is equal toV43560 ft2 =208.710 ft (not exact)
.22 There are a variety of "barrels" established by law or usage. For example, federal taxes on fermented liquors are based on a barrel of 31 gallons; many state laws fix the "barrel for liquids" as 311/2 gallons; one state fixes a 36-gallon barrel for cistern measurement; federal law recognizes a 40-gallon barrel for "proof spirits;" by custom, 42 gallons comprise a barrel of crude oil or petroleum products for statistical purposes, and this equivalent is recognized "for liquids" by four states.
Units of Capacity or Volume | |
2.709 bushels, struck measure | |
1 bushel (bu) (U.S.) struck measure | 2150.42 cubic inches (exactly) 35.238 liters |
[1 bushel, heaped (U.S.)] | 2747.715 cubic inches 1.278 bushels, struck measure23 |
[1 bushel (bu) (British Imperial) (struck measure)] | 1.032 U.S. bushels, struck measure 2219.36 cubic inches |
1 cord (cd) (firewood) | 128 cubic feet (exactly) |
1 cubic centimeter (cm3) | 0.061 cubic inch |
1 cubic decimeter (dm3) | 61.024 cubic inches |
1 cubic foot (ft3) | 7.481 gallons 28.316 cubic decimeters |
1 cubic inch (in3) | 0.554 fluid ounce 4.433 fluid drams 16.387 cubic centimeters |
1 cubic meter (m3) | 1.308 cubic yards |
1 cubic yard (yd3) | 0.765 cubic meter |
1 cup, measuring | 8 fluid ounces (exactly) 237 milliliters 1/2 liquid pint (exactly) |
1 dekaliter (daL) | 2.642 gallons 1.135 pecks |
1 dram, fluid (or liquid) (fl dr) or f [OUNCE]) (U.S.) | 1/8 fluid ounce (exactly) 0.226 cubic inch 3.697 milliliters 1.041 British fluid drachms |
[1 drachm, fluid (fl dr) (British)] | 0.961 U.S. fluid dram 0.217 cubic inch 3.552 milliliters |
1 gallon (gal) (U.S.) | 231 cubic inches (exactly) 3.785 liters 0.833 British gallon 128 U.S. fluid ounces (exactly) |
[1 gallon (gal) (British Imperial)] | 277.42 cubic inches 1.201 U.S. gallons 4.546 liters 160 British fluid ounces (exactly) |
1 gill (gi) | 7.219 cubic inches 4 fluid ounces (exactly) 0.118 liter |
23 Frequently recognized as 11/4 bushels, struck measure.
Units of Capacity or Volume | |
1 hectoliter (hL) | 26.418 gallons 2.838 bushels |
1 liter (1 cubic decimeter exactly) | 1.057 liquid quarts 0.908 dry quart 61.025 cubic inches |
1 milliliter (mL) | 0.271 fluid dram 16.231 minims 0.061 cubic inch |
1 ounce, fluid (or liquid) (fl oz) or/ 5) (U.S.) | 1.805 cubic inches 29.573 milliliters 1.041 British fluid ounces |
[1 ounce, fluid (fl oz) (British)] | 0.961 U.S. fluid ounce 1.734 cubic inches 28.412 milliliters |
1 peck (pk) | 8.810 liters |
1 pint (pt), dry | 33.600 cubic inches 0.551 liter |
1 pint (pt), liquid | 28.875 cubic inches exactly 0.473 liter |
1 quart (qt), dry (U.S.) | 67.201 cubic inches 1.101 liters 0.969 British quart |
1 quart (qt), liquid (U.S.) | 57.75 cubic inches (exactly) 0.946 liter 0.833 British quart |
[1 quart (qt) (British)] | 69.354 cubic inches 1.032 U.S. dry quarts 1.201 U.S. liquid quarts |
1 tablespoon, measuring | 3 teaspoons (exactly) 15 milliliters 4 fluid drams 1/2 fluid ounce (exactly) |
1 teaspoon, measuring | [1/3] tablespoon (exactly) 5 milliliters 1[1/3] fluid drams 24 |
1 water ton (English) | 270.91 U.S. gallons 224 British Imperial gallons (exactly) |
24 The equivalent "1 teaspoon = 1[1/3] fluid drams" has been found by the Bureau to correspond more closely with the actual capacities of "measuring" and silver teaspoons than the equivalent "1 teaspoon = 1 fluid dram," which is given by a number of dictionaries.
Units of Mass | |
1 assay ton (AT)25 | 29.167 grams |
1 carat (c) | 200 milligrams (exactly) 3.086 grains |
1 dram apothecaries (dr ap or 3) | 60 grains (exactly) 3.888 grams |
1 dram avoirdupois (dr avdp) | 2711/32 (= 27.344) grains 1.772 grams |
1 gamma ([GAMMA]) | 1 microgram (exactly) |
1 grain | 64.798 91 milligrams (exactly) |
1 gram (g) | 15.432 grains 0.035 ounce, avoirdupois |
1 hundredweight, gross or long26 (gross cwt) | 112 pounds (exactly) 50.802 kilograms |
1 hundredweight, gross or short (cwt or net cwt) | 100 pounds (exactly) 45.359 kilograms |
1 kilogram (kg) | 2.205 pounds |
1 milligram (mg) | 0.015 grain |
1 ounce, avoirdupois (oz avdp) | 437.5 grains (exactly) 0.911 troy or apothecaries ounce 28.350 grams |
1 ounce, troy or apothecaries (oz t or oz ap or [OUNCE]) | 480 grains (exactly) 1.097 avoirdupois ounces 31.103 grams |
1 pennyweight (dwt) | 1.555 grams |
1 point | 0.01 carat 2 milligrams |
1 pound, avoirdupois (lb avdp) | 7000 grains (exactly) 1.215 troy or apothecaries pounds 453.592 37 grams (exactly) |
1 micropound (µlb) [the Greek letter mu in combination with the letters lb] | 0.000 001 pound (exactly) |
1 pound, troy or apothecaries (lb t or lb ap) | 5760 grains (exactly) 0.823 avoirdupois pound 373.242 grams |
25 Used in assaying. The assay ton bears the same relation to the milligram that a ton of 2000 pounds avoirdupois bears to the ounce troy; hence the mass in milligrams of precious metal obtained from one assay ton of ore gives directly the number of troy ounces to the net ton.
26 The gross or long ton and hundredweight are used commercially in the Untied States to only a very limitied extent, usually in restricted industrial fields. The units are the same as the British "ton" and the "hundredweights."
Units of Mass | |
1 scruple (s ap or [SCRUPLE]) | 20 grains (exactly) 1.296 grams |
1 ton, gross or long27 | 2240 pounds (exactly) 1.12 net tons (exactly) 1.016 metric tons |
1 ton, metric (t) | 2204.623 pounds 0.984 gross ton 1.102 net tons |
1 ton, net or short (tn)21 | 2000 pounds (exactly) 0.893 gross ton 0.907 metric ton |
21 As of January 1, 2014, "tn" is the required abbreviation for "short ton." Devices manufactured between January 1, 2008, and December 31, 2013, may use an abbreviation other than "tn" to specify "short ton."
Appendix D. Definitions
The specific code to which the definition applies is shown in [brackets] at the end of the definition. Definitions for the General Code [1.10] apply to all codes in Handbook 44.
absolute value. - The absolute value of a number is the magnitude of that number without considering the positive or negative sign. [2.20]
acceptance test. - The first official test of a farm milk tank, at a particular location, in which the tank is accepted as correct. This test applies to newly constructed tanks, relocated used tanks, and recalibrated tanks. [4.42]
accurate. - A piece of equipment is "accurate" when its performance or value - that is, its indications, its deliveries, its recorded representations, or its capacity or actual value, etc., as determined by tests made with suitable standards - conforms to the standard within the applicable tolerances and other performance requirements. Equipment that fails so to conform is "inaccurate." (Also see "correct.") [Appendix A]
all-class. - A description of a multi-class calibration that includes all the classes of a grain type. [5.56(a), 5.57] (Added 2007)
analog or digital recorder. - An element used with a belt-conveyor scale that continuously records the rate-of-flow of bulk material over the scale (formerly referred to as a chart recorder). [2.21]
(Amended 1989)
analog type. - A system of indication or recording in which values are presented as a series of graduations in combination with an indicator, or in which the most sensitive element of an indicating system moves continuously during the operation of the device. [1.10]
animal scale. - A scale designed for weighing single heads of livestock. [2.20] (Amended 1987)
apparent mass versus 8.0 g/cm3. - The apparent mass of an object versus 8.0 g/cm3 is the mass of material of density 8.0 g/cm3 that produces exactly the same balance reading as the object when the comparison is made in air with a density of 1.2 mg/cm3 at 20 °C. [3.37]
approval seal. - A label, tag, stamped or etched impression, or the like, indicating official approval of a device. (Also see "security seal.") [1.10]
assumed atmospheric pressure. - The average atmospheric pressure agreed to exist at the meter at various ranges of elevation, irrespective of variations in atmospheric pressure from time to time. [3.33]
audit trail. - An electronic count and/or information record of the changes to the values of the calibration or configuration parameters of a device. [1.10, 2.20, 2.21, 2.24, 3.30, 3.37, 5.56(a)]
(Added 1993)
automatic bulk weighing system. - A weighing system adapted to the automatic weighing of bulk commodities in successive drafts of predetermined amounts, automatically recording the no-load and loaded weight values and accumulating the net weight of each draft. [2.22]
automatic checkweigher. - An automatic weighing system that does not require the intervention of an operator during the weighing process and used to subdivide items of different weights into one or more subgroups, such as identifying packages that have acceptable or unacceptable fill levels according to the value of the difference between their weight and a pre-determined set point. These systems may be used to fill standard packages for compliance with net weight requirements. [2.24]
(Amended 2004)
automatic gravimetric filling machine (instrument). - A filling machine or instrument that fills containers or packages with predetermined and virtually constant mass of product from bulk by automatic weighing, and which comprises essentially an automatic feeding device or devices associated with one or more weighing unit and the appropriate discharge devices. [2.24]
(Added 2004)
automatic temperature or density compensation. - The use of integrated or ancillary equipment to obtain from the output of a volumetric meter an equivalent mass, or an equivalent liquid volume at the assigned reference temperature below and a pressure of 14.696 lb/in2 absolute.
Cryogenic liquids: 21 °C (70 °F) [3.34]
Hydrocarbon gas vapor: 15 °C (60 °F) [3.33]
Liquid carbon dioxide: 21 °C (70 °F) [3.38]
Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and Anhydrous ammonia: 15 °C (60 °F) [3.32]
Petroleum liquid fuels and lubricants: 15 °C (60 °F) [3.30]
automatic weighing system (AWS). - An automatic weighing system is a weighing device that, in combination with other hardware and/or software components, automatically weighs discrete items and that does not require the intervention of an operator during the weighing process. Examples include, but are not limited to, weigh-labelers and checkweighers. [2.24]
(Amended 2004)
automatic zero-setting mechanism (AZSM). - See "automatic zero-setting mechanism" under "zero-setting mechanism." [2.22]
(Amended 2010)
automatic zero-setting mechanism (belt-conveyor scale). - A zero setting device that operates automatically without intervention of the operator after the belt has been running empty. [2.21]
(Added 2002)
automatic zero-tracking (AZT) mechanism. - Automatic means provided to maintain the zero balance indication, within specified limits, without the intervention of an operator. [2.20, 2.22, 2.24]
(Amended 2010)
automatic-indicating scale. - One on which the weights of applied loads of various magnitudes are automatically indicated throughout all or a portion of the weighing range of the scale. (A scale that automatically weighs out commodity in predetermined drafts, such as an automatic hopper scale, a packaging scale, and the like, is not an "automatic-indicating" scale.) [2.20. 2.22]
auxiliary indicator. - Any indicator other than the master weight totalizer that indicates the weight of material determined by the scale. [2.21]
axle-load scale. - A scale permanently installed in a fixed location, having a load-receiving element specially adapted to determine the combined load of all wheels (1) on a single axle or (2) on a tandem axle of a highway vehicle. [2.20]
badge. - A metal plate affixed to the meter by the manufacturer showing the manufacturer's name, serial number and model number of the meter, and its rated capacity. [3.33]
balance, zero-load. - See "zero-load balance." [2.20]
balance indicator. - A combination of elements, one or both of which will oscillate with respect to the other, for indicating the balance condition of a nonautomatic indicating scale. The combination may consist of two indicating edges, lines, or points, or a single edge, line, or point and a graduated scale. [2.20]
balancing mechanism. - A mechanism (including a balance ball) that is designed for adjusting a scale to an accurate zero-load balance condition. [2.20]
base pressure. - The absolute pressure used in defining the gas measurement unit to be used, and is the gauge pressure at the meter plus an agreed atmospheric pressure. [3.33]
basic distance rate. - The charge for distance for all intervals except the initial interval. [5.54]
basic time rate. - The charge for time for all intervals except the initial interval. [5.54]
basic tolerances. - Basic tolerances are those tolerances on underregistration and on overregistration, or in excess and in deficiency, that are established by a particular code for a particular device under all normal tests, whether maintenance or acceptance. Basic tolerances include minimum tolerance values when these are specified. Special tolerances, identified as such and pertaining to special tests, are not basic tolerances. [1.10]
batching meter. - A device used for the purpose of measuring quantities of water to be used in a batching operation. [3.36]
beam. - See "weighbeam." [2.20]
beam scale. - One on which the weights of loads of various magnitudes are indicated solely by means of one or more weighbeam bars either alone or in combination with counterpoise weights. [2.20]
bell prover. - A calibrated cylindrical metal tank of the annular type with a scale thereon that, in the downward travel in a surrounding tank containing a sealing medium, displaces air through the meter being proved or calibrated. [3.33]
belt-conveyor. - An endless moving belt for transporting material from place to place. [2.21]
belt-conveyor scale. - A device that employs a weighing element in contact with a belt to sense the weight of the material being conveyed and the speed (travel) of the material, and integrates these values to produce total delivered weight. [2.21]
belt-conveyor scale systems area. - The scale system area refers to the scale suspension, weigh idlers attached to the scale suspension, 5 approach (-) idlers, and 5 retreat (+) idlers. [2.21]
(Added 2001)
belt load. - The weight of the material carried by the conveyor belt, expressed in terms of weight units per unit of length (e.g., pounds per foot, kilograms per meter). Also called "belt loading." [2.21]
(Added 2013)
belt revolution. - The amount of conveyor belt movement or travel that is equivalent to the total length of the conveyor belt. Also referred to as "belt circuit." [2.21]
(Added 2013)
billed weight. - The weight used in the computation of the freight, postal, or storage charge, whether actual weight or dimensional weight. [5.58]
binary submultiples. - Fractional parts obtained by successively dividing by the number two. Thus, one-half, one-fourth, one-eighth, one-sixteenth, and so on, are binary submultiples. [1.10]
built-for-purpose device. - Any main device or element which was manufactured with the intent that it be used as, or part of, a weighing or measuring device or system. [1.10]
(Added 2003)
calibration parameter. - Any adjustable parameter that can affect measurement or performance accuracy and, due to its nature, needs to be updated on an ongoing basis to maintain device accuracy, e.g., span adjustments, linearization factors, and coarse zero adjustments. [2.20, 2.21, 2.24, 3.30, 3.37, 5.56(a)]
(Added 1993)
carbon dioxide liquid-measuring device. - A system including a mechanism or machine of (a) the meter or (b) a weighing type of device mounted on a vehicle designed to measure and deliver liquid carbon dioxide. Means may be provided to indicate automatically, for one of a series of unit prices, the total money value of the quantity measured. [3.38]
car-wash timer. - A timer used in conjunction with a coin-operated device to measure the time during which car-wash water, cleaning solutions, or waxing solutions are dispensed. [5.55]
center-reading tank. - One so designed that the gauge rod or surface gauge, when properly positioned for use, will be approximately in the vertical axis of the tank, centrally positioned with respect to the tank walls. [4.43]
cereal grain and oil seeds. - Agricultural commodities including, but not limited to, corn, wheat, oats, barley, flax, rice, sorghum, soybeans, peanuts, dry beans, safflower, sunflower, fescue seed, etc. [5.56(a), 5.56(b)]
chart recorder. - See analog or digital recorder. (Amended 1989)
check rate. - A rate of flow usually 20 % of the capacity rate. [3.33]
checkweighing scale. - One used to verify predetermined weight within prescribed limits. [2.24]
class of grain. - Hard Red Winter Wheat as distinguished from Hard Red Spring Wheat as distinguished from Soft Red Winter Wheat, etc. [5.56(a), 5.56(b), 5.57]
clear interval between graduations. - The distance between adjacent edges of successive graduations in a series of graduations. If the graduations are "staggered," the interval shall be measured, if necessary, between a graduation and an extension of the adjacent graduation. (Also see "minimum clear interval.") [1.10]
cleared. - A taximeter is "cleared" when it is inoperative with respect to all fare indication, when no indication of fare or extras is shown and when all parts are in those positions in which they are designed to be when the vehicle on which the taximeter is installed is not engaged by a passenger. [5.54]
cold-tire pressure. - The pressure in a tire at ambient temperature. [5.53, 5.54]
commercial equipment. - See "equipment." (Added 2008)
computing scale. - One that indicates the money values of amounts of commodity weighed, at predetermined unit prices, throughout all or part of the weighing range of the scale. [2.20]
computing type or computing type device. - A device designed to indicate, in addition to weight or measure, the total money value of product weighed or measured, for one of a series of unit prices. [1.10]
concave curve. - A change in the angle of inclination of a belt conveyor where the center of the curve is above the conveyor. [2.21]
concentrated load capacity (CLC) (also referred to as Dual Tandem Axle Capacity[DTAC]). - A capacity rating of a vehicle or axle-load scale, specified by the manufacturer, defining the maximum load applied by a group of two axles with a centerline spaced four feet apart and an axle width of eight feet for which the weighbridge is designed. The concentrated load capacity rating is for both test and use. [2.20]
(Added 1988) (Amended 1991, 1994, and 2003)
configuration parameter. - Any adjustable or selectable parameter for a device feature that can affect the accuracy of a transaction or can significantly increase the potential for fraudulent use of the device and, due to its nature, needs to be updated only during device installation or upon replacement of a component, e.g., division value (increment), sensor range, and units of measurement. [2.20, 2.21, 2.24, 3.30, 3.37, 5.56(a)]
(Added 1993)
consecutive-car test train. - A train consisting of cars weighed on a reference scale, then coupled consecutively and run over the coupled-in-motion railway track scale under test. [2.20]
(Added 1990)
construction materials hopper scale. - A scale adapted to weighing construction materials such as sand, gravel, cement, and hot oil. [2.20]
contract sale. - A sale where a written agreement exists, prior to the point of sale, in which both buyer and seller have accepted pricing conditions of the sale. Examples include, but are not limited to: e-commerce, club sales, or pre-purchase agreements. Any devices used in the determination of quantity must comply with NIST Handbook 44. [3.30, 3.32, 3.37]
(Added 1993) (Amended 2002)
conventional scale. - If the use of conversion tables is necessary to obtain a moisture content value, the moisture meter indicating scale is called "conventional scale." The values indicated by the scale are dimensionless. [5.56(b)]
conversion table. - Any table, graph, slide rule, or other external device used to determine the moisture content from the value indicated by the moisture meter. [5.56(b)]
convex curve. - A change in the angle of inclination of a belt conveyor where the center of the curve is below the conveyor. [2.21]
conveyor stringers. - Support members for the conveyor on which the scale and idlers are mounted. [2.21]
correct. - A piece of equipment is "correct" when, in addition to being accurate, it meets all applicable specification requirements. Equipment that fails to meet any of the requirements for correct equipment is "incorrect." (Also see "accurate.") [Appendix A]
correction table. - Any table, graph, slide rule, or other external device used to determine the moisture content from the value indicated by the moisture meter when the indicated value is altered by a parameter not automatically corrected for in the moisture meter (for example, temperature or test weight). [5.56(b)]
counterbalance weight(s). - One intended for application near the butt of a weighbeam for zero-load balancing purposes. [2.20]
counterpoise weight(s). - A slotted or "hanger" weight intended for application near the tip of the weighbeam of a scale having a multiple greater than one. [2.20]
coupled-in-motion railroad weighing system. - A device and related installation characteristics consisting of (1) the associated approach trackage, (2) the scale (i.e., the weighing element, the load-receiving element, and the indicating element with its software), and (3) the exit trackage, which permit the weighing of railroad cars coupled in motion. [2.20, 2.23]
(Added 1992)
crane scale. - One with a nominal capacity of 5000 pounds or more designed to weigh loads while they are suspended freely from an overhead, track-mounted crane. [2.20]
cryogenic liquid-measuring device. - A system including a liquid-measuring element designed to measure and deliver cryogenic liquids in the liquid state. [3.34]
(Amended 1986 and 2003)
cryogenic liquids. - Fluids whose normal boiling point is below 120 kelvin (- 243 °F). [3.34]
cubic foot, gas. - The amount of a cryogenic liquid in the gaseous state at a temperature of 70 °F and under a pressure of 14.696 lb/in2 absolute that occupies one cubic foot (1 ft3). (See NTP.) [3.34]
"d," dimension division value. - The smallest increment that the device displays for any axis and length of object in that axis. [5.58]
d, value scale division. - See "scale division, value of (d)." [2.20, 2.22]
Dmax (maximum load of the measuring range). - Largest value of a quantity (mass) which is applied to a load cell during test or use. This value shall not be greater than Emax. [2.20]
(Added 2005)
Dmin (minimum load of the measuring range). - Smallest value of a quantity (mass) which is applied to a load cell during test or use. This value shall not be less than Emin. [2.20]
(Added 2006)
dairy-product-test scale. - A scale used in determining the moisture content of butter and/or cheese or in determining the butterfat content of milk, cream, or butter. [2.20]
decimal submultiples. - Parts obtained by successively dividing by the number 10. Thus 0.1, 0.01, 0.001, and so on are decimal submultiples. [1.10]
decreasing-load test. - A test for automatic-indicating scales only, wherein the performance of the scale is tested as the load is reduced. [2.20, 2.22]
(Amended 1987)
deficiency. - See "excess and deficiency." [1.10]
diesel gallon equivalent (DGE). - means 2.821 kg (6.22 lb) of natural gas. [5.2] (Added 2013)
diesel liter equivalent (DLE). - means 0.756 kg of natural gas. [5.2] (Added 2013)
digital type. - A system of indication or recording of the selector type or one that advances intermittently in which all values are presented digitally, or in numbers. In a digital indicating or recording element, or in digital representation, there are no graduations. [1.10]
dimensional weight (or dim, weight). - A value computed by dividing the object's volume by a conversion factor; it may be used for the calculation of charges when the value is greater than the actual weight. [5.58]
(Added 2004)
direct sale. - A sale in which both parties in the transaction are present when the quantity is being determined. An unattended automated or customer-operated weighing or measuring system is considered to represent the device/business owner in transactions involving an unattended device. [1.10]
(Amended 1993)
discharge hose. - A flexible hose connected to the discharge outlet of a measuring device or its discharge line. [3.30, 3.31, 3.32, 3.34, 3.37, 3.38]
(Added 1987)
discharge line. - A rigid pipe connected to the outlet of a measuring device. [3.30, 3.31, 3.32, 3.34, 3.37] (Added 1987)
discrimination (of an automatic-indicating scale). - The value of the test load on the load-receiving element of the scale that will produce a specified minimum change of the indicated or recorded value on the scale. [2.20, 2.22]
dispenser. - See motor-fuel device. [3.30, 3.37]
distributed-car test train. - A train consisting of cars weighed first on a reference scale, cars coupled consecutively in groups at different locations within the train, then run over the coupled-in-motion railway track scale under test. The groups are typically placed at the front, middle, and rear of the train. [2.20]
(Added 1990)
dry hose. - A discharge hose intended to be completely drained at the end of each delivery of product. (Also see "dry-hose type.") [3.30, 3.31]
(Amended 2002)
dry-hose type. - A type of device in which it is intended that the discharge hose be completely drained following the mechanical operations involved in each delivery. (Also see "dry hose.") [3.30, 3.31, 3.34, 3.35]
dynamic monorail weighing system. - A weighing system which employs hardware or software to compensate for dynamic effects from the load or the system that do not exist in static weighing, in order to provide a stable indication. Dynamic factors may include shock or impact loading, system vibrations, oscillations, etc., and can occur even when the load is not moving across the load-receiving element. [2.20]
(Added 1999)
e, value of verification scale division. - See "verification scale division, value of (e)." [2.20]
Emax (maximum capacity). - Largest value of a quantity (mass) which may be applied to a load cell without exceeding the mpe. [2.20]
(Added 2005)
Emin (minimum dead load). - Smallest value of a quantity (mass) which may be applied to a load cell during test or use without exceeding the mpe. [2.20]
(Added 2006)
emin (minimum verification scale division). - The smallest scale division for which a weighing element complies with the applicable requirements. [2.20, 2.21, 2.24]
(Added 1997)
electronic link. - An electronic connection between the weighing/load-receiving or other sensing element and indicating element where one recognizes the other and neither can be replaced without calibration. [2.20]
(Added 2001)
element. - A portion of a weighing or measuring device or system which performs a specific function and can be separated, evaluated separately, and is subject to specified full or partial error limits.
(Added 2002)
equal-arm scale. - A scale having only a single lever with equal arms (that is, with a multiple of one), equipped with two similar or dissimilar load-receiving elements (pan, plate, platter, scoop, or the like), one intended to receive material being weighed and the other intended to receive weights. There may or may not be a weighbeam. [2.20]
equipment, commercial. - Weights, measures, and weighing and measuring devices, instruments, elements, and systems or portion thereof, used or employed in establishing the measurement or in computing any basic charge or payment for services rendered on the basis of weight or measure. As used in this definition, measurement includes the determination of size, quantity, value, extent, area, composition (limited to meat and poultry), constituent value (for grain), or measurement of quantities, things, produce, or articles for distribution or consumption, purchased, offered, or submitted for sale, hire, or award. [1.10, 2.20, 2.21, 2.22, 2.24, 3.30, 3.31, 3.32, 3.33, 3.34, 3.35, 3.38, 4.40, 5.51, 5.56.(a), 5.56.(b), 5.57, 5.58, 5.59]
(Added 2008)
event counter. - A non-resettable counter that increments once each time the mode that permits changes to sealable parameters is entered and one or more changes are made to sealable calibration or configuration parameters of a device. [2.20, 2.21, 3.30, 3.37, 5.54, 5.56(a), 5.56(b), 5.57]
(Added 1993)
event logger. - A form of audit trail containing a series of records where each record contains the number from the event counter corresponding to the change to a sealable parameter, the identification of the parameter that was changed, the time and date when the parameter was changed, and the new value of the parameter. [2.20, 2.21, 3.30, 3.37, 5.54, 5.56(a), 5.56(b), 5.57]
(Added 1993)
excess and deficiency. - When an instrument or device is of such a character that it has a value of its own that can be determined, its error is said to be "in excess" or "in deficiency," depending upon whether its actual value is, respectively, greater or less than its nominal value. (Also see "nominal.") Examples of instruments having errors "in excess" are: a linear measure that is too long; a liquid measure that is too large; and a weight that is "heavy." Examples of instruments having errors "in deficiency" are: a lubricating-oil bottle that is too small; a vehicle tank compartment that is too small; and a weight that is "light." [1.10]
extras. - Charges to be paid by a passenger in addition to the fare, including any charge at a flat rate for the transportation of passengers in excess of a stated number and any charge for the transportation of baggage. [5.54]
face. - That side of a taximeter on which passenger charges are indicated. [5.54]
face. - That portion of a computing-type pump or dispenser which displays the actual computation of price per unit, delivered quantity, and total sale price. In the case of some electronic displays, this may not be an integral part of the pump or dispenser. [3.30]
(Added 1987)
fare. - That portion of the charge for the hire of a vehicle that is automatically calculated by a taximeter through the operation of the distance and/or time mechanism. [5.54]
farm milk tank. - A unit for measuring milk or other fluid dairy product, comprising a combination of (1) a stationary or portable tank, whether or not equipped with means for cooling its contents, (2) means for reading the level of liquid in the tank, such as a removable gauge rod or a surface gauge, and (3) a chart for converting level-of-liquid readings to volume; or such a unit in which readings are made on a gauge rod or surface gauge directly in terms of volume. Each compartment of a subdivided tank shall, for purposes of this code, be construed to be a "farm milk tank." [4.43]
feeding mechanism. - The means for depositing material to be weighed on the belt conveyor. [2.21]
fifth wheel. - A commercially-available distance-measuring device which, after calibration, is recommended for use as a field transfer standard for testing the accuracy of taximeters and odometers on rented vehicles. [5.53, 5.54]
fifth-wheel test. - A distance test similar to a road test, except that the distance traveled by the vehicle under test is determined by a mechanism known as a "fifth wheel" that is attached to the vehicle and that independently measures and indicates the distance. [5.53, 5.54]
flag. - A plate at the end of the lever arm or similar part by which the operating condition of a taximeter is controlled and indicated. [5.54]
fractional bar. - A weighbeam bar of relatively small capacity for obtaining indications intermediate between notches or graduations on a main or tare bar. [2.20]
ft3/h. - Cubic feet per hour. [3.33]
gasoline gallon equivalent (GGE). - Gasoline gallon equivalent (GGE) means 5.660 pounds of natural gas. [3.37] (Added 1994)
gasoline liter equivalent (GLE). - Gasoline liter equivalent (GLE) means 0.678 kilograms of natural gas. [3.37] (Added 1994)
gauge pressure. - The difference between the pressure at the meter and the atmospheric pressure (psi). [3.33]
gauge rod. - A graduated, "dip-stick" type of measuring rod designed to be partially immersed in the liquid and to be read at the point where the liquid surface crosses the rod. [4.42]
gauging. - The process of determining and assigning volumetric values to specific graduations on the gauge or gauge rod that serve as the basis for the tank volume chart. [4.42]
graduated interval. - The distance from the center of one graduation to the center of the next graduation in a series of graduations. - (Also see "value of minimum graduated interval.") [1.10]
graduation. - A defining line or one of the lines defining the subdivisions of a graduated series. The term includes such special forms as raised or indented or scored reference "lines" and special characters such as dots. (Also see "main graduation" and "subordinate graduation.") [1.10]
grain class. - Different grains within the same grain type. For example, there are six classes for the grain type "wheat:" Durum Wheat, Hard Red Spring Wheat, Hard Red Winter Wheat, Soft Red Winter Wheat, Hard White Wheat, and Soft White Wheat. [5.56(a), 5.57]
(Added 2007)
grain hopper scale. - One adapted to the weighing of individual loads of varying amounts of grain. [2.20]
grain moisture meter. - Any device indicating either directly or through conversion tables and/or correction tables the moisture content of cereal grains and oil seeds. Also termed "moisture meter." [5.56(a), 5.56(b)]
grain sample. - That portion of grain or seed taken from a bulk quantity of grain or seed to be bought or sold and used to determine the moisture content of the bulk. [5.56(a), 5.56(b)]
grain-test scale. - A scale adapted to weighing grain samples used in determining moisture content, dockage, weight per unit volume, etc. [2.20]
grain type. - See "kind of grain." [5.56(a), 5.57] (Added 2007)
gravity discharge. - A type of device designed for discharge by gravity. [3.30, 3.31]
head pulley. - The pulley at the discharge end of the belt conveyor. The power drive to drive the belt is generally applied to the head pulley. [2.21]
hexahedron. - A geometric solid (i.e., box) with six rectangular or square plane surfaces. [5.58] (Added 2008)
hired. - A taximeter is "hired" when it is operative with respect to all applicable indications of fare or extras. The indications of fare include time and distance where applicable unless qualified by another indication of "Time Not Recording" or an equivalent expression. [5.54]
hopper scale. - A scale designed for weighing bulk commodities whose load-receiving element is a tank, box, or hopper mounted on a weighing element. (Also see "automatic hopper scale," "grain hopper scale," and "construction materials hopper scale.") [2.20]
idler space. - The center-to-center distance between idler rollers measured parallel to the belt. [2.21]
idlers or idler rollers. - Freely turning cylinders mounted on a frame to support the conveyor belt. For a flat belt, the idlers consist of one or more horizontal cylinders transverse to the direction of belt travel. For a troughed belt, the idlers consist of one or more horizontal cylinders and one or more cylinders at an angle to the horizontal to lift the sides of the belt to form a trough. [2.21]
in-service light indicator. - A light used to indicate that a timing device is in operation. [5.55]
increasing-load test. - The normal basic performance test for a scale in which observations are made as increments of test load are successively added to the load-receiving element of the scale. [2.20, 2.22]
increment. - The value of the smallest change in value that can be indicated or recorded by a digital device in normal operation. [1.10]
index of an indicator. - The particular portion of an indicator that is directly utilized in making a reading. [1.10]
indicating element. - An element incorporated in a weighing or measuring device by means of which its performance relative to quantity or money value is "read" from the device itself as, for example, an index-and-graduated-scale combination, a weighbeam-and-poise combination, a digital indicator, and the like. (Also see "primary indicating or recording element.") [1.10]
indicator, balance. - See "balance indicator." [2.20]
initial distance or time interval. - The interval corresponding to the initial money drop. [5.54]
initial zero-setting mechanism. - See "initial zero-setting mechanism" under "zero-setting mechanism." [2.20] (Added 1990)
integrator. - A device used with a belt-conveyor scale that combines conveyor belt load (e.g., lb/ft) and belt travel (e.g., feet) to produce a total weight of material passing over the belt-conveyor scale. An integrator may be a separate, detached mechanism or may be a component within a totalizing device. (Also see "master weight totalizer.") [2.21]
(Added 2013)
interval, clear, between graduations. - See "clear interval between graduations." [1.10]
interval, graduated. - See "graduated interval." [1.10]
irregularly-shaped object. - Any object that is not a hexahedron shape. [5.58] (Added 2008)
jewelers' scale. - One adapted to weighing gems and precious metals. [2.20]
kind of grain. - Corn as distinguished from soybeans as distinguished from wheat, etc. [5.56(a), 5.56(b)]
label. - A printed ticket, to be attached to a package, produced by a printer that is a part of a prepackaging scale or that is an auxiliary device. [2.20]
large-delivery device. - Devices used primarily for single deliveries greater than 200 gallons, 2000 pounds, 20 000 cubic feet, 2000 liters, or 2000 kilograms. [3.34, 3.38]
laundry-drier timer. - A timer used in conjunction with a coin-operated device to measure the period of time that a laundry drier is in operation. [5.55]
liquefied petroleum gas. - A petroleum product composed predominantly of any of the following hydrocarbons or mixtures thereof: propane, propylene, butanes (normal butane or isobutane), and butylenes. [3.31, 3.32, 3.33, 3.34, 3.37]
liquefied petroleum gas liquid-measuring device. - A system including a mechanism or machine of the meter type designed to measure and deliver liquefied petroleum gas in the liquid state by a definite quantity, whether installed in a permanent location or mounted on a vehicle. Means may or may not be provided to indicate automatically, for one of a series of unit prices, the total money value of the liquid measured. [3.33]
(Amended 1987)
liquefied petroleum gas vapor-measuring device. - A system including a mechanism or device of the meter type, equipped with a totalizing index, designed to measure and deliver liquefied petroleum gas in the vapor state by definite volumes, and generally installed in a permanent location. The meters are similar in construction and operation to the conventional natural- and manufactured-gas meters. [3.33]
liquid fuel. - Any liquid used for fuel purposes, that is, as a fuel, including motor-fuel. [3.30, 3.31]
liquid volume correction factor. - A correction factor used to adjust the liquid volume of a cryogenic product at the time of measurement to the liquid volume at NBP. [3.34]
liquid-fuel device. - A device designed for the measurement and delivery of liquid fuels. [3.30]
liquid-measuring device. - A mechanism or machine designed to measure and deliver liquid by definite volume. Means may or may not be provided to indicate automatically, for one of a series of unit prices, the total money value of the liquid measured, or to make deliveries corresponding to specific money values at a definite unit price. [3.30]
livestock scale. - A scale equipped with stock racks and gates and adapted to weighing livestock standing on the scale platform. [2.20]
(Amended 1989)
load cell. - A device, whether electric, hydraulic, or pneumatic, that produces a signal (change in output) proportional to the load applied. [2.20, 2.21, 2.23]
load cell verification interval (v). - The load cell interval, expressed in units of mass, used in the test of the load cell for accuracy classification. [2.20, 2.21]
(Added 1996)
loading point. - A location on a conveyor where the material is received by the belt. The location of the discharge from a hopper, chute, or pre-feed device used to supply material to a conveyor. [2.21]
(Amended 2013)
load-receiving element. - That element of a scale that is designed to receive the load to be weighed; for example, platform, deck, rail, hopper, platter, plate, scoop. [2.20, 2.21, 2.23]
low-flame test. - A test simulating extremely low-flow rates such as caused by pilot lights. [3.33]
lubricant device. - A device designed for the measurement and delivery of liquid lubricants, including, but not limited to, heavy gear lubricants and automatic transmission fluids (automotive). [3.30]
m3/h. - Cubic meters per hour.[3.33]
main bar. - A principal weighbeam bar, usually of relatively large capacity as compared with other bars of the same weighbeam. (On an automatic-indicating scale equipped with a weighbeam, the main weighbeam bar is frequently called the "capacity bar.") [2.20]
main graduation. - A graduation defining the primary or principal subdivisions of a graduated series. (Also see "graduation.") [1.10]
main-weighbeam elements. - The combination of a main bar and its fractional bar, or a main bar alone if no fractional bar is associated with it. [2.20]
manual zero-setting mechanism. - See "manual zero-setting mechanism" under "zero-setting mechanism." [2.20]
manufactured device. - Any commercial weighing or measuring device shipped as new from the original equipment manufacturer. [1.10]
(Amended 2001)
mass flow meter. - A device that measures the mass of a product flowing through the system. The mass measurement may be determined directly from the effects of mass on the sensing unit or may be inferred by measuring the properties of the product, such as the volume, density, temperature, or pressure, and displaying the quantity in mass units. [3.37]
master meter test method. - A method of testing milk tanks that utilizes an approved master meter system for measuring test liquid removed from or introduced into the tank. [4.42]
master weight totalizer. - A primary indicating element used with a belt-conveyor scale that incorporates the function of an integrator to indicate the totalized weight of material passed over the scale. (Also see "integrator.") [2.21]
(Amended 2013)
material test. - The test of a belt-conveyor scale using material (preferably that for which the device is normally used) that has been weighed to an accuracy of 0.1 %. [2.21]
(Amended 1989)
maximum capacity. - The largest load that may be accurately weighed. [2.20, 2.24] (Added 1999)
maximum cargo load. - The maximum cargo load for trucks is the difference between the manufacturer's rated gross vehicle weight and the actual weight of the vehicle having no cargo load. [5.53]
measurement field. - A region of space or the measurement pattern produced by the measuring instrument in which objects are placed or passed through, either singly or in groups, when being measured by a single device. [5.58]
measuring element. - That portion of a complete multiple dimension measuring device that does not include the indicating element. [5.58]
meter register. - An observation index for the cumulative reading of the gas flow through the meter. In addition there are one or two proving circles in which one revolution of the test hand represents 1/2, 1, 2, 5, or 10 cubic feet, or 0.025, 0.05, 0.1, 0.2, or 0.25 cubic meter, depending on meter size. If two proving circles are present, the circle representing the smallest volume per revolution is referred to as the "leak-test circle." [3.33]
metrological integrity (of a device). - The design, features, operation, installation, or use of a device that facilitates (1) the accuracy and validity of a measurement or transaction, (2) compliance of the device with weights and measures requirements, or (3) the suitability of the device for a given application. [1.10, 2.20]
(Added 1993)
minimum capacity. - The smallest load that may be accurately weighed. The weighing results may be subject to excessive error if used below this value. [2.20, 2.24]
(Added 1999)
minimum clear interval. - The shortest distance between adjacent graduations when the graduations are not parallel. (Also see "clear interval.") [3.30, 3.31, 3.32, 3.33, 3.34, 3.35, 3.36, 3.38, 5.50, 5.51, 5.56(b)]
minimum delivery. - The least amount of weight that is to be delivered as a single weighment by a belt-conveyor scale system in normal use. [2.21]
minimum tolerance. - Minimum tolerances are the smallest tolerance values that can be applied to a scale. Minimum tolerances are determined on the basis of the value of the minimum graduated interval or the nominal or reading face capacity of the scale. (Also see definition for basic tolerances.) [2.20, 2.22, 2.24]
minimum totalized load. - The least amount of weight for which the scale is considered to be performing accurately. [2.21]
moisture content (wet basis). - The mass of water in a grain or seed sample (determined by the reference method) divided by the mass of the grain or seed sample expressed as a percentage (%). [5.56(a), 5.56(b)]
money drop. - An increment of fare indication. The "initial money drop" is the first increment of fare indication following activation of the taximeter. [5.54]
money-operated type. - A device designed to be released for service by the insertion of money, or to be actuated by the insertion of money to make deliveries of product. [1.10]
motor-fuel. - Liquid used as fuel for internal-combustion engines. [3.30]
motor-fuel device or motor-fuel dispenser or retail motor-fuel device. - A device designed for the measurement and delivery of liquids used as fuel for internal-combustion engines. The term "motor-fuel dispenser" means the same as "motor-fuel device"; the term "retail motor-fuel device" applies to a unique category of device. (Also see definition of "retail device.") [3.30, 3.32, 3.37]
multi-class. - A description of a grouping of grain classes, from the same grain type, in one calibration. A multi-class grain calibration may include (1) all the classes of a grain type (all-class calibration), or (2) some of the classes of a grain type within the calibration. [5.56(a), 5.57.]
(Added 2007)
multi-interval scale. - A scale having one weighing range which is divided into partial weighing ranges (segments), each with different scale intervals, with each partial weighing range (segment) determined automatically according to the load applied, both on increasing and decreasing loads. [2.20]
(Added 1995)
multi-jet water meter. - A water meter in which the moving element takes the form of a multiblade rotor mounted on a vertical spindle within a cylindrical measuring chamber. The liquid enters the measuring chamber through several tangential orifices around the circumference and leaves the measuring chamber through another set of tangential orifices placed at a different level in the measuring chamber. These meters register by recording the revolutions of a rotor set in motion by the force of flowing water striking the blades. [3.36]
(Added 2003)
multi-revolution scale. - An automatic-indicating scale having a nominal capacity that is a multiple of the reading-face capacity and that is achieved by more than one complete revolution of the indicator. [2.20]
multiple. - An integral multiple; that is, a result obtained by multiplying by a whole number. (Also see "multiple of a scale.") [1.10]
multiple cell application load cell. - A load cell intended for use in a weighing system which incorporates more than one load cell. A multiple cell application load cell is designated with the letter "M" or the term "Multiple." (Also see "single cell application load cell.") [2.20]
(Added 1999)
multiple of a scale. - In general, the multiplying power of the entire system of levers or other basic weighing elements. (On a beam scale, the multiple of the scale is the number of pounds on the load-receiving element that will be counterpoised by one pound applied to the tip pivot of the weighbeam.) [2.20]
multiple range scale. - A scale having two or more weighing ranges with different maximum capacities and different scale intervals for the same load receptor, each range extending from zero to its maximum capacity. [2.20]
(Added 1995)
multiple-tariff taximeter. - One that may be set to calculate fares at any one of two or more rates. [5.54]
natural gas. - A gaseous fuel, composed primarily of methane, that is suitable for compression and dispensing into a fuel storage container(s) for use as an engine fuel. [3.37]
(Added 1994)
NBP. - Normal Boiling Point of a cryogenic liquid at 14.696 lb/in2 absolute. [3.34]
nmax (maximum number of scale divisions). - The maximum number of scale divisions for which a main element or load cell complies with the applicable requirements. The maximum number of scale divisions permitted for an installation is limited to the lowest nmax marked on the scale indicating element, weighing element, or load cell. [2.20, 2.21, 2.24]
(Added 1997)
no-load reference value. - A positive weight value indication with no load in the load-receiving element (hopper) of the scale. (Used with automatic bulk-weighing systems and certain single-draft, manually-operated receiving hopper scales installed below grade and used to receive grain.) [2.20]
nominal. - Refers to "intended" or "named" or "stated," as opposed to "actual." For example, the "nominal" value of something is the value that it is supposed or intended to have, the value that it is claimed or stated to have, or the value by which it is commonly known. Thus, "1-pound weight," "1-gallon measure," "1-yard indication," and "500-pound scale" are statements of nominal values; corresponding actual values may be greater or lesser. (Also see nominal capacity of a scale.) [1.10]
nominal capacity. - The nominal capacity of a scale is (a) the largest weight indication that can be obtained by the use of all of the reading or recording elements in combination, including the amount represented by any removable weights furnished or ordinarily furnished with the scale, but excluding the amount represented by any extra removable weights not ordinarily furnished with the scale, and excluding also the capacity of any auxiliary weighing attachment not contemplated by the original design of the scale, and excluding any fractional bar with a capacity less than 21/2 % of the sum of the capacities of the remaining reading elements, or (b) the capacity marked on the scale by the manufacturer, whichever is less. (Also see "nominal capacity, batching scale"; "nominal capacity, hopper scale.") [2.20]
nominal capacity, batching scale. - The nominal capacity of a batching scale is the capacity as marked on the scale by the scale manufacturer, or the sum of the products of the volume of each of the individual hoppers, in terms of cubic feet, times the weight per cubic foot of the heaviest material weighed in each hopper, whichever is less. [2.20]
nominal capacity, hopper scale. - The nominal capacity of a hopper scale is the capacity as marked on the scale by the scale manufacturer, or the product of the volume of the hopper in bushels or cubic feet times the maximum weight per bushel or cubic foot, as the case may be, of the commodity normally weighed, whichever is less. [2.20]
non-automatic checkweigher. - A weighing instrument that requires the intervention of an operator during the weighing process, used to subdivide items of different weights into one or more subgroups, such as identifying packages that have acceptable or unacceptable fill levels according to the value of the difference between their weight and a pre-determined set point. [2.24]
Notes: Determining the weighing result includes any intelligent action of the operator that affects the result, such as deciding and taking an action when an indication is stable or adjusting the weight of the weighed load.
Deciding the weighing result is acceptable means making a decision regarding the acceptance of each weighing result on observing the indication or releasing a print-out. The weighing process allows the operator to take an action which influences the weighing result in the case where the weighing result is not acceptable.
(Added 2004)
non-automatic weighing instrument. - A weighing instrument or system that requires the intervention of an operator during the weighing process to determine the weighing result or to decide that it is acceptable. [2.20, 2.24]
Notes: Determining the weighing result includes any intelligent action of the operator that affects the result, such as deciding and taking an action when an indication is stable or adjusting the weight of the weighed load.
Deciding the weighing result is acceptable means making a decision regarding the acceptance of each weighing result on observing the indication or releasing a print-out. The weighing process allows the operator to take an action which influences the weighing result in the case where the weighing result is not acceptable.
(Added 2004) (Amended 2005)
nonretroactive. - "Nonretroactive" requirements are enforceable after the effective date for:
Nonretroactive requirements are not enforceable with respect to devices that are in commercial service in the state as of the effective date or to new equipment in the stock of a manufacturer or a dealer in the state as of the effective date. (Nonretroactive requirements are printed in italic type.) [1.10]
(Amended 1989)
nose-iron. - A slide-mounted, manually-adjustable pivot assembly for changing the multiple of a lever. [2.20]
notes. - A section included in each of a number of codes, containing instructions, pertinent directives, and other specific information pertaining to the testing of devices. Notes are primarily directed to weights and measures officials.
NTP. - Normal Temperature and Pressure of a cryogen at a temperature of 21 °C (70 °F) and a pressure of 101.325 kPa (14.696 lb/in2 absolute). [3.34]
NTP density and volume correction factor. - A correction factor used to adjust the liquid volume of a cryogenic product at the time of measurement to the gas equivalent at NTP. [3.34]
odometer. - A device that automatically indicates the total distance traveled by a vehicle. For the purpose of this code, this definition includes hub odometers, cable-driven odometers, and the distance-indicating or odometer portions of "speedometer" assemblies for automotive vehicles. [5.53]
official grain samples. - Grain or seed used by the official as the official transfer standard from the reference standard method to test the accuracy and precision of grain moisture meters. [5.56(a), 5.56(b)]
official with statutory authority. - The representative of the jurisdiction(s) responsible for certifying the accuracy of the device. [2.20, 2.21, 2.22]
(Added 1991)
operating tire pressure. - The pressure in a tire immediately after a vehicle has been driven for at least 5 miles or 8 kilometers. [5.53, 5.54]
over-and-under indicator. - An automatic-indicating element incorporated in or attached to a scale and comprising an indicator and a graduated scale with a central or intermediate "zero" graduation and a limited range of weight graduations on either side of the zero graduation, for indicating weights greater than and less than the predetermined values for which other elements of the scale may be set. (A scale having an over-and-under indicator is classed as an automatic-indicating scale.) [2.20]
overregistration and underregistration. - When an instrument or device is of such a character that it indicates or records values as a result of its operation, its error is said to be in the direction of overregistration or underregistration, depending upon whether the indications are, respectively, greater or less than they should be. Examples of devices having errors of "overregistration" are: a fabric-measuring device that indicates more than the true length of material passed through it; and a liquid-measuring device that indicates more than the true amount of the liquid delivered by the device. Examples of devices having errors of "underregistration" are: a meter that indicates less than the true amount of product that it delivers; and a weighing scale that indicates or records less than the true weight of the applied load. [1.10]
parallax. - The apparent displacement, or apparent difference in height or width, of a graduation or other object with respect to a fixed reference, as viewed from different points. [1.10]
parking meter. - A coin-operated device for measuring parking time for vehicles. [5.55]
passenger vehicles. - Vehicles such as automobiles, recreational vehicles, limousines, ambulances, and hearses. [5.53]
performance requirements. - Performance requirements include all tolerance requirements and, in the case of nonautomatic-indicating scales, sensitivity requirements (SR). (Also see definitions for "tolerance" and "sensitivity requirement.") [1.10]
point-of-sale system. - An assembly of elements including a weighing or measuring element, an indicating element, and a recording element (and may also be equipped with a "scanner") used to complete a direct sales transaction. The system components, when operated together, must be capable of the following:
(Added 1986) (Amended 1997 and 2015)
poise. - A movable weight mounted upon or suspended from a weighbeam bar and used in combination with graduations, and frequently with notches, on the bar to indicate weight values. (A suspended poise is commonly called a "hanging poise.") [2.20]
postal scale. - A scale (usually a computing scale) designed for use to determine shipping weight or delivery charges for letters or parcels delivered by the U.S. Postal Service or private shipping companies. A weight classifier may be used as a postal scale. [2.20]
(Added 1987)
prepackaging scale. - A computing scale specially designed for putting up packages of random weights in advance of sale. [2.20]
prescription scale. - A scale or balance adapted to weighing the ingredients of medicinal and other formulas prescribed by physicians and others and used or intended to be used in the ordinary trade of pharmacists. [2.20]
pressure type (device). - A type of device designed for operation with the liquid under artificially produced pressure. [3.30, 3.31]
primary indicating or recording elements. - The term "primary" is applied to those principal indicating (visual) elements and recording elements that are designed to, or may, be used by the operator in the normal commercial use of a device. The term "primary" is applied to any element or elements that may be the determining factor in arriving at the sale representation when the device is used commercially. (Examples of primary elements are the visual indicators for meters or scales not equipped with ticket printers or other recording elements and both the visual indicators and the ticket printers or other recording elements for meters or scales so equipped.) The term "primary" is not applied to such auxiliary elements as, for example, the totalizing register or predetermined-stop mechanism on a meter or the means for producing a running record of successive weighing operations, these elements being supplementary to those that are the determining factors in sales representations of individual deliveries or weights. (Also see "indicating element" and "recording element.") [1.10]
prover method. - A method of testing milk tanks that utilizes approved volumetric prover(s) for measuring the test liquid removed from or introduced into the tank. [4.42]
prover oil. - A light oil of low vapor pressure used as a sealing medium in bell provers, cubic-foot bottles, and portable cubic-foot standards. [3.33]
proving indicator. - The test hand or pointer of the proving or leak-test circle on the meter register or index. [3.33, 3.36.]
"r" factor. - A computation for determining the suitability of a vehicle scale for weighing vehicles with varying axle configurations. The factor was derived by dividing the weights in FHWA Federal Highway Bridge Gross Weight Table B by 34 000 lbs. (The resultant factors are contained in Table UR.3.2.1.) [2.20]
radio frequency interference (RFI). - Radio frequency interference is a type of electrical disturbance that, when introduced into electronic and electrical circuits, may cause deviations from the normally expected performance. [1.10]
random error(s). - The sample standard deviation of the error (indicated values) for a number of consecutive automatic weighings of a load, or loads, passed over the load receptor, shall be expressed mathematically as:
where: X = error of a load indication
n = the number of loads
[2.24]
ranges, weight. - See "weight ranges." [2.20]
rated capacity. - The rate of flow in cubic meters per hour of a hydrocarbon gas vapor-measuring device as recommended by the manufacturer. This rate of flow should cause a pressure drop across the meter not exceeding 1/2-inch water column. [3.33]
rated scale capacity. - That value representing the weight that can be delivered by the device in one hour. [2.21]
ratio test. - A test to determine the accuracy with which the actual multiple of a scale agrees with its designed multiple. This test is used for scales employing counterpoise weights and is made with standard test weights substituted in all cases for the weights commercially used on the scale. (It is appropriate to use this test for some scales not employing counterpoise weights.) [2.20]
reading face. - That portion of an automatic-indicating weighing or measuring device that gives a visible indication of the quantity weighed or measured. A reading face may include an indicator and a series of graduations or may present values digitally, and may also provide money-value indications. [1.10, 2.20]
(Amended 2005)
reading-face capacity. - The largest value that may be indicated on the reading face, exclusive of the application or addition of any supplemental or accessory elements. [1.10]
recorded representation. - The printed, embossed, or other representation that is recorded as a quantity by a weighing or measuring device. [1.10]
recording element. - An element incorporated in a weighing or measuring device by means of which its performance relative to quantity or money value is permanently recorded on a tape, ticket, card, or the like, in the form of a printed, stamped, punched, or perforated representation. [1.10, 2.21]
recording scale. - One on which the weights of applied loads may be permanently recorded on a tape, ticket, card, or the like in the form of a printed, stamped, punched, or perforated representation. [2.20]
reference weight car. - A railcar that has been statically weighed for temporary use as a mass standard over a short period of time, typically the time required to test one scale.
Note: A test weight car that is representative of the types of cars typically weighed on the scale under test may be used wherever reference weight cars are specified. [2.20]
(Added 1991) (Amended 2012)
remanufactured device. - A device that is disassembled, checked for wear, parts replaced or fixed, reassembled and made to operate like a new device of the same type. [1.10]
(Added 2001)
remanufactured element. - An element that is disassembled, checked for wear, parts replaced or fixed, reassembled and made to operate like a new element of the same type. [1.10]
(Added 2001)
remote configuration capability. - The ability to adjust a weighing or measuring device or change its sealable parameters from or through some other device that is not itself necessary to the operation of the weighing or measuring device or is not a permanent part of that device. [2.20, 2.21, 2.24, 3.30, 3.37, 5.56(a)]
(Added 1993)
repaired device. - A device to which work is performed that brings the device back into proper operating condition. [1.10]
(Added 2001)
repaired element. - An element to which work is performed that brings the element back into proper operating condition. [1.10]
(Added 2001)
retail device. - A measuring device primarily used to measure product for the purpose of sale to the end user. [3.30, 3.32, 3.37]
(Amended 1987 and 2004)
retroactive. - "Retroactive" requirements are enforceable with respect to all equipment. Retroactive requirements are printed herein in upright roman type. (Also see "nonretroactive.") [1.10]
road test. - A distance test, over a measured course, of a complete taximeter assembly when installed on a vehicle, the mechanism being actuated as a result of vehicle travel. [5.53, 5.54]
rolling circumference. - The rolling circumference is the straight line distance traveled per revolution of the wheel (or wheels) that actuates the taximeter or odometer. If more than one wheel actuates the taximeter or odometer, the rolling circumference is the average distance traveled per revolution of the actuating wheels. [5.53, 5.54]
scale. - See specific type of scale. [2.20]
scale area, belt-conveyor. - See belt-conveyor scale systems area. [2.21] (Added 2001)
scale division, number of (n). - Quotient of the capacity divided by the value of the verification scale division. [2.20]
scale division, value of (d). - The value of the scale division, expressed in units of mass, is the smallest subdivision of the scale for analog indication or the difference between two consecutively indicated or printed values for digital indication or printing. (Also see "verification scale division.") [2.20, 2.22]
scale section. - A part of a vehicle, axle-load, livestock, or railway track scale consisting of two main load supports, usually transverse to the direction in which the load is applied. [2.20]
seal. - See "approval seal," "security seal." [1.10]
section capacity. - The section capacity of a scale is the maximum live load that may be divided equally on the load pivots or load cells of a section. [2.20]
(Added 2001)
section test. - A shift test in which the test load is applied over individual sections of the scale. This test is conducted to disclose the weighing performance of individual sections, since scale capacity test loads are not always available and loads weighed are not always distributed evenly over all main load supports. [2.20]
security means. - A method used to prevent access by other than qualified personnel, or to indicate that access has been made to certain parts of a scale that affect the performance of the device. [2.21]
security seal. - A uniquely identifiable physical seal, such as a lead-and-wire seal or other type of locking seal, a pressure-sensitive seal sufficiently permanent to reveal its removal, or similar apparatus attached to a weighing or measuring device for protection against or indication of access to adjustment. (Also see "approval seal.") [1.10]
(Amended 1994)
selector-type. - A system of indication or recording in which the mechanism selects, by means of a ratchet-and-pawl combination or by other means, one or the other of any two successive values that can be indicated or recorded. [1.10]
semi-automatic zero-setting mechanism. - See "semi-automatic zero-setting mechanism" under "zero-setting mechanism." [2.20]
sensitivity (of a nonautomatic-indicating scale). - The value of the test load on the load-receiving element of the scale that will produce a specified minimum change in the position of rest of the indicating element or elements of the scale. [2.20]
sensitivity requirement (SR). - A performance requirement for a non automatic-indicating scale; specifically, the minimum change in the position of rest of the indicating element or elements of the scale in response to the increase or decrease, by a specified amount, of the test load on the load-receiving element of the scale. [2.20]
shift test. - A test intended to disclose the weighing performance of a scale under off-center loading. [2.20]
side. - That portion of a pump or dispenser which faces the consumer during the normal delivery of product. [3.30] (Added 1987)
simulated-road test. - A distance test during which the taximeter or odometer may be actuated by some means other than road travel. The distance traveled is either measured by a properly calibrated roller device or computed from rolling circumference and wheel-turn data. [5.53, 5.54]
simulated test. - A test using artificial means of loading the scale to determine the performance of a belt-conveyor scale. [2.21]
single cell application load cell. - A load cell intended for use in a weighing system which incorporates one or more load cells. A single cell application load cell is designated with the letter "S" or the term "Single." (Also see "multiple cell application load cell.") [2.20]
(Added 1999)
single-tariff taximeter. - One that calculates fares at a single rate only. [5.54]
skirting. - Stationary side boards or sections of belt conveyor attached to the conveyor support frame or other stationary support to prevent the bulk material from falling off the side of the belt. [2.21]
slow-flow meter. - A retail device designed for the measurement, at very slow rates (less than 40 L (10 gal) per hour), of liquid fuels at individual domestic installations. [3.30]
small-delivery device. - Any device other than a large-delivery device. [3.34, 3.38]
span (structural). The distance between adjoining sections of a scale. [2.20] (Added 1988)
specification. - A requirement usually dealing with the design, construction, or marking of a weighing or measuring device. Specifications are directed primarily to the manufacturers of devices. [1.10]
static monorail weighing system. - A weighing system in which the load being applied is stationary during the weighing operation. [2.20]
(Added 1999)
strain-load test. - The test of a scale beginning with the scale under load and applying known test weights to determine accuracy over a portion of the weighing range. The scale errors for a strain-load test are the errors observed for the known test loads only. The tolerances to be applied are based on the known test load used for each error that is determined. [2.20, 2.22]
subordinate graduation. - Any graduation other than a main graduation. (Also see "graduation.") [1.10]
subsequent distance or time intervals. - The intervals corresponding to money drops following the initial money drop. [5.54]
substitution test. - A scale testing process used to quantify the weight of material or objects for use as a known test load. [2.20]
(Added 2003)
substitution test load. - The sum of the combination of field standard test weights and any other applied load used in the conduct of a test using substitution test methods. [2.20]
(Added 2003)
surface gauge. - A combination of (1) a stationary indicator, and (2) a movable, graduated element designed to be brought into contact with the surface of the liquid from above. [4.42]
systematic(average)error( X) .-The mean value of the error (of indication) for a number of consecutive automatic weighings of a load, or loads, passed over the load-receiving element (e.g., weigh-table), shall be expressed mathematically as:
where: x = error of a load indication
n = the number of loads
[2.24]
tail pulley. - The pulley at the opposite end of the conveyor from the head pulley. [2.21]
take-up. - A device to provide sufficient tension in a conveyor belt so that the belt will be positively driven by the drive pulley. - A counter-weighted take-up consists of a pulley free to move in either the vertical or horizontal direction with dead weights applied to the pulley shaft to provide the tension required. [2.21]
tare mechanism. - A mechanism (including a tare bar) designed for determining or balancing out the weight of packaging material, containers, vehicles, or other materials that are not intended to be included in net weight determinations. [2.20]
tare-weighbeam elements. - The combination of a tare bar and its fractional bar, or a tare bar alone if no fractional bar is associated with it. [2.20]
taximeter. - A device that automatically calculates, at a predetermined rate or rates, and indicates the charge for hire of a vehicle. [5.54]
test chain. - A device used for simulated tests consisting of a series of rollers or wheels linked together in such a manner as to assure uniformity of weight and freedom of motion to reduce wear, with consequent loss of weight, to a minimum. [2.21]
test liquid. - The liquid used during the test of a device. [3.30, 3.31, 3.34, 3.35, 3.36, 3.37, 3.38]
test object. - An object whose dimensions are verified by appropriate reference standards and intended to verify compliance of the device under test with certain metrological requirements. [5.58]
test puck. - A metal, plastic, or other suitable object that remains stable for the duration of the test, used as a test load to simulate a package. Pucks can be made in a variety of dimensions and have different weights to represent a wide range of package sizes. Metal versions may be covered with rubber cushions to eliminate the possibility of damage to weighing and handling equipment. The puck mass is adjusted to an accuracy specified in N.1.2. Accuracy of Test Pucks or Packages. [2.24]
(Amended 2004)
test train. - A train consisting of or including reference weight cars and used to test coupled-in-motion railway track scales. The reference weight cars may be placed consecutively or distributed in different places within a train.
[2.20]
(Added 1990) (Amended 1991)
test weight car. - A railroad car designed to be a stable mass standard to test railway track scales. The test weight car may be one of the following types: a self-contained composite car, a self-propelled car, or a standard rail car. [2.20]
(Added 1991)
testing. - An operation consisting of a series of volumetric determinations made to verify the accuracy of the volume chart that was developed by gauging. [4.42]
time recorder. - A clock-operated mechanism designed to record the time of day. Examples of time recorders are those used in parking garages to record the "in" and "out" time of day for parked vehicles. [5.55]
timing device. - A device used to measure the time during which a particular paid-for service is dispensed. Examples of timing devices are laundry driers, car-wash timers, parking meters, and parking-garage clocks and recorders. [5.55]
tolerance. - A value fixing the limit of allowable error or departure from true performance or value. (Also see "basic tolerances.") [1.10]
training idlers. - Idlers of special design or mounting intended to shift the belt sideways on the conveyor to assure the belt is centered on the conveying idlers. [2.21]
transfer standard. - A measurement system designed for use in proving and testing cryogenic liquid-measuring devices. [3.38]
tripper. - A device for unloading a belt conveyor at a point between the loading point and the head pulley. [2.21]
uncoupled-in-motion railroad weighing system. - A device and related installation characteristics consisting of (1) the associated approach trackage, (2) the scale (i.e., the weighing element, the load-receiving element, and the indicating element with its software), and (3) the exit trackage, which permit the weighing of railroad cars uncoupled in motion. [2.20]
(Added 1993)
underregistration. - See "overregistration" and "underregistration." [1.10]
unit price. - The price at which the product is being sold and expressed in whole units of measurement. [1.10, 3.30] (Added 1992)
unit train. - A unit train is defined as a number of contiguous cars carrying a single commodity from one consignor to one consignee. The number of cars is determined by agreement among the consignor, consignee, and the operating railroad. [2.20]
unit weight. - One contained within the housing of an automatic-indicating scale and mechanically applied to and removed from the mechanism. The application of a unit weight will increase the range of automatic indication, normally in increments equal to the reading-face capacity. [2.20]
user requirement. - A requirement dealing with the selection, installation, use, or maintenance of a weighing or measuring device. User requirements are directed primarily to the users of devices. (Also see Introduction, Section Q.) [1.10]
usual and customary. - Commonly or ordinarily found in practice or in the normal course of events and in accordance with established practices. [1.10]
utility-type water meter. - 1) A device used for the measurement of water, generally applicable to meters installed in residences or business establishments. excluding batching meters. [3.36]
(Added 2011)
value of minimum graduated interval. - (1) The value represented by the interval from the center of one graduation to the center of the succeeding graduation. (2) The increment between successive recorded values. (Also see "graduated interval.") [1.10]
vapor equalization credit. - The quantity deducted from the metered quantity of liquid carbon dioxide when a vapor equalizing line is used to facilitate the transfer of liquid during a metered delivery. [3.38]
vapor equalization line. - A hose or pipe connected from the vapor space of the seller's tank to the vapor space of the buyer's tank that is used to equalize the pressure during a delivery. [3.38]
vehicle on-board weighing system. - A weighing system designed as an integral part of or attached to the frame, chassis, lifting mechanism, or bed of a vehicle, trailer, industrial truck, industrial tractor, or forklift truck. [2.20]
(Amended 1993)
vehicle scale. - A scale adapted to weighing highway, farm, or other large industrial vehicles (except railroad freight cars), loaded or unloaded. [2.20]
verification scale division, value of (e). - A value, expressed in units of weight (mass) and specified by the manufacturer of a device, by which the tolerance values and the accuracy class applicable to the device are determined. The verification scale division is applied to all scales, in particular to ungraduated devices since they have no graduations. The verification scale division (e) may be different from the displayed scale division (d) for certain other devices used for weight classifying or weighing in pre-determined amounts, and certain other Class I and II scales. [2.20]
visible type. - A type of device in which the measurement takes place in a see-through glass measuring chamber. [3.30]
vmin (minimum load cell verification interval). - The smallest load cell verification interval, expressed in units of mass* into which the load cell measuring range can be divided. [2.20, 2.24] [*Nonretroactive as of January 1, 2001]
(Added 1996) (Amended 1999)
weighbeam. - An element comprising one or more bars, equipped with movable poises or means for applying counterpoise weights or both. [2.20]
weigh-belt system. - A type of belt-conveyor scale system designed by the manufacturer as a self-contained conveyor system and that is installed as a unit. A unit is comprised of integral components and, at minimum, includes a: conveyor belt; belt drive; conveyor frame; and weighing system. A weigh-belt system may operate at single or multiple flow rates and may use variable-speed belt drives. [2.21]
(Added 2015)
weighing element. - That portion of a scale that supports the load-receiving element and transmits to the indicating element a signal or force resulting from the load applied to the load-receiving element. [2.20, 2.21, 2.22]
(Added 1988)
weigh-labeler. - An automatic weighing system that determines the weight of a package and prints a label or other document bearing a weight declaration for each discrete item (usually a label also includes unit and total price declarations). Weigh-labelers are sometimes used to weigh and label standard and random packages (also called "Prepackaging Scales"). [2.24]
(Amended 2004)
weigh module - The portion of a load-receiving element supported by two sections. The length of a module is the distance to which load can be applied. [2.20]
(Added 2013)
weighment. - A single complete weighing operation. [2.20, 2.21] (Added 1986)
weight, unit. - See "unit weight." [2.20]
weight classifier. - A digital scale that rounds weight values up to the next scale division. These scales usually have a verification scale division (e) that is smaller than the displayed scale division. [2.20]
(Added 1987)
weight ranges. - Electrical or electro-mechanical elements incorporated in an automatic indicating scale through the application of which the range of automatic indication of the scale is increased, normally in increments equal to the reading-face capacity. [2.20]
wet basis. - See "moisture content (wet basis)." [5.56(a), 5.56(b)]
wet hose. - A discharge hose intended to be full of product at all times. (Also see "wet-hose type.") [3.30, 3.31, 3.38]
(Amended 2002)
wet-hose type. - A type of device designed to be operated with the discharge hose full of product at all times. (Also see "wet hose.") [3.30, 3.32, 3.34, 3.37, 3.38]
(Amended 2002)
wheel-load weighers. - Compact, self-contained, portable weighing elements specially adapted to determining the wheel loads or axle loads of vehicles on highways for the enforcement of highway weight laws only. [2.20]
wholesale device. - Any device other than a retail device. (Also see "retail device.") [3.30, 3.32]
wing pulley. - A pulley made of widely spaced metal bars in order to set up a vibration to shake loose material off the underside (return side) of the belt. [2.21]
zero-load balance. - A correct weight indication or representation of zero when there is no load on the load-receiving element. (Also see "zero-load balance for an automatic-indicating scale," "zero-load balance for a nonautomatic-indicating scale," "zero-load balance for a recording scale.") [2.20]
zero-load balance, automatic-indicating scale. - A condition in which the indicator is at rest at, or oscillates through approximately equal arcs on either side of, the zero graduation. [2.20]
zero-load balance, nonautomatic-indicating scale. - A condition in which (a) the weighbeam is at rest at, or oscillates through approximately equal arcs above and below, the center of a trig loop; (b) the weighbeam or lever system is at rest at, or oscillates through approximately equal arcs above and below, a horizontal position or a position midway between limiting stops; or (c) the indicator of a balance indicator is at rest at, or oscillates through approximately equal arcs on either side of, the zero graduation. [2.20]
zero-load balance for a recording scale. - A condition in which the scale will record a representation of zero load. [2.20]
zero-load reference (belt-conveyor scales). - A zero-load reference value represents no load on a moving conveyor belt. This value can be either; a number representing the electronic load cell output, a percentage of full scale capacity, or other reference value that accurately represents the no load condition of a moving conveyor belt. The no load reference value can only be updated after the completion of a zero load test.[2.21]
(Added 2002)
zero-setting mechanism. - Means provided to attain a zero balance indication with no load on the load-receiving element. The types of zero-setting mechanisms are: [2.20, 2.22, 2.24]
automatic zero-setting mechanism (AZSM). - Automatic means provided to set the zero-balance indication without the intervention of an operator. [2.22]
(Added 2010)
automatic zero-tracking (AZT) mechanism. - See "automatic zero-tracking (AZT) mechanism." (NOTE: AZT maintains zero with specified limits. "Zero-setting sets/establishes zero with limits based on scale capacity.) [2.20, 2.22, 2.24]
initial zero-setting mechanism. - Automatic means provided to set the indication to zero at the time the instrument is switched on and before it is ready for use. [2.20]
(Added 1990)
manual zero-setting mechanism. - Nonautomatic means provided to attain a zero balance indication by the direct operation of a control. [2.20]
semiautomatic zero-setting mechanism. - Automatic means provided to attain a direct zero balance indication requiring a single initiation by an operator. [2.20]
(Amended 2010)
zero-setting mechanism (belt-conveyor scale). - A mechanism enabling zero totalization to be obtained over a whole number of belt revolutions. [2.21, 2.23]
(Added 2002)
zero-tracking mechanism. - See "automatic zero-tracking mechanism" under "zero-setting mechanism." [2.20, 2.22, 2.24]
zone of uncertainty. - The zone between adjacent increments on a digital device in which the value of either of the adjacent increments may be displayed. [2.20]
(Amended 2008)
(These requirements should be used as a guide by the weights and measures official when, upon request, courtesy examinations of noncommercial equipment are made.)
(Amended 1972)
Nonretroactive requirements are not enforceable with respect to devices that are in commercial service in the state as of the effective date or to new equipment in the stock of a manufacturer or a dealer in the state as of the effective date.
[Nonretroactive requirements are printed in italic type.]
(Amended 1989 and 2011)
(Added 2000) (Amended 2001)
[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1968]
(Amended 2003)
[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1986]
[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 2001]
(Added 2003)
[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 2007]
(Added 2006)
[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 2007]
(Added 2006)
The required information shall be so located that it is readily observable without the necessity of the disassembly of a part requiring the use of any means separate from the device.
(Amended 1985, 1991, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2003, and 2006)
Note: For (b), clear instructions for accessing the information required in G-S.1.
(a, (b), and (d) shall be listed on the CC, including information necessary to identify that the software in the device is the same type that was evaluated. [Nonretroactive as of January 1, 2004]
(Added 2003) (Amended 2006)
(Added 2001) (Amended 2011)
Note: Definitions for "manufactured device," "repaired device," and "repaired element" are included (along with definitions for "remanufactured device" and "remanufactured element") in Appendix D, Definitions.
(Amended 2007)
Undue stresses, deflections, or distortions of parts shall not occur to the extent that accuracy or permanence is detrimentally affected.
[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1986]
(Amended 1973 and 1985)
[Made retroactive as of January 1, 1975]
(Amended 1978 and 1986)
(Amended 1973)
(Amended 1975 and 2014)
Note: SP 811 can be viewed or downloaded at http://physics.nist.gov/cuu/pdf/sp811.pdf or by going to http://www.nist.gov/pml/wmd/index.cfm and selecting Weights and Measures Publications and the link to Special Publications (SP 811), "Guide for the Use of the International System of Units (SI)."
(Added 2007)
(Added 1977) (Amended 2007)
Table 1. Representation of SI Units on Equipment Manufactured Prior to January 1, 2008, with Limited Character Sets | ||||
Name of Unit | International Symbol (common use symbol) | Representation | ||
Form I | Form II | |||
(double case) | (single case lower) | (single case upper) | ||
Base SI Units | ||||
meter | m | m | m | M |
kilogram | kg | kg | kg | KG |
Derived SI Units | ||||
newton | N | N | n | N |
pascal | Pa | Pa | pa | PA |
watt | W | W | w | W |
volt | V | V | v | V |
degree Celsius | °C | °C | °c | °C |
Other Units | ||||
liter | l or L | L | l | L |
gram | g | g | g | G |
metric ton | t | t | tne | TNE |
bar | bar | bar | bar | BAR |
(Table Amended 2007)
(Amended 1978 and 1995)
A device may be fitted with an automatic or a semi-automatic calibration mechanism. This mechanism shall be incorporated inside the device. After sealing, neither the mechanism nor the calibration process shall facilitate fraud.
(Added 1985) (Amended 1989 and 1993)
Note: For devices that utilize an electronic form of sealing, in addition to the requirements in G-S.8.1., any appropriate audit trail requirements in an applicable specific device code also apply. Examples of identification of a change to the metrological parameters of a weighing or measuring element include, but are not limited to:
(Added 1976)
(Amended 1974)
(Added 1976)
(Added 1995)
(Added 1978)
Otherwise, it shall be the responsibility of the device owner or operator to supply such special facilities, including such labor as may be needed to inspect, test, and seal the device, and to transport the testing equipment to and from the device, as required by the weights and measures official.
(Amended 1991)
(Added 1976)
(Amended 1974 and 1998)
(Amended 1977 and 1993)
(Amended 1973, 1991, and 2015)
(Added 1976)
(Added 1994)
(Amended 1972 and 1983)
(Added 1987) (Amended 1993)
(Amended 1987)
[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1993]
(Amended 1992 and 2008)
(Added 1983)
exclusively for weighing in predetermined amounts, the value of a scale division "d" expressed in a unit of weight shall be equal to:
Examples: scale divisions may be 10, 20, 50, 100; or 0.01, 0.02, 0.05; or 0.1, 0.2, 0.5, etc.
Examples: scale divisions may be 1/2, 1/4, 1/8, 1/16, etc. [Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1986]
The requirement that the value of the scale division be expressed only as 1, 2, or 5, or a decimal multiple or submultiple of only 1, 2, or 5 does not apply to net weight indications and recorded representations that are calculated from gross and tare weight indications where the scale division of the gross weight is different from the scale division of the tare weight(s) on multi-interval or multiple range scales. For example, a multiple range or multi-interval scale may indicate and record tare weights in a lower weighing range (WR) or weighing segment (WS), gross weights in the higher weighing range or weighing segment, and net weights as follows:
55 kg Gross Weight (WR2 d = 5 kg) | 10.05 lb Gross Weight (WS2 d = 0.05 lb) |
- 4 kg Tare Weight (WR1 d = 2 kg) | - 0.06 lb Tare Weight (WS1 d = 0.02 lb) |
= 51 kg Net Weight (Mathematically Correct) | = 9.99 lb Net Weight (Mathematically Correct) |
[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1989] (Added 1987) (Amended 2008)
d [LESS THAN] e [LESS THAN] 10 d
If the displayed division (d) is less than the verification division (e), then the verification division shall be less than or equal to 10 times the displayed division.
The value of e must satisfy the relationship, e = 10k of the unit of measure, where k is a positive or negative whole number or zero. This requirement does not apply to a Class I device with d [LESS THAN] 1 mg where e = 1 mg. If e [NOT EQUAL TO] d, the value of "d" shall be a decimal submultiple of "e," and the ratio shall not be more than 10:1. If e [NOT EQUAL TO] d, and both "e" and "d" are continuously displayed during normal operation, then "d" shall be differentiated from "e" by size, shape, color, etc. throughout the range of weights displayed as "d."
(Added 1999)
(Added 1999)
When the index of an indicator extends along the entire length of a graduation, that portion of the index of the indicator that may be brought into coincidence with the graduation shall be of the same width throughout the length of the index that coincides with the graduation.
Table 1M. Minimum Travel of Weighbeam of Beam Scale Between Limiting Stops | |
Distance From Weighbeam Fulcrum to Limiting Stops (centimeters) | Minimum Travel Between Limiting Stops (millimeter) |
30 or less | 10 |
30+ to 50, inclusive | 13 |
50+ to 100, inclusive | 18 |
Over 100 | 23 |
Table 1. Minimum Travel of Weighbeam of Beam Scale Between Limiting Stops | |
Distance From Weighbeam Fulcrum to Limiting Stops (inches) | Minimum Travel Between Limiting Stops (inch) |
12 or less | 0.4 |
12+ to 20, inclusive | 0.5 |
20+ to 40, inclusive | 0.7 |
Over 40 | 0.9 |
The total value of weight ranges and of unit weights in effect or in place at any time shall automatically be accounted for on the reading face and on any recorded representation.
This requirement does not apply to:
(Amended 1990, 1992, and 1995)
Value figures and graduations shall not be duplicated in any column or row on the graduated chart. (Also see S.1.8.2. Money-Value Computation.)
Value figures and graduations shall not be duplicated in any column or row on the graduated chart. (Also see S.1.8.2. Money-Value Computation.)
(Amended 1985 and 1995)
(Added 1999)
28 For devices interfaced with scales indicating in metric units, the unit price may be expressed in price per 100 grams. Weight values shall be identified by kilograms, kg, grams, g, ounces, oz, pounds, or lb. The "#" symbol is not acceptable. [Nonretroactive as of January 1, 2006]
(Amended 1995 and 2005)
(Added 1986)
[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1979]
[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1990]
[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1995]
A device may be fitted with an automatic or a semi-automatic calibration mechanism. This mechanism shall be incorporated inside the device. After sealing, neither the mechanism nor the calibration process shall facilitate fraud.
(Amended 1989, 1991, and 1993)
Table S.1.11. Categories of Device and Methods of Sealing | |
Categories of Device | Methods of Sealing |
Category 1: No remote configuration capability. | Seal by physical seal or two event counters: one for calibration parameters and one for configuration parameters. |
Category 2: Remote configuration capability, but access is controlled by physical hardware. The device shall clearly indicate that it is in the remote configuration mode and record such message if capable of printing in this mode. | The hardware enabling access for remote communication must be at the device and sealed using a physical seal or two event counters: one for calibration parameters and one for configuration parameters. |
Category 3: Remote configuration capability access may be unlimited or controlled through a software switch (e.g., password). | An event logger is required in the device; it must include an event counter (000 to 999), the parameter ID, the date and time of the change, and the new value of the parameter. A printed copy of the information must be available through the device or through another on-site device. The event logger shall have a capacity to retain records equal to 10 times the number of sealable parameters in the device, but not more than 1000 records are required. (Note: Does not require 1000 changes to be stored for each parameter.) |
[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1995] (Table added 1993)
(Added 1992) (Amended 2004)
Except for an initial zero-setting mechanism, an automatic zero adjustment outside the limits specified in S.2.1.3. Scales Equipped with an Automatic Zero-Tracking Mechanism is prohibited. (Amended 2010)
A semiautomatic zero-setting mechanism shall be operable or accessible only by a tool outside of and separate from this mechanism or it shall be enclosed in a cabinet, or it shall be operable only when the indication is stable within plus or minus:
[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 2001]
(Added 1999) (Amended 2005)
(Amended 1999)
[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 2009]
(Added 2008) (Added 1990) (Amended 2008)
(Added 1998)
[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1989]
(Added 1988)
(Amended 1985 and 2008)
Note: On a computing scale, this requires the input of a unit price, the display of the unit price, and a computed positive total price at a readable equilibrium. Other devices require a complete weighing operation, including tare, net, and gross weight determination* [*Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1983]
(Amended 1999)
[This requirement is nonretroactive as of January 1, 1986, for prescription, jewelers', and dairy-product test scales and scales marked Class I and II.]
Note: Portable wheel-load weighers and portable axle-load scales shall be accurate when tilted up to and including 5 % rise over run in any direction from a level position and rebalanced.
(Amended 1991 and 2008)
(Added 1992) (Amended 2008)
The values recorded shall be within applicable tolerances. (Amended 1995)
(Added 2003)
Table 2M. Minimum Travel of Pans of Nonautomatic Indicating Equal-Arm Scale Withoutwithout Balance Indicator | |
Nominal Capacity (kilograms) | Minimum Travel of Pans (millimeters) |
2 or less | 9 |
2+ to 5, inclusive | 13 |
5+ to 12, inclusive | 19 |
Over 12 | 25 |
Table 2. Minimum Travel of Pans of Nonautomatic Indicating Equal-Arm Scale Withoutwithout Balance Indicator | |
Nominal Capacity (pounds) | Minimum Travel of Pans (inch) |
4 or less | 0.35 |
4+ to 12, inclusive | 0.5 |
12+ to 26, inclusive | 0.75 |
Over 26 | 1.0 |
(Amended 1986)
[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1986]
[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1986]
(Added 1986) (Amended 1995)
[*When the value of the scale division, d, is different from the verification scale division, e, for the scale, the value of e must be used in the formulae above.]
This requirement does not apply to complete weighing/load-receiving elements or scales, which satisfy all the following criteria:
the complete weighing/load-receiving element or scale has been evaluated for compliance with T.N.8.1. Temperature under the NTEP;
the complete weighing/load-receiving element or scale has received an NTEP Certificate of Conformance; and
the complete weighing/load-receiving element or scale is equipped with an automatic zero-tracking mechanism which cannot be made inoperative in the normal weighing mode. (A test mode which permits the disabling of the automatic zero-tracking mechanism is permissible, provided the scale cannot function normally while in this mode. [Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1994]
(Added 1993) (Amended 1996) Footnote 1 to Table 3 Parameters for Accuracy Classes.
Table 3. Parameters for Accuracy Classes | |||
Class | Value of the Verification Scale Division (d or e1) | Number of Scale4 Divisions (n) | |
Minimum | Maximum | ||
SI Units | |||
I | equal to or greater than 1 mg | 50 000 | -- |
II | 1 to 50 mg, inclusive | 100 | 100 000 |
equal to or greater than 100 mg | 5 000 | 100 000 | |
III2,5 | 0.1 to 2 g, inclusive | 100 | 10 000 |
equal to or greater than 5 g | 500 | 10 000 | |
III L3 | equal to or greater than 2 kg | 2 000 | 10 000 |
IIII | equal to or greater than 5 g | 100 | 1 200 |
U.S. Customary Units | |||
III5 | 0.0002 lb to 0.005 lb, inclusive | 100 | 10 000 |
0.005 oz to 0.125 oz, inclusive | 100 | 10 000 | |
equal to or greater than 0.01 lb | 500 | 10 000 | |
equal to or greater than 0.25 oz | 500 | 10 000 | |
III L3 | equal to or greater than 5 lb | 2 000 | 10 000 |
IIII | greater than 0.01 lb | 100 | 1 200 |
greater than 0.25 oz | 100 | 1 200 | |
1 For Class I and II devices equipped with auxiliary reading means (i.e., a rider, a vernier, or a least significant decimal differentiated by size, shape, or color), the value of the verification scale division "e" is the value of the scale division immediately preceding the auxiliary means. | |||
2 A Class III scale marked "For prescription weighing only" may have a verification scale division (e) not less than 0.01 g. (Added 1986) (Amended 2003) | |||
3 The value of a scale division for crane and hopper (other than grain hopper) scales shall be not less than 0.2 kg (0.5 lb). The minimum number of scale divisions shall be not less than 1000. | |||
4 On a multiple range or multi-interval scale, the number of divisions for each range independently shall not exceed the maximum specified for the accuracy class. The number of scale divisions, n, for each weighing range is determined by dividing the scale capacity for each range by the verification scale division, e, for each range. On a scale system with multiple load-receiving elements and multiple indications, each element considered shall not independently exceed the maximum specified for the accuracy class. If the system has a summing indicator, the nmax for the summed indication shall not exceed the maximum specified for the accuracy class. (Added 1997) | |||
5 The minimum number of scale divisions for a Class III Hopper Scale used for weighing grain shall be 2000.) | |||
[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1986]
(Amended 1986, 1987, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2003, and 2004)
As a formula, this is stated as: nominal capacity [LESS THAN] CLC × (N - 0.5)
where N = the number of sections in the scale. [Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1989]
Note: When the device is used in a combination railway track and vehicle weighing application, the above formula shall apply only to the vehicle scale application.
(Added 1988) (Amended 1999 and 2002)
(Added 1989)
(Added 1990)
Table S.6.3.a. Marking Requirements | |||||
To Be Marked With | Weighing Equipment | ||||
Weighing, Load-Receiving, and Indicating Element in Same Housing or Covered on the Same CC1 | Indicating Element not Permanently Attached to Weighing and Load-Receiving Element or Covered by a Separate CC | Weighing and Load-Receiving Element Not Permanently Attached to Indicating Element or Covered by a Separate CC | Load Cell with CC (11) | Other Equipment or Device (10) | |
Manufacturer's ID (1) | X | X | X | X | X |
Model Designation and Prefix (1) | X | X | X | X | X |
Serial Number and Prefix (2) | X | X | X | X | X (16) |
Certificate of Conformance Number (CC) (23) | X | X | X | X | X (23) |
Accuracy Class (17) | X | X (8) | X (19) | X | |
Nominal Capacity (3)(18)(20) | X | X | X | ||
Value of Scale Division, "d" (3) | X | X | |||
Value of "e" (4) | X | X | |||
Temperature Limits (5) | X | X | X | X | |
Concentrated Load Capacity (CLC) (12)(20)(22) | X | X (9) | |||
Special Application (13) | X | X | X | ||
Maximum Number of Scale Divisions (nmax) (6) | X (8) | X (19) | X | ||
Minimum Verification Scale Division (emin) | X (19) | ||||
"S" or "M" (7) | X | ||||
Direction of Loading (15) | X | ||||
Minimum Dead Load | X | ||||
Maximum Capacity | X | ||||
Safe Load Limit | X | ||||
Load Cell Verification Interval (vmin) (21) | X | ||||
Section Capacity and Prefix (14)(20)(22)(24) | X | X | |||
Table S.6.3.a. Marking Requirements |
Note: For applicable notes, Table S.6.3.b. 1 Weighing/load-receiving elements and indicators which are in the same housing or which are permanently attached will generally appear on the same CC. If not in the same housing, elements shall be hard-wired together or sealed with a physical seal or an electronic link. This requirement does not apply to peripheral equipment that has no input or effect on device calibrations or configurations. (Added 2001) |
(Added 1990) (Amended 1992, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, and 2004)
Table S.6.3.b. Notes for Table S.6.3.a. Marking Requirements |
1. Manufacturer's identification and model designation and model designation prefix.* [*Nonretroactive as of January 1, 2003] (Also see G-S.1. Identification.) [Prefix lettering may be initial capitals, all capitals or all lower case] (Amended 2000) |
2. Serial number [Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1968] and prefix [Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1986]. (Also see G-S.1. Identification.) |
3. The device shall be marked with the nominal capacity. The nominal capacity shall be shown together with the value of the scale division (e.g., 15 × 0.005 kg, 30 × 0.01 lb, or capacity = 15 kg, d = 0.005 kg) in a clear and conspicuous manner and be readily apparent when viewing the reading face of the scale indicator unless already apparent by the design of the device. Each scale division value or weight unit shall be marked on multiple range or multi-interval scales. [Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1983] (Amended 2005) |
4. Required only if different from "d." [Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1986] |
5. Required only on Class III, III L, and IIII devices if the temperature range on the NTEP CC is narrower than and within - 10 °C to 40 °C (14 °F to 104 °F). [Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1986] (Amended 1999) |
6. This value may be stated on load cells in units of 1000; e.g., n: 10 is 10 000 divisions. [Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1988] |
7. Denotes compliance for single or multiple load cell applications. It is acceptable to use a load cell with the "S" or Single Cell designation in multiple load cell applications as long as all other parameters meet applicable requirements. A load cell with the "M" or Multiple Cell designation can be used only in multiple load cell applications. [Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1988] (Amended 1999) |
8. An indicating element not permanently attached to a weighing element shall be clearly and permanently marked with the accuracy Class of I, II, III, III L, or IIII, as appropriate, and the maximum number of scale divisions, nmax, for which the indicator complies with the applicable requirement. Indicating elements that qualify for use in both Class III and III L applications may be marked III/III L and shall be marked with the maximum number of scale divisions for which the device complies with the applicable requirements for each accuracy class. [Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1988] |
9. For vehicle and axle-load scales only. The CLC shall be added to the load-receiving element of any such scale not previously marked at the time of modification. [Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1989] (Amended 2002) |
10. Necessary to the weighing system but having no metrological effect, e.g., auxiliary remote display, keyboard, etc. |
11. The markings may be either on the load cell or in an accompanying document; except that, if an accompanying document is provided, the serial number shall appear both on the load cell and in the document. [Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1988] The manufacturer's name or trademark, the model designation, and identifying symbols for the model and serial numbers as required by paragraph G-S.1. Identification shall also be marked both on the load cell and in any accompanying document. [Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1991] |
12. Required on the indicating element and the load-receiving element of vehicle and axle-load scales. Such marking shall be identified as "concentrated load capacity" or by the abbreviation "CLC."* [*Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1989] (Amended 2002) |
13. A scale designed for a special application rather than general use shall be conspicuously marked with suitable words, visible to the operator and to the customer, restricting its use to that application, e.g., postal scale, prepack scale, weight classifier, etc.* When a scale is installed with an operational counting feature, the scale shall be marked on both the operator and customer sides with the statement "The counting feature is not legal for trade," except when a Class I or Class II prescription scale complies with all Handbook 44 requirements applicable to counting features. [*Nonretroactive as of 1986] (Amended 1994 and 2003) |
14. Required on livestock* and railway track scales. When marked on vehicle and axle-load scales manufactured before January 1, 1989, it may be used as the CLC. For livestock scales manufactured between January 1, 1989, and January 1, 2003, required markings may be either CLC or section capacity. [*Nonretroactive as of January 1, 2003] (Amended 2002) |
15. Required if the direction of loading the load cell is not obvious. [Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1988] |
16. Serial number [Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1968] and prefix [Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1986]. (Also see G-S.1. Identification.) Modules without "intelligence" on a modular system (e.g., printer, keyboard module, cash drawer, and secondary display in a point-of-sale system) are not required to have serial numbers. |
17. The accuracy class of a device shall be marked on the device with the appropriate designation as I, II, III, III L, or IIII. [Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1986] |
18. The nominal capacity shall be conspicuously marked as follows: |
(a) on any scale equipped with unit weights or weight ranges; |
(b) on any scale with which counterpoise or equal-arm weights are intended to be used; |
(c) on any automatic-indicating or recording scale so constructed that the capacity of the indicating or recording element, or elements, is not immediately apparent; |
(d) on any scale with a nominal capacity less than the sum of the reading elements; and |
(e) on the load-receiving element (weighbridge) of vehicle, axle-load, and livestock scales.* |
[*Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1989] |
(Amended 1992) |
19. For weighing and load-receiving elements not permanently attached to indicating element or covered by a separate CC. [Nonretroactive as of January, 1, 1988] (Amended 1992) |
20. Combination vehicle/railway track scales must be marked with both the nominal capacity and CLC for vehicle weighing and the nominal capacity and section capacity for railway weighing. All other requirements relating to these markings will apply. [Nonretroactive as of January 1, 2000] (Added 1999) |
21. The value of the load cell verification interval (vmin) must be stated in mass units. In addition to this information, a device may be marked with supplemental representations of vmin. [Nonretroactive as of January 1, 2001] (Added 1999) |
22. Combination vehicle/livestock scales must be marked with both the CLC for vehicle weighing and the section capacity for livestock weighing. All other requirements relative to these markings will apply. [Nonretroactive as of January 1, 2003] (Added 2002) (Amended 2003) |
Note: The marked section capacity for livestock weighing may be less than the marked CLC for vehicle weighing. (Amended 2003) |
23. Required only if a CC has been issued for the device or equipment. [Nonretroactive as of January 1, 2003] (G-S.1. Identification (e) Added 2001) |
24. The section capacity shall be prefaced by the words "Section Capacity" or an abbreviation of that term. Abbreviations shall be "Sec Cap" or "Sec C." All capital letters and periods may be used. [Nonretroactive as of January 1, 2005] (Added 2004) |
RSC × (Ns - Nd - 0.5); or
Table S.6.4.M. Railway Track Scale - Weigh Module Capacity | |
Weigh Module Length (meters) | Weigh Module Capacity (kilograms) |
[LESS THAN] 1.5 | 36 300 |
1.5 to [LESS THAN] 3.0 | 72 600 |
3.0 to [LESS THAN] 4.5 | 108 900 |
4.5 to [LESS THAN] 7.0 | 145 100 |
7.0 to [LESS THAN] 9.0 | 168 700 |
9.0 to [LESS THAN] 10.5 | 192 300 |
10.5 to [LESS THAN] 12.0 | 234 100 |
12.0 to [LESS THAN] 17.0 | 257 600 |
Note: The capacity of a particular module is based on its length as shown above. To determine the "sum of the weigh module capacities" referenced in paragraph S.6.4.(b)(1): (1) determine the length of each individual weigh module in the scale; (2) find its corresponding "weigh module capacity" in the table above; and (3) add all of the individual weigh module capacities." | |
(Table Added 2013)
Table S.6.4. Railway Track Scale - Weigh Module Capacity | |
Weigh Module Length (feet) | Weigh Module Capacity (pounds) |
[LESS THAN] 5 | 80 000 |
5 to [LESS THAN] 10 | 160 000 |
10 to [LESS THAN] 15 | 240 000 |
15 to [LESS THAN] 23 | 320 000 |
23 to [LESS THAN] 29 | 372 000 |
29 to [LESS THAN] 35 | 424 000 |
35 to [LESS THAN] 40 | 516 000 |
40 to [LESS THAN] 56 | 568 000 |
Note: The capacity of a particular module is based on its length as shown above. To determine the "sum of the weigh module capacities" referenced in paragraph S.6.4.(b)(1): (1) determine the length of each individual weigh module in the scale; (2) find its corresponding "weigh module capacity" in the table above; and (3) add all of the individual weigh module capacities." | |
(Table Added 2013)
(Added 2002)
Also see Note 14 in Table S.6.3.b. Notes for Table S.6.3.a.
(Added 2003)
(Amended 1998)
(Amended 1998)
(Amended 1991, 2000, and 2003)
(Amended 1997, 2001, and 2003)
(Amended 1997 and 2003)
(Amended 1988, 1991, 1997, 2000, 2001, and 2003)
(Amended 2003)
[]= Load Bearing Point (Added 2003)
(Added 2007)
(Added 1985)
All carcasses or portions of carcasses shall be individually weighed statically on either the same scale being tested dynamically or another monorail scale with the same or smaller divisions and in close proximity. (The scale selected for static weighing of the carcasses or portions of carcasses shall first be tested statically with certified test weights that have been properly protected from the harsh environment of the packing plant to ensure they maintain accuracy.)
If the scale being tested is used for weighing freshly slaughtered animals (often referred to as a "hot scale"), care must be taken to get a static weighment as quickly as possible before or following the dynamic weighment to avoid loss due to shrink. If multiple dynamic tests are conducted using the same carcasses or portions of carcasses, static weights shall be obtained before and after multiple dynamic tests. If the carcass or portion of a carcass changes weight between static tests, the amount of weight change shall be taken into account, or the carcass or portion of a carcass shall be disregarded for tolerance purposes.
Note: For a dynamic monorail test, the reference scale shall comply with the principles in the Fundamental Considerations paragraph 3.2. Tolerances for Standards.
(Added 1996) (Amended 1999 and 2007)
(Added 1992)
(Added 2003)
(Amended 1987, 2003, and 2007)
scales only, with the weighing device in equilibrium at zero-load and at maximum test load. The test shall be conducted by increasing or decreasing the test load in an amount equal to the applicable value specified in T.2. Sensitivity Requirement (SR) or T.N.6. Sensitivity.
with the weighing device in equilibrium at or near zero load and at or near maximum test load, and under controlled conditions in which environmental factors are reduced to the extent that they will not affect the results obtained. For scales equipped with an Automatic Zero-Tracking Mechanism (AZT), the discrimination test may be conducted at a range outside of the AZT range. [Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1986]
(Added 1985) (Amended 2004)
(Added 1986)
Class II prescription scales having an active counting feature used in "legal for trade" applications. The test should verify that the scale will not accept a sample with less than either the minimum sample piece count or the minimum sample weight of 30 e. Counting feature accuracy should be verified at a minimum of two test loads. Verification of the count calculations shall be based upon the weight indication of the test load.
Note:
(Added 2003)
(Added 2003)
(Added 2003)
(Amended 1986)
(Added 1984) (Amended 1988)
(Amended 1990 and 2012)
(Added 1990) (Amended 2012)
(Added 1990) (Amended 2012)
(Added 1990)
Table 4. Minimum Test Weights and Test Loads1 | ||||||
Devices in Metric Units | Devices in U.S. Customary Units | |||||
Device Capacity (kg) | Minimums (in terms of device capacity) | Device Capacity (lb) | Minimums (in terms of device capacity) | |||
Test Weights (greater of) | Test Loads2 | Test Weights (greater of) | Test Loads2 | |||
0 to 150 kg | 100 % | 0 to 300 lb | 100 % | |||
151 to 1 500 kg | 25 % or 150 kg | 75 % | 301 to 3 000 lb | 25 % or 300 lb | 75 % | |
1 501 to 20 000 kg | 12.5 % or 500 kg | 50 % | 3001 to 40 000 lb | 12.5 % or 1 000 lb | 50 % | |
20 001 kg+ | 12.5 % or 5 000 kg | 25 %3 | 40 001 lb+ | 12.5 % or 10 000 lb | 25 %3 | |
Where practicable: | ||||||
* Test weights to dial face capacity, 1000 d, or test load to used capacity, if greater than minimums specified. | ||||||
* During initial verification, a scale should be tested to capacity. | ||||||
1 If the amount of test weight in Table 4 combined with the load on the scale would result in an unsafe condition, then the appropriate load will be determined by the official with statutory authority. | ||||||
2 The term "test load" means the sum of the combination of field standard test weights and any other applied load used in the conduct of a test using substitution test methods. Not more than three substitutions shall be used during substitution testing, after which the tolerances for strain load tests shall be applied to each set of test loads. | ||||||
3 The scale shall be tested from zero to at least 12.5 % of scale capacity using known test weights and then to at least 25 % of scale capacity using either a substitution or strain load test that utilizes known test weights of at least 12.5 % of scale capacity. Whenever practical, a strain load test should be conducted to the used capacity of the scale. When a strain load test is conducted, the tolerances apply only to the test weights or substitution test loads. (Amended 1988, 1989, 1994, and 2003) | ||||||
Note: GIPSA requires devices subject to their inspection to be tested to at least "used capacity," which is calculated based on the platform area of the scale and a weight factor assigned to the species of animal weighed on the scale. "Used capacity" is calculated using the formula: | ||||||
Used Scale Capacity = Scale Platform Area x Species Weight Factor | ||||||
Where species weight factor = 540 kg/m2 (110 lb/ft2) for cattle, 340 kg/m2 (70 lb/ft2) for calves and hogs, and 240 kg/m2 (50 lb/ft2) for sheep and lambs. | ||||||
(Added 2004)
(Added 1990) (Amended 1992)
Ten or More Cars. - The minimum test train shall be a consecutive-car test train of no less than ten cars run over the scale a minimum of five times in each mode of operation following final calibration.
(Added 1990) (Amended 1992)
of Ten or More Cars.
(Added 1990) (Amended 1992)
However, a consecutive-car test train of a shorter length may be used, provided that initial verification test results for the shorter consecutive-car test train agree with the test results for the distributed-car or full-length consecutive-car test train as specified in N.4.3.1.1. Initial Verification.
The official with statutory authority shall be responsible for determining the minimum test train length to be used on subsequent tests.
(Added 1990) (Amended 1992)
30 A test weight car that is representative of one of the types of cars typically weighed on the scale under test may be used wherever reference weight cars are specified. (Added 1991)
The difference between the total train weight of the train(s) representing the normal method of operation and the weight of the shorter consecutive-car test train shall not exceed 0.15 %. If the difference in test results exceeds 0.15 %, the length of the shorter consecutive-car test train shall be increased until agreement within 0.15 % is achieved. Any adjustments to the weighing system based upon the use of a shorter consecutive-car test train shall be offset to correct the bias that was observed between the full-length train test and the shorter consecutive-car test train.
(Added 1990) (Amended 1992 and 1993)
(Added 1990)
(Amended 1991)
(Added 1990) (Amended 1992)
(Added 1993)
(Amended 1990)
Table T.1.1. Tolerances for Unmarked Scales and Table 5. Maintenance and Acceptance Tolerances for Unmarked Postal and Parcel Post Scales.
(Amended 1990)
Table T.1.1. Tolerances for Unmarked Scales | |||||||
Type of Device | Subcategory | Minimum Tolerance | Acceptance Tolerance | Maintenance Tolerance | Decreasing-Load Multiplier1 | Other Applicable Requirements | |
Vehicle, axle-load, livestock, railway track (weighing statically), crane, and hopper (other than grain hopper) | Class III L, T.N.3.1 (Table 6) and T.N.3.2. | 1.0 | T.N.2., T.N.3., T.N.4.1., T.N.4.2., T.N.4.3., T.N.4.4., T.N.5., T.N.7.2., T.N.8.1.4.4, T.N.9. | ||||
Grain test scales | n [LESS THAN OR EQUAL TO] 10 000 n [GREATER THAN] 10 000 | Class III, T.N.3.1. (Table 6) and T.N.3.2. Class II, T.N.3.1. (Table 6) and T.N.3.2. | 1.0 | T.N.8.1.4.4, T.N.9. | |||
Railway track scales weighing in motion | T.N.3.6. except that for T.N.3.6.2. (a), no single error shall exceed four times the maintenance tolerance. | 1.0 | T.N.8.1.4.4, T.N.9. | ||||
Monorail scales, in-motion | T.N.3.8. | 1.0 | T.N.8.1.4.4, T.N.9. | ||||
Customer-operated bulk-weighing systems for recycled materials | ± 5 % of applied material test load. Average error on 10 or more test loads [LESS THAN OR EQUAL TO] 2.5 %. | 1.0 | T.N.8.1.4.4, T.N.9. | ||||
Wheel-load weighers and portable axle-load scales | Tested individually or in pairs2 | 0.5 d or 50 lb, whichever is greater | 1 % of test load | 2 % of test load | 1.53 | T.N.8.1.4.4, T.N.9. | |
Prescription scales | 0.1 grain (6 mg) | 0.1 % of test load | 0.1 % of test load | 1.5 | T.N.8.1.4.4, T.N.9. | ||
Jewelers' scales | Graduated | 0.5 d | 0.05 % of test load | 0.05 % of test load | 1.5 | T.N.8.1.4.4, T.N.9. | |
Ungraduated | Sensitivity or smallest weight, whichever is less | ||||||
Dairy-product test scale | Loads [LESS THAN] 18 g 18 g load | 0.2 grain 0.2 grain | 0.2 grain 0.3 grain | 0.2 grain 0.5 grain | 1.5 | T.N.8.1.4.4, T.N.9. | |
Postal and parcel post scales designed/used to weigh loads [LESS THAN] 2 lb | Loads [LESS THAN] 2 lb | 15 grain, 1 g, 1/32 oz, 0.03 oz, or 0.002 lb | 15 grain, 1 g, 1/32 oz, 0.03 oz, or 0.002 lb | 15 grain, 1 g, 1/32 oz, 0.03 oz, or 0.002 lb | 1.5 | T.N.8.1.4.4, T.N.9. | |
Loads [LESS THAN OR EQUAL TO] 2 lb | Table 5 | Table 5 | Table 5 | ||||
Other postal and parcel post scales | Table 5 | Table 5 | Table 5 | 1.5 | T.N.8.1.4.4, T.N.9. | ||
All other scales (including grain hopper) | n [GREATER THAN] 5000 | 0.5 d or 0.05 % of scale capacity, whichever is less | 0.05 % of test load | 0.1 % of test load | 1.5 | T.N.2.5., T.N.4.1., T.N.4.2., T.N.4.3., T.N.5., T.N.7.2., T.N.8.1.4.4, T.N.9. | |
n [LESS THAN OR EQUAL TO] 5000 | Class III, T.N.3.1., Table 6 and T.N.3.2. | 1.0 | T.N.2., T.N.3., T.N.4.1., T.N.4.2., T.N.4.3., T.N.5., T.N.7.2., T.N.8.1.4.4, T.N.9. | ||||
1 The decreasing load test applies only to automatic indicating scales. 2 If marked and tested as a pair, the tolerance shall be applied to the sum of the indication. | 3 The decreasing load test does not apply to portable wheel load weighers. 4T.N.8.1.4. Operating Temperature. is nonretroactive and effective for unmarked devices manufactured as of January 1, 1981. | ||||||
Table 5. Maintenance and Acceptance Tolerances for Unmarked Postal and Parcel Post Scales | |||||
Scale Capacity | Test Loads | Maintenance Tolerance (±) | Acceptance Tolerance (±) | ||
(lb) | (lb) | (oz) | (lb) | (oz) | (lb) |
0 to 4, inclusive* | 0 to 1, inclusive over 1 | 1/32 1/8 | 0.002 0.008 | 1/32 1/16 | 0.002 0.004 |
over 4* | 0 to 7, inclusive 7+ to 24, inclusive 24+ to 30, inclusive | 3/16 1/2 | 0.012 0.024 0.030 | 3/16 3/16 1/4 | 0.012 0.012 0.015 |
over 30 | 0.1 % of | Test Load | 0.05 % of | Test Load | |
*Also see Table T.1.1. Tolerances for Unmarked Scales for scales designed and/or used to weigh loads less than 2 lb. | |||||
Railway Track Scales: 2 d, 0.2 % of the scale capacity, or 40 lb, whichever is least.
(Amended 1987)
The minimum change in equilibrium with test loads equal to the values specified in T.2. Sensitivity Requirements (SR) shall be as follows:
T.N. Tolerances Applicable to Devices Marked I, II, III, III L, and IIII.
(Amended 2008)
(Amended 1986)
(Amended 1986)
Table 6. Maintenance Tolerances (All values in this table are in scale divisions) | ||||
Tolerance in Scale Divisions | ||||
1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | |
Class | Test Load | |||
I | 0 - 50 000 | 50 001 - 200 000 | 200 001 + | |
II | 0 - 5 000 | 5 001 - 20 000 | 20 001 + | |
III | 0 - 500 | 501 - 2 000 | 2 001 - 4 000 | 4 001 + |
IIII | 0 - 50 | 51 - 200 | 201 - 400 | 401 + |
III L | 0 - 500 | 501 - 1 000 | (Add 1 d for each additional 500 d | or fraction thereof) |
(Amended 2015)
(Amended 1990 and 1992)
(Amended 1990)
(Amended 1990)
(Amended 1990 and 1992)
(Amended 1992)
(Added 1986) (Amended 1999 and 2001)
(Added 1986)
Table T.N.3.10. Maintenance and Acceptance Tolerances in Excess and in Deficiency for Count | |
Indication of Count | Tolerance (piece count) |
0 to 100 | 0 |
101 to 200 | 1 |
201 or more | 0.5 % |
(Added 2003)
(Added 2003)
(Added 2003)
(Amended 1986)
(Amended 1986)
(Amended 1986)
(Added 1986)
(Amended 1989 and 2005)
(Added 2005) (Amended 2006 and 2010)
automatic weighing instrument of Class III L shall meet the following requirements:
(Added 2005) (Amended 2010)
For a multi-interval instrument, the deviation shall not exceed 0.83 e1(where e1is the interval of the first weighing segment of the scale).
On a multiple range instrument, the deviation on returning to zero from Maxi(load in the applicable weighing range) shall not exceed 0.83 ei(interval of the weighing range). Furthermore, after returning to zero from any load greater than Max1(capacity of the first weighing range) and immediately after switching to the lowest weighing range, the indication near zero shall not vary by more than e1(interval of the first weighing range) during the following five minutes.
(Added 2010)
pLC = 0.7 for load cells marked with S (single load cell applications),
pLC = 1.0 for load cells marked with M (multiple load cell applications), and pLC = 0.5 for Class III L load cells marked with S or M.
(Added 2005, Amended 2006)
Table T.N.4.6. Maximum Permissible Error (mpe)* for Load Cells During Type Evaluation | |||
mpe in Load Cell Verifications Divisions (v) = pLC x Basic Tolerance in v | |||
Class | pLC x 0.5 v | pLC x 1.0 v | pLC x 1.5 v |
I | 0 - 50 000 v | 200 000 50 001 v - v | 200 001 v + |
II | 0 - 5 000 v | 5 001 v - 20 000 v | 20 001 v + |
III | 0 - 500 v | 501 v - 2 000 v | 2 001 v + |
IIII | 0 - 50 v | 51 v - 200 v | 201 v + |
III L | 0 - 500 v | 501 v - 1 000 v | (Add 0.5 v to the basic tolerance for each additional 500 v or fraction thereof up to a maximum load of 10 000 v) |
v represents the load cell verification interval | |||
pLC represents the apportionment factors applied to the basic tolerance | |||
pLC = 0.7 for load cells marked with S (single load cell applications) | |||
pLC = 1.0 for load cells marked with M (multiple load cell applications) | |||
pLC = 0.5 for Class III L load cells marked with S or M | |||
* mpe = pLC × Basic Tolerance in load cell verifications divisions (v) | |||
(Table Added 2005) (Amended 2006)
Scale of Class I or II: 1 mm (0.04 in),
Scale of Class III or IIII with a maximum capacity of 30 kg (70 lb) or less: 2 mm (0.08 in),
Scale of Class III, III L, or IIII with a maximum capacity of more than 30 kg (70 lb): 5 mm (0.20 in);
(Amended 1987)
Table T.N.8.1.2. Temperature Range by Class | |
Class | Temperature Range |
I | 5 ºC (9 °F) |
II | 15 ºC (27 °F) |
III, III L, and IIII | 30 ºC (54 °F) |
(Amended 2003)
The tolerance in T.N.9. Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) and Other Electromagnetic Interference Susceptibility is to be applied independently of other tolerances. For example, if indications are at allowable basic tolerance error limits when the disturbance occurs, then it is acceptable for the indication to exceed the applicable basic tolerances during the disturbance.
(Amended 1997)
31 Purchasers and users of scales such as railway track, hopper, and vehicle scales should be aware of possible additional requirements for the design and installation of such devices.
(Footnote Added 1995)
Table 7a. Typical Class or Type of Device for Weighing Applications | |
Class | Weighing Application or Scale Type |
I | Precision laboratory weighing |
II | Laboratory weighing, precious metals and gem weighing, grain test scales |
III | All commercial weighing not otherwise specified, grain test scales, retail precious metals and semiprecious gem weighing, grain-hopper scales, animal scales, postal scales, vehicle on-board weighing systems with a capacity less than or equal to 30 000 lb, and scales used to determine laundry charges |
III L | Vehicle scales, vehicle on-board weighing systems with a capacity greater than 30 000 lb, axle-load scales, livestock scales, railway track scales, crane scales, and hopper (other than grain hopper) scales |
IIII | Wheel-load weighers and portable axle-load weighers used for highway weight enforcement |
Note: A scale with a higher accuracy class than that specified as "typical" may be used. | |
(Amended 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1992, 1995, and 2012)
Table 7b. Applicable to Devices not Marked with a Class Designation | |
Scale Type or Design | Maximum Value of d |
Retail Food Scales, 50 lb capacity and less | 1 oz |
Animal Scales | 1 lb |
Grain Hopper Scales Capacity up to and including 50 000 lb Capacity over 50 000 lb | 10 lb (not greater than 0.05 % of capacity) 20 lb |
Crane Scales | not greater than 0.2 % of capacity |
Vehicle and Axle-Load Scales Used in Combination Capacity up to and including 200 000 lb Capacity over 200 000 lb | 20 lb 50 lb |
Railway Track Scales With weighbeam Automatic indicating | 20 lb 100 lb |
Scales with capacities greater than 500 lb except otherwise specified | 0.1 % capacity (but not greater than 50 lb) |
Wheel-Load Weighers | 0.25 % capacity (but not greater than 50 lb) |
Note: For scales not specified in this table, G-UR.1.1. and UR.1. apply. | |
(Added 1985) (Amended 1989)
(Amended 2012)
(Added 1985) (Amended 1999)
Division shall not apply to:
(Added 1992)
(Added 1995)
(Amended 2014)
(Amended 1985)
straight approach as follows:
In addition to (a), (b), and (c), scales installed in any one location for a period of six months or more shall have not less than 3 m (10 ft) of any approach adjacent to the platform constructed of concrete or similar durable material to ensure that this portion remains smooth and level and in the same plane as the platform; however, grating of sufficient strength to withstand all loads equal to the concentrated load capacity of the scale may be installed in this portion. [Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1976]
(Amended 1977, 1983, 1993, 2006, and 2010)
of installation of a dynamic monorail weighing systems for testing in accordance with N.1.3.5.1. Dynamic
Monorail Weighing Systems (a rail around or other means for returning the test carcasses to the scale being
tested).
[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1998]
(Added 1997) (Amended 1999)
Table 8. Recommended Minimum Load | ||
Class | Value of Scale Division (d or e*) | Recommended Minimum Load (d or e*) |
I | equal to or greater than 0.001 g | 100 |
II | 0.001 g to 0.05 g, inclusive equal to or greater than 0.1 g | 20 50 |
III | All** | 20 |
III L | All | 50 |
IIII | All | 10 |
*For Class I and II devices equipped with auxiliary reading means (i.e., a rider, a vernier, or a least significant decimal differentiated by size, shape or color), the value of the verification scale division "e" is the value of the scale division immediately preceding the auxiliary means. For Class III and IIII devices the value of "e" is specified by the manufacturer as marked on the device; "e" must be less than or equal to "d." | ||
**A minimum load of 10 d is recommended for a weight classifier marked in accordance with a statement identifying its use for special applications. | ||
(Amended 1990)
(Added 1985)
(Added 1996)
Table UR.3.2.1. Span Maximum Load | ||||||||
Distance in Feet Between the Extremes of any Two or More Consecutive Axles | Ratio of CLC to Maximum Load ("r" factor) Carried on Any Group of Two or More Consecutive Axles. | |||||||
2 axles | 3 axles | 4 axles | 5 axles | 6 axles | 7 axles | 8 axles | 9 axles | |
41 | 1.000 | INSTRUCTIONS: | ||||||
51 | 1.000 | 1. Determine the scale's CLC. | ||||||
61 | 1.000 | 2. Count the number of axles on the vehicle in a given span and determine the distance in feet between the first and last axle in the span. | ||||||
71 | 1.000 | |||||||
8 and less1 | 1.000 | 1.000 | 3. Multiply the CLC by the corresponding multiplier in the table.* | |||||
More than 81 | 1.118 | 1.235 | ||||||
9 | 1.147 | 1.257 | 4. The resulting number is the scale's maximum concentrated load for a single span based on the vehicle configuration. | |||||
10 | 1.176 | 1.279 | ||||||
11 | 1.206 | 1.301 | * note and formula on next page. | |||||
12 | 1.235 | 1.324 | 1.471 | 1.632 | ||||
13 | 1.265 | 1.346 | 1.490 | 1.651 | |||
14 | 1.294 | 1.368 | 1.510 | 1.669 | |||
15 | 1.324 | 1.390 | 1.529 | 1.688 | 1.853 | ||
16 | 1.353 | 1.412 | 1.549 | 1.706 | 1.871 | ||
17 | 1.382 | 1.434 | 1.569 | 1.724 | 1.888 | ||
18 | 1.412 | 1.456 | 1.588 | 1.743 | 1.906 | ||
19 | 1.441 | 1.478 | 1.608 | 1.761 | 1.924 | ||
20 | 1.471 | 1.500 | 1.627 | 1.779 | 1.941 | ||
21 | 1.500 | 1.522 | 1.647 | 1.798 | 1.959 | ||
22 | 1.529 | 1.544 | 1.667 | 1.816 | 1.976 | ||
23 | 1.559 | 1.566 | 1.686 | 1.835 | 1.994 | ||
24 | 1.588 | 1.588 | 1.706 | 1.853 | 2.012 | 2.176 | |
25 | 1.618 | 1.610 | 1.725 | 1.871 | 2.029 | 2.194 | |
26 | 1.632 | 1.745 | 1.890 | 2.047 | 2.211 | ||
27 | 1.654 | 1.765 | 1.908 | 2.065 | 2.228 | ||
28 | 1.676 | 1.784 | 1.926 | 2.082 | 2.245 | 2.412 | |
29 | 1.699 | 1.804 | 1.945 | 2.100 | 2.262 | 2.429 | |
30 | 1.721 | 1.824 | 1.963 | 2.118 | 2.279 | 2.445 | |
31 | 1.743 | 1.843 | 1.982 | 2.135 | 2.297 | 2.462 | |
32 | 1.765 | 1.863 | 2.000 | 2.153 | 2.314 | 2.479 | 2.647 |
33 | 1.882 | 2.018 | 2.171 | 2.331 | 2.496 | 2.664 | |
34 | 1.902 | 2.037 | 2.188 | 2.348 | 2.513 | 2.680 | |
35 | 1.922 | 2.055 | 2.206 | 2.365 | 2.529 | 2.697 | |
36 | 2.0002 | 2.074 | 2.224 | 2.382 | 2.546 | 2.713 | |
37 | 2.0002 | 2.092 | 2.241 | 2.400 | 2.563 | 2.730 | |
38 | 2.0002 | 2.110 | 2.259 | 2.417 | 2.580 | 2.746 | |
39 | 2.000 | 2.129 | 2.276 | 2.434 | 2.597 | 2.763 | |
40 | 2.020 | 2.147 | 2.294 | 2.451 | 2.613 | 2.779 | |
41 | 2.039 | 2.165 | 2.312 | 2.468 | 2.630 | 2.796 | |
42 | 2.059 | 2.184 | 2.329 | 2.485 | 2.647 | 2.813 | |
43 | 2.078 | 2.202 | 2.347 | 2.502 | 2.664 | 2.829 | |
44 | 2.098 | 2.221 | 2.365 | 2.520 | 2.681 | 2.846 | |
45 | 2.118 | 2.239 | 2.382 | 2.537 | 2.697 | 2.862 | |
46 | 2.137 | 2.257 | 2.400 | 2.554 | 2.714 | 2.879 | |
47 | 2.157 | 2.276 | 2.418 | 2.571 | 2.731 | 2.895 | |
48 | 2.176 | 2.294 | 2.435 | 2.588 | 2.748 | 2.912 | |
49 | 2.196 | 2.313 | 2.453 | 2.605 | 2.765 | 2.928 | |
50 | 2.216 | 2.331 | 2.471 | 2.623 | 2.782 | 2.945 | |
51 | 2.235 | 2.349 | 2.488 | 2.640 | 2.798 | 2.961 | |
52 | 2.255 | 2.368 | 2.506 | 2.657 | 2.815 | 2.978 | |
53 | 2.275 | 2.386 | 2.524 | 2.674 | 2.832 | 2.994 | |
54 | 2.294 | 2.404 | 2.541 | 2.691 | 2.849 | 3.011 | |
55 | 2.314 | 2.423 | 2.559 | 2.708 | 2.866 | 3.028 | |
56 | 2.333 | 2.441 | 2.576 | 2.725 | 2.882 | 3.044 | |
57 | 2.3533 | 2.460 | 2.594 | 2.742 | 2.899 | 3.061 |
58 | 2.478 | 2.612 | 2.760 | 2.916 | 3.077 | |||
59 | 2.496 | 2.629 | 2.777 | 2.933 | 3.094 | |||
60 | 2.515 | 2.647 | 2.794 | 2.950 | 3.110 | |||
*Note: This table was developed based upon the following formula. Values may be rounded in some cases for ease of use. | ||||||||
1 Tandem Axle Weight. | ||||||||
2 Exception - These values in the third column correspond to the maximum loads in which the inner bridge dimensions of 36, 37, and 38 ft are considered to be equivalent to 39 ft. This allows a weight of 68 000 lb on axles 2 through 5. | ||||||||
3 Corresponds to the Interstate Gross Weight Limit. | ||||||||
Note: This paragraph does not apply to highway-law-enforcement scales and scales used for the collection of statistical data.
(Added 1992)
(Amended 2003)
(Amended 1988)
As used in this paragraph, scrap materials for recycling shall be limited to ferrous metals, paper (including cardboard), textiles, plastic, and glass.
(Amended 1988, 1992, and 2006)
(Amended 1989)
(Amended 2003)
(Added 1999)
(Added 2003)
Note: The minimum count as defined in this paragraph refers to the use of the device in the filling of prescriptions and is different from the minimum sample piece count as defined in S.1.2.3. and as required to be marked on the scale by S.6.6.
(Note Added 2004)
(Added 2003)
(Amended 1996)
(Added 1990) (Amended 1992)
(Amended 2015)
(Amended 1986)
(Added 1985)(Amended 2009)
All of the information in (a) and (b) must be recorded for each delivery.* [Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1986] [*Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1994]
(Amended 1993)
(Added 2002)
(Amended 1989 and 2004)
(Amended 1989)
(Amended 1989)
(Added 2012)
(Amended 1998)
(Amended 1999 and 2002)
Except for systems that record the zero load reference at the beginning and end of a delivery, the range of the zero-setting mechanism shall not be greater than ± 2 % of the rated capacity of the scale without breaking the security means. For systems that record the zero-load reference at the beginning and end of a delivery, the rangeofzero-settingmechanismshallnotbegreaterthan± 5%withoutbreakingthesecuritymeans.** [*Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1990] [**Nonretroactive as of January 1, 2004]
(Amended 1989 and 2002)
(Added 2009)
(Amended 2015)
(Added 1998)
Table S.5. Categories of Device and Methods of Sealing | |
Categories of Devices | Methods of Sealing |
Category 1: No remote configuration capability. | Seal by physical seal or two event counters: one for calibration parameters and one for configuration parameters. |
Category 3: Remote configuration capability. | An event logger is required in the device; it must include an event counter (000 to 999), the parameter ID, the date and time of the change, and the new value of the parameter. A printed copy of the information must be available through the device or through another on-site device. The event logger shall have a capacity to retain records equal to 10 times the number of sealable parameters in the device, but not more than 1000 records are required. (Note: Does not require 1000 changes to be stored for each parameter.) |
[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1999] (Table Added 1998)
(Amended 1986, 2004, and 2009)
Results of the individual test runs in each pair of tests shall not differ by more than the absolute value of the tolerance as specified in T.2. Tolerance Values, Repeatability Tests. All tests shall be within the tolerance as specified in T.1. Tolerance Values.
Test runs may also be conducted at any other rate of flow that may be used at the installation. A minimum of four test runs may be conducted at only one flow rate if evidence is provided that the system is used at a constant speed/constant loading setting and that rate does not vary in either direction by an amount more than 10 % of the normal flow rate that can be developed at the installation for at least 80 % of the time.
Table N.2.1. Initial Verification | ||
Device Configuration | Minimum of Two Test Runs at Each of the Following Settings | Total Tests (Minimum) |
Constant Belt Speed and Variable Loading | - Belt Loading: high (normal) - Belt Loading: medium (intermediate) - Belt Loading: low (35 %) | 6 |
Variable Belt Speed and Constant Loading | - Belt Speed: maximum - Belt Speed: medium - Belt Speed: minimum | 6 |
Variable Belt Speed and Variable Loading | - Belt Speed: maximum; Belt Loading: high (normal) - Belt Speed: maximum; Belt Loading: medium (intermediate) - Belt Speed: maximum; Belt Loading: low (35 %) - Belt Speed: minimum; Belt Loading: high (normal) - Belt Speed: minimum; Belt Loading: medium (intermediate) - Belt Speed: minimum; Belt Loading: low (35 %) | 12 |
1. Use the device configurations in the left-hand column to identify the scale being tested. | ||
2. Perform two test runs (minimum) at each of the settings shown in the center column. | ||
3. The following terminology applies to "Belt Loading": | ||
* Low: 35 % of the maximum rated capacity of the system. | ||
* Medium: an intermediate rate between the high and low settings. | ||
* High: maximum (normal use) operational rate. | ||
(Table Added 2015) (Added 2004) (Amended 2009 and 2015)
Example: If a belt-conveyor scale system has a maximum rated capacity of 200 tons per hour (tph), and the normal use flow rate is 150 tph (75 % of the maximum rated capacity), no testing at additional flow rates is required provided the flow rates remain above 140 tph for more than 80 % of the time. If the same device were operating with a normal use flow rate of 130 tph, it is operating at 65 % of the maximum rated capacity. In this case, testing at flow rates in addition to the normal use flow rate would be required if the normal use flow rate varies by more than 20 tph (10 % of the maximum rated capacity). (Added 2004)
For applications where a normal weighment is less than 10 minutes (e.g., belt-conveyor scale systems used exclusively to issue net weights for material conveyed by individual vehicles and railway track cars) the minimum test load shall be the normal weighment that also complies with N.2.3.2.(a) and (b).
The official with statutory authority may determine that a smaller minimum totalized load down to 2 % of the load totalized in one hour at the maximum flow rate may be used for subsequent tests, provided that:
(Added 2004) (Amended 2008 and 2015)
(including the conveyor) is capable of holding a stable, in-service zero.
(Amended 1989 and 2002)
(Added 2002) (Amended 2015)
(Added 2002) (Amended 2004 and 2009)
Note: The end value of the zero-load test must meet the ± 0.06 % requirement referenced in the "Test for Zero Stability."
(Added 2002) (Amended 2004 and 2011)
On subsequent verifications, at least two individual tests shall be conducted. The results of all these tests shall be within the tolerance limits.
Either pass a quantity of pre-weighed material over the belt-conveyor scale in a manner as similar as feasible to actual loading conditions, or weigh all material that has passed over the belt-conveyor scale. Means for weighing the material test load will depend on the capacity of the belt-conveyor scale and availability of a suitable scale for the test. To assure that the test load is accurately weighed and determined, the following precautions shall be observed:
A reference scale which is not "as found" within maintenance tolerance should have its accuracy re-verified after the belt-conveyor test with a suitable known weight load if the "as found" error of the belt-conveyor scale material test exceeds maintenance tolerance values.*
*Note: Even if the reference scale is within maintenance tolerance it may require adjusting to be able to meet paragraph N.3.2.1. Accuracy of Material.
(Amended 1986, 1989, 1998, 2000, 2002, and 2009)
(Added 1989) (Amended 1991, 1993, 1998 and 2000)
(Amended 1991)
(Added 1990)
(Amended 1989 and 1990)
(Added 2004) (Amended 2009)
33 The variables and uncertainties included in the relative tolerance represent only part of the variables that affect the accuracy of the material weighed on belt-conveyor scales. If this tolerance was based on an error analysis beginning with mass standards through all of the test processes and following the principle expressed in Section 3.2. of the Fundamental Considerations in Appendix A, the tolerance would be 0.5 %.
(Added 1993)
(Added 1989)
(Amended 2002)
(Amended 2004)
(Amended 2014)
(Amended 1998)
(Amended 1998)
(Amended 1998, 2000, 2001, and 2015)
(Amended 1998 and 2008)
(Amended 2002, 2012, 2013, 2014, and 2015)
[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1981]
34 Installing the belt scale five-idler spaces from the tail pulley or the infeed skirting will be in the area of least belt tension on the conveyor and should produce the best accuracy. The performance of a belt-conveyor scale may be adversely affected by a concave curve in the conveyor that is located between the loading point and the scale. Therefore, whenever possible, a belt-conveyor scale should not be installed with a concave curve in the conveyor between the loading point and the scale.
(Amended 1995 and 1998)
(Amended 2012)
(Amended 2004)
(Added 2005)
(Added 2002)
(Amended 2012)
Maintenance Requirements UR.3.1. - Scale and Conveyor Maintenance. - Weighing systems and idlers shall be maintained and serviced in accordance with manufacturer's instructions and the following:
(Added 2012)
(Added 2004)
The actions to be taken as a result of the zero-load test are shown in the following table.
Change in Zero ([DELTA] 0) | Actions to be Taken |
If the change in zero is less than ± 0.25 % ([DELTA] 0 [LESS THAN] 0.25 %) | Perform zero adjustment and proceed to simulated load test. |
If the change in zero is ± 0.25 % to ± 0.5 % (0.25 % [LESS THAN OR EQUAL TO] [DELTA] 0 [LESS THAN OR EQUAL TO] 0.5 %) | Inspect the conveyor and weighing area for compliance with UR.1. Installation Requirements and repeat the zero-load test. |
If the change in zero is greater than ± 0.5 % ([DELTA] 0 [GREATER THAN] 0.5 %) | Inspect the conveyor and weighing area for compliance with UR.1. Installation Requirements, repeat the zero-load test, and reduce the interval between zero-load tests. |
The action to be taken as a result of the simulated load or material tests is shown in the following table.
Change in Factor (Reference) Established in N.3.3.(b) [[DELTA] N.3.3.(b)] | Action to be Taken |
If the error is less than 0.25 % ([DELTA] N.3.3.(b) [LESS THAN] 0.25 %) | No Action |
If the error is at least 0.25 % but not more than 0.6 % (0.25 % [LESS THAN OR EQUAL TO] [DELTA] N.3.3.(b) [LESS THAN OR EQUAL TO] 0.6 %) | Inspect the conveyor and weighing area for compliance with UR.1. Installation Requirements and, after compliance is verified, repeat the test. If the result of that test remains greater than ± 0.25 %, a span correction shall be made and the official with statutory authority notified. (Amended 1991) |
If the error is greater than 0.6 % but does not exceed 0.75 % (0.6 % [LESS THAN] [DELTA] N.3.3.(b) [LESS THAN OR EQUAL TO] 0.75 %) | Inspect the conveyor and weighing area for compliance with UR.1. Installation Requirements and, after compliance is verified, repeat the test. If the result of that test remains greater than ± 0.25 %, a span correction shall be made, the official with statutory authority shall be notified, and an official test shall be conducted. (Amended 1991) |
If the error is greater than 0.75 % ([DELTA] N.3.3.(b) [GREATER THAN] 0.75 %) | An official test is required. (Amended 1987) |
(Amended 2002 and 2009)
(Amended 1986, 2000, and 2015)
(Added 2002)
1986, 2000, 2002, 2004, 2009, 2012, and (Amended 20122015)
(Amended 1991)
(Amended 1987)
Examples: Scale divisions may be 0.01, 0.02, or 0.05; 0.1, 0.2, or 0.5; 1, 2, or 5; 10, 20, or 50; or 1/2, 1/4,
1/8, 1/16,etc. [Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1986] (Amended 1987)
1 (Title amended 1986)
(Amended 2010)
(Added 1993)
[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1998]
(Amended 1997)
[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1986]
(Added 1985)
(*Also see Section 2.20. Scales Code for the parameters for these accuracy classes for scales. The specific requirements for automatic bulk weighing systems apply to these devices when there is a conflict between the Scales Code and the Automatic Bulk Weighing Systems Code.) [Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1986]
(Added 1985) (Amended 1992)
(Amended 1987)
(Added 1986)
with the weighing device in equilibrium at zero-load and at maximum test load, and under controlled conditions in which environmental factors are reduced to the extent that they will not affect the results obtained. [Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1986]
(Added 1987)
(Added 1986)
(Added 1986) T.2. Minimum Tolerance Values. - The minimum tolerance value shall not be less than half the value of the scale division.
(Added 1986)
(Amended 1986)
(Added 1986)
(Added 1986)
(Added 1985)
conditions:
change in barometric pressure of 1 kPa over the total barometric range of 95 kPa to 105 kPa (28 in to 31 in of
mercury).
[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1986]
(Added 1985)
(Amended 1986 and 1992)
(Added 1986)
(Amended 1986)
(Added 1986)
(Amended 1991)
Table 1. Maintenance Tolerance for Avoirdupois Weights | ||||||
Maintenance Tolerance | ||||||
Nominal Value | Equal-Arm Weights | Counterpoise Weights | ||||
For scales with multiples of less than 1000 | For scales with multiples of 1000 or over | |||||
oz | Grains | mg | grains | mg | grains | mg |
V64 | 0.1 | 6 | ||||
V32 | 0.3 | 19 | ||||
V16 | 0.4 | 26 | ||||
V8 | 0.5 | 32 | ||||
% | 1.0 | 65 | ||||
'/2 | 1.5 | 97 | 1.0 | 65 | ||
1 | 1.7 | 110 | 1.0 | 65 | ||
2 | 2.0 | 130 | 1.0 | 65 | ||
3 | 2.0 | 130 | 1.5 | 97 | ||
4 | 3.0 | 190 | 1.5 | 97 | 1.0 | 65 |
5 | 3.5 | 230 | 1.5 | 97 | 1.0 | 65 |
6 | 3.5 | 230 | 1.5 | 97 | ||
8 | 4.0 | 260 | 2.0 | 130 | 1.5 | 97 |
10 | 4.0 | 260 | 2.5 | 160 | 2.0 | 130 |
12 | 5.0 | 320 | 2.5 | 160 | 2.0 | 130 |
Lb | Grains | mg | grains | mg | grains | mg |
1 | 5.0 | 320 | 3.0 | 190 | 2.5 | 160 |
2 | 7.0 | 450 | 6.0 | 390 | 4.0 | 260 |
3 | 9.0 | 580 | 9.0 | 580 | 5.0 | 320 |
4 | 11.0 | 710 | 11.0 | 710 | 6.0 | 390 |
5 | 15.0 | 970 | 12.0 | 780 | 6.5 | 420 |
6 | 17.0 | 1190 | ||||
7 | 19.0 | 1200 | ||||
8 | 21.0 | 1400 | 15.0 | 970 | 9.0 | 580 |
9 | 23.0 | 1500 | ||||
10 | 25.0 | 1600 | 18.0 | 1160 | 10.0 | 650 |
15 | 28.0 | 1800 | ||||
20 | 30.0 | 1900 | ||||
25 | 35.0 | 2300 | ||||
30 | 40.0 | 2600 | ||||
40 | 45.0 | 2900 | ||||
50 | 50.0 | 3200 | ||||
Table 2. Maintenance Tolerances for Metric Weights | |||
Nominal Value (mg) | Maintenance Tolerance (mg) | Nominal Value (g) | Maintenance Tolerance (mg) |
5 or less | 0.1 | 1 | 4 |
10 | 0.3 | 2 | 6 |
20 | 0.4 | 3 | 8 |
30 | 0.6 | 5 | 10 |
50 | 0.8 | 10 | 15 |
100 | 1.0 | 20 | 20 |
200 | 1.5 | 30 | 30 |
300 | 2.0 | 50 | 40 |
500 | 3.0 | 100 | 70 |
200 | 100 | ||
300 | 150 | ||
500 | 175 | ||
Nominal Value (kg) | Maintenance Tolerance (mg) | Nominal Value (carats) | Maintenance Tolerance (mg) |
1 | 250 | 0.25* | 0.6 |
2 | 400 | 0.5** | 1.0 |
3 | 500 | 1.0 | 1.5 |
5 | 800 | 2.0 | 2.0 |
10 | 1000 | 3.0 | 3.0 |
20 | 1500 | 5.0 | 4.0 |
10.0 | 6.0 | ||
20.0 | 10.0 | ||
30.0 | 12.0 | ||
50.0 | 15.0 | ||
100.0 | 25.0 | ||
*25 points or less | |||
**50 points | |||
Table 3. Maintenance Tolerances for Apothecaries' and Troy Weights | |||||
Nominal Value | Maintenanc | e Tolerance | Nominal Value | Maintenanc | e Tolerance |
grains | grains | mg | oz | grains | mg |
1 | 0.01 | 0.6 | 1 | 0.4 | 25.0 |
2 | 0.02 | 1.3 | 2 | 0.6 | 40.0 |
3 | 0.03 | 2.0 | 3 | 1.0 | 65.0 |
5 | 0.03 | 2.0 | 4 | 1.5 | 100.0 |
10 | 0.04 | 2.5 | 5 | 1.6 | 105.0 |
20 | 0.06 | 4.0 | |||
scruples | grains | mg | oz | grains | mg |
1 | 0.06 | 4.0 | 6 | 1.8 | 115.0 |
2 | 0.10 | 6.5 | 7 | 1.9 | 125.0 |
8 | 2.0 | 130.0 | |||
9 | 2.1 | 135.0 | |||
10 | 2.2 | 145.0 | |||
dr | grains | mg | oz | grains | mg |
0.5 | 0.07 | 4.5 | 11 | 2.4 | 155.0 |
1.0 | 0.10 | 6.5 | 12 | 2.5 | 160.0 |
2.0 | 0.20 | 13.0 | 20 | 2.9 | 190.0 |
3.0 | 0.30 | 20.0 | 30 | 3.7 | 240.0 |
4.0 | 0.40 | 25.0 | 50 | 5.4 | 350.0 |
5.0 | 0.50 | 30.0 | |||
6.0 | 0.60 | 40.0 | |||
dwt | grains | mg | oz | grains | mg |
1 | 0.06 | 4.0 | 100 | 7.7 | 500.0 |
2 | 0.10 | 6.5 | 200 | 12.3 | 800.0 |
3 | 0.15 | 10.0 | 300 | 15.4 | 1 000.0 |
4 | 0.20 | 13.0 | 500 | 23.1 | 1 500.0 |
5 | 0.30 | 20.0 | 1 000 | 38.6 | 2 500.0 |
10 | 0.40 | 25.0 | |||
This includes:
(Amended 1997 and 2004)
36 An automatic weighing system does not require the intervention of an operator during the weighing process. The necessity to give instructions to start a process or to release a load or the function of the instrument (static, dynamic, set-up, etc.) is not relevant in deciding the category of automatic or non-automatic instruments.
(Added 2004)
37 Prepackaging scales (and other commercial devices) used for putting up packages in advance of sale are acceptable for use in commerce if all appropriate provisions of Handbook 44 are met. Users of such devices must be alert to the legal requirements relating to the declaration of quantity on a package. Such requirements are to the effect that, on the average, the contents of the individual packages of a particular commodity comprising a lot, shipment, or delivery must contain at least the quantity declared on the label. The fact that a scale or other commercial device may overregister, but within established tolerances, and is approved for commercial service is not a legal justification for packages to contain, on the average, less than the labeled quantity.
(Added 2004)
(Added 2004)
(Amended 2004)
(Amended 2004)
38 See NIST Handbook 130, "Uniform Laws and Regulations in the Area of Legal Metrology and Engine Fuel Quality," Interpretations and Guidelines, paragraph 2.6.11. Good Quantity Control Practices.
The requirement that the value of the scale division be expressed only as 1, 2, or 5, or a decimal multiple or submultiple of only 1, 2, or 5 does not apply to net weight indications and recorded representations that are calculated from gross and tare weight indications where the scale division of the gross weight is different from the scale division of the tare weight(s) on multi-interval or multiple range scales. For example, a multiple range or multi-interval scale may indicate and record tare weights in a lower weighing range (WR) or weighing segment (WS), gross weights in the higher weighing range or weighing segment, and net weights as follows:
55 kg Gross Weight (WR2 d = 5 kg) | 10.05 lb Gross Weight (WS2 d = 0.05 lb) |
- 4 kg Tare Weight (WR1 d = 2 kg) | - 0.06 lb Tare Weight (WS1 d = 0.02 lb) |
= 51 kg Net Weight (Mathematically Correct) | = 9.99 lb Net Weight (Mathematically Correct) |
(Amended 2008)
(Amended 2004)
Table S.1.3. Categories of Device and Methods of Sealing | |
Categories of Device | Methods of Sealing |
Category 1: No Remote configuration capability. | Seal by physical seal or two event counters: one for calibration parameters and one for configuration parameters. |
Category 2: Remote configuration capability, but access is controlled by physical hardware. The device shall clearly indicate that it is in the remote configuration mode and record such message if capable of printing in this mode. | The hardware enabling access for remote communication must be at the device and sealed using a physical seal or two event counters: one for calibration parameters and one for configuration parameters. |
Category 3: Remote configuration capability access may be unlimited or controlled through a software switch (e.g., password). | An event logger is required in the device; it must include an event counter (000 to 999), the parameter ID, the date and time of the change, and the new value of the parameter. A printed copy of the information must be available through the device or through another on-site device. The event logger shall have a capacity to retain records equal to 10 times the number of sealable parameters in the device, but not more than 1000 records are required. (Note: Does not require 1000 changes to be stored for each parameter.) |
Except for an initial zero-setting mechanism, an automatic zero adjustment outside these limits is prohibited.
(Amended 2004 and 2010)
(Amended 2008)
Note: On a computing automatic weighing system, this requires the input of a unit price, the display of the unit price, and a computed positive total price at a readable equilibrium. Other devices require that a transaction or lot run be completed.
(Note Amended 2004)
, where N is the number of load cells in the scale.
Note: When the value of the scale division d differs from the verification scale division e for the scale, the value of e must be used in the formula above.
For example, the additional digits may be differentiated by color, partially covered by placing crosshatch overlays on the display, or made visible only after the operator presses a button or turns a key to set the device in a mode which enables the additional digits.
(Amended 1997)
Table S.6. Parameters for Accuracy Classes | |||
Number of Divisions (n) | |||
Class | Value of the Verification Division (e) | Minimum | Maximum |
SI Units | |||
III | 0.1 to 2 g, inclusive | 100 | 10 000 |
equal to or greater than 5 g | 500 | 10 000 | |
U.S. Customary Units | |||
III | 0.0002 lb to 0.005 lb, inclusive | 100 | 10 000 |
0.005 oz to 0.125 oz, inclusive | 100 | 10 000 | |
equal to or greater than 0.01 lb | 500 | 10 000 | |
equal to or greater than 0.25 oz | 500 | 10 000 | |
IIIS | greater than 0.01 lb | 100 | 1 000 |
greater than 0.25 oz | 100 | 1 000 | |
For Class III devices, the value of e is specified by the manufacturer as marked on the device; d shall not be smaller than 0.1 e. e shall be differentiated from d by size, shape, or color. | |||
(Amended 2004)
Table S.7.a. Marking Requirements | |||||
To Be Marked With | Weighing Equipment | ||||
Weighing, load-receiving, and indicating element in same housing | Indicating element not permanently attached to weighing and load-receiving element | Weighing and load-receiving element not permanently attached to indicating element | Load cell with CC (10) | Other equipment or device (9) | |
Manufacturer's ID (1) | x | x | x | x | x |
Model Designation (1) | x | x | x | x | x |
Serial Number and Prefix (2) | x | x | x | x | x (13) |
Certificate of Conformance (CC) Number (16) | x | x | x | x | x (16) |
Accuracy Class (14) | x | x (8) | x | x | |
Nominal Capacity (3)(15) | x | x | x | ||
Value of Division, d (3) | x | x | |||
Value of e (4) | x | x | |||
Temperature Limits (5) | x | x | x | x | |
Special Application (11) | x | x | x | ||
Maximum Number of Scale Divisions, nmax (6) | x (8) | x | x | ||
Minimum Verification Division, (emin) | x | ||||
"S" or "M" (7) | x | ||||
Direction of Loading (12) | x | ||||
Minimum Dead Load | x | ||||
Maximum Capacity (Max) | x | x | |||
Minimum Capacity (Min) | x | ||||
Safe Load Limit | x | ||||
Load Cell Verification Interval (vmin) | x | ||||
Maximum Belt Speed (m/sec or m/min) | x | x | |||
Note: Also see Table S.7.b. for applicable parenthetical notes. | |||||
(Amended 1999) | |||||
Table S.7.b. Notes for Table S.7.a. |
1. Manufacturer's identification and model designation. (Also see G-S.1. Identification) |
2. Serial number and prefix. Also see G-S.1. Identification) |
3. The nominal capacity and value of the automatic weighing system division shall be shown together (e.g., 50 000 × 5 kg, or 30 × 0.01 lb) adjacent to the weight display when the nominal capacity and value of the automatic weighing system division are not immediately apparent. Each division value or weight unit shall be marked on variable-division value or division-unit automatic weighing systems. |
4. Required only if different from d. |
5. Required only on automatic weighing systems if the temperature range on the NTEP CC is narrower than and within - 10 ºC to 40 ºC (14 ºF to 104 ºF). (Amended 2007) |
6. This value may be stated on load cells in units of 1000; (e.g., nmax 10 is 10 000 divisions.) |
7. Denotes compliance for single or multiple load cell applications. |
8. An indicating element not permanently attached to a weighing element shall be clearly and permanently marked with the accuracy Class III, or IIIS and the maximum number of divisions, nmax. |
9. Necessary to the weighing system but having no metrological effect (e.g., auxiliary remote display, keyboard, etc.). |
10. The markings may be either on the load cell or in an accompanying document; except that, if an accompanying document is provided, the serial number shall appear both on the load cell and in the document. The manufacturer's name or trademark, the model designation, and identifying symbol for the serial number shall also be marked both on the load cell and in any accompanying document. |
11. An automatic weighing system designed for a special application rather than general use shall be conspicuously marked with suitable words visible to the operator and customer restricting its use to that application. |
12. Required if the direction of loading the load cell is not obvious. |
13. Serial number and prefix (Also see G-S.1. Identification) modules without "intelligence" on a modular system (e.g., printer, keyboard module, cash drawer, and secondary display in a point-of-sale system) are not required to have serial numbers. |
14. The accuracy class of a device shall be marked on the device with the appropriate designation. |
15. The nominal capacity shall be conspicuously marked on any automatic-indicating or recording automatic weighing system so constructed that the capacity of the indicating or recording element, or elements, is not immediately apparent. |
16. Required only if a CC has been issued for the equipment. |
(Amended 1997)
NIST Handbook 105-1, "Specifications and Tolerances for Field Standard Weights (Class F)" or the tolerances expressed in Fundamental Considerations, paragraph 3.2. (i.e., one-third of the smallest tolerance applied).
(Added 2004)
Table N.1.5. Test Loads |
At or near minimum capacity |
At or near maximum capacity |
At two (2) critical points between minimum and maximum capacity |
Test may be conducted at other loads if the device is intended for use at other specific capacities |
Note: If the device is designed for only automatic weighing, it shall only be tested in the automatic weighing mode. (Amended 2004)
(Amended 2004)
(Amended 2004)
(Amended 2004)
(Amended 2004)
Table N.3.2. Number of Sample Weights per Test for Automatic Checkweighers | ||
Weighing Range m = mass of test load | Number of Sample | Weights per Test |
Field | Type Evaluation | |
20 divisions [LESS THAN] m [LESS THAN] 10 kg 20 divisions [LESS THAN] m [LESS THAN] 22 lb | 30 | 60 |
10 kg [LESS THAN] m [LESS THAN] 25 kg 22 lb [LESS THAN] m [LESS THAN] 55 lb | 16 | 32 |
25 kg [LESS THAN] m [LESS THAN] 100 kg 55 lb [LESS THAN] m [LESS THAN] 220 lb | 10 | 20 |
100 kg (220 lb) [LESS THAN] m | 10 | 10 |
(Amended 2008)
(Amended 2004)
(Added 2007)
Table T.3. Class III - Tolerance in Divisions (e) | ||
Test Load in Divisions | Tolerance in Divisions | |
Class III | Acceptance | Maintenance |
0 - 500 | ± 0.5 | ± 1 |
501 - 2000 | ± 1.0 | ± 2 |
2001 - 4000 | ± 1.5 | ± 3 |
4001 + | ± 2.5 | ± 5 |
Weigh-Labelers.)
Table T.3. Class III - Tolerance in Divisions (e).
(Amended 2004)
(Amended 2004)
(Added 1997)
(Amended 2004)
(Amended 2004)
Table T.3.2.1. Non-automatic Tolerances for Class IIIS Weigh-labelers | ||
Test Load in Divisions | Tolerance in Divisions | |
Class IIIS | Acceptance | Maintenance |
0 - 50 | ± 0.5 | ± 1 |
51 - 200 | ± 1.0 | ± 2 |
201 - 1000 | ± 1.5 | ± 3 |
(Added 1997) (Amended 2004)
Table T.3.2.2. Automatic Tolerances for Class IIIS Weigh-labelers | ||
Test Load in Divisions | Tolerance in Divisions | |
Class IIIS | Acceptance | Maintenance |
0 - 50 | ± 1.5 | ± 2 |
51 - 200 | ± 2.0 | ± 3 |
201 - 1000 | ± 2.5 | ± 4 |
(Added 1997) (Amended 2004)
(Amended 2004)
(Amended 2004)
(Amended 2004)
(Amended 2004)
(Amended 2004)
(Amended 2004)
(Amended 2004)
(Amended 2004)
Note: This requirement applies only to metrologically significant voltage supplies. (Amended 2001) (Amended 2004)
(Amended 2004)
39 The minimum operating voltage is defined as the lowest possible operating voltage before the automatic weighing system no longer indicates nor records weight values. (Added 2004)
(Added 1997)
(Amended 2004)
(Added 1985)
(Amended 1987, 1994, and 2006)
(Added 1979)
(Added 2007)
This requirement does not apply to manually operated devices equipped with stops or stroke-limiting means.
(Amended 1983, 1986, and 2007)
(Amended 2000)
For electronic devices manufactured prior to January 1, 2006, the first 0.03 L (or 0.009 gal) of a delivery and its associated total sales price need not be indicated.
For electronic devices manufactured on or after January 1, 2006, the measurement, indication of delivered quantity, and the indication of total sales price shall be inhibited until the fueling position reaches conditions necessary to ensure that the delivery starts at zero. [Nonretroactive as of January 1, 2006]
(Added 2005)
(Amended 1982 and 2005)
[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1983]
[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1983]
(Amended 1972)
(Added 2012)
Note: When a product is offered at more than one unit price, display of the unit price information may be through the deliberate action of the customer:
(Added 2012)
(Amended 1989, 1997, and 2012)
[Effective and Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1991]
(Amended 1984, 1989, and 1993)
(Amended 1991)
Table 1. Money-Value Divisions and Maximum Allowable Variations for Money-Value Computations on Mechanical Analog Computers | ||||
Unit Price | Money-Value Division | Maximum Allowable Variation | ||
From | To and including | Design Test | Field Test | |
0 | $0.25/liter or $1.00/gallon | 1¢ | ± 1¢ | ± 1¢ |
$0.25/liter or $1.00/gallon | $0.75/liter or $3.00/gallon | 1¢ or 2¢ | ± 1¢ | ± 2¢ |
$0.75/liter or $3.00/gallon | $2.50/liter or $10.00/gallon | 1¢ or 2¢ | ± 1¢ | ± 2¢ |
$0.75/liter or $3.00/gallon | $2.50/liter or $10.00/gallon | 5¢ | ± 21/2¢ | ± 5¢ |
(Added 1980)
Except for a system only capable of applying a post-delivery discount(s), the selection of the unit price shall be made prior to delivery through a deliberate action of the customer to select the unit price for the fuel delivery. [Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1991]
For a system only capable of applying a post-delivery discount(s), the selection of the unit price shall be made through a deliberate action of the customer to select the unit price for the fuel delivery.
(Added 2012)
Note: When a product is offered at more than one unit price, selection of the unit price may be through the deliberate action of the customer:
(Added 2012)
The provisions in (a) and (b) do not apply to dispensers used exclusively for fleet sales, other price contract sales, and truck refueling (e.g., truck stop dispensers used only to refuel trucks).
(Added 1989) (Amended 1991, 1992, 1993, 1996, and 2012)
[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1994]
(Added 1992) (Amended 1996 and 2007)
[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 2008]
(Added 2007)
(Added 1985) (Amended 1997, 2012, and 2014)
(Amended 1987)
(Added 1994)
When applicable, the adjusting mechanism shall be readily accessible for purposes of affixing a security seal. [Audit trails shall use the format set forth in Table S.2.2.]* [*Nonretroactive and Enforceable as of January 1, 1995]
(Amended 1991, 1993, 1995, and 2006)
Table S.2.2. Categories of Device and Methods of Sealing | |
Categories of Device | Methods of Sealing |
Category 1: No remote configuration capability. | Seal by physical seal or two event counters: one for calibration parameters and one for configuration parameters. |
Category 2: Remote configuration capability, but access is controlled by physical hardware. The device shall clearly indicate that it is in the remote configuration mode and record such message if capable of printing in this mode or shall not operate while in this mode. | [The hardware enabling access for remote communication must be on-site. The hardware must be sealed using a physical seal or an event counter for calibration parameters and an event counter for configuration parameters. The event counters may be located either at the individual measuring device or at the system controller; however, an adequate number of counters must be provided to monitor the calibration and configuration parameters of the individual devices at a location. If the counters are located in the system controller rather than at the individual device, means must be provided to generate a hard copy of the information through an on-site device.]* [*Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1996] |
Category 3: Remote configuration capability access may be unlimited or controlled through a software switch (e.g., password). [Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1995] The device shall clearly indicate that it is in the remote configuration mode and record such message if capable of printing in this mode or shall not operate while in this mode. [Nonretroactive as of January 1, 2001] | An event logger is required in the device; it must include an event counter (000 to 999), the parameter ID, the date and time of the change, and the new value of the parameter. A printed copy of the information must be available on demand through the device or through another on-site device. The information may also be available electronically. The event logger shall have a capacity to retain records equal to 10 times the number of sealable parameters in the device, but not more than 1000 records are required. (Note: Does not require 1000 changes to be stored for each parameter.) |
[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1995]
(Table Added 1993) (Amended 1995, 1998, 1999, 2006, and 2015)
(Amended 1981 and 1985)
(Added 1984) (Amended 1986)
(Amended 1972)
An outlet that may be opened for purging or draining the measuring system or for recirculating, if recirculation is required in order to maintain the product in a deliverable state, shall be permitted only when the system is measuring food products, agri-chemicals, biodiesel, or biodiesel blends. Effective automatic means shall be provided to prevent passage of liquid through any such outlet during normal operation of the measuring system and to inhibit meter indications (or advancement of indications) and recorded representations while the outlet is in operation.
(Amended 1991, 1995, 1996, and 2007)
(Amended 1982, 1990, 1991, and 2002)
(Amended 1990)
(Added 1984) (Amended 2003)
Example: With a marked maximum discharge rate of 230 L/min (60 gpm), the marked minimum discharge rate shall be 45 L/min (12 gpm) or less (e.g., 40 L/min [10 gpm] is acceptable). A marked minimum discharge rate greater than 45 L/min (12 gpm) (e.g., 60 L/min [15 gpm]) is not acceptable.
Note: The use of a dispenser key or tool to access internal marking information is permitted for retail liquid-measuring devices. [Nonretroactive as of January 1, 2003]
(Added 2002) (Amended 2004)
(Added 1993) (Amended 1994)
(1 pt), 4 L (4 qt), and 6 L (6 qt).
(Amended 1984)
(Amended 1987 and 1996)
(Amended 1991)
The first test shall be performed with the automatic temperature-compensating system operating in the "as found" condition.
On devices that indicate or record both the compensated and uncompensated volume for each delivery, the tests in (a) and (b) may be performed as a single test.
(Amended 1987)
(Added 2001)
(Added 1984) (Amended 2005)
In no case shall the test be performed at a flow rate less than the minimum discharge rate marked on the device.
(Amended 2014)
(Amended 1984)
(Added 1982) (Amended 1984)
(Added 2009)
(Amended 1974)
Table T.2. Accuracy Classes and Tolerances for Liquid Measuring Devices Covered in NIST Handbook 44, Section 3.30. | ||||
Accuracy Class | Application | Acceptance Tolerance | Maintenance Tolerance | Special Test Tolerance1 |
0.3 | - Petroleum products delivered from large capacity (flow rates greater than 115 L/min or 30 gpm)** devices, including motor-fuel devices - Heated products (other than asphalt) at temperatures greater than 50 °C (122 °F) - Asphalt at temperatures equal to or below 50 °C (122 °F) - All other liquids not shown in the table where the typical delivery is over 200 L (50 gal) | 0.2 % | 0.3 % | 0.5 % |
0.3A | - Asphalt at temperatures greater than 50 °C (122 °F) | 0.3 % | 0.3 % | 0.5 % |
0.5* | - Petroleum products delivered from small capacity (at 4 L/min (1 gpm) through 115 L/min or 30 gpm)** motor-fuel devices - Agri-chemical liquids - All other applications not shown in the table where the typical delivery is [LESS THAN OR EQUAL TO] 200 L (50 gal) | 0.3 % | 0.5 % | 0.5 % |
1.1 | - Petroleum products and other normal liquids from devices with flow rates** less than 1 gpm. - Devices designed to deliver less than 1 gal | 0.75 % | 1.0 % | 1.25 % |
* For test drafts [LESS THAN OR EQUAL TO] 40 L or 10 gal, the tolerances specified for Accuracy Class 0.5 in the table above do not apply. For these test drafts, the following applies: | ||||
(a) Maintenance tolerances on normal and special tests shall be 20 mL plus 4 mL per indicated liter or 1 in3 plus 1 in3 per indicated gallon. | ||||
(b) Acceptance tolerances on normal and special tests shall be one-half the maintenance tolerance values. | ||||
1 Special test tolerances are not applicable to retail motor fuel dispensers. | ||||
** Flow rate refers to designed or marked maximum flow rate. | ||||
(Added 2002) (Amended 2006 and 2013)
(Added 1992) (Amended 2001 and 2002)
The delivered quantities for each test shall be approximately the same size. The results of each test shall be within the applicable acceptance or maintenance tolerance. [Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1988]
(Added 1987) (Amended 1992, 1996, and 2002)
An unnecessarily remote location of a device shall not be accepted as justification for an abnormally long hose.
(Amended 1972 and 1987)
(Made retroactive 1974 and Amended 1984)
(Added 1987)
(Amended 1991)
(Added 1975) (Amended 1976)
Exceptions to this requirement are totalizers on key-lock-operated or other self-operated dispensers and the primary recording element if the device is equipped to record.
Provided that the dispenser complies with S.1.6.4.1. Display of Unit Price, it is not necessary that all the unit prices for all grades, brands, blends, or mixtures be simultaneously displayed or posted.
(Became retroactive 1999)
(Added 1989) (Amended 1992)
The following exceptions apply:
(Added 1993)
(Added 1993)
(Amended 2014)
(Added 1989) (Amended 1992, 1993, 2012, and 2014)
(Amended 2001)
Note: This requirement does not specify the method of sale for product measured through a meter. (Amended 1989)
(Added 2003)
(Amended 1985 and 1995)
Note: Except for systems used solely for the sale of aviation fuel into aircraft and for aircraft-related operations, vehicle-tank meters shall be equipped with a primary recording element as required by paragraph UR.2.2. Ticket Printer; Customer Ticket.
(Amended 1993)
(Added 2006)
(Amended 2001)
When the index of an indicator extends along the entire length of a graduation, that portion of the index of the indicator that may be brought into coincidence with the graduation shall be of the same width throughout the length of the index that coincides with the graduation.
(Amended 1983 and 2005)
(Amended 1989)
(Amended 1979 and 1989)
(Amended 1993)
When applicable, the adjusting mechanism shall be readily accessible for purposes of affixing a security seal. [Audit trails shall use the format set forth in Table S.2.2. Categories of Device and Methods Sealing.]* [*Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1995]
(Amended 2006)
Table S.2.2. Categories of Device and Methods of Sealing | |
Categories of Device | Methods of Sealing |
Category 1: No remote configuration capability. | Seal by physical seal or two event counters: one for calibration parameters and one for configuration parameters. |
Category 2: Remote configuration capability, but access is controlled by physical hardware. The device shall clearly indicate that it is in the remote configuration mode and record such message if capable of printing in this mode or shall not operate while in this mode. | The hardware enabling access for remote communication must be on-site. The hardware must be sealed using a physical seal or an event counter for calibration parameters and an event counter for configuration parameters. The event counters may be located either at the individual measuring device or at the system controller; however, an adequate number of counters must be provided to monitor the calibration and configuration parameters of the individual devices at a location. If the counters are located in the system controller rather than at the individual device, means must be provided to generate a hard copy of the information through an on-site device. |
Category 3: Remote configuration capability access may be unlimited or controlled through a software switch (e.g., password). The device shall clearly indicate that it is in the remote configuration mode and record such message if capable of printing in this mode or shall not operate while in this mode. | An event logger is required in the device; it must include an event counter (000 to 999), the parameter ID, the date and time of the change, and the new value of the parameter. A printed copy of the information must be available through the device or through another on-site device. The event logger shall have a capacity to retain records equal to 10 times the number of sealable parameters in the device, but not more than 1000 records are required. (Note: Does not require 1000 changes to be stored for each parameter.) |
[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1995] (Table Added 2006)
[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 2006]
(Added 2005)
(e.g., thermometer well) to determine the temperature of the liquid either in the:
(Added 2011)
(Not applicable to milk-metering systems.)
Note: Also see example in Section 3.30. Liquid-Measuring Devices Code, paragraph S.4.4.1. Discharge Rates. (Added 2003)
(Added 1989)
(Added 2007)
[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 2009]
(Added 2008)
(Amended 1975)
(Added 1989)
(Amended 1975 and 1989)
(Amended 1989)
(Amended 1992)
(Added 2001)
The first test shall be performed with the automatic temperature-compensating system operating in the "as-found" condition. On devices that indicate or record both the compensated and uncompensated volume for each delivery, the tests in (a) and (b) may be performed as a single test.
(Added 2007)
(Amended 1978 and 2005)
(Added 2005)
(Added 2007)
(Amended 1995)
Table 1. Accuracy Classes and Tolerances for Vehicle-Tank Meters | |||||
Accuracy Class | Application | Acceptance Tolerance | Maintenance Tolerance | Special Test Tolerance | |
0.3 | - Petroleum products delivered from large capacity (flow rates over 115 L/min or 30 gpm)** devices, including motor-fuel devices - Heated products (other than asphalt) at temperatures greater than 50 °C (122 °F) - Asphalt at temperatures equal to or below 50 °C (122 °F) - All other liquids not shown in the table where the typical delivery is greater than 200 L (50 gal) | 0.15 % | 0.3 % | 0.45 % | |
0.3A | - Asphalt at temperatures greater than 50 °C (122 °F) | 0.3 % | 0.3 % | 0.5 % | |
0.5* | - Petroleum products delivered from small capacity (at 4 L/min (1 gpm) through 115 L/min or 30 gpm)** motor-fuel devices - Agri-chemical liquids - All other applications not shown in the table where the typical delivery is [LESS THAN OR EQUAL TO] 200 L (50 gal) | 0.3 % | 0.5 % | 0.5 % | |
1.1 | - Petroleum products and other normal liquids from devices with flow rates** less than 4 L/min (1 gpm) and - Devices designed to deliver less than 4 L (1 gal) | 0.75 % | 1.0 % | 1.25 % | |
1.5 | - Water | Overregistration | 1.5 % | 1.5 % | 1.5 % |
Underregistration | 1.5 % | 1.5 % | 5.0 % | ||
* For 5 gal and 10 gal test drafts, the tolerances specified for Accuracy Class 0.5 in the table above do not apply. For these test drafts, the maintenance tolerances on normal and special tests for 5 gal and 10 gal test drafts are 6 in3 and 11 in3, respectively. Acceptance tolerances on normal and special tests are 3 in3 and 5.5 in3. | |||||
** Flow rate refers to designed or marked maximum flow rate. | |||||
(Added 2002) (Amended 2013)
Table 2. Tolerances for Vehicle-Mounted Milk Meters | ||
Indication (gallons) | Maintenance Tolerance (gallons) | Acceptance Tolerance (gallons) |
100 | 0.5 | 0.3 |
200 | 0.7 | 0.4 |
300 | 0.9 | 0.5 |
400 | 1.1 | 0.6 |
500 | 1.3 | 0.7 |
Over 500 | Add 0.002 gallon per indicated gallon over 500 | Add 0.001 gallon per indicated gallon over 500 |
(Added 1989)
The delivered quantities for each test shall be approximately the same size. The results of each test shall be within the applicable acceptance or maintenance tolerance.
(Added 2007) (Amended 2010)
(Added 1992) (Amended 2001 and 2002)
Note: The result of the product depletion test may fall outside of the applicable test tolerance as specified in Table 1. Accuracy Classes and Tolerances for Vehicle-Tank Meters.
(Amended 2013)
(Added 2003)
(Amended 1981)
(Added 1993) (Amended 1994)
(Added 1999)
Note: This requirement does not specify the method of sale for products measured through a meter. (Amended 2009)
(Added 2009)
(Added 2007)
Liquid-Measuring Devices40
(Added 1994)
Note: Vehicle-mounted metering systems shall be equipped with a primary recording element as required by paragraph UR.2.6. Ticket Printer; Customer Ticket.
(Amended 1987)
(Amended 1984 and 1988)
(Added 1979) (Amended 1987)
(Amended 2001)
When the index of an indicator extends along the entire length of a graduation, that portion of the index of the indicator that may be brought into coincidence with the graduation shall be of the same width throughout the length of the index that coincides with the graduation.
(Amended 1990)
(Amended 1995)
Table 1. Money-Value Divisions and Maximum Allowable Variations for Money-Value Computations on Mechanical Analog Computers | ||||
Unit Price | Money-Value Division | Maximum Allowable Variation | ||
From | To and Including | Design Test | Field Test | |
0 | $0.25/liter or $1.00/gallon | 1¢ | ± 1¢ | ± 1¢ |
$0.25/liter or $1.00/gallon | $0.75/liter or $3.00/gallon | 1¢ or 2¢ | ± 1¢ | ± 2¢ |
$0.75/liter or $3.00/gallon | $2.50/liter or $10.00/gallon | 1¢ or 2¢ | ± 1¢ | ± 2¢ |
$0.75/liter or $3.00/gallon | $2.50/liter or $10.00/gallon | 5¢ | ± 21/2¢ | ± 5¢ |
[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1985.]
(Amended 1987)
When applicable, the adjusting mechanism shall be readily accessible for purposes of affixing a security seal.
[Audit trails shall use the format set forth in Table S.2.2. Categories of Device and Methods of Sealing.]* [*Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1995]
(Amended 2006)
Table S.2.2. Categories of Device and Methods of Sealing | |
Categories of Device | Methods of Sealing |
Category 1: No remote configuration capability. | Seal by physical seal or two event counters: one for calibration parameters and one for configuration parameters. |
Category 2: Remote configuration capability, but access is controlled by physical hardware. The device shall clearly indicate that it is in the remote configuration mode and record such message if capable of printing in this mode or shall not operate while in this mode. | The hardware enabling access for remote communication must be on-site. The hardware must be sealed using a physical seal or an event counter for calibration parameters and an event counter for configuration parameters. The event counters may be located either at the individual measuring device or at the system controller; however, an adequate number of counters must be provided to monitor the calibration and configuration parameters of the individual devices at a location. If the counters are located in the system controller rather than at the individual device, means must be provided to generate a hard copy of the information through an on-site device. |
Category 3: Remote configuration capability access may be unlimited or controlled through a software switch (e.g., password). The device shall clearly indicate that it is in the remote configuration mode and record such message if capable of printing in this mode or shall not operate while in this mode. | An event logger is required in the device; it must include an event counter (000 to 999), the parameter ID, the date and time of the change, and the new value of the parameter. A printed copy of the information must be available through the device or through another on-site device. The event logger shall have a capacity to retain records equal to 10 times the number of sealable parameters in the device, but not more than 1000 records are required. (Note: Does not require 1000 changes to be stored for each parameter.) |
[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1995] (Table Added 2006)
(Amended 1982)
(Amended 1972)
In addition, a manually controlled outlet that may be opened for the purpose of emptying a portion of the system to allow for repair and maintenance operations shall be permitted. Effective means shall be provided to prevent the passage of liquid through any such outlet during normal operation of the device and to indicate clearly and unmistakably when the valve controls are so set as to permit passage of liquid through such outlet.
(Amended 1975)
Note: Also see example in Section 3.30. Liquid-Measuring Devices Code, paragraph S.4.4.1. Discharge Rates. (Added 2003)
Note: The use of a dispenser key or tool to access internal marking information is permitted for retail motor-fuel dispensers. [Nonretroactive as of January 1, 2003]
(Added 2006)
(Amended 1982)
(Amended 1998)
The first test shall be performed with the automatic temperature-compensating system operating in the "as found" condition. On devices that indicate or record both the compensated and uncompensated volume for each delivery, the tests in (a) and (b) may be performed as a single test.
(Amended 1987)
(Added 2001)
(Added 1984)
(Amended 2003)
Table T.2. Accuracy Classes and Tolerances for LPG and Anhydrous Ammonia Liquid-Measuring Devices | ||||
Accuracy Class | Application | Acceptance Tolerance | Maintenance Tolerance | Special Test Tolerance |
1.0 | Anhydrous ammonia, LPG (including vehicle-mounted meters) | 0.6 % | 1.0 % | 1.0 % |
(Added 2003)
(Added 1992) (Amended 1997 and 2001)
The delivered quantities for each test shall be approximately the same size. The results of each test shall be within the applicable acceptance or maintenance tolerance.
(Added 1991) (Amended 1992, 1996, and 1997)
(Amended 1991)
when the quantity is determined by an approved measuring system equipped with a temperature-compensating mechanism, or by weight and converted to liters or gallons, or by a calibrated container, shall be in terms of liters or the U.S. gallon of 231 in3 at 15 °C (60 °F).
(Added 1984)
(Amended 1984)
(Added 1987)
(Added 1992)
(Amended 1984, 1986, 1988, and 1991)
(Amended 1972 and 1991)
The test circle of the proving indicator shall be divided into ten equal parts. Additional subdivisions of one or more of such equal parts may be made.
(Amended 1973 and 1988)
(Amended 2001)
When the index of an indicator extends along the entire length of a graduation, that portion of the index of the indicator that may be brought into coincidence with the graduation shall be of the same width throughout the length of the index that coincides with the graduation.
(Amended 1991)
When vapor is measured at a pressure other than what is specified above for the specific product, a volume multiplier shall be applied within the meter or to the billing invoice based on the following equation:
Where:
VPM = Volume pressure multiplier
AAP = Assumed atmospheric pressure in Pa or psia
GP = Gauge pressure in Pa or psig
NGP = Normal gauge pressure in Pa or psig
The assumed atmospheric pressure is to be taken from Tables 2 and 2M.
When liquefied petroleum gas vapor is measured at a pressure of 6900 Pa (1 psig) or more, the delivery pressure shall be maintained within ± 1725 Pa (± 0.25 psig).
Pressure variations due to regulator lock off shall not increase the operating pressure by more than 25 %. (Amended 1980, 1984, and 1991)
(Amended 1973 and 1991)
Table 1. Capacity of Low-Flow Test Rate Orifices with Respect to Device Capacity | |||
Metric Units | U.S. Customary Units | ||
Rated Capacity | Low-Flow Test Rate | Rated Capacity | Low-Flow Test Rate |
Up to and including 7 m3/h | 0.007 m3/h | Up to and including 250 ft3/h | 0.25 ft3/h |
Over 7 m3/h up to and including 14 m3/h | 0.014 m3/h | Over 250 ft3/h up to and including 500 ft3/h | 0.50 ft3/h |
Over 14 m3/h | 0.1 % of capacity rate | Over 500 ft3/h | 0.1 % of capacity rate |
(Amended 1972)
(Amended 1988)
(Added 2002)
(Amended 1988)
(Amended 1990 and 1991)
(Added 1984)
(Amended 1981 and 2003)
Table T.1. Accuracy Classes and Tolerances for Hydrocarbon Gas Vapor-Measuring Devices | ||||
Accuracy Class | Application | Acceptance Tolerance | Maintenance Tolerance | |
3.0 | Gases at low pressure (for example, LPG vapor) | Overregistration | 1.5 % | 1.5 % |
Underregistration | 3.0 % | 3.0 % | ||
(Added 2003)
(Added 2002)
If the vapor meter is equipped with an automatic temperature compensator, or any other means are used to compensate for temperature, the invoice shall show that the volume has been adjusted to the volume at 15 °C (60 °F).
(Amended 1988 and 1991)
(Amended 1988)
Elevation correction factors (ACF) were obtained by using the following equation:
Where:
GP = gauge pressure
AAP = assumed atmospheric pressure base pressure = 101.560 kPa = 14.73 psia
2740 Pa = 11 in of water column = 0.397 psig
1744 Pa = 7 in of water column = 0.253 psig
(Added 1988)
(Added 1989)
(Added 1990)
Table 2M. Corrections for Altitude, Metric Units | |||||||
Elevation (meters) | Altitude Correction Factor | Assumed Atmospheric Pressure | Assumed Atmospheric Pressure Plus Gauge Pressure | ||||
2.74 kPa Gauge Pressure | 1.74 kPa Gauge Pressure | (kPa) | 2.74 kPa Gauge Pressure | 1.74 kPa Gauge Pressure | |||
- 50 to | 120 | 1.02 | 1.01 | 100.85 | 103.59 | 102.58 | |
above | 120 to | 300 | 1.00 | 0.99 | 98.82 | 101.56 | 100.54 |
above | 300 to | 470 | 0.98 | 0.97 | 96.79 | 99.53 | 98.51 |
above | 470 to | 650 | 0.96 | 0.95 | 94.76 | 97.50 | 96.48 |
above | 650 to | 830 | 0.94 | 0.93 | 92.73 | 95.47 | 94.45 |
above | 830 to | 1020 | 0.92 | 0.91 | 90.70 | 93.44 | 92.42 |
above | 1020 to | 1210 | 0.90 | 0.89 | 88.66 | 91.40 | 90.39 |
above | 1210 to | 1400 | 0.88 | 0.87 | 86.63 | 89.37 | 88.36 |
above | 1400 to | 1590 | 0.86 | 0.85 | 84.60 | 87.34 | 86.33 |
above | 1590 to | 1790 | 0.84 | 0.83 | 82.57 | 85.31 | 84.29 |
above | 1790 to | 2000 | 0.82 | 0.81 | 80.54 | 83.28 | 82.26 |
above | 2000 to | 2210 | 0.80 | 0.79 | 78.51 | 81.25 | 80.23 |
above | 2210 to | 2420 | 0.78 | 0.77 | 76.48 | 79.22 | 78.20 |
above | 2420 to | 2640 | 0.76 | 0.75 | 74.45 | 77.19 | 76.17 |
above | 2640 to | 2860 | 0.74 | 0.73 | 72.41 | 75.15 | 74.15 |
above | 2860 to | 3080 | 0.72 | 0.71 | 70.38 | 73.12 | 72.12 |
above | 3080 to | 3320 | 0.70 | 0.69 | 68.35 | 71.09 | 70.08 |
above | 3320 to | 3560 | 0.68 | 0.67 | 66.32 | 69.06 | 68.05 |
above | 3560 to | 3800 | 0.66 | 0.65 | 64.29 | 67.03 | 66.01 |
above | 3800 to | 4050 | 0.64 | 0.63 | 62.26 | 65.00 | 63.98 |
above | 4050 to | 4310 | 0.62 | 0.61 | 60.23 | 62.97 | 61.95 |
above | 4310 to | 4580 | 0.60 | 0.59 | 58.20 | 60.94 | 59.92 |
Table 2. Corrections for Altitude, U.S. Customary Units | |||||||
Elevation (feet) | Altitude Correction Factor | Assumed Atmospheric Pressure | Assumed Atmospheric Pressure Plus Gauge Pressure | ||||
11 inch WC | 7 inch WC | (psia) | 11 inch WC (psia) | 7 inch WC (psia) | |||
- 150 to | 400 | 1.02 | 1.01 | 14.64 | 15.04 | 14.89 | |
above | 400 to | 950 | 1.00 | 0.99 | 14.35 | 14.74 | 14.60 |
above | 950 to | 1 550 | 0.98 | 0.97 | 14.05 | 14.45 | 14.30 |
above | 1 550 to | 2 100 | 0.96 | 0.95 | 13.76 | 14.15 | 14.01 |
above | 2 100 to | 2 700 | 0.94 | 0.93 | 13.46 | 13.86 | 13.71 |
above | 2 700 to | 3 300 | 0.92 | 0.91 | 13.17 | 13.56 | 13.42 |
above | 3 300 to | 3 950 | 0.90 | 0.89 | 12.87 | 13.27 | 13.12 |
above | 3 950 to | 4 550 | 0.88 | 0.87 | 12.58 | 12.97 | 12.83 |
above | 4 550 to | 5 200 | 0.86 | 0.85 | 12.28 | 12.68 | 12.53 |
above | 5 200 to | 5 850 | 0.84 | 0.83 | 11.99 | 12.38 | 12.24 |
above | 5 850 to | 6 500 | 0.82 | 0.81 | 11.69 | 12.09 | 11.94 |
above | 6 500 to | 7 200 | 0.80 | 0.79 | 11.40 | 11.79 | 11.65 |
above | 7 200 to | 7 900 | 0.78 | 0.77 | 11.10 | 11.50 | 11.35 |
above | 7 900 to | 8 600 | 0.76 | 0.75 | 10.81 | 11.20 | 11.06 |
above | 8 600 to | 9 350 | 0.74 | 0.73 | 10.51 | 10.91 | 10.76 |
above | 9 350 to | 10 100 | 0.72 | 0.71 | 10.22 | 10.61 | 10.47 |
above | 10 100 to | 10 850 | 0.70 | 0.69 | 9.92 | 10.32 | 10.17 |
above | 10 850 to | 11 650 | 0.68 | 0.67 | 9.63 | 10.03 | 9.88 |
above | 11 650 to | 12 450 | 0.66 | 0.65 | 9.33 | 9.73 | 9.58 |
above | 12 450 to | 13 250 | 0.64 | 0.63 | 9.04 | 9.44 | 9.29 |
above | 13 250 to | 14 100 | 0.62 | 0.61 | 8.75 | 9.14 | 9.00 |
above | 14 100 to | 14 950 | 0.60 | 0.59 | 8.45 | 8.85 | 8.70 |
(Amended 1986 and 1995)
(Amended 2002)
(Amended 2001)
When the index of an indicator extends along the entire length of a graduation, that portion of the index of the indicator that may be brought into coincidence with the graduation shall be of the same width throughout the length of the index that coincides with the graduation.
(Amended 1978)
[*Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1992]
(Amended 1991 and 2002)
When applicable, any adjusting mechanism shall be readily accessible for purposes of affixing a security seal.
[Audit trails shall use the format set forth in Table S.2.5. Categories of Device and Methods of Sealing]* [*Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1995]
(Amended 2006)
Table S.2.5. Categories of Device and Methods of Sealing | |
Categories of Device | Methods of Sealing |
Category 1: No remote configuration capability. | Seal by physical seal or two event counters: one for calibration parameters and one for configuration parameters. |
Category 2: Remote configuration capability, but access is controlled by physical hardware. The device shall clearly indicate that it is in the remote configuration mode and record such message if capable of printing in this mode or shall not operate while in this mode. | The hardware enabling access for remote communication must be on-site. The hardware must be sealed using a physical seal or an event counter for calibration parameters and an event counter for configuration parameters. The event counters may be located either at the individual measuring device or at the system controller; however, an adequate number of counters must be provided to monitor the calibration and configuration parameters of the individual devices at a location. If the counters are located in the system controller rather than at the individual device, means must be provided to generate a hard copy of the information through an on-site device. |
Category 3: Remote configuration capability access may be unlimited or controlled through a software switch (e.g., password). The device shall clearly indicate that it is in the remote configuration mode and record such message if capable of printing in this mode or shall not operate while in this mode. | An event logger is required in the device; it must include an event counter (000 to 999), the parameter ID, the date and time of the change, and the new value of the parameter. A printed copy of the information must be available through the device or through another on-site device. The event logger shall have a capacity to retain records equal to 10 times the number of sealable parameters in the device, but not more than 1000 records are required. (Note: Does not require 1000 changes to be stored for each parameter.) |
[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1995] (Table Added 2006)
(Amended 1976)
(Amended 1986 and 2004)
Table N.4. Density or Volume Correction Factors | |
Cryogenic Liquid | Publication |
Argon | Tegeler, Ch., Span, R., Wagner, W. "A New Equation of State for Argon Covering the Fluid Region for Temperatures from the Melting Line to 700 K at Pressures up to 1000 Mpa." J. Phys. Chem. Ref. Data, 28(3):779-850, 1999. |
Ethylene | Smukala, J., Span, R., Wagner, W. "New Equation of State for Ethylene Covering the Fluid Region for Temperatures from the Melting Line to 450 k at Pressures up to 300 Mpa." J. Phys. Chem. Ref. Data, 29(5):1053-1122, 2000. |
Nitrogen | Span, R., Lemmon, E.W., Jacobsen, R.T, Wagner, W., and Yokozeki, A. "A Reference Thermodynamic Property Formulation for Nitrogen." J. Phys. Chem. Ref. Data, Volume 29, Number 6, pp. 1361-1433, 2000. |
Oxygen | Schmidt, R., Wagner, W. "A New Form of the Equation of State for Pure Substances and its Application to Oxygen." Fluid Phase Equilib., 19:175-200, 1985 |
Hydrogen | Leachman, J. W., Jacobsen, R. T., Lemmon, E.W., and Penoncello, S.G. "Fundamental Equations of State for Parahydrogen, Normal Hydrogen, and Orthohydrogen" J. Phys. Chem. Ref. Data, Volume 38, Number 3, pp. 565, 2009. |
Note: A complete database program containing all of the most recent equations for calculating density for various cryogenic liquids is available at www.nist.gov/srd/nist23.cfm. There is a fee for download of this database. | |
(Added 2004)
(Added 2001)
test. Tests shall be conducted, if possible, to evaluate any special elements or accessories attached to or associated with the device. A device shall be tested at a minimum discharge rate of:
Special tests may be conducted to develop any characteristics of the device that are not normally anticipated under the conditions of installation.
(Amended 2003)
Table T.2. Accuracy Classes and Tolerances for Cryogenic Liquid-Measuring Devices | ||||
Accuracy Class | Application | Acceptance Tolerance | Maintenance Tolerance | Special Test Tolerance |
2.5 | Cryogenic products; liquefied compressed gases other than liquid carbon dioxide | 1.5 % | 2.5 % | 2.5 % |
(Added 2003)
(Added 1976)
(Added 2001)
(Amended 1976)
All sales of cryogenics shall be based on either kilograms or pounds, liters or gallons of liquid at NBP42, cubic meters of gas or cubic feet of gas at NTP1.
(Amended 1986)
(Added 1976)
(Added 1994)
(Amended 1989)
(Amended 2001)
When the index of an indicator extends along the entire length of a graduation, that portion of the index of the indicator that may be brought into coincidence with the graduation shall be of the same width throughout the length of the index that coincides with the graduation.
(Amended 1989)
When applicable, the adjusting mechanism shall be readily accessible for purposes of affixing a security seal.
[Audit trails shall use the format set forth in Table S.2.3. Categories of Device and Methods of Sealing]* [*Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1995]
(Amended 2006)
Table S.2.3. Categories of Device and Methods of Sealing | |
Categories of Device | Methods of Sealing |
Category 1: No remote configuration capability. | Seal by physical seal or two event counters: one for calibration parameters and one for configuration parameters. |
Category 2: Remote configuration capability, but access is controlled by physical hardware. The device shall clearly indicate that it is in the remote configuration mode and record such message if capable of printing in this mode or shall not operate while in this mode. | The hardware enabling access for remote communication must be on-site. The hardware must be sealed using a physical seal or an event counter for calibration parameters and an event counter for configuration parameters. The event counters may be located either at the individual measuring device or at the system controller; however, an adequate number of counters must be provided to monitor the calibration and configuration parameters of the individual devices at a location. If the counters are located in the system controller rather than at the individual device, means must be provided to generate a hard copy of the information through an on-site device. |
Category 3: Remote configuration capability access may be unlimited or controlled through a software switch (e.g., password). The device shall clearly indicate that it is in the remote configuration mode and record such message if capable of printing in this mode or shall not operate while in this mode. | An event logger is required in the device; it must include an event counter (000 to 999), the parameter ID, the date and time of the change, and the new value of the parameter. A printed copy of the information must be available through the device or through another on-site device. The event logger shall have a capacity to retain records equal to 10 times the number of sealable parameters in the device, but not more than 1000 records are required. (Note: Does not require 1000 changes to be stored for each parameter.) |
[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1995] (Table Added 2006)
(Amended 1994)
Note: Also see example in Section 3.30. Liquid-Measuring Devices Code, paragraph S.4.4.1. Discharge Rates. (Added 2003)
(Amended 1989)
(Added 1989)
(Amended 1989)
(Added 2002)
(Amended 1989)
Table 1. Tolerances for Milk Meters | ||
Indication | Maintenance | Acceptance |
gallons | gallons | gallons |
100 | 0.5 | 0.3 |
200 | 0.7 | 0.4 |
300 | 0.9 | 0.5 |
400 | 1.1 | 0.6 |
500 | 1.3 | 0.7 |
Over 500 | Add 0.002 gallon per indicated gallon over 500 | Add 0.001 gallon per indicated gallon over 500 |
(Added 1989)
(Added 2002)
(Amended 1989)
(Amended 2002)
(Amended 2002)
(Amended 2001)
When the index of an indicator extends along the entire length of a graduation, that portion of the index of the indicator that may be brought into coincidence with the graduation shall be of the same width throughout the length of the index that coincides with the graduation.
The adjusting mechanism shall be readily accessible for purposes of affixing a security seal.
(Added 2003)
required by G-S.1. Identification, shall be either on the meter body or primary indicator. [Nonretroactive as of January 1, 2013]
(Added 2012)
(Amended 2003)
(Amended 1990, 2002, and 2003)
Table N.4.1. Flow Rate and Draft Size for Water Meters Normal Tests | |||
Meter Size (inches) | Rate of Flow (gal/min) | Maximum Rate | |
Meter Indication/Test Draft | |||
gal | ft3 | ||
Less than 5/8 | 8 | 50 | 5 |
5/8 | 15 | 50 | 5 |
3/4 | 25 | 50 | 5 |
1 | 40 | 100 | 10 |
11/2 | 80 | 300 | 40 |
2 | 120 | 500 | 40 |
3 | 250 | 500 | 50 |
4 | 350 | 1000 | 100 |
6 | 700 | 1000 | 100 |
(Table Added 2003)
(Added 2002)
(Amended 2003 and 2010)
Table N.4.2.a. Flow Rate and Draft Size for Batching Water Meters Special Tests | ||||||
Meter Size (inches) | Intermediate Rate | Minimum Rate | ||||
Rate of Flow (gal/min) | Meter Indication/Test Draft | Rate of Flow (gal/min) | Meter Indication/Test Draft | |||
gal | ft3 | gal | ft3 | |||
Less than or equal to 5/8 | 2 | 10 | 1 | 1/4 | 5 | 1 |
3/4 | 3 | 10 | 1 | 1/2 | 5 | 1 |
1 | 4 | 10 | 1 | 3/4 | 5 | 1 |
11/2 | 8 | 50 | 5 | 11/2 | 10 | 1 |
2 | 15 | 50 | 5 | 2 | 10 | 1 |
3 | 20 | 50 | 5 | 4 | 10 | 1 |
4 | 40 | 100 | 10 | 7 | 50 | 5 |
6 | 60 | 100 | 10 | 12 | 50 | 5 |
(Table Added 2003) (Table Amended 2010)
Table N.4.2.b. Flow Rate and Draft Size for Utility Type Water Meters Special Tests | ||||||
Meter Size (inches) | Intermediate Rate | Minimum Rate | ||||
Rate of Flow (gal/min) | Meter Indication/Test Draft | Rate of Flow (gal/min) | Meter Indication/Test Draft | |||
gal | ft3 | gal | ft3 | |||
Less than 5/8 | 2 | 10 | 1 | 1/4 | 5 | 1 |
5/8 | 2 | 10 | 1 | 1/4 | 5 | 1 |
5/8 x 3/4 | 2 | 10 | 1 | 1/4 | 5 | 1 |
3/4 | 3 | 10 | 1 | 1/2 | 5 | 1 |
1 | 4 | 10 | 1 | 3/4 | 5 | 1 |
11/2 | 8 | 100 | 10 | 11/2 | 100 | 10 |
2 | 15 | 100 | 10 | 2 | 100 | 10 |
(Table Added 2010)
(Amended 2003)
Table T.1. Accuracy Classes and Tolerances for Water Meters | |||||
Accuracy Class | Application | Acceptance Tolerance | Maintenance Tolerance | Tolerance for Special Tests Conducted at the Minimum Flow Rate | |
1.5 | Water, Other Than Multi-Jet Water Meters | Overregistration | 1.5 % | 1.5 % | 1.5 % |
Underregistration | 1.5 % | 1.5 % | 5.0 % | ||
1.5 | Water, Multi-Jet Water Meters | Overregistration | 1.5 % | 1.5 % | 3.0 % |
Underregistration | 1.5 % | 1.5 % | 3.0 % | ||
(Added 2002) (Amended 2010)
Table T.1.1. Repeatability | ||
Batching Meters | Utility-Type Meters | |
Normal Flow Rates | 0.6 % | 0.6 % |
Intermediate Flow Rates | 0.6 % | 2.0 % |
Minimum Flow Rate | 1.3 % | 4.0 % |
(Table Added 2010)
(Added 2008)
(Amended 1997)
(Added 1994)(Amended 2013)
(Amended 1993 and 1997)
(Amended 1994)
(Amended 1993)
(Added 1993)
(Added 1993)
(Added 1993)
(Added 1993)
(Added 1997)
[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1998]
(Added 1997)
(Added 1993)
(Added 1993)
(Added 1993)
(Added 1993)
and the quantity delivered (up to the nominal capacity). However, the first 0.03 L (0.009 gal) of a delivery and its associated total sales price need not be indicated. [Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1998]
(Added 1997)
(Amended 1999)
(Added 1995)
When applicable, the adjusting mechanism shall be readily accessible for purposes of affixing a security seal.
[Audit trails shall use the format set forth in Table S.3.5. Categories of Device and Methods of Sealing]* [*Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1995]
(Amended 1992, 1995, and 2006)
Table S.3.5. Categories of Device and Methods of Sealing | |
Categories of Device | Methods of Sealing |
Category 1: No remote configuration capability. | Seal by physical seal or two event counters: one for calibration parameters and one for configuration parameters. |
Category 2: Remote configuration capability, but access is controlled by physical hardware. The device shall clearly indicate that it is in the remote configuration mode and record such message if capable of printing in this mode or shall not operate while in this mode. | [The hardware enabling access for remote communication must be on-site. The hardware must be sealed using a physical seal or an event counter for calibration parameters and an event counter for configuration parameters. The event counters may be located either at the individual measuring device or at the system controller; however, an adequate number of counters must be provided to monitor the calibration and configuration parameters of the individual devices at a location. If the counters are located in the system controller rather than at the individual device, means must be provided to generate a hard copy of the information through an on-site device.]* [*Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1996] |
Category 3: Remote configuration capability access may be unlimited or controlled through a software switch (e.g., password). [Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1995] The device shall clearly indicate that it is in the remote configuration mode and record such message if capable of printing in this mode or shall not operate while in this mode. [Nonretroactive as of January 1, 2001] | An event logger is required in the device; it must include an event counter (000 to 999), the parameter ID, the date and time of the change, and the new value of the parameter. A printed copy of the information must be available through the device or through another on-site device. The event logger shall have a capacity to retain records equal to 10 times the number of sealable parameters in the device, but not more than 1000 records are required. (Note: Does not require 1000 changes to be stored for each parameter.) |
[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1995]
(Table Added 1995) (Amended 1995, 1998, 1999, and 2006)
(Amended 1994 and 1997)
(Added 1993)
(Added 1993)
An outlet that may be opened for purging or draining the measuring system, or for recirculating product if recirculation is required in order to maintain the product in a deliverable state shall be permitted. Effective automatic means shall be provided to prevent the passage of liquid through any such outlet during normal operation of the measuring system and to inhibit meter indications (or advancement of indications) and recorded representations while the outlet is in operation.
(Amended 2002 and 2006)
(Added 1993)
(Added 1994)
required in General Code, paragraph G-S.1. Identification shall appear as follows:
Note: The use of a dispenser key or tool to access internal marking information is permitted for retail liquid-measuring
devices.
[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 2003]
(Added 2006)
permanently and conspicuously marked on the face of the dispenser according to the method of sale used. (Added 1994)(Amended 2013)
(Added 1997)
(Added 1999)
(Added 2001)
(Added 1999)
(Amended 1999)
(Amended 1994 and 1999)
Table T.2. Accuracy Classes and Tolerances for Mass Flow Meters | ||||
Accuracy Class | Application or Commodity Being Measured | Acceptance Tolerance | Maintenance Tolerance | Special Tolerance |
0.3 | - Large capacity motor-fuel dispensers (maximum discharge flow rates greater than 100 L/min or 25 gal/min) - Heated products (other than asphalt) at temperatures greater than 50 °C (122 °F) - Asphalt at temperatures equal to or below 50 °C (122 °F) - Loading rack meters - Vehicle-tank meters - Home heating oil - Milk and other food products - All other liquid applications not shown in the table where the minimum delivery is at least 700 kg (1500 lb) | 0.2 % | 0.3 % | 0.5 % |
0.3A | - Asphalt at temperatures greater than 50 °C (122 °F) | 0.3 % | 0.3 % | 0.5 % |
0.5 | - Small capacity (retail) motor-fuel dispensers - Agri-chemical liquids - All other liquid applications not shown in the table where the minimum delivery is less than 700 kg or 1500 lb | 0.3 % | 0.5 % | 0.5 % |
1.0 | - Anhydrous ammonia - LP Gas (including vehicle-tank meters) | 0.6 % | 1.0 % | 1.0 % |
2.0 | - Compressed natural gas as a motor-fuel | 1.5 % | 2.0 % | 2.0 % |
2.5 | - Cryogenic liquid meters - Liquefied compressed gases other than LP Gas | 1.5 % | 2.5 % | 2.5 % |
(Added 1994) (Amended 1999, 2001, and 2013)
(Amended 1992, 1994, and 2001)
(Added 1997)
(Added 1997)
(Added 1997)
(Added 1992)
(Added 1993)
(Added 1994)
(Added 1993)
(Added 1993)
(Added 1993)
(Added 1995) (Amended 1997)
(Added 1998)
(Added 1998)
(Amended 2001)
When the index of an indicator extends along the entire length of a graduation, that portion of the index of the indicator that may be brought into coincidence with the graduation shall be of the same width throughout the length of the index that coincides with the graduation.
The total price shall be computed on the basis of the quantity indicated when the value of the smallest division indicated is equal to or less than the value specified in S.1.1.3. Value of Smallest Unit.
When applicable any adjusting mechanism shall be readily accessible for purposes of affixing a security seal.
[Audit trails shall use the format set forth in Table S.2.5. Provision for Sealing]* [*Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1995]
(Amended 2006)
Table S.2.5. Categories of Device and Methods of Sealing | |
Categories of Device | Methods of Sealing |
Category 1: No remote configuration capability. | Seal by physical seal or two event counters: one for calibration parameters and one for configuration parameters. |
Category 2: Remote configuration capability, but access is controlled by physical hardware. The device shall clearly indicate that it is in the remote configuration mode and record such message if capable of printing in this mode or shall not operate while in this mode. | The hardware enabling access for remote communication must be on-site. The hardware must be sealed using a physical seal or an event counter for calibration parameters and an event counter for configuration parameters. The event counters may be located either at the individual measuring device or at the system controller; however, an adequate number of counters must be provided to monitor the calibration and configuration parameters of the individual devices at a location. If the counters are located in the system controller rather than at the individual device, means must be provided to generate a hard copy of the information through an on-site device. |
Category 3: Remote configuration capability access may be unlimited or controlled through a software switch (e.g., password). The device shall clearly indicate that it is in the remote configuration mode and record such message if capable of printing in this mode or shall not operate while in this mode. | An event logger is required in the device; it must include an event counter (000 to 999), the parameter ID, the date and time of the change, and the new value of the parameter. A printed copy of the information must be available through the device or through another on-site device. The event logger shall have a capacity to retain records equal to 10 times the number of sealable parameters in the device, but not more than 1000 records are required. (Note: Does not require 1000 changes to be stored for each parameter.) |
[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1995] (Table Added 2006)
Note: Also see example in Section 3.30. Liquid-Measuring Devices Code, paragraph S.4.4.1. Discharge Rates. (Note Added 2003)
(Added 2002)
"Special" tests may be conducted to develop any characteristics of the device anticipated under the conditions of installation.
Table N.4.4. Automatic Temperature or Density Compensation | |||||||
Temp °F | Pressure | Liquid Density | Vapor Density | Vapor Displacement % | |||
PSIA | PSIG | lb/gal | (lb-oz)/gal | lb/cu ft | lb/gal | ||
- 30.00 | 177.89 | 163.19 | 9.127 | 9 - 2.0 | 1.989 | 0.266 | 2.9 |
- 29.75 | 178.75 | 164.05 | 9.122 | 9 - 2.0 | 1.999 | 0.267 | 2.9 |
- 29.50 | 179.62 | 164.92 | 9.117 | 9 - 1.9 | 2.008 | 0.268 | 2.9 |
- 29.25 | 180.49 | 165.79 | 9.113 | 9 - 1.8 | 2.018 | 0.270 | 3.0 |
- 29.00 | 181.36 | 166.67 | 9.108 | 9 - 1.7 | 2.028 | 0.271 | 3.0 |
- 28.75 | 182.24 | 167.54 | 9.103 | 9 - 1.7 | 2.038 | 0.272 | 3.0 |
- 28.50 | 183.12 | 168.42 | 9.098 | 9 - 1.6 | 2.048 | 0.274 | 3.0 |
- 28.25 | 184.00 | 169.31 | 9.094 | 9 - 1.5 | 2.058 | 0.275 | 3.0 |
- 28.00 | 184.89 | 170.19 | 9.089 | 9 - 1.4 | 2.067 | 0.276 | 3.0 |
- 27.75 | 185.78 | 171.08 | 9.084 | 9 - 1.3 | 2.077 | 0.278 | 3.1 |
- 27.50 | 186.67 | 171.98 | 9.080 | 9 - 1.3 | 2.087 | 0.279 | 3.1 |
- 27.25 | 187.57 | 172.87 | 9.075 | 9 - 1.2 | 2.098 | 0.280 | 3.1 |
- 27.00 | 188.47 | 173.77 | 9.070 | 9 - 1.1 | 2.108 | 0.282 | 3.1 |
- 26.75 | 189.37 | 174.67 | 9.065 | 9 - 1.0 | 2.118 | 0.283 | 3.1 |
- 26.50 | 190.28 | 175.58 | 9.061 | 9 - 1.0 | 2.128 | 0.284 | 3.1 |
- 26.25 | 191.18 | 176.49 | 9.056 | 9 - 0.9 | 2.138 | 0.286 | 3.2 |
- 26.00 | 192.10 | 177.40 | 9.051 | 9 - 0.8 | 2.148 | 0.287 | 3.2 |
- 25.75 | 193.01 | 178.32 | 9.046 | 9 - 0.7 | 2.159 | 0.289 | 3.2 |
- 25.50 | 193.93 | 179.23 | 9.041 | 9 - 0.7 | 2.169 | 0.290 | 3.2 |
- 25.25 | 194.85 | 180.16 | 9.037 | 9 - 0.6 | 2.179 | 0.291 | 3.2 |
- 25.00 | 195.78 | 181.08 | 9.032 | 9 - 0.5 | 2.190 | 0.293 | 3.2 |
- 24.75 | 196.70 | 182.01 | 9.027 | 9 - 0.4 | 2.200 | 0.294 | 3.3 |
- 24.50 | 197.64 | 182.94 | 9.022 | 9 - 0.4 | 2.211 | 0.296 | 3.3 |
- 24.25 | 198.57 | 183.87 | 9.017 | 9 - 0.3 | 2.221 | 0.297 | 3.3 |
- 24.00 | 199.51 | 184.81 | 9.013 | 9 - 0.2 | 2.232 | 0.298 | 3.3 |
- 23.75 | 200.45 | 185.75 | 9.008 | 9 - 0.1 | 2.243 | 0.300 | 3.3 |
- 23.50 | 201.39 | 186.70 | 9.003 | 9 - 0.0 | 2.253 | 0.301 | 3.3 |
- 23.25 | 202.34 | 187.64 | 8.998 | 9 - 0.0 | 2.264 | 0.303 | 3.4 |
- 23.00 | 203.29 | 188.60 | 8.993 | 8 - 15.9 | 2.275 | 0.304 | 3.4 |
- 22.75 | 204.25 | 189.55 | 8.989 | 8 - 15.8 | 2.286 | 0.306 | 3.4 |
- 22.50 | 205.20 | 190.51 | 8.984 | 8 - 15.7 | 2.296 | 0.307 | 3.4 |
- 22.25 | 206.16 | 191.47 | 8.979 | 8 - 15.7 | 2.307 | 0.308 | 3.4 |
- 22.00 | 207.13 | 192.43 | 8.974 | 8 - 15.6 | 2.318 | 0.310 | 3.5 |
- 21.75 | 208.09 | 193.40 | 8.969 | 8 - 15.5 | 2.329 | 0.311 | 3.5 |
- 21.50 | 209.06 | 194.37 | 8.964 | 8 - 15.4 | 2.340 | 0.313 | 3.5 |
- 21.25 | 210.04 | 195.34 | 8.959 | 8 - 15.4 | 2.351 | 0.314 | 3.5 |
- 21.00 | 211.02 | 196.32 | 8.955 | 8 - 15.3 | 2.362 | 0.316 | 3.5 |
- 20.75 | 212.00 | 197.30 | 8.950 | 8 - 15.2 | 2.374 | 0.317 | 3.5 |
- 20.50 | 212.98 | 198.28 | 8.945 | 8 - 15.1 | 2.385 | 0.319 | 3.6 |
- 20.25 | 213.97 | 199.27 | 8.940 | 8 - 15.0 | 2.396 | 0.320 | 3.6 |
- 20.00 | 214.96 | 200.26 | 8.935 | 8 - 15.0 | 2.407 | 0.322 | 3.6 |
- 19.75 | 215.95 | 201.26 | 8.930 | 8 - 14.9 | 2.419 | 0.323 | 3.6 |
- 19.50 | 216.95 | 202.25 | 8.925 | 8 - 14.8 | 2.430 | 0.325 | 3.6 |
- 19.25 | 217.95 | 203.25 | 8.920 | 8 - 14.7 | 2.441 | 0.326 | 3.7 |
- 19.00 | 218.95 | 204.26 | 8.915 | 8 - 14.6 | 2.453 | 0.328 | 3.7 |
- 18.75 | 219.96 | 205.27 | 8.911 | 8 - 14.6 | 2.464 | 0.329 | 3.7 |
- 18.50 | 220.97 | 206.28 | 8.906 | 8 - 14.5 | 2.476 | 0.331 | 3.7 |
- 18.25 | 221.99 | 207.29 | 8.901 | 8 - 14.4 | 2.488 | 0.333 | 3.7 |
- 18.00 | 223.01 | 208.31 | 8.896 | 8 - 14.3 | 2.499 | 0.334 | 3.8 |
- 17.75 | 224.03 | 209.33 | 8.891 | 8 - 14.3 | 2.511 | 0.336 | 3.8 |
- 17.50 | 225.05 | 210.36 | 8.886 | 8 - 14.2 | 2.523 | 0.337 | 3.8 |
- 17.25 | 226.08 | 211.38 | 8.881 | 8 - 14.1 | 2.534 | 0.339 | 3.8 |
- 17.00 | 227.11 | 212.42 | 8.876 | 8 - 14.0 | 2.546 | 0.340 | 3.8 |
- 16.75 | 228.15 | 213.45 | 8.871 | 8 - 13.9 | 2.558 | 0.342 | 3.9 |
- 16.50 | 229.18 | 214.49 | 8.866 | 8 - 13.9 | 2.570 | 0.344 | 3.9 |
- 16.25 | 230.23 | 215.53 | 8.861 | 8 - 13.8 | 2.582 | 0.345 | 3.9 |
- 16.00 | 231.27 | 216.58 | 8.856 | 8 - 13.7 | 2.594 | 0.347 | 3.9 |
- 15.75 | 232.32 | 217.62 | 8.851 | 8 - 13.6 | 2.606 | 0.348 | 3.9 |
- 15.50 | 233.37 | 218.68 | 8.846 | 8 - 13.5 | 2.618 | 0.350 | 4.0 |
- 15.25 | 234.43 | 219.73 | 8.841 | 8 - 13.5 | 2.630 | 0.352 | 4.0 |
- 15.00 | 235.49 | 220.79 | 8.836 | 8 - 13.4 | 2.643 | 0.353 | 4.0 |
- 14.75 | 236.55 | 221.86 | 8.831 | 8 - 13.3 | 2.655 | 0.355 | 4.0 |
- 14.50 | 237.62 | 222.92 | 8.826 | 8 - 13.2 | 2.667 | 0.357 | 4.0 |
- 14.25 | 238.69 | 223.99 | 8.821 | 8 - 13.1 | 2.680 | 0.358 | 4.1 |
- 14.00 | 239.76 | 225.07 | 8.816 | 8 - 13.1 | 2.692 | 0.360 | 4.1 |
- 13.75 | 240.84 | 226.14 | 8.811 | 8 - 13.0 | 2.704 | 0.362 | 4.1 |
- 13.50 | 241.92 | 227.22 | 8.806 | 8 - 12.9 | 2.717 | 0.363 | 4.1 |
- 13.25 | 243.00 | 228.31 | 8.801 | 8 - 12.8 | 2.729 | 0.365 | 4.1 |
- 13.00 | 244.09 | 229.39 | 8.796 | 8 - 12.7 | 2.742 | 0.367 | 4.2 |
- 12.75 | 245.18 | 230.49 | 8.791 | 8 - 12.7 | 2.755 | 0.368 | 4.2 |
- 12.50 | 246.28 | 231.58 | 8.786 | 8 - 12.6 | 2.767 | 0.370 | 4.2 |
- 12.25 | 247.37 | 232.68 | 8.781 | 8 - 12.5 | 2.780 | 0.372 | 4.2 |
- 12.00 | 248.48 | 233.78 | 8.776 | 8 - 12.4 | 2.793 | 0.373 | 4.3 |
- 11.75 | 249.58 | 234.89 | 8.771 | 8 - 12.3 | 2.806 | 0.375 | 4.3 |
- 11.50 | 250.69 | 236.00 | 8.765 | 8 - 12.2 | 2.819 | 0.377 | 4.3 |
- 11.25 | 251.80 | 237.11 | 8.760 | 8 - 12.2 | 2.832 | 0.379 | 4.3 |
- 11.00 | 252.92 | 238.22 | 8.755 | 8 - 12.1 | 2.845 | 0.380 | 4.3 |
- 10.75 | 254.04 | 239.34 | 8.750 | 8 - 12.0 | 2.858 | 0.382 | 4.4 |
- 10.50 | 255.16 | 240.47 | 8.745 | 8 - 11.9 | 2.871 | 0.384 | 4.4 |
- 10.25 | 256.29 | 241.60 | 8.740 | 8 - 11.8 | 2.884 | 0.386 | 4.4 |
- 10.00 | 257.42 | 242.73 | 8.735 | 8 - 11.8 | 2.897 | 0.387 | 4.4 |
- 9.75 | 258.56 | 243.86 | 8.730 | 8 - 11.7 | 2.911 | 0.389 | 4.5 |
- 9.50 | 259.70 | 245.00 | 8.725 | 8 - 11.6 | 2.924 | 0.391 | 4.5 |
- 9.25 | 260.84 | 246.14 | 8.719 | 8 - 11.5 | 2.937 | 0.393 | 4.5 |
- 9.00 | 261.98 | 247.29 | 8.714 | 8 - 11.4 | 2.951 | 0.394 | 4.5 |
- 8.75 | 263.13 | 248.44 | 8.709 | 8 - 11.3 | 2.964 | 0.396 | 4.5 |
- 8.50 | 264.29 | 249.59 | 8.704 | 8 - 11.3 | 2.978 | 0.398 | 4.6 |
- 8.25 | 265.44 | 250.75 | 8.699 | 8 - 11.2 | 2.991 | 0.400 | 4.6 |
- 8.00 | 266.60 | 251.91 | 8.694 | 8 - 11.1 | 3.005 | 0.402 | 4.6 |
- 7.75 | 267.77 | 253.07 | 8.688 | 8 - 11.0 | 3.019 | 0.404 | 4.6 |
- 7.50 | 268.93 | 254.24 | 8.683 | 8 - 10.9 | 3.032 | 0.405 | 4.7 |
- 7.25 | 270.11 | 255.41 | 8.678 | 8 - 10.8 | 3.046 | 0.407 | 4.7 |
- 7.00 | 271.28 | 256.59 | 8.673 | 8 - 10.8 | 3.060 | 0.409 | 4.7 |
- 6.75 | 272.46 | 257.76 | 8.668 | 8 - 10.7 | 3.074 | 0.411 | 4.7 |
- 6.50 | 273.64 | 258.95 | 8.662 | 8 - 10.6 | 3.088 | 0.413 | 4.8 |
- 6.25 | 274.83 | 260.13 | 8.657 | 8 - 10.5 | 3.102 | 0.415 | 4.8 |
- 6.00 | 276.02 | 261.32 | 8.652 | 8 - 10.4 | 3.116 | 0.417 | 4.8 |
- 5.75 | 277.21 | 262.52 | 8.647 | 8 - 10.3 | 3.130 | 0.418 | 4.8 |
- 5.50 | 278.41 | 263.72 | 8.641 | 8 - 10.3 | 3.144 | 0.420 | 4.9 |
- 5.25 | 279.61 | 264.92 | 8.636 | 8 - 10.2 | 3.159 | 0.422 | 4.9 |
- 5.00 | 280.82 | 266.12 | 8.631 | 8 - 10.1 | 3.173 | 0.424 | 4.9 |
- 4.75 | 282.03 | 267.33 | 8.626 | 8 - 10.0 | 3.187 | 0.426 | 4.9 |
- 4.50 | 283.24 | 268.55 | 8.620 | 8 - 9.9 | 3.202 | 0.428 | 5.0 |
- 4.25 | 284.46 | 269.76 | 8.615 | 8 - 9.8 | 3.216 | 0.430 | 5.0 |
- 4.00 | 285.68 | 270.98 | 8.610 | 8 - 9.8 | 3.231 | 0.432 | 5.0 |
- 3.75 | 286.90 | 272.21 | 8.604 | 8 - 9.7 | 3.245 | 0.434 | 5.0 |
- 3.50 | 288.13 | 273.44 | 8.599 | 8 - 9.6 | 3.260 | 0.436 | 5.1 |
- 3.25 | 289.37 | 274.67 | 8.594 | 8 - 9.5 | 3.275 | 0.438 | 5.1 |
- 3.00 | 290.60 | 275.91 | 8.589 | 8 - 9.4 | 3.289 | 0.440 | 5.1 |
- 2.75 | 291.84 | 277.15 | 8.583 | 8 - 9.3 | 3.304 | 0.442 | 5.1 |
- 2.50 | 293.09 | 278.39 | 8.578 | 8 - 9.2 | 3.319 | 0.444 | 5.2 |
- 2.25 | 294.33 | 279.64 | 8.573 | 8 - 9.2 | 3.334 | 0.446 | 5.2 |
- 2.00 | 295.58 | 280.89 | 8.567 | 8 - 9.1 | 3.349 | 0.448 | 5.2 |
- 1.75 | 296.84 | 282.14 | 8.562 | 8 - 9.0 | 3.364 | 0.450 | 5.3 |
- 1.50 | 298.10 | 283.40 | 8.556 | 8 - 8.9 | 3.379 | 0.452 | 5.3 |
- 1.25 | 299.36 | 284.67 | 8.551 | 8 - 8.8 | 3.395 | 0.454 | 5.3 |
- 1.00 | 300.63 | 285.93 | 8.546 | 8 - 8.7 | 3.410 | 0.456 | 5.3 |
- 0.75 | 301.90 | 287.21 | 8.540 | 8 - 8.6 | 3.425 | 0.458 | 5.4 |
- 0.50 | 303.18 | 288.48 | 8.535 | 8 - 8.6 | 3.440 | 0.460 | 5.4 |
- 0.25 | 304.46 | 289.76 | 8.530 | 8 - 8.5 | 3.456 | 0.462 | 5.4 |
0.00 | 305.74 | 291.74 | 8.524 | 8 - 8.4 | 3.471 | 0.464 | 5.4 |
0.25 | 307.03 | 292.33 | 8.519 | 8 - 8.3 | 3.487 | 0.466 | 5.5 |
0.50 | 308.32 | 293.62 | 8.513 | 8 - 8.2 | 3.503 | 0.468 | 5.5 |
0.75 | 309.61 | 294.92 | 8.508 | 8 - 8.1 | 3.518 | 0.470 | 5.5 |
1.00 | 310.91 | 296.21 | 8.502 | 8 - 8.0 | 3.534 | 0.472 | 5.6 |
1.25 | 312.21 | 297.52 | 8.497 | 8 - 8.0 | 3.550 | 0.475 | 5.6 |
1.50 | 313.52 | 298.82 | 8.491 | 8 - 7.9 | 3.566 | 0.477 | 5.6 |
1.75 | 314.83 | 300.13 | 8.486 | 8 - 7.8 | 3.582 | 0.479 | 5.6 |
2.00 | 316.15 | 301.45 | 8.480 | 8 - 7.7 | 3.598 | 0.481 | 5.7 |
2.25 | 317.46 | 302.77 | 8.475 | 8 - 7.6 | 3.614 | 0.483 | 5.7 |
2.50 | 318.79 | 304.09 | 8.469 | 8 - 7.5 | 3.630 | 0.485 | 5.7 |
2.75 | 320.11 | 305.42 | 8.464 | 8 - 7.4 | 3.646 | 0.487 | 5.8 |
3.00 | 321.45 | 306.75 | 8.458 | 8 - 7.3 | 3.662 | 0.490 | 5.8 |
3.25 | 322.78 | 308.08 | 8.453 | 8 - 7.2 | 3.679 | 0.492 | 5.8 |
3.50 | 324.12 | 309.42 | 8.447 | 8 - 7.2 | 3.695 | 0.494 | 5.8 |
3.75 | 325.46 | 310.77 | 8.442 | 8 - 7.1 | 3.712 | 0.496 | 5.9 |
4.00 | 326.81 | 312.11 | 8.436 | 8 - 7.0 | 3.728 | 0.498 | 5.9 |
4.25 | 328.16 | 313.46 | 8.431 | 8 - 6.9 | 3.745 | 0.501 | 5.9 |
4.50 | 329.52 | 314.82 | 8.425 | 8 - 6.8 | 3.761 | 0.503 | 6.0 |
4.75 | 330.88 | 316.18 | 8.420 | 8 - 6.7 | 3.778 | 0.505 | 6.0 |
5.00 | 332.24 | 317.54 | 8.414 | 8 - 6.6 | 3.795 | 0.507 | 6.0 |
5.25 | 333.61 | 318.91 | 8.408 | 8 - 6.5 | 3.812 | 0.510 | 6.1 |
5.50 | 334.98 | 320.28 | 8.403 | 8 - 6.4 | 3.829 | 0.512 | 6.1 |
5.75 | 336.35 | 321.66 | 8.397 | 8 - 6.4 | 3.846 | 0.514 | 6.1 |
6.00 | 337.73 | 323.04 | 8.392 | 8 - 6.3 | 3.863 | 0.516 | 6.2 |
6.25 | 339.12 | 324.42 | 8.386 | 8 - 6.2 | 3.880 | 0.519 | 6.2 |
6.50 | 340.51 | 325.81 | 8.380 | 8 - 6.1 | 3.897 | 0.521 | 6.2 |
6.75 | 341.90 | 327.20 | 8.375 | 8 - 6.0 | 3.915 | 0.523 | 6.3 |
7.00 | 343.30 | 328.60 | 8.369 | 8 - 5.9 | 3.932 | 0.526 | 6.3 |
7.25 | 344.70 | 330.00 | 8.363 | 8 - 5.8 | 3.949 | 0.528 | 6.3 |
7.50 | 346.10 | 331.41 | 8.358 | 8 - 5.7 | 3.967 | 0.530 | 6.3 |
7.75 | 347.51 | 332.82 | 8.352 | 8 - 5.6 | 3.984 | 0.533 | 6.4 |
8.00 | 348.92 | 334.23 | 8.346 | 8 - 5.5 | 4.002 | 0.535 | 6.4 |
8.25 | 350.34 | 335.65 | 8.341 | 8 - 5.4 | 4.020 | 0.537 | 6.4 |
8.50 | 351.76 | 337.07 | 8.335 | 8 - 5.4 | 4.038 | 0.540 | 6.5 |
8.75 | 353.19 | 338.49 | 8.335 | 8 - 5.4 | 4.038 | 0.540 | 6.5 |
9.00 | 354.62 | 339.92 | 8.323 | 8 - 5.2 | 4.073 | 0.545 | 6.5 |
9.25 | 356.06 | 341.36 | 8.318 | 8 - 5.1 | 4.091 | 0.547 | 6.6 |
9.50 | 357.49 | 342.80 | 8.312 | 8 - 5.0 | 4.110 | 0.549 | 6.6 |
9.75 | 358.94 | 344.24 | 8.306 | 8 - 4.9 | 4.128 | 0.552 | 6.6 |
10.00 | 360.38 | 345.69 | 8.300 | 8 - 4.8 | 4.146 | 0.554 | 6.7 |
10.25 | 361.84 | 347.14 | 8.295 | 8 - 4.7 | 4.164 | 0.557 | 6.7 |
10.50 | 363.29 | 348.60 | 8.289 | 8 - 4.6 | 4.183 | 0.559 | 6.7 |
10.75 | 364.75 | 350.06 | 8.283 | 8 - 4.5 | 4.201 | 0.562 | 6.8 |
11.00 | 366.22 | 351.52 | 8.277 | 8 - 4.4 | 4.220 | 0.564 | 6.8 |
11.25 | 367.68 | 352.99 | 8.271 | 8 - 4.3 | 4.238 | 0.567 | 6.8 |
11.50 | 369.16 | 354.46 | 8.266 | 8 - 4.2 | 4.257 | 0.569 | 6.9 |
11.75 | 370.64 | 355.94 | 8.260 | 8 - 4.2 | 4.276 | 0.572 | 6.9 |
12.00 | 372.12 | 357.42 | 8.254 | 8 - 4.1 | 4.295 | 0.574 | 7.0 |
12.25 | 373.60 | 358.91 | 8.248 | 8 - 4.0 | 4.314 | 0.577 | 7.0 |
12.50 | 375.09 | 360.40 | 8.242 | 8 - 3.9 | 4.333 | 0.579 | 7.0 |
12.75 | 376.59 | 361.89 | 8.236 | 8 - 3.8 | 4.352 | 0.582 | 7.1 |
13.00 | 378.09 | 363.39 | 8.230 | 8 - 3.7 | 4.371 | 0.584 | 7.1 |
13.25 | 379.59 | 364.89 | 8.224 | 8 - 3.6 | 4.390 | 0.587 | 7.1 |
13.50 | 381.10 | 366.40 | 8.219 | 8 - 3.5 | 4.410 | 0.589 | 7.2 |
13.75 | 382.61 | 367.91 | 8.213 | 8 - 3.4 | 4.429 | 0.592 | 7.2 |
14.00 | 384.13 | 369.43 | 8.207 | 8 - 3.3 | 4.449 | 0.595 | 7.2 |
14.25 | 385.65 | 370.95 | 8.201 | 8 - 3.2 | 4.468 | 0.597 | 7.3 |
14.50 | 387.17 | 372.48 | 8.195 | 8 - 3.1 | 4.488 | 0.600 | 7.3 |
14.75 | 388.70 | 374.01 | 8.189 | 8 - 3.0 | 4.508 | 0.603 | 7.4 |
15.00 | 390.24 | 375.54 | 8.183 | 8 - 2.9 | 4.527 | 0.605 | 7.4 |
15.25 | 391.78 | 377.08 | 8.177 | 8 - 2.8 | 4.547 | 0.608 | 7.4 |
15.50 | 393.32 | 378.62 | 8.171 | 8 - 2.7 | 4.567 | 0.611 | 7.5 |
15.75 | 394.87 | 380.17 | 8.165 | 8 - 2.6 | 4.587 | 0.613 | 7.5 |
16.00 | 396.42 | 381.72 | 8.159 | 8 - 2.5 | 4.608 | 0.616 | 7.5 |
16.25 | 397.98 | 383.28 | 8.153 | 8 - 2.4 | 4.628 | 0.619 | 7.6 |
16.50 | 399.54 | 384.84 | 8.147 | 8 - 2.3 | 4.648 | 0.621 | 7.6 |
16.75 | 401.10 | 386.41 | 8.141 | 8 - 2.2 | 4.669 | 0.624 | 7.7 |
17.00 | 402.67 | 387.98 | 8.134 | 8 - 2.2 | 4.689 | 0.627 | 7.7 |
17.25 | 404.25 | 389.55 | 8.128 | 8 - 2.1 | 4.710 | 0.630 | 7.7 |
17.50 | 405.82 | 391.13 | 8.122 | 8 - 2.0 | 4.731 | 0.632 | 7.8 |
17.75 | 407.41 | 392.71 | 8.116 | 8 - 1.9 | 4.751 | 0.635 | 7.8 |
18.00 | 409.00 | 394.30 | 8.110 | 8 - 1.8 | 4.772 | 0.638 | 7.9 |
18.25 | 410.59 | 395.89 | 8.104 | 8 - 1.7 | 4.793 | 0.641 | 7.9 |
18.50 | 412.19 | 397.49 | 8.098 | 8 - 1.6 | 4.814 | 0.644 | 7.9 |
18.75 | 413.79 | 399.09 | 8.092 | 8 - 1.5 | 4.835 | 0.646 | 8.0 |
19.00 | 415.39 | 400.70 | 8.085 | 8 - 1.4 | 4.857 | 0.649 | 8.0 |
19.25 | 417.00 | 402.31 | 8.079 | 8 - 1.3 | 4.878 | 0.652 | 8.1 |
19.50 | 418.62 | 403.92 | 8.073 | 8 - 1.2 | 4.900 | 0.655 | 8.1 |
19.75 | 420.24 | 405.54 | 8.067 | 8 - 1.1 | 4.921 | 0.658 | 8.2 |
20.00 | 421.86 | 407.17 | 8.061 | 8 - 1.0 | 4.943 | 0.661 | 8.2 |
Table T.2. Accuracy Classes and Tolerances for Carbon Dioxide Liquid-Measuring Devices | ||||
Accuracy Class | Application | Acceptance Tolerance | Maintenance Tolerance | Special Test Tolerance |
2.5 | Liquid carbon dioxide | 1.5 % | 2.5 % | 2.5 % |
(Table Added 2003) (Amended 2003)
(Added 2002)
This tentative code has a trial or experimental status and is not intended to be enforced. The requirements are designed for study prior to the development and adoption of a final code. Requirements that apply to wholesale applications are under study and development by the U.S. National Work Group for the Development of Commercial Hydrogen Measurement Standards. Officials wanting to conduct an official examination of a device or system are advised to see paragraph G-A.3. Special and Unclassified Equipment.
(Tentative Code Added 2010)
Examples: quantity-value divisions may be 10, 20, 50, 100; or 0.01, 0.02, 0.05; or 0.1, 0.2, or 0.5 etc.
When applicable, the adjusting mechanism shall be readily accessible for purposes of affixing a security seal. Audit trails shall use the format set forth in Table S.3.3. Categories of Device and Methods of Sealing.
Table S.3.3. Categories of Device and Methods of Sealing | |
Categories of Device | Method of Sealing |
Category 1: No remote configuration capability. | Seal by physical seal or two event counters: one for calibration parameters and one for configuration parameters. |
Category 2: Remote configuration capability, but access is controlled by physical hardware. The device shall clearly indicate that it is in the remote configuration mode and record such message if capable of printing in this mode or shall not operate while in this mode. | The hardware enabling access for remote communication must be on-site. The hardware must be sealed using a physical seal or an event counter for calibration parameters and an event counter for configuration parameters. The event counters may be located either at the individual measuring device or at the system controller; however, an adequate number of counters must be provided to monitor the calibration and configuration parameters of the individual devices at a location. If the counters are located in the system controller rather than at the individual device, means must be provided to generate a hard copy of the information through an on-site device. |
Category 3: Remote configuration capability access may be unlimited or controlled through a software switch (e.g., password). The device shall clearly indicate that it is in the remote configuration mode and record such message if capable of printing in this mode or shall not operate while in this mode. | An event logger is required in the device; it must include an event counter (000 to 999), the parameter ID, the date and time of the change, and the new value of the parameter. A printed copy of the information must be available through the device or through another on-site device. The event logger shall have a capacity to retain records equal to 10 times the number of sealable parameters in the device, but not more than 1000 records are required. (Note: Does not require 1000 changes to be stored for each parameter.) |
Note: The use of a dispenser key or tool to access internal marking information is permitted for retail hydrogen-measuring devices.
Note: Corresponding requirements are under development and this paragraph will be revisited.
The test draft shall be made at flows representative of that during normal delivery. The pressure drop between the dispenser and the proving system shall not be greater than that for normal deliveries. The control of the flow (e.g.,
pipework or valve(s) size, etc.) shall be such that the flow of the measuring system is maintained within the range specified by the manufacturer.
The test draft shall be made at flows representative of that during normal delivery. The pressure drop between the dispenser and the proving system shall not be greater than that for normal deliveries. The control of the flow (e.g., pipework or valve(s) size, etc.) shall be such that the flow of the measuring system is maintained within the range specified by the manufacturer.
Table T.2. Accuracy Classes and Tolerances for Hydrogen Gas-Measuring Devices | |||
Accuracy Class | Application or Commodity Being Measured | Acceptance Tolerance | Maintenance Tolerance |
2.0 | Hydrogen gas as a vehicle fuel | 1.5 % | 2.0 % |
An unnecessarily remote location of a device shall not be accepted as justification for an abnormally long hose.
Appendix D. Definitions
The specific code to which the definition applies is shown in [brackets] at the end of the definition. Definitions for the General Code [1.10] apply to all codes in Handbook 44.
audit trail. - An electronic count and/or information record of the changes to the values of the calibration or configuration parameters of a device. [1.10, 2.20, 2.21, 2.24, 3.30, 3.37, 3.39, 5.56(a)]
automatic temperature or density compensation. - The use of integrated or ancillary equipment to obtain from the output of a volumetric meter an equivalent mass, or an equivalent liquid volume at the assigned reference temperature below and a pressure of 14.696 lb/in2 absolute.
Cryogenic liquids | 21 °C (70 °F) [3.34] |
Hydrocarbon gas vapor | 15 °C (60 °F) [3.33] |
Hydrogen gas | 21 °C (70 °F) [3.39] |
Liquid carbon dioxide | 21 °C (70 °F) [3.38] |
Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and Anhydrous ammonia | 15 °C (60 °F) [3.32] |
Petroleum liquid fuels and lubricants | 15 °C (60 °F) [3.30] |
calibration parameter. - Any adjustable parameter that can affect measurement or performance accuracy and, due to its nature, needs to be updated on an ongoing basis to maintain device accuracy (e.g., span adjustments, linearization factors, and coarse zero adjustments). [2.20, 2.21, 2.24, 3.30, 3.37, 3.39, 5.56(a)]
discharge hose. - A flexible hose connected to the discharge outlet of a measuring device or its discharge line. [3.30, 3.31, 3.32, 3.34, 3.37, 3.38, 3.39]
discharge line. - A rigid pipe connected to the outlet of a measuring device. [3.30, 3.31, 3.32, 3.34, 3.37, 3.39]
event counter. - A non-resettable counter that increments once each time the mode that permits changes to sealable parameters is entered and one or more changes are made to sealable calibration or configuration parameters of a device. [2.20, 2.21, 3.30, 3.37, 3.39, 5.54, 5.56(a), 5.56(b), 5.57]
event logger. - A form of audit trail containing a series of records where each record contains the number from the event counter corresponding to the change to a sealable parameter, the identification of the parameter that was changed, the time and date when the parameter was changed, and the new value of the parameter. [2.20, 2.21, 3.30, 3.37, 3.39, 5.54, 5.56(a), 5.56(b), 5.57]
indicating element. - An element incorporated in a weighing or measuring device by means of which its performance relative to quantity or money value is "read" from the device itself as, for example, an index-and-graduated-scale combination, a weighbeam-and-poise combination, a digital indicator, and the like. (Also see "primary indicating or recording element.") [1.10]
minimum measured quantity (MMQ). - The smallest quantity delivered for which the measurement is to within the applicable tolerances for that system. [3.37, 3.39]
Non-resettable totalizer. - An element interfaced with the measuring or weighing element that indicates the cumulative registration of the measured quantity with no means to return to zero. [3.30, 3.37, 3.39]
point-of-sale system. - An assembly of elements including a weighing or measuring element, an indicating element, and a recording element (and may also be equipped with a "scanner") used to complete a direct sales transaction. [2.20, 3.30, 3.32, 3.37, 3.39]
remote configuration capability. - The ability to adjust a weighing or measuring device or change its sealable parameters from or through some other device that is not itself necessary to the operation of the weighing or measuring device or is not a permanent part of that device. [2.20, 2.21, 2.24, 3.30, 3.37, 3.39, 5.56(a)]
retail device. - A measuring device primarily used to measure product for the purpose of sale to the end user. [3.30, 3.32, 3.37, 3.39]
wet hose. - A discharge hose intended to be full of product at all times. (Also see "wet-hose type.") [3.30, 3.31, 3.38, 3.39]
wet-hose type. - A type of device designed to be operated with the discharge hose full of product at all times. (Also see "wet hose.") [3.30, 3.32, 3.34, 3.37, 3.38, 3.39]
(Amended 1972)
(Amended 1972)
(Amended 1974)
If the discharge valves from two or more compartments are automatically controlled so that they can only be operated together, thus effectively connecting these compartments to one another, such compartments shall, for purposes of this paragraph, be construed to be one compartment.
Table 1. Maintenance and Acceptance Tolerances on Vehicle-Tank Compartments | ||
Nominal Capacity of Compartment | Maintenance and Acceptance Tolerances | |
Gallons | Expressed in Quarts | Expressed in Gallons |
200 or less | 2 | 0.5 |
201 to 400, inclusive | 3 | 0.75 |
401 to 600, inclusive | 4 | 1.0 |
601 to 800, inclusive | 5 | 1.25 |
801 to 1000, inclusive | 6 | 1.50 |
over 1000 | Add 1 quart per 200 gallons or fraction thereof | Add 0.25 gallon per 200 gallons or fraction thereof |
(Amended 1976)
Table 1. Minimum Thickness of Metal for Liquid Measures | ||
Nominal Capacity | Minimum Thickness | |
For Iron or Steel, Plated, or Unplated (inch) | For Copper or Aluminum (inch) | |
1 pint or less | 0.010 | 0.020 |
1 quart, 1/2 gallon, 1 gallon | 0.014 | 0.028 |
Over 1 gallon | 0.016 | 0.032 |
Table 2. Maintenance Tolerances, in Excess and in Deficiency, for Liquid Measures | ||||
Nominal Capacity | Tolerance | |||
In Excess | In Deficiency | |||
fluid drams | cubic inches | fluid drams | cubic inches | |
1/2 pt or less | 2.0 | 0.4 | 1.0 | 0.2 |
1 pt | 3.0 | 0.7 | 1.5 | 0.3 |
1 qt | 4.0 | 0.9 | 2.0 | 0.5 |
1/2 gal | 6.0 | 1.4 | 3.0 | 0.7 |
fluid ounces | cubic inches | fluid drams | cubic inches | |
1 and 11/4 gal | 1.0 | 1.8 | 4.0 | 0.9 |
11/2 gal | 1.5 | 2.7 | 6.0 | 1.4 |
fluid ounces | cubic inches | fluid ounces | cubic inches | |
2 gal | 2.0 | 3.5 | 1.0 | 1.8 |
3 and 4 gal | 4.0 | 7.0 | 2.0 | 3.6 |
5 gal | 6.0 | 11.0 | 3.0 | 5.4 |
10 gal | 10.0 | 18.0 | 5.0 | 9.0 |
(Amended 1980)
installation with its capacity as determined by the manufacturer. The capacity shall not exceed an amount that can be agitated without overflowing and that can be measured accurately with the liquid at rest. [Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1979]
(Added 1985)
(Amended 1983)
(Added 1984)
(Added 1977)
(Amended 1980)
(Added 1980)
[*Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1986]
(Amended 1985)
(Amended 1980)
(Added 2001) (Amended 2012)
(Added 2001)
(Added 1984)
(Amended 1980)
(Amended 1975)
(Added 1975)
(Amended 1979)
(Amended 1979)
(Amended 1979)
(Amended 1979)
(Amended 1979)
Table 1. Acceptance Tolerances, in Excess and in Deficiency, for Measure-Containers | ||||
Nominal Capacity | Tolerance | |||
In Excess | In Deficiency | |||
milliliters | milliliters | |||
1/4 liter or less | 10 | 5.0 | ||
1/2 liter | 15 | 7.5 | ||
1 liter | 20 | 10.0 | ||
Over 1 liter | Add per liter 10 milliliters | Add per liter 5.0 milliliters | ||
fluid drams | cubic inches | fluid drams | cubic inches | |
1/2 pint or less | 3 | 0.6 | 1.5 | 0.3 |
1 pint | 4 | 1.0 | 2.0 | 0.5 |
1 quart | 6 | 1.4 | 3.0 | 0.7 |
2 quarts | 9 | 2.0 | 4.5 | 1.0 |
3 quarts | 10 | 2.4 | 5.0 | 1.2 |
4 quarts | 12 | 2.8 | 6.0 | 1.2 |
Over 4 quarts | Add per quart 3 fluid drams | Add per quart 0.7 cubic inch | Add per quart 1.5 fluid drams | Add per quart 0.35 cubic inch |
Table 1. Design Details for Graduates | ||||
Nominal Capacity | To be Graduated Between | Value of Graduated Intervals | Number at Each Graduation Divisible by | |
milliliters | millilit | ers | milliliters | milliliters |
5 | 1 and | 5 | 1/2 | 1 |
10 | 2 and | 10 | 1 | 2 |
25 | 5 and | 25 | 5 | 5 |
50 | 10 and | 50 | 5 | 10 |
100 | 20 and | 100 | 10 | 20 |
500 | 100 and | 500 | 25 | 50 |
1000 | 200 and | 1000 | 50 | 100 |
minims | minims | minims | minims | |
60 | 15 and | 60 | 5 | 10a |
120 | 30 and | 120 | 10 | 20b |
fluid drams | fluid drams | fluid drams | fluid drams | |
4 | 1 and | 4 | 1/2 | 1 |
8 | 2 and | 8 | 1 | 2 |
fluid ounces | fluid ounces | fluid ounces | fluid ounces | |
2 | 1/2 and | 2 | 1/4 | 1/2 |
4 | 1 and | 4 | 1/2 | 1 |
8 | 2 and | 8 | 1/2 | 1 |
16 | 4 and | 16 | 1 | 2 |
32 | 8 and | 32 | 2 | 4 |
a And, in addition, at the first (15-minim) graduation. | ||||
b And, in addition, at the first (30-minim) graduation. | ||||
(Amended 1977)
Table 2. Clear Space Between Ends of Main Graduations on Double Scale Graduates | |
Inside Diameter of Graduate at the Graduations (inches) | Clear Space Between Ends of Main Graduations (inch) |
Less than 1.5 | 1/8 to 1/4 |
1.5 to 3, inclusive | 1/4 to 1/2 |
Over 3 | 3/8 to 5/8 |
Table 3. Maintenance and Acceptance Tolerances, in Excess and in Deficiency, for Graduates | |||||
Inside Diameter of Graduate | Tolerance | Inside Diameter of Graduate | Tolerance | ||
From | To But Not Including | From | To But Not Including | ||
millimeters | milliliters | inches | minims | ||
0 | 16 | 0.1 | 0 | 9/16 | 2 |
16 | 21 | 0.2 | 9/16 | 13/16 | 3 |
21 | 26 | 0.4 | 13/16 | 11/16 | 6 |
26 | 31 | 0.6 | 11/16 | 15/16 | 10 |
31 | 36 | 0.8 | 15/16 | 19/16 | 15 |
36 | 41 | 1.1 | 19/16 | 113/16 | 20 |
41 | 46 | 1.4 | 113/16 | 21/16 | 30 |
46 | 51 | 1.8 | 21/16 | 25/16 | 40 |
51 | 56 | 2.2 | 25/16 | 29/16 | 50 |
56 | 61 | 2.8 | 29/16 | 213/16 | 65 |
61 | 66 | 3.4 | 213/16 | 31/16 | 80 |
66 | 71 | 4.1 | 31/16 | 35/16 | 95 |
71 | 76 | 4.8 | 35/16 | 39/16 | 110 |
76 | 81 | 5.6 | 39/16 | 313/16 | 130 |
81 | 86 | 6.4 | 33/16 | 41/16 | 150 |
86 | 91 | 7.2 | |||
91 | 96 | 8.1 | |||
96 | 101 | 9.0 | |||
(Amended 1974)
(Added 1976)
Table 1. Minimum Top Diameters for Dry Measures other than Baskets | |
Nominal Capacity | Minimum Top Diameter Inches |
1 pint | 4 |
1 quart | 53/8 |
2 quarts | 65/8 |
1/2 peck | 81/2 |
1 peck | 107/8 |
1/2 bushel | 133/4 |
(Amended 1988)
Table 2. Maintenance Tolerances, in Excess and in Deficiency, for Dry Measures | ||
Nominal Capacity | Tolerance | |
In Excess Cubic Inches | In Deficiency Cubic Inches | |
1/32 pint or less | 0.1 | 0.05 |
1/16 pint | 0.15 | 0.1 |
1/8 pint | 0.25 | 0.15 |
1/4 pint | 0.5 | 0.3 |
1/2 pint | 1.0 | 0.5 |
1 pint | 2.0 | 1.0 |
1 quart | 3.0 | 1.5 |
2 quarts | 5.0 | 2.5 |
1/2 peck | 10.0 | 5.0 |
1 peck | 16.0 | 8.0 |
1/2 bushel | 30.0 | 15.0 |
1 bushel | 50.0 | 25.0 |
(Amended 1979)
Table 1. Maintenance and Acceptance Tolerances in Excess and in Deficiency | ||
Nominal Capacity | Tolerance | |
In Excess Cubic Inches | In Deficiency Cubic Inches | |
1/2 pint | 1 | 0.5 |
1 pint | 2 | 1.0 |
1 quart | 3 | 1.5 |
In addition, lengths may be indicated in terms of any or all of the following subdivisions: millimeters and centimeters.
In addition, lengths may be indicated in terms of any or all of the following subdivisions: 1/8 yd; 1/16 yd; inches and feet.
Digital indicators may indicate values in decimal fractions. (Amended 1977)
Table 1. Maintenance and Acceptance Tolerances for Fabric-Measuring Devices | ||||
Indication of Device (yards) | Maintenance Tolerance | Acceptance Tolerance | ||
On Under-registration (inches) | On Over-registration (inches) | On Under-registration (inches) | On Over-registration (inches) | |
2 or less | 3/8 | 1/4 | 1/4 | 1/8 |
3 | 3/8 | 5/16 | 1/4 | 5/32 |
4 | 1/2 | 5/16 | 1/4 | 5/32 |
5 | 5/8 | 3/8 | 5/16 | 3/16 |
6 | 3/4 | 3/8 | 3/8 | 3/16 |
7 and 8 | 1 | 1/2 | 1/2 | 1/4 |
9 | 11/4 | 5/8 | 5/8 | 5/16 |
10 and 11 | 11/2 | 3/4 | 3/4 | 3/8 |
12 and 13 | 13/4 | 7/8 | 7/8 | 7/16 |
14 and 15 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1/2 |
Over 15 | Add 1/8 inch per indicated yard | Add 1/16 inch per indicated yard | Add 1/16 inch per indicated yard | Add 1/32 inch per indicated yard |
(Amended 1989)
(Amended 1981)
Table 1. Maintenance and Acceptance Tolerances for Wire- and Cordage-Measuring Devices | ||
Indication of Device (feet) | Acceptance and Maintenance Tolerances | |
On Underregistration (inches) | On Overregistration (inches) | |
20 | 6 | 3 |
Over 20 to 30 | 8 | 4 |
Over 30 to 40 | 10 | 5 |
Over 40 to 50 | 12 | 6 |
Over 50 | Add 2 inches per indicated 10 feet | Add 1 inch per indicated 10 feet |
An one-meter measure may be graduated, in addition, to show 0.1 m and multiples of 0.1 m subdivisions.
A 1 -yard measure may be graduated, in addition, to show [1/3] yd and [2/3] yd subdivisions. A flexible tape may be graduated in tenths or hundredths of a foot, or both tenths and hundredths of a foot. (Any other subdivisions are allowable only on measures of special purposes and when required for such purposes.)
(Amended 1982)
Table 1. Maintenance Tolerances, in Excess and in Deficiency, for Linear Measures Except Metal Tapes | |
Nominal Interval from Zero | Tolerance |
Feet | Inch |
1/2 or less | 1/64 |
1 | 1/32 |
2 | 1/16 |
3 | 3/32 |
4 | 1/8 |
5 | 5/32 |
6 | 3/16 |
(Amended 1972)
Table 2. Maintenance and Acceptance Tolerances, in Excess and in Deficiency, for Metal Tapes | |
Nominal Interval from Zero | Tolerance |
Feet | Inch |
6 or less | 1/32 |
7 to 30, inclusive | 1/16 |
31 to 55, inclusive | 1/8 |
56 to 80, inclusive | 3/16 |
81 to 100, inclusive | 1/4 |
(Amended 1977)
(Amended 1977)
(Amended 1977)
(Added 1990)
(Amended 1977)
(Amended 1977)
(Added 1977)
(Added 1977)
(Amended 1977)
(Amended 1977)
(Amended 1977and 1987)
(Added 1987)
(Amended 1977)
(Amended 1977)
(Added 2015)
(Amended 1988)
(Amended 1977, 1986, and 1988)
(Added 1986)
(Added 1988) (Amended 1990)
(Added 2015)
Any additional information made available must not obscure the accruing total of charges for the taxi service. This additional information may be made accessible through clearly identified operational controls (e.g., keypad, button, menu, touch-screen). [Non retroactive as of January 1, 2016]
(Added 2015)
[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 2016]
(Added 2015)
(Amended 1977)
(Amended 1988)
(Amended 1988)
(Amended 1988)
- All indications of fare and extras shall be protected from unauthorized alteration or manipulation. (Amended 2015)
integral or separate recording element, shall include as a minimum, the following information when processed through the taximeter system:
Note: When processed through the taximeter or taximeter system, any adjustments (in $) to the total charge for service including discounts, credits, and tips shall also be included on the receipt.** [Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1989] *[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 2000] **[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 2016]
(Added 1988) (Amended 1999 and 2015)
(Added 1999)
information provided the meter is in the vacant condition and such information is only displayed for10 seconds, or less. If the information consists of a list of information, the list may be displayed one item after another, provided that each item is displayed for 10 seconds, or less. [Nonretroactive as of January 1, 2002]
(Added 2000)
(Added 1990)
(Amended 1988)
(Amended 1977 and 1988)
The sealing means shall be such that it is not necessary to disassemble or remove any part of the device or of the vehicle to apply or inspect the seals.
(Amended 1988 and 2000)
After restoration of power following an interruption exceeding 3 seconds, the previously displayed fare shall be displayed for a maximum of 1 minute at which time the fare shall automatically clear and the taximeter shall return to the vacant condition.* [*Nonretroactive as of January 1, 2002]
(Added 1988) (Amended 1989, 1990, and 2000)
(Added 2001)
(Amended 1977)
(Amended 1977)
(Amended 1977)
(Amended 1988)
(Amended 1988)
(Added 1988)
(Amended 1977)
(Amended 1985 and 1986)
(Amended 1977, 1988, 1990, and 1999)
(Amended 2015)
(Amended 1979 and 2015)
(Amended 2015)
(Added 1975) (Amended 1976)
(Added 2015)
(Added 2015)
(Amended 1983 and 2015)
(Added 2015)
For EVSEs in parking areas where vehicles are commonly left for extended periods, the information needed to complete any transaction in progress at the time of the power loss shall be determinable through one of the above means for at least eight hours.
(Added 2015)
In either case, there must be a clear indication on the receipt provided to the customer of the interruption, including the date and time of the interruption along with other information required under S.1.4.2. Recorded Representations, All Other Timing Devices.
(Added 2015)
(Added 2015)
(Amended 1978)
Table N.2.* Broadcast Times and Frequencies | |||
Station | Location, Latitude, Longitude | Frequency (MHz) | Times of Transmission (UTC) |
WWV | Fort Collins, Colorado 40°41' N 105°02' W | 2.5 5.0 10.0 15.0 20.0 | Continuous |
WWVH | Kauai, Hawaii 21°59' N 159°46' W | 2.5 5.0 10.0 15.0 | Continuous |
CHU | Ottawa, Canada 45°18' N 75°45' W | 3.330 7.335 14.670 14.670 | Continuous |
*From NIST Special Publication 559, "Time and Frequency Users' Manual," 1990. (Added 1988)
(Added 2015)
regi stration and underregistration shall be three seconds per hour, but not to exceed one minute per day.
(Amended 1975)
(Amended 2015)
Table T.1.3. Maintenance and Acceptance Tolerances for Parking Meters and Other Timing Devices Used to Assess Charges for Parking | ||
Maintenance and Acceptance Tolerances | ||
Nominal Time Capacity | On Overregistration | On Underregistration |
30 minutes or less | No tolerance | 10 seconds per minute, but not less than 2 minutes |
Over 30 minutes to and including 1 hour | No tolerance | 5 minutes plus 4 seconds per minute over 30 minutes |
Over 1 hour | No tolerance | 7 minutes plus 2 minutes per hour over 1 hour |
(Amended 2015)
(Amended 1976 and 2015)
(Amended 1975)
Section 5.56. was reorganized into two sections beginning with the 1997 Edition of NIST Handbook 44. This Section, 5.56.(a), applies to all NTEP grain moisture meters. It also applies to any grain moisture meter manufactured or placed into service after January 1, 1998.
(Code reorganized and renumbered 1996)
(Amended 2003)
(Added 1993)
(Added 1995)
(Amended 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, and 2003)
(Amended 1993, 1995, and 2007)
Table S.1.2. Grain Types and Multi-Class Groups Considered for Type Evaluation and Calibration and Their Minimum Acceptable Abbreviations | ||
Grain Type | Grain Class | Minimum Acceptable Abbreviation |
Barley | All-Class Barley* | BARLEY |
Six-Rowed Barley | SRB | |
Two-Rowed Barley | TRB | |
Corn | --- | CORN |
Grain Sorghum | --- | SORG or MILO |
Oats | --- | OATS |
Rice | All-Class Rough Rice* | RGHRICE |
Long Grain Rough Rice | LGRR | |
Medium Grain Rough Rice | MGRR | |
Small Oil Seeds (under consideration) | --- | --- |
Soybeans | --- | SOYB |
Sunflower seed (Oil) | --- | SUNF |
Wheat | All-Class Wheat* | WHEAT |
Durum Wheat | DURW | |
Hard Red Spring Wheat | HRSW | |
Hard Red Winter Wheat | HRWW | |
Hard White Wheat | HDWW | |
Soft Red Winter Wheat | SRWW | |
Soft White Wheat | SWW | |
Wheat Excluding Durum* | WHTEXDUR | |
Note: Grain Types marked with an asterisk (*) are "Multi-Class Calibrations." [Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1998]
(Table Added 1993) (Amended 1995, 1998, and 2007)
(Amended 2003)
(Added 1993) (Amended 1995)
(Amended 2003)
(Added 1993) (Amended 1995)
(Added 1988)
(Added 1988) (Amended 1994)
(Added 1993) (Amended 1995 and 2003)
(Added 1993) (Amended 1995)
[Note: Only the manufacturer or the manufacturer's designated service agency may make standardization adjustments on moisture meters. This does not preclude the possibility of the operator installing manufacturer-specified calibration constants under the instructions of the manufacturer or its designated service agency.] Standardization adjustments (not to be confused with grain calibrations) are those physical adjustments or software parameters which make meters of like type respond identically to the grain(s) being measured. [Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1999]
(Added 1994) (Amended 1998)
Table S.2.5. Categories of Device and Methods of Sealing | |
Categories of Device | Methods of Sealing |
Category 1: No remote configuration capability. | Seal by physical seal or two event counters: one for calibration parameters (000 to 999) and one for configuration parameters (000 to 999). If equipped with event counters, the device must be capable of displaying, or printing through the device or through another on-site device, the contents of the counters. |
Category 2: Remote configuration capability, but access is controlled by physical hardware. A device shall clearly indicate that it is in the remote configuration mode and shall not be capable of operating in the measure mode while enabled for remote configuration. | The hardware enabling access for remote communication must be at the device and sealed using a physical seal or two event counters: one for calibration parameters (000 to 999) and one for configuration parameters (000 to 999). If equipped with event counters, the device must be capable of displaying, or printing through the device or through another on-site device, the contents of the counters. |
Category 3: Remote configuration capability access may be unlimited or controlled through a software switch (e.g., password). When accessed for the purpose of modifying sealable parameters, the device shall clearly indicate that it is in the configuration mode and shall not be capable of operating in the measuring mode. | An event logger is required in the device; it must include an event counter (000 to 999), the parameter ID, the date and time of the change, and the new value of the parameter (for calibration changes consisting of multiple constants, the calibration version number may be used rather than the calibration constants). A printed copy of the information must be available through the device or through another on-site device. The event logger shall have a capacity to retain records equal to 25 times the number of sealable parameters in the device, but not more than 1000 records are required. (Note: Does not require 1000 changes to be stored for each parameter.) |
Category 3a: No remote capability, but operator is able to make changes that affect the metrological integrity of the device (e.g., slope, bias, etc.) in normal operation. *When accessed for the purpose of modifying sealable parameters, the device shall clearly indicate that it is in the configuration mode and shall not be capable of operating in the measuring mode. | Same as Category 3 |
Category 3b: No remote capability, but access to metrological parameters is controlled through a software switch (e.g., password). *When accessed for the purpose of modifying sealable parameters, the device shall clearly indicate that it is in the configuration mode and shall not be capable of operating in the measuring mode. | Same as Category 3 |
[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1999] [*Nonretroactive as of January 1, 2014] (Amended 1998 and 2013)
Note: Zero-setting and test point adjustments are considered to affect metrological characteristics and must be sealed. (Added 1993) (Amended 1995 and 1997)
(Added 1994) (Amended 1995 and 2003)
(Amended 2003)
(Added 1984)
(Amended 1992, 2001, and 2003)
(need not exceed three) of each grain or seed type for which the device is used, and for each grain or seed type shall include the following:
(Added 2003)
(Amended 1986, 1989, and 2003)
(Added 2001)
Table T.2.1. Acceptance and Maintenance Tolerances Air Oven Reference Method. Tolerances are expressed as a fraction of the percent moisture content of the official grain sample, together with a minimum tolerance.
(Amended 2001)
Table T.2.1. Acceptance and Maintenance Tolerances Air Oven Reference Method | ||
Type of Grain, Class, or Seed | Tolerance | Minimum Tolerance |
Corn, oats, rice, sorghum, sunflower | 0.05 of the percent moisture content | 0.8 % in moisture content |
All other cereal grains and oil seeds | 0.04 of the percent moisture content | 0.7 % in moisture content |
(Amended 2001)
(Added 2001)
Table T.2.2. Acceptance and Maintenance Tolerances Meter to Like-Type Meter Method | |
Sample Reference Moisture | Tolerance |
Up to 22 % | 0.5 % in moisture content |
(Added 2001)
(Amended 1992 and 2003)
Table T.3. Acceptance and Maintenance Tolerances Test Weight per Bushel | |
Type of Grain or Seed | Tolerance (Pounds Per Bushel) |
Corn, oats | 0.8 |
All wheat classes | 0.5 |
Soybeans, all barley classes, all rice classes, sunflower, sorghum | 0.7 |
(Added 2003)
(Amended 2003)
(Amended 1988)
(Amended 1993, 1995, 2003, and 2013)
(Added 1988)
(Added 1988)
(Added 1988)
Section 5.56. was reorganized into two sections beginning with the 1997 Edition of NIST Handbook 44. This Section, 5.56.(b), applies to all non-NTEP grain moisture meters manufactured or placed into service before January 1, 1998.
(Code reorganized and renumbered 1996)
When the index of an indicator extends along the entire length of a graduation, that portion of the index of the indicator that may be brought into coincidence with the graduation shall be of the same width as the graduation throughout the length of the index that coincides with the graduation.
The operating range shall specify the following:
Examples of clearly indicating these conditions include an error indication, flashing the displayed moisture value, or blanking the display. [Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1989]
(Amended 1986 and 1988)
[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1989]
(Added 1988)
The level-indicating means shall be readable without removing any meter parts requiring a tool. [Nonretroactive as of January 1, 1989]
(Added 1988) (Amended 1994)
(Added 1988)
(Amended 1988)
(Amended 1992)
(Amended 1986 and 1989)
(Amended 1988)
43 These tolerances do not apply to tests in which grain moisture meters are the transfer standards.
Table T.2. Acceptance and Maintenance Tolerances for Grain Moisture Meters | ||
Type of Grain or Seed | Tolerance | Minimum Tolerance |
Corn, oats, rice, sorghum, sunflower | 0.05 of the percent moisture content | 0.8 % in moisture content |
All other cereal grains and oil seeds | 0.04 of the percent moisture content | 0.7 % in moisture content |
(Amended 1992 and 2003)
(Added 1988)
(Amended 1988)
(Added 1988)
(Added 1988)
(Added 1988)
(Added 1988)
(Added 2001)
(Added 2001)
(Amended 2001 and 2003)
expressed on an "as is" moisture basis. Ground grain analyzers must ALWAYS display and record a moisture measurement for "as is" content results (except moisture).
(Amended 2001 and 2003)
(Added 2003) [Nonretroactive as of January 1, 2003]
(Added 2001)
recording the type or class or multi-class group of grain and the constituent(s) to be measured. The means to select the grain type or class or multi-class group and the constituent(s) shall be readily visible and the type or class or multi-class group of grain and the constituent(s) selected shall be clearly and definitely identified in letters (such as HRWW, HRSW, WHEAT, etc., or PROT, etc.). A symbol to identify the display of the type or class or multi-class group of grain and constituent(s) selected is permitted provided that it is clearly defined adjacent to the display. Minimum acceptable abbreviations are listed in Table S.1.2. Grain Types and Multi-Class Groups Considered for Type Evaluation and Calibration and Their Minimum Acceptable Abbreviations. [Nonretroactive as of January 1, 2003]
If more than one calibration is included for a given grain type, the calibrations must be clearly distinguished
from one another.
[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 2004]
(Amended 2003 and 2007)
Table S.1.2. Grain Types and Multi-Class Groups Considered for Type Evaluation and Calibration and Their Minimum Acceptable Abbreviations | ||
Grain Type | Grain Class | Minimum Acceptable Abbreviation |
Barley | Two-Rowed Barley | TRB |
Six-Rowed Barley | SRB | |
All-Class Barley* | BARLEY | |
Corn | --- | CORN |
Soybeans | --- | SOYB |
Wheat | All-Class Wheat* | WHEAT |
Durum Wheat | DURW | |
Hard Red Spring Wheat | HRSW | |
Hard Red Winter Wheat | HRWW | |
Hard White Wheat | HDWW | |
Soft Red Winter Wheat | SRWW | |
Soft White Wheat | SWW | |
Wheat Excluding Durum* | WHTEXDUR | |
[Note: Grain Types marked with an asterisk (*) are "Multi-Class Calibrations"] [Nonretroactive as of January 1, 2003]
(Table Amended 2001 and 2007)
range of the device has been exceeded. The statement of the operating range shall be specified in the operator's manual and shall operate as follows:
(Amended 2001)
and the sample temperature exceeds the specified difference. The requirements of this subsection (d) are not applicable to ground grain analyzers. [Nonretroactive and effective as of January 1, 2003]
[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 2003]
Note: Only the manufacturer or the manufacturer's designated service agency may make calibration transfer or slope adjustments on near-infrared grain analyzers and, except for instrument failure and repair, only during a prescribed period of time during the year. This does not preclude the possibility of the operator installing the manufacturer-specified calibration constants or standardization parameters under the instructions of the manufacturer or the manufacturer's designated service agency. Nor does it preclude operator bias adjustments when made under the conditions specified in UR.2.8. Slope and Bias Adjustments. [Nonretroactive and effective as of January 1, 2003]
(Note added 1995) (Amended 1995)
[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 2003]
(Amended 2001)
counter (000 to 999), the parameter ID, the date and time of the change, and the new value of the parameter (for calibration changes consisting of multiple constants, the calibration version number may be used rather than the calibration constants.)
A printed copy of the information must be available through the device or through another on-site device. The event logger shall have a capacity to retain records equal to 25 times the number of sealable parameters in the device, but not more than 1000 records are required. (Note: Does not require 1000 changes to be stored for each parameter.) [Nonretroactive as of January 1, 2003]
(Amended 1997)
[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 2003]
Five samples per grain type or class shall be used to check instrument performance. Each sample will be analyzed once. One of the samples will be analyzed an additional four times to test instrument repeatability. For ground grain instruments, the ground sample will be repacked four times. A new grind is not required. Test results must be converted to the standard moisture bases shown in Table N.1.1. Constant Moisture Basis for Type Evaluation and Field Inspection before applying the tolerances of Table T.2. Acceptance and Maintenance Tolerances for NIR Grain Analyzers. Test results on whole grain analyzers that produce results on an "as is" basis without displaying or recording a moisture value shall be converted to the standard moisture bases shown in Table N.1.1. Constant Moisture Basis for Type Evaluation and Field Inspection using sample moisture values determined with the facility's moisture meter (which must be certified for commercial use).
(Amended 2001)
Table N.1.1. Constant Moisture Basis for Type Evaluation and Field Inspection | ||
Grain Type or Class | Constituents(s) | Moisture Basis |
Durum Wheat, Hard Red Spring Wheat, Hard Red Winter Wheat, Hard White Wheat, Soft Red Winter Wheat, Soft White Wheat | Protein | 12 % |
Soybeans | Protein Oil | 13 % |
Two-rowed Barley Six-rowed Barley | Protein | 0 % (dry basis) |
Corn | Protein Oil Starch | 0 % (dry basis) |
[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 2003] (Table Added 2001)
Constituent values shall be assigned to test samples by the Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA). Tolerances shall be applied to individual sample measurements, the average of individual measurements on each of the five test samples, and the maximum difference (range) in results for five analyses on one of the test samples.
(Amended 2001)
(Amended 2001and 2003)
(Amended 2001)
Table T.2. Acceptance and Maintenance Tolerances for NIR Grain Analyzers | ||||
Type or Class of Grain | Constituent | Individual Samples (percent) | Average for Five Samples (percent) | Range for Five Retests (percent) |
Durum Wheat, Hard Red Spring Wheat, Hard Red Winter Wheat, Hard White Wheat, Soft Red Winter Wheat, Soft White Wheat | protein | 0.60 | 0.40 | 0.40 |
Soybeans | protein | 0.80 | 0.60 | 0.60 |
oil | 0.70 | 0.50 | 0.50 | |
Two-rowed Barley Six-rowed Barley | protein | 0.70 | 0.50 | 0.50 |
Corn | protein | 0.80 | 0.60 | 0.60 |
oil | 0.70 | 0.50 | 0.50 | |
starch | 1.00 | 0.80 | 0.80 | |
(Amended 2001)
(Amended 2001)
(Amended 2001)
[Nonretroactive as of January 1, 2003]
(Amended 2001)
(Amended 2001)
44 Established error must be known.
in the set, reference values, initial instrument results (except in the cases of instrument failure and repair), and instrument results after calibration adjustment or instrument repair.
(Amended 1995)
(Amended 2008)
Examples: device divisions may be 0.01, 0.02, 0.05; 0.1, 0.2, or 0.5; 1, 2, or 5; 10, 20, 50, or 100; 0.5, 0.25, 0.125, 0.0625, etc.
(Added 2008)
(Amended 2004)
Table S.1.6. Required Information to be Provided by Multiple Dimension Measuring Systems | ||||
Information | Column I1 | Column II1 | Column III | |
Provided by device | Provided by invoice or other means | Provided by invoice or other means as specified in contractual agreement | ||
Customer present | Customer not present | |||
1. Device identification2 | D or P | P | P | P or A |
2. Error message (when applicable) | D or P | P | N/A | N/A |
3. Hexahedron dimensions3 | D or P | P | P | P or A |
4. Hexahedron volume (if used)3 | D or P | P | P | P or A |
5. Actual weight (if used)3 | D or P | P | P | P or A |
6. Tare (if used)3 | D or P | N/A | N/A | N/A |
7. Hexahedron measurement statement4 | D or P or M | P | P | P or G |
A = AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST BY CUSTOMER5 | ||||
D = DISPLAYED | ||||
G = PUBLISHED GUIDELINES OR CONTRACTS | ||||
M = MARKED | ||||
N/A = NOT APPLICABLE | ||||
P = PRINTED or RECORDED IN A MEMORY DEVICE and AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST BY CUSTOMER5 | ||||
Notes: | ||||
1 As a minimum all devices or systems must be able to meet either column I or column II. | ||||
2 This is only required in systems where more than one device or measuring element is being used. | ||||
3 Some devices or systems may not utilize all of these values; however as a minimum either hexahedron dimensions or hexahedron volume must be displayed or printed. | ||||
4 This is an explanation that the dimensions and/or volume shown are those of the smallest hexahedron in which the object that was measured may be enclosed rather than those of the object itself. | ||||
5 The information "available upon request by customer" shall be retained by the party having issued the invoice for at least 30 calendar days after the date of invoicing. | ||||
(Amended 2004)
Table S.1.11. Categories of Devices and Methods of Sealing for Multiple Dimension Measuring Systems | |
Categories of Devices | Methods of Sealing |
Category 1: No remote configuration. | Seal by physical seal or two event counters: one for calibration parameters and one for configuration parameters. |
Category 2: Remote configuration capability, but access is controlled by physical hardware. Device shall clearly indicate that it is in the remote configuration mode and record such message if capable of printing in this mode. | The hardware enabling access for remote communication must be at the device and sealed using a physical seal or two event counters: one for calibration parameters and one for configuration parameters. |
Category 3: Remote configuration capability access may be unlimited or controlled through a software switch (e.g., password). | An event logger is required in the device; it must include an event counter (000 to 999), the parameter ID, the date and time of the change, and the new value of the parameter. A printed copy of the information must be available through the device or through another on-site device. The event logger shall have a capacity to retain records equal to 10 times the number of sealable parameters in the device, but not more than 1000 records are required. (Note: Does not require 1000 changes to be stored for each parameter.) |
Note: This requirement does not apply to individual devices that use multiple emitters/sensors within a device in combination to measure objects in the same measurement field.
(Amended 2004)
Devices. - Multiple dimension measuring devices, main elements of multiple dimension measuring devices when not contained in a single enclosure for the entire dimension/volume measuring device, and other components shall be marked as specified in Table S.4.1.a. and explained in the accompanying notes, Table S.4.1.b. Multiple Dimension Measuring Systems Notes for Table S.4.1.a.
Table S.4.1.a. Marking Requirements for Multiple Dimension Measuring Systems | ||||
To Be Marked With Jl | Multiple Dimension Measuring Equipment | |||
Multiple Dimension Measuring Device and Indicating Element in Same Housing | Indicating Element not Permanently Attached to Multiple Dimension Measuring Element | Multiple Dimension Measuring Element not Permanently Attached to the Indicating Element | Other Equipment (1) | |
Manufacturer's ID | x | x | x | x |
Model Designation | x | x | x | x |
Serial Number and Prefix | x | x | x | x (2) |
Certificate of Conformance Number (8) | x | x | x | x (8) |
Minimum and Maximum Dimensions for Each Axis (3) | x | x | x | |
Value of Measuring Division, d (for each axis and range) | x | x | x | |
Temperature Limits (4) | x | x | x | |
Minimum & Maximum speed (5) | x | x | x | |
Special Application (6) | x | x | x | |
Limitation of Use (7) | x | x | x | |
Table S.4.1.b. Multiple Dimension Measuring Systems Notes for Table S.4.1.a. |
1. Necessary to the dimension and/or volume measuring system, but having no effect on the measuring value, e.g., auxiliary remote display, keyboard, etc. |
2. Modules without "intelligence" on a modular system (e.g., printer, keyboard module, etc.) are not required to have serial numbers. |
3. The minimum and maximum dimensions (using upper or lower case type) shall be marked. For example: |
Length: min _______ max _______ |
Width: min _______ max _______ |
Height: min _______ max _______ |
4. Required if the range is other than - 10 °C to 40 °C (14 °F to 104 °F). |
5. Multiple dimension measuring devices, which require that the object or device be moved relative to one another, shall be marked with the minimum and maximum speeds at which the device is capable of making measurements that are within the applicable tolerances. |
6. A device designed for a special application rather than general use shall be conspicuously marked with suitable words visible to the operator and the customer restricting its use to that application. |
7. Materials, shapes, structures, combination of object dimensions, speed, spacing, minimum protrusion size, or object orientations that are inappropriate for the device or those that are appropriate. |
8. Required only if a Certificate of Conformance has been issued for the equipment. |
(Amended 2004 and 2008)
(Added 2008)
The dimension of all test objects shall be verified using a reference standard that is traceable to NIST (or equivalent national laboratory) and meet the tolerances expressed in NIST Handbook 44 Fundamental Considerations, paragraph 3.2. (i.e., one-third of the smallest tolerance applied to the device).
(Added 2004)
(Added 2008)
(Amended 2008 and 2012)
(Added 2004)
(Added 2004)
(Amended 2004)
(Added 2008)
(Amended 2008)
(Added 2004)
Table UR.5. Customer Information Provided | |||
Information | No Contractual Agreement | Contractual Agreement | |
Customer Present | Customer not Present | ||
1. Object identification | N/A | P | P or A |
2. Billing method (scale or dimensional weight if used) | D or P | P | P or A |
3. Billing rate or rate chart | D or P or A | P or G or A | P or A |
4. Dimensional weight (if used) | P | P | P or A |
5. Conversion factor (if dimensional weight is used) | D or P or A | P | P or G |
6. Dimensional weight statement1 (if dimensional weight is used) | D or P | P | P or G |
7. Total price | P | P | P or A |
A = Available upon Request by Customer2 | |||
D = Displayed | |||
G = Published Guidelines or Contracts | |||
M = Marked | |||
N/A = Not Applicable | |||
P = Printed | |||
Notes: | |||
1 This is an explanation that the dimensional weight is not a true weight but is a calculated value obtained by applying a conversion factor to the hexahedron dimensions or volume of the object. | |||
2 The information "available upon request by customer" shall be retained by the party having issued the invoice for at least 30 calendar days after the date of invoicing. | |||
(Added 2004)
Agency No. 209.02
and/or Devices
The status of Section 5.59. Electronic Livestock, Meat, and Poultry Evaluation Systems and/or Devices was changed from "tentative" to "permanent" effective January 1, 2013.
(Added 2005) (Amended 2012)
verification of accuracy. Officials may also conduct official tests using the on-site testing standards or other appropriate standards belonging to the jurisdiction with statutory authority over the device or system.
Table T.1. Tolerances | |
Individual linear measurement of a single constituent | ± 1 mm (0.039 in) |
Measurement of area | ± 1.6 cm (0.25 in2 ) |
For measurements of other constituents | As specified in ASTM Standard F2343 |
Uniform Laws And Regulations In the area of legal metrology and engine fuel quality
Foreword
This handbook compiles the latest Uniform Laws and Regulations and related interpretations and guidelines adopted by the National Conference on Weights and Measures, Inc. (NCWM). At the 1983 Annual Meeting, the NCWM voted to change the title of Handbook 130 and the title of the Laws and Regulations compiled in this handbook. The former title of the handbook was "Model State Laws and Regulations." "Model State" was to be changed to "Uniform" in the title to reflect that these Laws and Regulations are (a) intended to be standards rather than just guidelines, and (b) intended for adoption by political subdivisions other than states when deemed appropriate.
This edition includes amendments approved at the 100th NCWM Annual Meetings in 2015. The NCWM recommends adoption and promulgation by weights and measures jurisdictions of these Uniform Laws and Regulations as updated in this handbook.
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has the statutory responsibility to promote "cooperate with the states in securing uniformity in weights and measures laws and methods of inspection." In partial fulfillment of this responsibility, the Institute is pleased to publish these recommendations of the NCWM.
This handbook promotes the primary use of the International System of Units (SI) by citing SI units before U.S. customary units where both units appear together, and by placing separate sections containing requirements for SI units before corresponding sections containing requirements for customary units. In some cases, however, trade practice is currently restricted to the use of customary units; therefore, some requirements in this handbook will continue to specify only customary units until the NCWM achieves a broad consensus on the permitted metric units.
Committee Members
Committee on Laws and Regulations of the 100th Conference
Tim Lloyd, Montana
John Albert, Missouri
Richard Lewis, Georgia
Kristin Macey, California
Louis Sakin, Towns of Hopkinton/Northbridge, Massachusetts
Associate Membership Committee Representative: Steve Grabski, Walmart Stores, Inc.
Canadian Technical Advisor: Lance Robertson, Measurement Canada
NIST Technical Advisors: Lisa Warfield, David Sefcik
NIST Technical Advisor on the Uniform Regulation for National Type Evaluation: Tina Butcher
Past Chairmen of the Committee
Conference | Chairman | Conference | Chairman |
41 | G. H. Leithauser, MD | 70 | E. Skluzacek, MN |
42 | F. M. Greene, CT | 71 | D. Stagg, AL |
43 | F. M. Greene, CT | 72 | A. Nelson, CT |
44 | G. L. Johnson, KY | 73 | K. Simila, OR |
45 | R. Williams, NY | 74 | K. Simila, OR |
46 | J. H. Lewis, WA | 75 | S. B. Colbrook, IL |
47 | J. H. Lewis, WA | 76 | A. Nelson, CT |
48 | J. H. Lewis, WA | 77 | B. Bloch, CA |
49 | J. H. Lewis, WA | 78 | F. Clem, OH |
50 | L. Barker, WV | 79 | B. Bloch, CA |
51 | L. Barker, WV | 80 | S. Rhoades, AZ |
52 | M. Jennings, TN | 81 | L. Straub, MD |
53 | W. A. Kerlin, CA | 82 | S. Millay, ME |
54 | J. F. Lyles, VA | 83 | K. Angell, WV |
55 | J. F. Lyles, VA | 84 | K. Angell, WV |
56 | S. D. Andrews, FL | 85 | S. Morrison, CA |
57 | S. D. Andrews, FL | 86 | R. Williams, TN |
58 | S. D. Andrews, FL | 87 | P. D'Errico, NJ |
59 | R. M. Leach, MI | 88 | D. Johannes, CA |
60 | R. L. Thompson, MD | 89 | D. Johannes, CA |
61 | C. H. Vincent, Dallas, TX | 90 | J. Gomez, NM |
62 | C. H. Vincent, Dallas, TX | 91 | J. Benavides, TX |
63 | J. T. Bennett, CT | 92 | J. Cassidy, MA |
64 | R. W. Probst, WI | 93 | Vicky Dempsey, OH |
65 | D. I. Offner, MO | 94 | Joe Gomez, NM |
66 | J. J. Bartfai, NY | 95 | Joe Benavides, TX |
67 | J. J. Bartfai, NY | 96 | John Gaccione, NY |
68 | J. J. Bartfai, NY | 97 | J. Cardin, WI |
69 | W. R. Mossberg, CA | 98 | J. Cardin, WI |
99 | R. Johnson, NM |
2016 Amendments
The following table lists the laws and regulations amended by the 100th (2015) National Conference on Weights and Measures (NCWM). As appropriate, the text on the cited pages indicates the changes to the law or regulation, section, or paragraph as "Added 2015" or "Amended 2015."
Law or Regulation | L&R Committee Item No. | Section | Action | Page |
Introduction | BOD 120-8 | A. Source; and C. Amendments | Amended | 1 |
D. Submission of Agenda Items - | Deleted; remaining paragraphs reordered | 1 to 3 | ||
Preamble; | ||||
E. Submission Process; | ||||
F. Procedures; | ||||
G. Criteria for Inclusion on the NCWM | ||||
Committee's Agenda; H. Exceptions to Policy for Submission of Items to a NCWM Committee Agenda; Submission of "Priority" Items; | ||||
I. Committee Agenda; | ||||
J. Interim Meeting; | ||||
K. Interim Meeting Report; | ||||
L. Classifications for Agenda Items; | ||||
M. Comments on Interim Reports; and | ||||
N. Annual Meeting | ||||
Uniform Packaging and Labeling Regulation | 231-1 | 6.4. Terms: Weight, Measure, Volume, or Count | Amended | 61 |
6.5. SI Units: Mass, Measure | Amended | 62 | ||
6.7. U.S. Customary Units: Weight, Measure | Amended | 65 |
2016 Editorial Changes
Law or Regulation | Section | Action | Page |
Introduction | Form 15 | Updated Form | 4 |
II. Uniformity of Laws and Regulations | C. Summary of State Laws and Regulations in Weights and Measures (as of August 1, 2015) | Updated tables and tallies | 6 to 9 |
IV. Uniform Regulations | A. Uniform Packaging and Labeling Regulation | 11.25. Pillows, Cushions, Mattress Pads, Sleeping Bags, and Similar Products - updated the organization reference and web address. | 84 |
B. Uniform Regulation for the Method of Sale of Commodities | 2.5.1. Declaration of Quantity - added "terms of" weight units . . .. | 113 | |
C. Uniform Unit Pricing Regulation | 1. Background Added a reference to NIST SP1181, "Unit Pricing Guide, A Best Practice Approach to Unit Pricing." | 137 | |
G. Uniform Engine Fuels and Automotive Lubricants Regulation | 2.10. Ethanol Flex Fuel - Corrected ASTM D5798reference. | 179 | |
2.2.1. Premium Diesel Fuel changed "microns" to "micrometers". | 180 | ||
3.13.1.3. Engine Service Category - corrected omission of "European Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA), "European Oil Sequences," | 186 | ||
V. Examination Procedure and Price Verification | Replaced Price Verification Tally Sheet - Food Stores and Price Verification Tally Sheet - Department Stores | 220 and 221 | |
VI. NCWM Policy, Interpretations, and Guidelines | 2.6.8. TTB (formerly known as BATF) - Updated the reference. | 256 | |
2.6.11. Good Quantity Control Practices - Item 6, Corrected the references to tables in NIST Handbook 133. | 265 |
The Uniform Laws and Regulations1 in this handbook comprise all of those adopted by the National Conference on Weights and Measures, Inc. (NCWM). Contact NCWM at:
1135 M Street, Suite 100 Phone: (402) 434-4880 E-mail: infor@ncwm.net
Lincoln, NE 68508 Fax: (402) 434-4878 URL: www.ncwm.net
The NCWM is supported by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), which provides its Executive Secretary and publishes its documents. NIST also develops technical publications for use by weights and measures agencies; these publications may subsequently be endorsed or adopted by the NCWM.
All of the Uniform Laws and Regulations given herein are recommended by NCWM for adoption by states when reviewing or amending their official laws and regulations in the areas covered. A similar recommendation is made with regard to the local jurisdictions within a state in the absence of the promulgation of such laws and regulations at the state level.
(Amended 2015)
The purpose of these Uniform Laws and Regulations is to achieve, to the maximum extent possible, uniformity in weights and measures laws and regulations among the various states and local jurisdictions in order to facilitate trade between the states, permit fair competition among businesses, and provide uniform and sufficient protection to all consumers in commercial weights and measures practices.
Proposed amendments to NIST Handbook 130 are deliberated and developed by NCWM's Committee on Laws and Regulations before presentation to the general membership for vote. In some instances amendments that significantly affect other NIST Handbooks may be processed jointly by two or more committees.
Amendments to the handbooks are made in accordance with NCWM procedures and policies. The process begins at the regional weights and measures association meetings in the fall of each year and it is culminated at the NCWM Annual Meeting in July. After passing through one or more of the regional associations, the proposed amendment is placed on the agenda of the appropriate NCWM committee for consideration at the NCWM's Interim Meeting in January, and after final deliberation and development by the committee the amendment may be presented to the membership for a vote at the annual NCWM meeting in July. NCWM policy provides for exceptions to the process to accommodate urgent or priority items. NIST staff provides technical assistance and advice throughout the process.
The policy is available on the NCWM website at www.ncwm.net. For information on the regional weights and measures associations, visit www.ncwm.net/resources/regional associations.
(Amended 2015)
1 When referring to the Uniform Laws and Regulations in Handbook 130, Laws and Regulations will be capitalized. When referring to general federal or state laws and regulations, no capitalization will be used.
(Amended 1998)
NIST may not publish a new edition if it determines that it is reasonable to forego an annual publication (e.g., amendments were minor or editorial in nature) to save printing, mailing, and other costs. If this occurs, NIST will issue a notice that the current edition is still valid and will explain its action. (Note: Section numbering may be changed from one edition of the handbook to another to accommodate additions or deletions.) (Amended 2008)
Beginning in 1971, amendments or additions to sections in the Uniform Laws and Regulations are delineated at the end of each section (e.g., "amended 1982") as a service to those states that are planning to update their own laws or regulations. The references to each revision and the year will enable legislators and rule makers to study the actual wording and rationale for changes (appearing in the Annual Report of NCWM for that year) and subsequently adopt changes in their own laws and regulations, modeling them after the Uniform Laws and Regulations.
Unless otherwise specified, the new or amended regulations listed in this section are intended to become effective and subject to enforcement on January 1 of the year following adoption by NCWM.
In most references made to specific sections or subsections in this handbook, the word "Section" is used, followed by the section number.
The "International System of Units," "SI," or "SI Units" means the modernized metric system as established in 1960 by the General Conference on Weights and Measures (GIPM). In 1988, Congress amended the Metric Conversion Act of 1975 (see Section 5164 of Public Law 100-418) to declare that it is the policy of the United States to designate the metric system of measurement as the preferred measurement system for U.S. trade and commerce, and it further defined "the metric system of measurement" to be the International System as established by the GIPM and as interpreted or modified for the United States by the Secretary of Commerce. [See Metric Conversion Law 15 U.S.C. 205, NIST Special Publication 330 - The International System of Units (SI); NIST Special Publication 814 - Metric System of Measurement; and, Interpretation of the International System of Units for the United States in Federal Register of May 16, 2008, ("Federal Register" Vol. 73, No. 96) or subsequent revisions]. In 1992, Congress amended the Federal Fair Packaging and Labeling Act to require certain consumer commodities to include the appropriate SI units along with the U.S. customary units in their quantity statements.
(Added 1993) (Revised 2008)
The mass of an object is a measure of the object's inertial property, or the amount of matter it contains. The weight of an object is a measure of the force exerted on the object by gravity, or the force needed to support it. The pull of gravity on the earth gives an object a downward acceleration of about 9.8 m/s2. In trade and commerce and everyday use, the term "weight" is often used as a synonym for "mass." The "net mass" or "net weight" declared on a label indicates that the package contains a specific amount of commodity exclusive of wrapping materials. The use of the term "mass" is predominant throughout the world, and is becoming increasingly common in the United States.
(Added 1993)
When used in this handbook, the term "weight" means "mass." The term "weight" appears when U.S. customary units are cited or when both U.S. customary and SI units are included in a requirement. The terms "mass" or "masses" are used when only SI units are cited in a requirement. The following note appears where the term "weight" is first used in a law or regulation.
NOTE 1: When used in this law (or regulation), the term "weight" means "mass." (See paragraphs K. "Mass" and Weight and L. Use of the Terms "Mass" and "Weight" in Section I. Introduction of NIST Handbook 130 for an explanation of these terms.)
(Added 1993)
Form 15: Proposal to Amend Handbooks
The goal of the National Conference on Weights and Measures (NCWM) with respect to these Uniform Laws and Regulations is to achieve their acceptance in all states and local jurisdictions that have authority over such matters. The Conference stands ready to assist any jurisdiction in any way possible in securing adoption.
The following pages list, by state, information regarding the adoption of the Uniform Laws and Regulations. The tabulated data indicates if the state has adopted the Uniform Law or Regulation by reference, including subsequent amendments (thereby operating under the most recent version of the recommended regulation in this handbook), or if the state has used some version of the NCWM recommended law or regulation as guidance in developing a similar law or regulation.
The information is verified with each state annually; the entries represent the status of the state adoption at the time of the survey.
Unless a state adopts the recommended regulations and subsequent amendments and revisions, there may be variation in the actual degree of adoption. Adoption, implementation, and clarification may be determined by comparing a state law with the Uniform Law, section-by-section, or by contacting the state.
(Amended 1997 and 1998)
This is an overview of the status of adoption of NCWM standards by the states. In earlier editions of Handbook 130, state laws and regulations were compared to the NCWM standard from the prior year. This did not indicate whether the standard as printed in the current edition had been adopted by any given state. The table lists those states that adopt NCWM-recommended updates automatically ("YES"); see Sections 4 through 10 and paragraph 12(m) of the Uniform Weights and Measures Law. This means the state's regulations are current with those printed in this edition of the handbook. If a state has adopted an NCWM recommendation in whole or in part from a particular year, but updates are not incorporated automatically, a lower case "yes" is shown. For additional information on the status of adoption, please contact the appropriate state officials.
as adopted by The National Conference on Weights and Measures*
Recognition of the need for uniformity in weights and measures laws and regulations among the states was first noted at the second Annual Meeting of the National Conference on Weights and Measures (NCWM) in April 1906. In the following year, basic outlines of a "Model State Weights and Measures Law" were developed. The first "Model Law," as such, was formally adopted by the Conference in 1911.
Through the years, almost without exception, each state has relied upon the NCWM Weights and Measures Law when the state first enacted comprehensive weights and measures legislation. This has led to a greater degree of uniformity in the basic weights and measures requirements throughout the country.
The original Law was regularly amended to provide for new developments in commercial practices and technology. This resulted in a lengthy and cumbersome document and the need for a simplification of the basic weights and measures provisions. The 1971 NCWM adopted a thoroughly revised, simplified, modernized version of the "Model State Weights and Measures Law." This Law now can serve as a framework for all the many concerns in weights and measures administration and enforcement.
The title of the Law was changed by the 1983 NCWM. Amendments or revisions to the Law since 1971 are noted at the end of each section.
Sections 4 through 10 of the Uniform Weights and Measures Law adopt NIST Handbook 44 and the Uniform Regulations in NIST Handbook 130 by citation. In addition, these sections adopt supplements to and revisions of Handbook 44 and the Uniform Regulations "except insofar as modified or rejected by regulation." Some state laws may not permit enacting a statute that provides for automatic adoption of future supplements to or revisions of a Uniform Regulation covered by that statute. If this should be the case in a given state, two alternatives are available:
Either alternative requires action on the part of the Director to adopt a current version of Handbook 44 and each Uniform Regulation each time a supplement or revision is made by the NCWM.
See the table beginning on page 10, Section II. Uniformity of Laws and Regulations of Handbook 130 for the status of adoption of the Uniform Weights and Measures Law.
*The National Conference on Weights and Measures (NCWM) is supported by National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in partial implementation of its statutory responsibility for "cooperation with the states in securing uniformity in weights and measures laws and methods of inspection."
Uniform Weights and Measures Law
When used in this Act:
(Amended 1974 and 1990)
An individual item or lot of any commodity on which there is marked a selling price based on an established price per unit of weight or of measure shall be considered a package (or packages).
(Amended 1991)
(Added 1988) (Amended 1989, 1991, and 1993)
(Added 1990)
NOTE 1: When used in this Law, the term "weight" means "mass." (See paragraphs L. "Mass" and "Weight" and V. Use of the Terms "Mass" and "Weight" in Section I. Introduction of NIST Handbook 130 for an explanation of these terms.)
(Note added 1993)
Examples:
l L bottles or 12 fl oz cans of carbonated soda
500 g or 5 lb bags of sugar
100 m or 300 ft packages of rope
(Added 1991) (Amended 1993)
(Added 1995)
(Added 2005)
(Added 2005)
(Added 2005) (Amended 2013)
(Added 2005) (Amended 2013)
(Added 2005) (Amended 2013)
(Added 2005)
(Added 2005)
(Added 2005) (Amended 2013)
(Added 2005) (Amended 2013)
(Added 2013)
(Added 2013)
The International System of Units (SI) and the system of weights and measures in customary use in the United States are jointly recognized, and either one or both of these systems shall be used for all commercial purposes in the state.
The definitions of basic units of weight and measure, the tables of weight and measure, and weights and measures equivalents as published by NIST are recognized and shall govern weighing and measuring equipment and transactions in the state.
(Amended 1993)
NOTE 2: SI or SI Unit. - means the International System of Units as established in 1960 by the General Conference on Weights and Measures and interpreted or modified for the United States by the Secretary of Commerce. See "Interpretation of the International System of Units for the United States" in "Federal Register" (Volume 73, No. 96, pages 28432 to 28433) for May 16, 2008, and 15 United States Code, Section 205a- 205l"Metric Conversion." See also NIST Special Publication 330, "The International System of Units (SI)," 2008 edition and NIST Special Publication 811, "Guide for the Use of the International System of Units (SI)," 2008 edition that are available at www.nist.gov/pml/wmd/metric/index.cfm or by contacting TheSI@nist.gov.
(Added 1993)
Weights and measures that are traceable to the U.S. prototype standards supplied by the Federal Government, or approved as being satisfactory by NIST, shall be the state reference and working standards of weights and measures, and shall be maintained in such calibration as prescribed by the NIST as demonstrated through laboratory accreditation or recognition. All field standards may be prescribed by the Director and shall be verified upon their initial receipt and as often thereafter as deemed necessary by the Director.
(Amended 2005)
The specifications, tolerances, and other technical requirements for commercial, law enforcement, data gathering, and other weighing and measuring devices as adopted by the NCWM, published in the National Institute of Standards and Technology Handbook 44, "Specifications, Tolerances, and Other Technical Requirements for Weighing and Measuring Devices," and supplements thereto or revisions thereof, shall apply to weighing and measuring devices in the state, except insofar as modified or rejected by regulation.
(Amended 1975)
NOTE 3: Sections 4 through 10 of the Uniform Weights and Measures Law adopt NIST Handbook 44 and Uniform Regulations in NIST Handbook 130 by citation. In addition, these sections adopt supplements to and revisions of NIST Handbook 44 and the Uniform Regulations "except insofar as modified or rejected by regulation." Some state laws may not permit enacting a statute that provides for automatic adoption of future supplements to or revisions of a regulation covered by that statute. If this should be the case in a given state, two alternatives are available:
Either alternative requires action on the part of the Director to adopt a current version of Handbook 44 and Uniform Laws or Regulations each time a supplement is added or revision is made by the NCWM.
The Uniform Packaging and Labeling Regulation as adopted by the NCWM and published in the National Institute of Standards and Technology Handbook 130, "Uniform Laws and Regulations," and supplements thereto or revisions thereof, shall apply to packaging and labeling in the state, except insofar as modified or rejected by regulation.
(Added 1983)
The Uniform Regulation for the Method of Sale of Commodities as adopted by the NCWM and published in National Institute of Standards and Technology Handbook 130, "Uniform Laws and Regulations," and supplements thereto or revisions thereof, shall apply to the method of sale of commodities in the state, except insofar as modified or rejected by regulation.
(Added 1983)
The Uniform Unit Pricing Regulation as adopted by the NCWM and published in the National Institute of Standards and Technology Handbook 130, "Uniform Laws and Regulations," and supplements thereto or revisions thereof, shall apply to unit pricing in the state, except insofar as modified or rejected by regulation.
(Added 1983)
The Uniform Regulation for the Voluntary Registration of Servicepersons and Service Agencies for Commercial Weighing and Measuring Devices as adopted by the National NCWM and published in the National Institute of Standards and Technology Handbook 130, "Uniform Laws and Regulations," and supplements thereto or revisions thereof, shall apply to the registration of servicepersons and service agencies in the state, except insofar as modified or rejected by regulation.
(Added 1983)
The Uniform Open Dating Regulation as adopted by the NCWM and published in the National Institute of Standards and Technology Handbook 130, "Uniform Laws and Regulations," and supplements thereto or revisions thereof, shall apply to open dating in the state, except insofar as modified or rejected by regulation.
(Added 1983)
The Uniform Regulation for National Type Evaluation as adopted by the NCWM and published in National Institute of Standards and Technology Handbook 130, "Uniform Laws and Regulations," and supplements thereto or revisions thereof, shall apply to type evaluation in the state, except insofar as modified or rejected by regulation.
(Added 1985)
There shall be a State Division of Weights and Measures located for administrative purposes within the Arkansas State Plant Board. The Division is charged with, but not limited to, performing the following functions on behalf of the citizens of the state:
(Added 1976)
The Director shall:
(Added 1973)
(Amended 2005)
(Amended 1995)
(Amended 1984, 1988, and 2000)
(Amended 1991)
(Added 1991) (Amended 2005)
When necessary for the enforcement of this Act or regulations promulgated pursuant thereto, the Director is:
Any weights and measures official appointed for a county or city shall have the duties and powers enumerated in this Act, excepting those duties reserved to the state by law or regulation. These powers and duties shall extend to their respective jurisdictions, except that the jurisdiction of a county official shall not extend to any city for which a weights and measures official has been appointed. No requirement set forth by local agencies may be less stringent than or conflict with the requirements of the state.
(Amended 1984)
No person shall:
No person shall misrepresent the price of any commodity or service sold, offered, exposed, or advertised for sale by weight, measure, or count, nor represent the price in any manner calculated or tending to mislead or in any way deceive a person.
Except as otherwise provided by the Director or by firmly established trade custom and practice,
The method of sale shall provide accurate and adequate quantity information that permits the buyer to make price and quantity comparisons.
(Amended 1989)
All bulk sales in which the buyer and seller are not both present to witness the measurement, all bulk deliveries of heating fuel, and all other bulk sales specified by rule or regulation of the director shall be accompanied by a delivery ticket containing the following information:
(Amended 1991)
(Amended 1983 and 1991)
Except as otherwise provided in this Act or by regulations promulgated pursuant thereto, any package, whether a random package or a standard package, kept for the purpose of sale, or offered or exposed for sale, shall bear on the outside of the package a definite, plain, and conspicuous declaration of:
(Amended 1991)
In addition to the declarations required by Section 19. Information Required on Packages of this Act, any package being one of a lot containing random weights of the same commodity, at the time it is offered or exposed for sale at retail, shall bear on the outside of the package a plain and conspicuous declaration of the price per kilogram or pound and the total selling price of the package.
(Amended 1986)
Whenever a packaged commodity is advertised in any manner with the retail price stated, there shall be closely and conspicuously associated with the retail price a declaration of quantity as is required by law or regulation to appear on the package.
(Amended 1993)
No person shall:
(Added 1989) (Amended 1995)
The Director is authorized to apply to any court of competent jurisdiction for a restraining order, or a temporary or permanent injunction, restraining any person from violating any provision of this Act.
(Retitled 1989)
Whenever there shall exist a weight or measure or weighing or measuring device in or about any place in which or from which buying or selling is commonly carried on, there shall be a rebuttable presumption that such weight or measure or weighing or measuring device is regularly used for the business purposes of that place.
If any provision of this Act is declared unconstitutional, or the applicability thereof to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the constitutionality of the remainder of the Act and the applicability thereof to other persons and circumstances shall not be affected thereby.
All laws and parts of laws contrary to or inconsistent with the provisions of this Act are repealed except as to offenses committed, liabilities incurred, and claims made there under prior to the effective date of this Act.
The adoption of this Act or any of its provisions shall not affect any regulations promulgated pursuant to the authority of any earlier enabling statute unless inconsistent with this Act or modified or revoked by the Director.
This Act shall become effective on August 1, 2016
as adopted by The National Conference on Weights and Measures*
In 1984, the National Conference on Weights and Measures (NCWM) adopted a section in the Uniform Regulation for the Method of Sale of Commodities requiring that motor fuel containing alcohol be labeled to disclose to the retail purchaser that the fuel contains alcohol. The delegates deemed this action necessary since motor vehicle manufacturers were qualifying their warranties with respect to some gasoline-alcohol blends, motor fuel users were complaining to weights and measures officials about fuel quality and vehicle performance, and the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) had not yet finalized quality standards for oxygenated (which includes alcohol-containing) fuels. While many argued that weights and measures officials should not cross the line from quantity assurance programs to programs regulating quality, the delegates were persuaded that the issue needed immediate attention.
A Motor Fuels Task Force was appointed in 1984 to develop mechanisms for achieving uniformity in the evaluation and regulation of motor fuels. The Task Force developed the Uniform Motor Fuel Inspection Law and the Uniform Motor Fuel Regulation (see the Uniform Regulations section of this Handbook) to accompany the Law. The recommended Law required registration and certification of motor fuel as meeting ASTM standards. It established a motor fuel quality testing capability by the state. Funding for the installation and support of the testing facility was established by a fee per liter or per gallon on all fuel marketed within the state.
In 1992, the NCWM established the Petroleum Subcommittee under the Laws and Regulations Committee. The Subcommittee recommended major revisions to the Law that was adopted at the 80th NCWM in 1995. The scope of the Law was expanded to include all engine fuels, petroleum products, and automotive lubricants, and its title was changed accordingly. Other changes included expansion of the definitions section, limitation of the scope of the registration section to engine fuels designed for special use, and addition of sections on administrative and civil penalties and on criminal penalties.
In 2007, the Fuel and Lubricants Subcommittee (formerly the Petroleum Subcommittee) undertook a review of this uniform law to update it to eliminate reference to "petroleum products" and reflect the addition of new engine fuels to the marketplace. The amendments included new provisions to provide officials with the authority to review delivery records and grant waivers of requirements adopted under the law in times of emergency or natural disasters.
At the 2008 NCWM Interim Meeting, the Laws and Regulations Committee changed the Petroleum Subcommittee's name to the Fuels and Lubricants Subcommittee (FALS) in recognition of its work with a wide variety of fuels including petroleum and biofuels.
The current Uniform Engine Fuels and Automotive Lubricants Inspection Law was recommended for adoption by the Conference in 2008. The table beginning on page 10, Section II. Uniformity of Laws and Regulations of Handbook 130 shows the status of adoption of the law.
(Amended 2008)
*The National Conference on Weights and Measures (NCWM) is supported by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in partial implementation of its statutory responsibility for "cooperation with the states in securing uniformity in weights and measures laws and methods of inspection."
Uniform Engine Fuels and Automotive Lubricants Inspection Law
There should be uniform requirements for engine fuels, non-engine fuels, and automotive lubricants among the states. This Act provides for the establishment of quality specifications for these products.
(Amended 2008)
The Act establishes a sampling, testing, and enforcement program, provides authority for fee collection, requires registration of engine fuels, and empowers the state to promulgate regulations as needed to carry out the provisions of the Act. It also provides for administrative, civil, and criminal penalties.
As used in this act:
The provisions of this Act shall be administered by the Director. For the purpose of administering and giving effect to the provisions of this Act, the specification and test method standards set forth in the most recent version available of ASTM International standards as published on its website www.astm.orgare adopted except as amended or modified as required by the Director to comply with federal and state laws. When no ASTM standard exists, other generally recognized national consensus standards may be used. The Director is empowered to write rules and regulations on the advertising, posting of prices, labeling, standards for, and identity of fuels, non-engine fuels, and automotive lubricants and is authorized to establish a testing laboratory.
(Amended 2008)
The Director shall have the authority to:
(Amended 2008)
(Amended 2008)
(Amended 2008)
(Added 2008)
All engine fuels designed for special use must be registered with the Director. Such registration shall include:
There shall be a fee of $Zero per appropriate unit of measure on all products covered under the scope of this Act marketed within this state for the purposes of administering and effectively enforcing the provisions of this Act.
It shall be unlawful to:
(Amended 1996 and 2008)
(Amended 2008)
(Added 1996)
The Director is authorized to apply to any court of competent jurisdiction for a restraining order or a temporary or permanent injunction restraining any person from violating any provision of this Act.
If any word, phrase, provision, or portion of this Act shall be held in a court of competent jurisdiction to be unconstitutional or invalid, the unconstitutionality or invalidity shall apply only to such word, phrase, provision, or portion, and for this purpose the provisions of this Act are declared to be severable.
All laws and parts of laws contrary to or inconsistent with the provisions of this Act are repealed except as to offense committed, liabilities incurred, and claims made there under prior to the effective date of this Act.
This Act may be cited as the "Engine Fuels and Automotive Lubricants Inspection Act of 2001." (Amended 2008)
This Act shall become effective on August 1, 2016.
as adopted by The National Conference on Weights and Measures*
The Uniform Packaging and Labeling Regulation was first adopted during the 37th Annual Meeting of the National Conference on Weights and Measures (NCWM) in 1952. Reporting to the Conference, the Committee on Legislation stated:
The National Conference should adopt a model package regulation for the guidance of those states authorized to adopt such a regulation under provisions of their weights and measures laws. Since so much of the work of weights and measures officials in the package field concerns food products, the importance of uniformity between the Federal (FDA) regulations and any model regulations to be adopted by this Conference cannot be overemphasized.
Since its inception, the Uniform Packaging and Labeling Regulation has been continually revised to meet the complexities of an enormous expansion in the packaging industry - an expansion that, in late 1966, brought about the passage of the Fair Packaging and Labeling Act (FPLA). Recognizing the need for compatibility with the Federal Act, in 1968 the Committee on Laws and Regulations of the 53rd Annual Meeting of the National Conference amended the "Model Packaging and Labeling Regulation" (renamed in 1983) to parallel regulations adopted by federal agencies under FPLA. The process of amending and revising this Regulation is a continuing one in order to keep it current with practices in the packaging field and make it compatible with appropriate federal regulations. Amendments and additions since 1971 are noted at the end of each section.
The revision of 1978 provided for the use of the metric system (SI) on labels as well as allowing SI-only labels for those commodities not covered by federal laws or regulations. "SI" means the International System of Units as established in 1960 by the General Conference on Weights and Measures and interpreted or modified for the United States by the Secretary of Commerce. [See the "Interpretation of the International System of Units for the United States" in the "Federal Register" (Volume 73, No. 96, pages 28432 to 28433) for May 16, 2008, and 15 United States Code, Section 205a- 205l"Metric Conversion." See also NIST Special Publication 330 "The International System of Units (SI)" 2008 edition and NIST Special Publication 811 "Guide for the Use of the International System of Units (SI)" 2008 edition that are available at www.nist.gov/pml/wmd/ or by contacting TheSI@nist.gov.] In 1988, Congress amended the Metric Conversion Law to declare that it is the policy of the United States to designate the International System of Units of measurement as the preferred system of weights and measures for U.S. trade and commerce. In 1992, Congress amended the federal FPLA to require the most appropriate units of the SI and the U.S. customary systems of measurement on certain consumer commodities. The 1993 amendments to NIST Handbook 130 require SI and U.S. customary units on certain consumer commodities in accordance with federal laws or regulations. Requirements for labeling in both units of measure were effective February 14, 1994, under FPLA and as specified in Section 15 Effective Date; except as specified in Section 11.32. SI Units, Exemptions for Consumer Commodities.
Nothing contained in this regulation should be construed to supersede any labeling requirement specified in federal law or to require the use of SI units on non-consumer packages.
The table beginning on page 10, Section II. Uniformity of Laws and Regulations of Handbook 130 shows the status of adoption of the Uniform Packaging and Labeling Regulation.
*The National Conference on Weights and Measures (NCWM) is supported by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in partial implementation of its statutory responsibility for "cooperation with the states in securing uniformity in weights and measures laws and methods of inspection."
Uniform Packaging and Labeling Regulation
Preamble
The purpose of this regulation is to provide accurate and adequate information on packages as to the identity and quantity of contents so that purchasers can make price and quantity comparisons.
(Added 1989)
This regulation shall apply to packages, but shall not apply to:
(Added 1971)
(Amended 1988 and 1991)
NOTE 1: When used in this regulation, the term "weight" means "mass." (See paragraphs L. "Mass" and "Weight" in Section I. Introduction of NIST Handbook 130 for an explanation of these terms.)
(Amended 1988 and 1991)
(Amended 1988 and 1991)
(Amended 1988 and 1990)
(Amended 1988)
(Amended 1988)
(Amended 1988)
(Amended 1988)
Examples:
antiquing or housecleaning kit sponge and cleaner lighter fluid and flints
(Added 1989)
Examples:
two sponges of different sizes plastic tableware, consisting of 4 spoons, 4 knives, and 4 forks
(Added 1989)
Therefore, sewing machine lubricant, camping fuels, and synthetic motor oil are "petroleum products" for the purposes of this regulation. Brake fluid, copier machine dispersant, antifreeze, cleaning solvents, and alcohol are not "petroleum products."
(Added 1987) (Amended 1988)
(Added 1990) (Amended 1991)
(Added 1990)
Examples:
1 L bottles or 12 fl oz cans of carbonated soda
500 g or 5 lb bags of sugar
100 m packages of rope
(Added 1991)
(Added 1993)
(Amended 1990) (Note added 1986)
NOTE 2: Section 19.(a) of the Uniform Weights and Measures Law (and 21 CFR 101.100(b) (3) for non-meat and non-poultry foods) specifically exempts food packages from identity statements if the commodity is a food, other than meat or poultry, that was repackaged in a retail establishment and the food is displayed to the purchaser under either of the following circumstances: "(1) its interstate labeling is clearly in view or with a counter card, sign, or other appropriate device bearing prominently and conspicuously the common or usual name of the food, or (2) the common or usual name of the food is clearly revealed by its appearance."
(Added 1986) (Amended 2001)
A declaration of identity [NOTE2,page60] on a non-consumer package shall appear on the outside of a package and shall not be misleading or deceptive. The identity shall be in terms of:
(Amended 1990) (Note added 1986)
Any package kept, offered, or exposed for sale, or sold at any place other than on the premises where packed shall specify conspicuously on the label of the package the name and address of the manufacturer, packer, or distributor. The name shall be the actual corporate name, or, when not incorporated, the name under which the business is conducted. The address shall include street address, city, state (or country if outside the United States), and ZIP Code (or the mailing code, if any, used in countries other than the United States); however, the street address may be omitted if this is shown in a current city directory or telephone directory.
If a person manufactures, packs, or distributes a commodity at a place other than his principal place of business, the label may state the principal place of business in lieu of the actual place where the commodity was manufactured or packed or is to be distributed, unless such statement would be misleading. Where the commodity is not manufactured by the person whose name appears on the label, the name shall be qualified by a phrase that reveals the connection such person has with such commodity, such as "Manufactured for and packed by __________ ,"
"Distributed by __________ ," or any other wording of similar import that expresses the facts.
(Amended 1985, 1990, 1993, and 1999)
NOTE 3: Packages subject to this Section and/or the Federal Fair Packaging and Labeling Act shall be labeled in units of the International System of Units (SI) and the U.S. customary system of measure effective
February 14, 1994, [except for seed (see Section 10.10. Packaged Seed) and camera film and recording tape (see Section 11.22. Camera Film, Video Recording Tape, Audio Recording Tape and Other Image and Audio Recording Media Intended for Retail Sale and Consumer Use), and as specified in Section 11.32. SI Units, Exemptions -Consumer Commodities]. SI units may appear first.
(Added 1982) (Amended 1990 and 1993)
(Amended 1993)
Table 6.4. Weight, Measure, Volume, or Count | |
If the commodity is: | The declaration of the quantity of a particular commodity shall be expressed in terms of: |
(a) solid, semisolid, viscous, or a mixture of solid and liquid | weight or mass |
(b) liquid | fluid volume measure |
(c) dry | dry measure |
(d) or labeled by linear measure or area | linear measure or area |
(e) or labeled by numerical units (count) | numerical count |
However, if there exists a firmly established general consumer usage and trade custom with respect to the terms used in expressing a declaration of quantity of a particular commodity, such a declaration of quantity may be expressed in its traditional terms, provided such traditional declaration gives accurate and adequate information as to the quantity of the commodity. Any net content statement that does not permit price and quantity comparisons is forbidden.
(Amended 1989 and 2015)
(Added 1971)
Table 6.5. SI Units: Mass, Measure | |
If a declaration of quantity is in units of: | The units shall be in: |
(a) mass | kilogram, gram, or milligram |
(b) liquid measure | liter or milliliter and shall express the volume at 20 °C, except for: |
(1) petroleum products or distilled spirits for which the declaration shall express the volume at 15.6 °C; | |
(2) a commodity that is normally sold and consumed while frozen for which the declaration shall express the volume at the frozen temperature; and | |
(3) malt beverages or a commodity that must be maintained in the refrigerated state for which the declaration shall express the volume at 4 °C. | |
(c) linear measure | meter, centimeter, or millimeter |
(d) area measure | square meter, square decimeter, square centimeter, or square millimeter |
(e) volume other than liquid measure | liter or milliliter, except that units cubic meter and cubic centimeter shall be used only when specifically designated as a method of sale |
Examples:
500 g, not 0.5 kg
1.96 kg, not 1960 g
750 mL, not 0.75 L
750 mm or 75 cm, not 0.75 m
(Added 1993)
(Added 1993) (h) the declaration of net quantity of contents shall not be expressed in mixed units.
Example:
1.5 kg, not 1 kg 500 g
(Added 1993)
(Amended 2015)
centimeter | cm | cubic meter | m3 |
cubic centimeter | cm3 | kilogram | kg |
meter | m | gram | g |
milligram | mg | millimeter | mm |
liter | L or l | square meter | m2 |
milliliter | mL or ml | cubic decimeter | dm3 |
square centimeter | cm2 | square decimeter | dm2 |
micrometer | µm | microgram | µg or mcg |
[NOTE 4, page 63]
(Amended 1980 and 1993)
NOTE 4: The "e " mark shall not be considered to be a qualifying word or phrase and may be used as part of the statement of the net quantity of contents where warranted. When used, the "e" mark shall be at least 3 mm (approximately 1/8 in) in height The term "e " mark refers to the symbol "e " used in connection with the quantity declarations on labels of some consumer commodities marketed primarily in the European Union (EU) and South Africa. The "e" mark constitutes a representation by the packer or importer that the package to which it is applied has been filled in accordance with the average system of quantity specified by the EU. The average system is a method of declaring package fill in the EU and other countries of the world, including the United States.
(Added 1993)
Prefix | Symbol | Multiplying Factor* |
kilo- | k | × 103 |
deka-** | da | × 10 |
deci-** | d | × 10-1 |
centi-*** | c | × 10-2 |
milli- | m | × 10-3 |
micro-**** | µ | × 10-6 |
*102 = 100; 103 = 1000; 10-1 = 0.1; 10-2 = 0.01 Thus, 2 kg = 2 × 1000 g = 2000 g and 3 cm = 3 × 0.01 m = 0.03 m **Not permitted on food labels. ***Should only be used with "meter." ****Shall only be used for measurements less than 1 mm.
(Amended 1993)
provided the quantity declaration appearing on a random mass package may be expressed in units of decimal fractions of the largest appropriate unit, the fraction being carried out to not more than three decimal places.
(Amended 1980 and 1993)
(Added 1986) (Amended 1993)
Table 6.7. U.S. Customary Units: Weight, Measure | |
If a declaration of quantity is in units of: | The unit shall be in: |
(a) weight | avoirdupois pound or ounce |
(b) liquid measure | U.S. gallon of 231 in3 or liquid quart, liquid pint, or fluid-ounce subdivisions of the gallon and shall express the volume at 68 °F, except in case of: |
(1) petroleum products or distilled spirits for which the declaration shall express the volume at 60 °F; | |
(2) a commodity that is normally sold and consumed while frozen for which the declaration shall express the volume at the frozen temperature; | |
(3) a commodity that must be maintained in the refrigerated state for which the declaration shall express the volume at 40 °F; and | |
(1) malt beverages for which the declaration shall express the volume at 39.1 °F. | |
(c) linear measure | yard, foot, or inch |
(d) area measure | square yard, square foot, or cubic inch |
(e) volume measure | cubic yard, cubic foot, or cubic inch |
(f) dry measure | U.S. bushel of 2150.42 in3, or peck, dry quart, and dry pint subdivisions of the bushel |
(Amended 2015)
avoirdupois | avdp | ounce | oz |
piece | pc | count | ct |
pint | pt | cubic | cu |
pound | lb | each | ea |
feet or foot | ft | quart | qt |
fluid | fl | square | sq |
gallon | gal | weight | wt |
inch | in | yard | yd |
liquid | liq | drained | dr |
diameter | dia |
A period should not be used after the abbreviation. Abbreviations should be written in singular form; and "s" should not be added to express the plural. (For example, "oz" is the symbol for both "ounce" and "ounces.") Both upper and lower case letters are acceptable.
(Added 1974) (Amended 1980, 1990, and 1993)
(Amended 1982)
(Amended 1984)
(Amended 1993)
Example:
20.3 cm × 25.4 cm (8 in × 10 in)
Example:
31 dm2 (49 cm × 64 cm) 3.36 ft2 (1.6 ft × 2.1 ft), provided:
Example:
25 ft2 (12 in × 8.33 yd) (12 in × 300 in)
Examples:
5 cm × 9.14 m (2 in × 10 yd)
5 cm × 9.14 m (2 in × 10 yd) (360 in)
5 cm × 9.14 m (2 in × 360 in) (10 yd)
Roll type commodities, when perforated so as to identify individual usable units, shall not be deemed to be made up of usable units; however, such roll type commodities shall be labeled in terms of:
Example: 2/4 becomes 1/2
(Amended 1993)
NOTE 5: When as a result of rounding SI or U.S. customary declarations the resulting declarations are not exact, the largest declaration (either metric or U.S. customary) will be used for enforcement purposes to determine whether a package contains at least the declared amount of the product.
(Amended 1998)
(Added 1981)
In the case of a random package packed at one place for subsequent sale at another, neither the price per unit of weight nor the total selling price need appear on the package, provided the package label includes both such prices at the time it is offered or exposed for sale at retail.
(Added 1999)
NOTE 6: Although non-consumer packages under this Regulation may bear SI declarations only, this Regulation should not be construed to supersede any labeling requirement specified in federal law.
(Amended 1985)
Examples:
500 g, not 0.5 kg
1.96 kg, not 1960 g
750 mL, not 0.75 L
750 mm or 75 cm, not 0.75 m
(Added 1993)
(g) SI declarations should be shown in three digits except where the quantity is below 100 grams, milliliters, centimeters, square centimeters, or cubic centimeters where it can be shown in two digits. In either case, any final zero appearing to the right of the decimal point need not be shown; and
(Added 1993) (h) the declaration of net quantity of contents shall not be expressed in mixed units.
Example:
1.5 kg, not 1 kg 500 g
(Amended 1985)
(Amended 1975)
For Figure 3, the area of the principal display panel is 20 cm (8 in) × 15 cm (6 in) = 300 cm2 (48 in2).
Figure 3. Calculation of the Area of the Principal Display Area of a Rectangular Container
Figure 4. Calculation of the Area of the Principal Display Area of a Rectangular Container
For Figure 4, the area of the principal display panel is:
25 cm (10 in) × 5 cm (2 in) = 125 cm (20 in2) × 0.40 = 50 cm2 (8 in2)
(see also Section 10.7. Cylindrical Containers).
The area of the principal display panel is the same in both examples. The declaration of net quantity of contents must be of the same height in both cases. It is not the size of the label that is used to determine the minimum type size of the quantity statement, but the size of the surface of the package exposed to view to the customer. The package on the right side of the figure has a spot label (see Section 2.12. Spot Label and Section 11.29. Spot Label); and
Figure 5.
Determination of the principal display panel shall exclude tops, bottoms, flanges at tops and bottoms of cans, and shoulders and necks of bottles or jars.
(Amended 1993)
Table 1. Minimum Height of Numbers and Letters | ||
Area of Principal Display Panel | Minimum Height of Numbers and Letters | Minimum Height; Label Information Blown, Formed, or Molded on Surface of Container |
[LESS THAN OR EQUAL TO] 32 cm2 (5 in2) | 1.6 mm (1/16 in) | 3.2 mm (1/8 in) |
[GREATER THAN] 32 cm2 (5 in2) [LESS THAN OR EQUAL TO] 161 cm2 (25 in2) | 3.2 mm (1/8 in) | 4.8 mm (3/16 in) |
[GREATER THAN] 161 cm2 (25 in2) [LESS THAN OR EQUAL TO] 645 cm2 (100 in2) | 4.8 mm (3/16 in) | 6.4 mm (1/4 in) |
[GREATER THAN] 645 cm2 (100 in2) [LESS THAN OR EQUAL TO] 2581 cm2 (400 in2) | 6.4 mm (1/4 in) | 7.9 mm (5/16 in) |
[GREATER THAN] 2581 cm2 (400 in2) | 12.7 mm (1/2 in) | 14.3 mm (9/16 in) |
Symbols: [LESS THAN OR EQUAL TO] means less than or equal to; [LESS THAN] means less than; [GREATER THAN] means greater than. | ||
NOTE: The type size requirements specified in this table do not apply to the "e" mark [NOTE4,page63]. | ||
(Title amended 1979)
Note: Enforceable on packages using bag-on-valve (BOV) technology after January 1, 2018. (Amended 2014)
Example:
soap bars, 6 Bars, Net Wt 100 g (3.53 oz) each total Net Wt 600 g (1.32 lb).
The term "total" or the phrase "total contents" may precede the quantity declaration.
A multi-unit package containing unlabeled individual packages which are not intended for retail sale separate from the multi-unit package may contain, in lieu of the requirements of section (a), a declaration of quantity of contents expressing the total quantity of the multi-unit package without regard for inner packaging. For such multi-unit packages it shall be optional to include a statement of the number of individual packages when such a statement is not otherwise required by the regulations.
Examples:
Deodorant Cakes -
5 cakes, Net Wt 113 g (4 oz) each, Total Net Wt 566 g (1.25 lb); or
5 cakes, Total Net Wt 566 g (1 lb 4 oz)
Soap Packets -
10 packets, Net Wt 56.6 g (2 oz) each, Total Net Wt 566 g (1.25 lb); or Net Wt 566 g (1 lb 4 oz); or
10 packets, Total Net Wt 566 g (1 lb 4 oz)
(Amended 1993)
NOTE 7: For foods, a "multi-unit" package means a package containing two or more individually packaged units of the identical commodity in the same quantity, intended to be sold as part of the multi-unit package but labeled to be individually sold in full compliance with this regulation. Open multi-unit retail food packages under the authority of the FDA or the USDA that do not obscure the number of units or prevent examination of the labeling on each of the individual units are not required to declare the number of individual units or the total quantity of contents of the multi-unit package if the labeling of each individual unit complies with requirements so that it is capable of being sold individually. (See also Section 11.11. Soft Drink Bottles and Section 11.12. Multi-Unit Soft-Drink Bottles.)
(Added 1984)
Examples:
Lighter Fluid and Flints -
2 cans lighter fluid - each 236 mL (8 fl oz)
1 package - 8 flints
Sponges and Cleaner -
2 sponges - each 10 cm × 15 cm × 2.5 cm (4 in × 6 in × 1 in) 1 box cleaner - Net Mass 170 g (6 oz)
Picnic Pack -
20 spoons, 10 knives, and 10 forks
10 2-ply napkins 25 cm × 25 cm (10 in × 10 in)
10 cups - 177 mL (6 fl oz)
(Amended 1993)
Examples:
Sponges -
11 sponges 11 cm × 20.3 cm × 1.9 cm (4 in × 8 in × 3/4 in) 14 sponges 5.7 cm × 10 cm × 1.2 cm (21/4 in × 4 in × 1/2 in) Total: 25 sponges
Soap -
2 soap bars 85 g (3 oz) ea
1 soap bar 142 g (5 oz)
Total: 3 soap bars 312 g (11 oz)
Liquid Shoe Polish - 1 brown 89 mL (3 fl oz) 1 black 89 mL (3 fl oz) 1 white 148 mL (5 fl oz) Total: 326 mL (11 fl oz)
Picnic Ware -
34 spoons
33 forks
33 knives
Total: 100 pieces
(Amended 1993)
When individual units in a variety package are either packaged or labeled and are intended for retail sale as individual units, each unit shall be labeled in compliance with the applicable sections of this regulation.
Examples:
25 bags, 12.7 cm × 10 cm (5 in × 4 in) or 50 bags, 75 cm ×1.2 m (2.5 ft × 3.9 ft)
Examples:
25 bags, 43 cm × 10 cm × 50 cm (17 in × 4 in × 20 in) or 100 bags, 50.8 cm × 30.4 cm × 76.2 cm (20 in × 12 in × 21/2 ft)
Example:
bag-type commodities: 2 Pans, 20 cm ×20 cm (8 in × 8 in)
Example:
4 pans, 20 cm (8 in) diameter × 10 cm (4 in)
Example:
24 cups, 177 mL (6 fl oz) capacity
Example:
Freezer Boxes -
4 Boxes, 946 mL capacity, 15 cm × 15 cm × 10 cm (1 qt capacity, 6 in × 6 in × 4 in)
Example:
Leaf Bags -
8 bags, 211 L capacity, 1.21 m × 1.52 m (6 bu capacity, 4 ft × 5 ft).
Example:
Garbage Can Liners -
10 liners, 76.2 cm × 93.9 cm, fits up to 113 L cans (2 ft 6 in × 3 ft 1 in, fits up to 30 gal cans)
Example:
double sheet for 137 cm × 190 cm (54 in × 75 in) mattress
(Amended 1987)
Example:
twin flat sheet for 99 cm × 190 cm (39 in × 75 in) mattress 167 cm × 244 cm (66 in × 96 in) finished size
(Amended 1987)
Example:
standard pillowcase for 51 cm × 66 cm (20 in × 26 in) pillow, 51 cm × 76 cm (20 in × 30 in) in finished size
(Amended 1977 and 1987)
(Amended 1988)
Examples:
round scarf, 190 cm (74 in) in diameter;
oval tablecloth, 177 cm × 254 cm (70 in × 100 in) representing the maximum length and width in this case.
(Added 1971)
(Added 1972) (Amended 1975 and 1993)
NOTE 8: Section 11. Exemptions include several requirements that refer only to the historic use of U.S. customary units or are direct restatements of exemptions contained in federal laws or regulations which do not include SI units. SI equivalents are omitted in most of these requirements because the SI units would not be meaningful or useful.
(Added 1993) (Amended 1995)
This section shall also apply to uniform weight packages of fresh fruit or vegetables labeled by count, in the same manner and by the same type of equipment as random packages exempted by this section, and cheese and cheese products labeled in the same manner and by the same type of equipment as random packages exempted by this section.
(Amended 1989)
At the time of the delivery, each package need only bear a statement of net weight, provided that:
Indirect Sales: For the purpose of Section 11.1.1. Indirect Sale of Random Packages, indirect sales are sales where the customer makes a selection and places an order, but cannot be present when the determination of the net quantity is made. Examples of such indirect methods include, without limitation, Internet or online sales, sales conducted by telephone or facsimile, and catalog sales.
(Added 2001) (Amended 2002)
(Added 1987)
(Amended 1993)
(Amended 1993)
(Amended 1980 and 1993)
(Amended 1980 and 1993)
(Amended 1980)
(Amended 1980)
(Amended 1980 and 1993)
(Amended 1978 and 1980)
Examples:
36 exposures, 36 mm × 24 mm, or 12 exposures, 21/4 in × 21/4 in
Supplemental information may be provided on other than the principal display panel.
NOTE 9: Size, length of media, and format details to ensure interchangeability and other characteristics of audio and imaging media are available in the applicable American National Standards.
"Entertainment value" is defined as that portion of a film, tape, or other media that commences with the first frame of sound or picture, whichever comes first after the countdown sequence (if any), and ends with either:
(Amended 1990)
Wherever the above conditions cannot be met, containers of tint base paint must be labeled with a statement of the actual net contents prior to the addition of colorant in full accord with all the requirements of this regulation.
(Added 1972) (Amended 1980 and 1993)
(Amended 1974, 1980, and 1993)
(Added 1973)
(Added 1973)
(Added 1973)
NOTE 10: When the net contents declaration of a package that may enter interstate commerce includes count, federal regulations under the Federal Fair Packaging and Labeling Act provide no exemption from declaring the count unless the count is one (1).
(Added 1990)
(Added 1990)
(Added 1990)
(Added 1992) (Amended 1993)
(Added 1999)
and this paragraph shall be construed as requiring that so long as a shipment, delivery, or lot of packages of a particular commodity remains in the possession or under the control of the packager or the person who introduces the package into intrastate commerce, exposure variations shall not be permitted.
(Amended 1976, 1980, 1984, and 1988)
(Amended 1982)
(Added 1972)
(Added 1972)
(Added 1972)
All provisions of all orders and regulations heretofore issued on this same subject that are contrary to or inconsistent with the provisions of this regulation and specifically are hereby revoked.
This regulation shall become effective on August 1, 2016.
UPLR Appendix A: SI/U.S. Customary Conversion Factors **
UPLR Appendix B: Converting U.S. Customary Units to SI Units for Quantity Declarations on Packages
To convert an U.S. customary quantity to an SI quantity, multiply the appropriate conversion factor in Table 1 in Appendix A by the U.S. customary unit and round according to the following rules.
It is the packager's responsibility to round converted values appropriately and select the appropriate number of significant digits to use in quantity declaration. [These rounding rules are for converting quantity determinations on packages and do not apply to digital scales that automatically round indications to the nearest indicated value.] Conversions, the proper use of significant digits, and rounding must be based on the packer's knowledge of the accuracy of the original measurement that is being converted. For example, if a package is labeled 453.59 g (1 lb), the packer is implying that the package declaration is accurate within ± 0.005 g (or ± 5 mg). For liquid volume measure, a label declaration of 473 mL (16 fl oz) implies that the package declaration is accurate to within ± 0.5 mL (0.01 fl oz). The requirements of 6.13. Rounding apply to all quantity declarations that are derived from converted values:
NOTE: When as a result of rounding SI or U.S. customary declarations calculated based on the conversion factors in Appendix A, the resulting declarations are not exact, the largest declaration, whether metric or U.S. customary, will be used for enforcement purposes to determine whether a package contains at least the declared amount of the product.
Do not round conversion factors or any other quantity used or determined in the calculation; only round the final quantity to the number of significant digits needed to maintain the accuracy of the original quantity. Use the rounding rules presented below in Table 1 as guidance to round the final result. In general, quantity declarations on consumer commodities should only be shown to two or three significant digits (for example, 453 g or 85 g). Any final zeros to the right of the decimal point need not be expressed. The U.S. customary and SI declarations of quantity must be accurate and equivalent to each other. For example, a package bearing a net weight declaration of 2 lb (32 oz) must also include an SI declaration of 907 g.
Table 1. Rounding Rules | ||
When The First Digit Dropped is: | The Last Digit Retained is: | Examples |
less than 5 | Unchanged | 2.44 to 2.4 2.429 to 2.4 |
more than 5, or 5 followed by at least 1 digit other than 0 | Increased by 1 | 2.46 to 2.5 2.451 to 2.5 |
5 followed by zeros | Unchanged if Even, or Increased by 1 if Odd | 2.450 to 2.4 2.550 to 2.6 |
Examples:
984.7 984.51 | becomes becomes | 985 985 |
6.86 | becomes | 6.9 |
6.88 | becomes | 6.9 |
Examples:
984.50 | becomes | 984 |
985.50 | becomes | 986 |
68.50 | becomes | 68 |
7.450 | becomes | 7.4 |
7.550 | becomes | 7.6 |
*NOTE: See additional examples in Table 2.
Table 2. Examples | ||
Weight: To convert ounces to grams, multiply ounces by 28.349 5 grams | ||
U.S. Customary | Calculated SI | Rounded SI |
1.0 oz | 28.349 5 g | 28 g |
5.0 oz | 141.747 6 g | 142 g |
101/4 oz | 290.582 38 g | 291 g* |
16.0 oz | 453.592 4 g | 454 g* |
32.0 oz | 907.184 g | 907 g |
48.0 oz | 1360.776 g | 1.36 kg |
5 lb | 2.267 962 kg | 2.27 kg* |
10 lb | 4.535 924 kg | 4.54 kg* |
25 lb | 11.339 81 kg | 11.3 kg |
Liquid Volume: to convert fluid ounces to milliliters, multiply fluid ounces by 29.573 5 milliliters | ||
U.S. Customary | Calculated SI | Rounded SI |
1.0 fl oz | 29.573 5 mL | 30 mL* |
8.0 fl oz | 236.588 mL | 237 mL* |
16.0 fl oz | 473.176 mL | 473 mL |
32.0 fl oz | 946.353 mL | 946 mL |
1 gal | 3.785 41 L | 3.79 L* |
21/2 gal | 9.463 525 L | 9.46 L |
5 gal | 18.927 05 L | 18.9 L |
Dry Measure: to convert dry pints to milliliters, multiply dry pints by 550.610 5 milliliters | ||
U.S. Customary | Calculated SI | Rounded SI |
1 dry pt | 550.610 5 mL | 551 mL* |
1 dry qt | 1.101 221 L | 1.1 L |
Length: to convert inches to millimeters, multiply inches by 25.4 millimeters | ||
U.S. Customary | Calculated SI | Rounded SI |
10.5 in | 266.7 mm | 267 mm* or 26.7 cm* |
1 ft | 30.48 cm | 305 mm* or 30.5 cm* |
5 ft | 152.4 cm | 152 cm or 1.5 m |
50 ft | 15.240 03 m | 15.2 m |
100 ft | 30.480 06 m | 30.5 m* |
* See 6.13. Rounding located under UPLR Appendix B | ||
as adopted by The National Conference on Weights and Measures*
The National Conference on Weights and Measures (NCWM) has long been concerned with the proper units of measurement to be used in the sale of all commodities. This approach has gradually broadened to concerns of standardized package sizes and general identity of particular commodities. Requirements for individual products were at one time made a part of the Weights and Measures Law or were embodied in separate individual Model Regulations. In 1971, this "Model State Method of Sale of Commodities Regulation" was established (renamed in 1983); amendments have been adopted by the Conference almost annually since that time.
Sections with "added 1971" dates refer to those sections that were originally incorporated in the Weights and Measures Law or in individual Model Regulations recommended by the NCWM. Subsequent dates reflect the actual amendment or addition dates.
The 1979 edition included, for the first time, requirements for items packaged in quantities of the International System of Units (SI), the modernized metric system, as well as continuing to present requirements for U.S. customary quantities. It should be stressed that nothing in this Regulation requires changing to the SI system of measurement. SI values are given for the guidance of those wishing to adopt new SI quantities of the commodities governed by this Regulation. SI means the International System of Units as established in 1960 by the General Conference on Weights and Measures and interpreted or modified for the United States by the Secretary of Commerce.
This Regulation assimilates all of the actions periodically taken by the Conference with respect to certain food items, non-food items, and general method of sale concepts. Its format is such that it will permit the addition of individual items at the end of appropriate sections as the need arises. Its adoption as a regulation by individual jurisdictions will eliminate the necessity for legislative consideration of changes in the method of sale of particular commodities. Such items will be able to be handled through the normal regulation-making process.
The table beginning on page 10 shows the status of adoption of the Uniform Regulation for the Method of Sale of Commodities.
*The National Conference on Weights and Measures (NCWM) is supported by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in partial implementation of its statutory responsibility for "cooperation with the states in securing uniformity in weights and measures laws and methods of inspection."
Uniform Regulation for the Method of Sale of Commodities
Preamble
The purpose of this regulation is to require accurate and adequate information about commodities so that purchasers can make price and quantity comparisons.
(Added 1989)
(Added 1991)
NOTE 1: Packages subject to this Section and the Federal Fair Packaging and Labeling Act shall be labeled in units of the International System of Units (SI) and U.S. customary systems of measure effective February 14, 1994, [except for seed (see Section 10.10. Packaged Seed) and camera film and recording tape (see Section 11.22. Camera Film, Video Recording Tape, Audio Recording Tape, and Other Image and Audio Recording Media Intended for Retail Sale and Consumer Use), and as specified in the Uniform Packaging and Labeling Regulation under Section 11.32. SI Units, Exemptions - Consumer Commodities]. SI units may appear first.
(Added 1982) (Amended 1990 and 1993)
NOTE 2: When used in this regulation, the term "weight" means "mass." (See paragraphs K. "Mass" and "Weight" in Section I. Introduction of NIST Handbook 130 for an explanation of these terms.)
(Added 1971) (Amended 1979, 1985, 1989, and 1991)
(Added 1971) (Amended 1979, 1980, 1985, 1987, 1991, and 1992)
(Added 1971) (Amended 1979, 1985, 1986, and 1994)
(Amended 1994)
(Amended 1988)
NOTE 3: See Section 1.12. Ready-to-Eat Food for additional requirement.
Note: See Interpretations and Guidelines Section 2.2.13. Declaration of Identity: Consumer Package and Labeling Regulation (UPLR).
(Amended 1989)
(Added 1989)
(Amended 1991)
(Amended 1989)
(Added 1986 and 1971) (Amended 1982, 1985, 1986, and 1989)
(Amended 1995)
(Amended 1995)
(Amended 1995)
Note: This method of sale for pelletized ice cream shall be enforceable after April 17, 2010, and after August 2, 2011, for similar pelletized frozen desserts.
(Added 2010) (Amended 2011)
(Added 1971)
(Added 1976) (Amended 1985, 1987, and 1991)
The following abbreviations may be used:
BAR B Q | Barbecue |
BI | Bone In |
BNLS | Boneless |
DBLE | Double |
LGE | Large |
N.Y. (NY) | New York |
PK | Pork |
POT-RST | Pot Roast |
RND | Round |
RST | Roast |
SHLDR | Shoulder |
SQ | Square |
STK | Steak |
TRMD | Trimmed |
(Added 1976)
(Amended 1985)
(Added 1985)
(Added 1985)
(Added 1985 and 1977) (Amended 1980 and 1985)
NOTE: The sale of an individual piece of fresh fruit (like an apple, banana, or orange) is allowed by count. (Added 2004)
(Amended 1993)
As used in this section, the following words and phrases shall have the following meanings:
(Added 1992)
(Added 1989)
(Amended 1999)
(Amended 1991)
(Added 1999)
(Amended 1976 and 1991)
Note: In determining the appropriate Method of Sale, a clear distinction must be made as to whether the wood is being sold primarily as fuel (some wood is sold as fuel but flavoring is a byproduct) or strictly as a wood flavoring.
(Added 2010)
(Added 1975)
(Added 1971) (Amended 1975, 1979, 1983, and 1997)
Inside dimensions in SI units shall be declared to the nearest 0.01 meter; inside dimensions in U.S. customary units shall be declared to the nearest inch.
If total usable inside space is declared in a supplemental declaration, it shall be to the nearest cubic decimeter or cubic foot.
(Added 1975)
(Amended 1979)
(Added 1979)
Example:
"One square covers 100 ft2 of roof area."
(Added 1971) (Amended 1979)
(Added 1971) (Amended 1981)
(Amended 1979)
Table 1. Softwood Lumber Sizes | ||||
Minimum standard surfaced sizes at the time of manufacture for both unseasoned (green) and dry lumber as published by the U.S. Department of Commerce in Voluntary Product Standard PS 20-10 or latest edition. | ||||
Product Classification (Nominal Size) | Minimum Dressed Sizes** | |||
Unseasoned | Dry | |||
Inches | Inches | Millimeters | Inches | Millimeters |
Surfaced Lumber* | ||||
2 × 2 | 19/16 × 19/16 | 40 × 40 | 1 1/2 × 11/2 | 38 × 38 |
2 × 21/2 | 19/16 × 21/16 | 40 × 52 | 11/2 × 2 | 38 × 51 |
2 × 3 | 19/16 × 29/16 | 40 × 65 | 11/2 × 21/2 | 38 × 64 |
2 × 4 | 19/16 × 39/16 | 40 × 90 | 11/2 × 31/2 | 38 × 89 |
2 × 6 | 19/16 × 55/8 | 40 × 143 | 11/2 × 51/2 | 38 × 140 |
2 × 8 | 19/16 × 71/2 | 40 × 190 | 11/2 × 71/4 | 38 × 184 |
2 × 10 | 19/16 × 91/2 | 40 × 241 | 11/2 × 91/4 | 38 × 235 |
2 × 12 | 19/16 × 111/2 | 40 × 292 | 1 1/2 × 111/4 | 38 × 286 |
Board Lumber | ||||
1 × 2 | /32 × 1 /16 | 20 × 40 | 3/4 × 11/2 | 19 × 38 |
1 × 3 | /32 × 2 9/16 | 20 × 65 | 3/4 × 21/2 | 19 × 64 |
1 × 4 | 25/32 × 39/16 | 20 × 90 | 3/4 × 31/2 | 19 × 89 |
1 × 6 | 25/32 × 55/8 | 20 × 143 | 3/4 × 51/2 | 19 × 140 |
1 × 8 | 25/32 × 71/2 | 20 × 190 | 3/4 × 71/4 | 19 × 184 |
1 × 10 | 25/32 × 91/2 | 20 × 241 | 3/4 × 91/4 | 19 × 235 |
1 × 12 | 25/32 × 111/2 | 20 × 292 | 3/4 × 111/4 | 19 × 286 |
*The dry thicknesses of nominal 3 in and 4 in lumber are 21/2 in (64 mm) and 31/2 in (89 mm); unseasoned thicknesses are 29/16 in (65 mm) and 39/16 (90 mm). Widths for these thicknesses are the same as shown above. | ||||
**PS 20-10 defines dry lumber as being 19 % or less in moisture content and unseasoned lumber as being over 19 % moisture content. The size of lumber changes approximately 1 % for each 4 % change in moisture content. Lumber stabilizes at approximately 15 % moisture content under normal use conditions. (Added 1971) | ||||
(Added 1977) (Amended 1979 and 1999)
Table 2. Minimum Surfaced Sizes for Kiln Dried Hardwood Lumber | ||
SI Units for Thickness and Width | Thickness and Width in Inches | |
Minimum Sizes in Millimeters | Nominal Sizes | Minimum Sizes |
38 × 89 | 2 × 4 | 11/2 × 31/2 |
38 × 140 | 2 × 6 | 11/2 × 51/2 |
38 × 184 | 2 × 8 | 11/2 × 71/4 |
38 × 235 | 2 × 10 | 11/2 × 91/4 |
38 × 286 | 2 × 12 | 1 1/2 × 111/4 |
19 × 19 | 1 × 1 | 3/4 × 3/4 |
19 × 38 | 1 × 2 | 3/4 × 11/2 |
19 × 63 | 1 × 3 | 3/4 × 21/2 |
19 × 89 | 1 × 4 | 3/4 × 31/2 |
19 × 140 | 1 × 6 | 3/4 × 51/2 |
19 × 184 | 1 × 8 | 3/4 × 71/4 |
19 × 235 | 1 × 10 | 3/4 × 91/4 |
19 × 286 | 1 × 12 | 3/4 × 1 11/4 |
The dry thickness of nominal 11/2 in lumber is 13/16 in. The dry thickness of nominal 11/4 in lumber is 1 in. Sizes are shown in inches and millimeters. Minimum sizes in millimeters are calculated by multiplying the size in inches by 25.4 and rounding to the nearest millimeter. The rule for rounding is: round up for numbers greater than 0.50 mm and round down for numbers less than or equal to 0.50 mm. In case of a dispute on size measurements, the inch measurement takes precedence. Nominal and minimum widths for these thicknesses are shown above. The SI equivalents for 1 in and 13/16 in lumber are 25.4 mm and 30.1 mm, respectively. | ||
(Amended 1993)
Consumer products shall include quantity statements in both SI and U.S. customary units.
Consumer products:
Non-Consumer Products:
NOTE 4: 1 mil = 0.001 in = 25.4 micrometers (µm). 1 micrometer = 0.000 039 37 in. (Amended 1993)
NOTE 5: See Section 10.8.2. Capacity of the Uniform Packaging and Labeling Regulation.
(Amended 1998)
For SI dimensions:
M = T × A × D/1000, where:
M = net mass in kilograms
T = nominal thickness in centimeters
A = nominal length in centimeters times nominal width [NOTE6,page122] in centimeters
D = minimum density in grams per cubic centimeter as defined by the latest version of ASTM Standard D1505, "Standard Test Method for Density of Plastics by the Density-Gradient Technique" and the latest version of ASTM Standard D883, "Standards Terminology Relating to Plastics."
For the purpose of this regulation, the minimum density (D) for linear low density polyethylene plastics (LLDPE) shall be 0.92 g/cm3 (when D is not known).
For the purpose of this regulation, the minimum density (D) for linear medium density polyethylene plastics (LMDPE) shall be 0.93 g/cm3 (when D is not known).
For the purpose of this regulation, the minimum density (D) for high density polyethylene plastics (HDPE) shall be 0.94 g/cm3 (when D is not known).
For U.S. customary dimensions:
W = T × A × 0.03613 × D, where:
W = net weight in pounds
T = nominal thickness in inches;
A = nominal length in inches times nominal width [NOTE6,page122] in inches
D = minimum density in grams per cubic centimeter as defined by the latest version of ASTM Standard D1505, "Standard Test Method for Density of Plastics by the Density-Gradient Technique" and the latest version of ASTM Standard D883, "Standards Terminology Relating to Plastics."
0.03613 is a factor for converting g/cm3 to lb/in3
For the purpose of this regulation, the minimum density (D) for linear low density polyethylene plastics (LLDPE) shall be 0.92 g/cm3 (when D is not known).
For the purpose of this regulation, the minimum density (D) for linear medium density polyethylene plastics (LMDPE) shall be 0.93 g/cm3 (when D is not known).
For the purpose of this regulation, the minimum density (D) for high density polyethylene plastics (HDPE) shall be 0.94 g/cm3 (when D is not known).
(Added 1977) (Amended 1980, 1982, 1987, 1989, 1990, 1993, and 2012) NOTE 6: The nominal width for bags in this calculation is twice the labeled width.
(Amended 1990)
(Amended 1990)
Example: This is to certify that the insulation has been installed in conformance with the requirements indicated by the manufacturer to provide a value of R 19 using 31.5 bags of insulation to cover 1500 ft2 area. Signed and dated.
(Added 1979) (Amended 1983)
(Added 1979)
(Added 1981) (Amended 1990)
(Added 1982)
(Added 1987)
(Added 1983) (Amended 1987)
Example:
1K Kerosene; Kerosene - 2K. (Added 1983)
(Added 2012)
(Amended 1996)
(Added 1984) (Amended 1985, 1986, 1991, 1996, and 2014)
(Added 1986)
NOTE 7: Sources: American National Standards Institute, Inc., "American National Standard for Gas Displacement Meters (500 Cubic Feet per Hour Capacity and Under)," First edition, 1974, and NIST Handbook 44, "Specifications, Tolerances, and Other Technical Requirements for Weighing and Measuring Devices."
Example:
250 mL expands to 500 mL (500 in3 expands to 1000 in3)
(Added 1990) (Amended 2012)
(Added 2010)
(Added 1992)
(Amended 2013)
(Added 1994)
(Added 2000)
(Amended 2014)
(Added 2014)
(Amended 2014) (Added 2007) (Amended 2014)
(Added 2008)
(Amended 2012)
(Added 2010)
Note: If an invoice or receipt from service on an engine has limited room for identifying the viscosity, brand, and service category, then abbreviated versions of each may be used on the invoice or receipt and the letters "SAE" may be omitted from the viscosity classification.
(Note added 2014)
(Amended 2014)
(Amended 2014)
(Other than "Energy Conserving")," API Publication 1509, "Engine Oil Licensing and Certification System," European Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA), "European Oil Sequences," or other Vehicle or Engine Manufacturer standards as approved in Section 2.33.1.3.1. Vehicle or Engine Manufacturer Standard.
(Amended 2014)
(Added 2014)
(Amended 2014)
(Amended 2013 and 2014)
(Added 2013) (Amended 2014)
(Added 2012) (Amended 2013 and 2014)
Where fees will be assessed for other services in direct connection with the fueling of the vehicle, such as fees based on time measurement and/or a fixed fee, the additional fees shall be included on all street signs or other advertising.
(Added 2013)
(Added 2014)
(Added 1976)
Examples:
"For service or refunds contact: the XYZ Cola Company, Rockville, MD 20800; Telephone: (301) 555-1000," or "See attendant inside for refunds."
(Amended 1995)
(Added 1972)
(Amended 1979)
(Added 1974) (Renumbered 1985)
(Added 1973) (Amended 1974, 1979, and 1985)
All provisions of all orders and regulations heretofore issued on this same subject that are contrary to or inconsistent with the provisions of this regulation, and specifically __________, are hereby revoked.
(Added 1971)
This regulation shall become effective on _____________.
(Added 1971) (Amended 1973)
as adopted by The National Conference on Weights and Measures*
The Uniform Unit Pricing Regulation (UPR) (renamed in 1983) provides a national approach to the subject for those jurisdictions choosing to adopt such a regulation. The traditional approach of the Conference in drafting Uniform Regulations has been to design specific implementing Regulations for the enforcement of the broader requirements of the Uniform Weights and Measures Law. Given the authority of Sections 12.(c) and (d), and the mandate of Section 16. of this Law, as well as the trend in unit pricing, both voluntary and mandatory, the UPR is considered appropriate. Unit pricing has been a concern of the weights and measures official and has been required for random weight packages for a long time.
In 1993, the NCWM was contacted by several weights and measures jurisdictions and retail trade associations who requested that the UPR be updated to add new commodity groups and pricing requirements. The comments indicated that many commodity groups for non-food products were not included in the table and that some of the required units may not be appropriate for many of the new products being sold in stores. Another concern was that the UPR specified pricing only on the basis of price per pound on most products sold by weight. This has resulted in some jurisdictions not enforcing the requirements on stores that voluntarily unit price on the basis of price per ounce instead of price per pound. The NCWM agreed that the UPR should be revised to encourage wider adoption and use of the uniform regulation and that provisions for unit pricing in metric units should be included.
At the 1997 Annual Meeting, the NCWM adopted revisions to the regulation to permit retail stores that voluntarily provide unit pricing to present prices using various units of measure.
The NCWM eliminated the table of product groupings because it is difficult to keep it current and inclusive, so some newer products were not included under the uniform requirements. The table was replaced with requirements that specify that the unit price is to be based on price per ounce or pound, or price per 100 grams or kilogram, if the packaged commodity is labeled by weight. For example, the proposed revisions would require the unit price for soft drinks sold in various package sizes (e.g., 12 fl oz cans through 2 L bottles) to be uniformly and consistently displayed in terms of either price per fluid ounce, price per quart, or price per liter. The NCWM also increased the price of commodities exempted from unit pricing from 10 cents to 50 cents. The NCWM believed these revisions would ensure that unit pricing information facilitates value comparison between different package sizes and/or brands offered for sale in a store.
The NCWM also considered several comments on this item from members of the U.S. Metric Association (USMA). Most of these comments suggested that the UPR be amended to require unit pricing in metric units and permit U.S. customary unit pricing to be provided voluntarily. When it developed the proposed revisions, the NCWM included guidelines for both U.S. customary and metric unit pricing and believes this is the correct approach to implementing metric revisions in the regulation. The NCWM would like to make it clear that the UPR applies only when stores voluntarily provide unit pricing information. Its purpose is to provide a standard that retailers must follow to ensure that consumers will have pricing information that helps them make value comparisons. The decision to provide unit price information in metric or U.S. customary units rests with retailers who will respond to consumer preference. The NCWM believes that consumer preference will be the deciding factor as to when and how quickly metric unit pricing is used in the marketplace. Therefore, the NCWM does not support amendments to include mandatory provisions in the UPR as these provisions would take the decision to go to metric unit pricing out of the hands of consumers and retailers. Finally, the NCWM does not want to include any requirement that may discourage retailers from voluntarily providing unit price information.
(Amended 1997)
In December 2014, NIST published a unit pricing best practice guide, NIST SP 1181, "Unit Pricing Guide, A Best Practice Approach to Unit Pricing," which can be found at www.nist.gov/pml/wmd/pubs/upload/SP1181-Unit-
Pricing-Guide.pdf. The guide was developed to provide retailers with information about the best practice requirements for the unit pricing of pre-packaged commodities, which will improve the accuracy, usability, and uniformity of unit pricing information offered in retail stores. The guide is not intended to conflict with the UPR. Mandatory regulations should be consulted to ensure those requirements are met before the recommended best practice requirements in this guide are implemented.
*The National Conference on Weights and Measures (NCWM) is supported by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in partial implementation of its statutory responsibility for "cooperation with the states in securing uniformity in weights and measures laws and methods of inspection."
The table beginning on page 10 shows the status of adoption of the Uniform Unit Pricing Regulation.
Uniform Unit Pricing Regulation
Except for random and uniform weight packages that clearly state the unit price in accordance with existing regulations, any retail establishment providing unit price information for packaged commodities shall provide the unit price information in the manner prescribed herein.
The declaration of the unit price of a particular commodity in all package sizes offered for sale in a retail establishment shall be uniformly and consistently expressed in terms of:
NOTE 1: See "Uniform Packaging and Labeling Regulation."
The retail establishment shall have the option of using (b)(1) or (b)(2), but shall not implement both methods.
The retail establishment shall accurately and consistently use the same method of rounding up or down to compute the price to the whole cent.
This regulation shall become effective on August 1, 2015. (Amended 1997)
as adopted by The National Conference on Weights and Measures*
The Uniform Regulation covering the registration of servicepersons and service agencies was developed and adopted by the National Conference on Weights and Measures (NCWM) in 1966, retitled in 1983, and substantially revised in 1984. It is designed to promote uniformity among those jurisdictions that provide for or are contemplating the establishment of some type of control over the servicing of commercial weighing and measuring devices. It offers to a serviceperson or to a service agency the opportunity to register and carries with it the privilege of restoring devices to service and of placing new or used devices in service.
Two unique features of the registration plan are its voluntary nature and the provision for reciprocity. Registration is not required; however, the privileges gained make it attractive. Also, in order to provide maximum effectiveness of the program and to reduce legal obstacles to a minimum to service across state lines, provision is made for reciprocity in certification of standards and testing equipment among states.
The table beginning on page 10 shows the status of adoption of the Uniform Regulation for the Voluntary Registration of Servicepersons and Service Agencies for Commercial Weighing and Measuring Devices.
*The National Conference on Weights and Measures (NCWM) is supported by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in partial implementation of its statutory responsibility for "cooperation with the states in securing uniformity in weights and measures laws and methods of inspection."
Uniform Regulation for the Voluntary Registration of Servicepersons and Service Agencies for Commercial Weighing and Measuring Devices
For the benefit of the users, manufacturers, and distributors of commercial weighing and measuring devices, it shall be the policy of the Director of Weights and Measures, hereinafter referred to as "Director," to accept registration of (a) an individual and (b) an agency providing acceptable evidence that he, she, or it is fully qualified by training or experience to install, service, repair, or recondition a commercial weighing or measuring device; has a thorough working knowledge of all appropriate weights and measures laws, orders, rules, and regulations; and has possession of, or has available for use, and will use suitable and calibrated weights and measures field standards and testing equipment appropriate in design and adequate in amount. (An employee of the government shall not be eligible for registration.)
The Director will check the qualifications of each applicant. It will be necessary for an applicant to have available sufficient field standards and equipment (see Section 5, Minimum Equipment).
It shall also be the policy of the Department to issue a "Certificate of Registration" to qualified applicants whose applications for registration are approved. This Certificate grants authority to remove rejection seals and tags placed on Commercial and Law Enforcement Weighing and Measuring Devices by authorized weights and measures officials, to place in service repaired devices that were rejected, and to place in service devices that have been newly installed.
The Director is NOT guaranteeing the work or fair dealing of a Registered Serviceperson or Service Agency. He will, however, remove from the registration list any Registered Serviceperson or Service Agency that performs unsatisfactory work or takes unfair advantage of a device owner.
Regi stration with the Director shall be on a voluntary basis. The Director shall reserve the right to limit or reject the application of any Serviceperson or Service Agency and to revoke his, her, or its permit to remove rejection seals or tags for good cause.
This policy shall in no way preclude or limit the right and privilege of any individual or agency not registered with the Director to install, service, repair, or recondition a commercial weighing or measuring device (see Section 7, Privileges and Responsibilities of a Voluntary Registrant).
(Added 1966) (Amended 1984 and 2005)
(Added 1966)
(Added 1966) (Amended 1984)
(Added 1966) (Amended 1984)
There shall be charged by the Director an annual fee of $Zero per Registered Serviceperson and $Zero per Registered Service Agency to cover costs at the time application for registration is made, and annually, thereafter.
(Added 1966) (Amended 1984)
An individual or agency qualified by training or experience may apply for registration to service weighing devices or measuring devices on an application form supplied by the Director. Said form, duly signed and witnessed, shall include certification by the applicant that the individual or agency is fully qualified to install, service, repair, or recondition whatever devices for the service of which competence is being registered; has in possession or available for use, and will use, all necessary testing equipment and standards; and has full knowledge of all appropriate weights and measures laws, orders, rules, and regulations. An applicant also shall submit appropriate evidence or references as to qualifications. Application for registration shall be voluntary, but the Director is authorized to reject or limit any application.
(Added 1966) (Amended 1984)
Applicants must have available sufficient standards and equipment to adequately test devices as set forth in the Notes section of each applicable code in NIST Handbook 44, "Specifications, Tolerances, and Other Technical Requirements for Weighing and Measuring Devices." This equipment will meet the specifications of NIST 105-series standards (or other suitable and designated standards). This section shall not preclude the use of additional field standards and/or equipment, as approved by the Director, for uniform evaluation of device performance (see Section 9, Examination and Calibration or Certification of Standards and Testing Equipment).
(Added 1984) (Amended 2005)
The Director will review and check the qualifications of each applicant. The Director shall issue to the applicant a "Certificate of Registration," including an assigned registration number if it is determined that the applicant is qualified. The "Certificate of Registration" will expire 1 year from the date of issuance.
(Added 1966) (Amended 1984)
A bearer of a Certificate of Registration shall have the authority to remove an official rejection tag or mark placed on a weighing or measuring device by the authority of the Director; place in service, until such time as an official examination can be made, a weighing or measuring device that has been officially rejected; and place in service, until such time as an official examination can be made, a new or used weighing or measuring device. The registered serviceperson or service agency is responsible for installing, repairing, and adjusting devices such that the devices are adjusted as closely as practicable to zero error.
(Added 1966) (Amended 1984)
The Director shall furnish each registered serviceperson and registered service agency with a supply of report forms to be known as "Placed in Service Reports." Such a form shall be executed in triplicate, shall include the assigned registration number, and shall be signed by a registered serviceperson or by a serviceperson representing a registered agency for each rejected device restored to service and for each newly installed device placed in service. Within 24 hours after a device is restored to service or placed in service, the original of the properly executed Placed in Service Report, together with any official rejection tag removed from the device, shall be forwarded to the Director at 4608 W. 61st Little Rock, Arkansas. The duplicate copy of the report shall be handed to the owner or operator of the device, and the triplicate copy of the report shall be retained by the Registered Serviceperson or Registered Service Agency.
(Added 1966) (Amended 2005)
All field standards that are used for servicing and testing weights and measures devices for which competence is registered shall be submitted to the Director for initial and subsequent verification and calibration at intervals determined by the Director. A registered serviceperson or registered service agency shall not use in servicing commercial weighing or measuring devices any field standards or testing equipment that have not been calibrated or verified by the Director. In lieu of submission of physical standards, the Director may accept calibration and/or verification reports from any laboratory that is formally accredited or recognized. The Director shall maintain a list of organizations from which the state will accept calibration reports. The state shall retain the right to periodically monitor calibration results and/or to verify field standard compliance to specifications and tolerances when field standards are initially placed into service or at any intermediate point between calibrations.
(Added 1966) (Amended 1984, 1999, and 2005)
The Director is authorized to suspend or revoke a Certificate of Registration for good cause which shall include, but not be limited to: taking of unfair advantage of an owner of a device; failure to have test equipment or standards certified; failure to use adequate testing equipment; or failure to adjust commercial or law enforcement devices to comply with Handbook 44 subsequent to service or repair.
(Added 1966) (Amended 1984)
The Director shall publish, from time to time as he deems appropriate, and may supply upon request, lists of Registered Servicepersons and Registered Service Agencies.
(Added 1966)
This regulation shall become effective on August 1, 2016. (Added 1966)
as adopted by The National Conference on Weights and Measures*
Numerous state and local jurisdictions have provided for, or are considering, mandatory open dating of certain packaged commodities. Additionally, many commodities in the marketplace are now voluntarily open dated. Lack of uniformity between jurisdictions could impede the orderly flow of commerce.
In 1985, the National Conference on Weights and Measures (NCWM), in concert with the Association of Food and Drug Officials, wrote a new Uniform Regulation. It resolved the differences in the versions developed independently by the two organizations.
The regulation provides two options for implementation by the states. One requires open dating on all perishable foods and the other permits voluntary open dating of such foods. In the latter (voluntary) case, the open dating must then conform to the uniform regulation. Notes to Sections 1.1. Purpose and 3.1. "Sell By" Date indicate the alternate wording for the voluntary version of the Regulation.
The table beginning on page 10 shows the status of adoption of the Uniform Open Dating Regulation.
*The National Conference on Weights and Measures (NCWM) is supported by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in partial implementation of its statutory responsibility for "cooperation with the states in securing uniformity in weights and measures laws and methods of inspection."
Uniform Open Dating Regulation [NOTE1,page155]
NOTE 1: Alternatively, this regulation may be adopted to require uniformity of open dating of perishable foods whenever a packager voluntarily elects to use date labeling. In such instances Sections 1.1. Purpose and 3.1. "Sell By" Date are reworded in the following manner:
The month and day designation shall be separated by a period, slash, dash, or spacing. When a numeral designation of the first nine days of the month is used, the number shall include a zero as the first digit; for example, 01 or 03.
(Amended 1987)
The date, whether "sell by" or "best if used by," shall be printed, stamped, embossed, perforated, or otherwise shown on the package, label on the package, or tag attached to the package in a manner that is easily readable and separate from other information, graphics, or lettering so as to be clearly visible to a prospective purchaser. The date shall not be superimposed on other required information or obscured by other information, graphics, or pricing. Regardless of the type size used, the date shall be easily readable. These requirements do not preclude a supplemental notice elsewhere on a package describing and/or indicating the location of the date.
A person who, as provided for in this regulation, places either the "sell by" date or "best if used by" date on a package shall determine the date by taking into consideration the food quality, characteristics, formulation, processing impact, packaging or container and other protective wrapping or coating, customary transportation, and storage and display conditions. For purposes of calculating this date, home storage conditions shall be considered to be similar to those in the usual retail store except that the date for refrigerated food may be calculated by using a home storage temperature standard of 40 ºF (4.4 ºC).
A person who is responsible for establishing the date for perishable, semi perishable, and long shelf life food shall keep a record of the method used to determine the date. A record revision is necessary whenever a factor affecting date determination is altered. Such record shall be retained for not less than six months after the most recent "sell by" or "best if used by" date and shall be available during normal business hours for examination upon request by Arkansas State Plant Board.
A municipality or county shall not adopt or impose standards or requirements other than those provided for in this regulation.
This regulation shall become effective on and after August 1, 2016.
as adopted by The National Conference on Weights and Measures*
The Uniform Regulation for National Type Evaluation was adopted by the NCWM at the 68th Annual Meeting in 1983 and is a necessary adjunct to recognize and enable participation in the National Type Evaluation Program administered by the National Conference on Weights and Measures (NCWM). The Regulation specifically authorizes: type evaluation; recognition of a NCWM "Certificate of Conformance" of type; the State Measurement Laboratory to operate as a Participating Laboratory, if authorized by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) under its program of recognition of State Measurement Laboratories; and, the state to charge fees to those persons who seek type evaluation of weighing and measuring devices.
(Amended 2000)
At the 81st Annual Meeting in 1996, the NCWM adopted major revisions to the Uniform Regulation for National Type Evaluation. These revisions were made to clarify the requirements and incorporate the policies and guidelines adopted by the Executive Committee as published in NCWM Publication 14, "Technical Policy, Checklists, and Test Procedures."
(Amended 1997)
It is the intent of this regulation to have all states use the National Type Evaluation, as approved by the NCWM, as their examining procedure. If a state does not wish to establish a Participating Laboratory, Section 2.4. Participating Laboratory and Section 4. Participating Laboratory may be deleted.
The table beginning on page 10 shows the status of adoption of the Uniform Regulation for National Type Evaluation.
*The National Conference on Weights and Measures (NCWM) is supported by the National Institute of Standards and Technology in partial implementation of its statutory responsibility for "cooperation with the states in securing uniformity in weights and measures laws and methods of inspection."
Uniform Regulation for National Type Evaluation
This regulation shall apply to [NOTE1,page163] any type of device and/or equipment covered in National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Handbook 44 for which evaluation procedures have been published in the National Conference on Weights and Measures (NCWM), Publication 14, "National Type Evaluation Program, Technical Policy, Checklists, and Test Procedures."
NOTE 1: This section can be amended to include a list of devices or device types to which NTEP evaluation criteria does not apply. Additionally, a state can amend this section to allow it to conduct a type evaluation and issue a "Certificate of Approval." This approach should be limited to occasions where formal NTEP Type Evaluation criteria does not apply and to new technologies or device applications where the development of criteria is deemed necessary by the Director.
(Amended 2000, 2001, and 2004)
(Amended 2004)
(Added 2001)
(Amended 2000)
(Amended 1998)
(Amended 2001)
(Amended 2001)
(Added 2001)
(Amended 2001)
(Added 2001)
NOTE 2: The section is identical to G-A.1. Commercial and Law Enforcement Equipment, Section 1.10. General Code, National Institute of Standards and Technology Handbook 44 for definition of "commercial" and "law enforcement equipment."
The Director shall require a device to be traceable to an active Certificate of Conformance (CC) prior to its installation or use for commercial or law enforcement purposes. If the device consists of separate and compatible main elements, each main element shall be traceable to a CC. A device is traceable to a CC if:
(Amended 2001)
(Amended 2001)
(Amended 2001)
(Amended 2001)
(Amended 2001)
(Amended 2001)
(Amended 2001)
(Amended 1998 and 2001)
(Amended 2001)
(Amended 2001)
(Amended 2001)
The Director is authorized to:
All provisions of all orders and regulations before issued on this same subject that are contrary to or inconsistent with the provisions of this regulation, are hereby revoked.
(Amended 2001)
This regulation shall become effective on August 1, 2016. (Amended 2001)
as adopted by The National Conference on Weights and Measures*
In 1984, the National Conference on Weights and Measures (NCWM) adopted a Section 2.20. in the Uniform Regulation for the Method of Sale of Commodities requiring that motor fuels containing alcohol be labeled to disclose to the retail purchaser that the fuel contains alcohol. The delegates deemed this action necessary since motor vehicle manufacturers were qualifying their warranties with respect to some gasoline-alcohol blends, motor fuel users were complaining to weights and measures officials about fuel quality and vehicle performance, and ASTM International (ASTM) had not yet finalized quality standards for oxygenated (which includes alcohol-containing) fuels. While a few officials argued weights and measures officials should not cross the line from quantity assurance programs to programs regulating quality, the delegates were persuaded that the issue needed immediate attention.
A Motor Fuels Task Force was appointed in 1984 to develop mechanisms for achieving uniformity in the evaluation and regulation of motor fuels. The Task Force developed the Uniform Motor Fuel Inspection Law (see the Uniform Engine Fuels and Automotive Lubricants Inspection Law section of this handbook) and the Uniform Engine Fuel and Automotive Lubricants Regulation to accompany the law. The Uniform Law required registration and certification of motor fuel as meeting ASTM standards. The regulation defined the ASTM standards to be applied to motor fuel.
In 1992, the NCWM established the Petroleum Subcommittee under the Laws and Regulations Committee. The subcommittee recommended major revisions to the Regulation that was adopted at the 80th NCWM in 1995. The scope of the regulation was expanded to include all engine fuels, petroleum products, and automotive lubricants; its title was changed accordingly; and the fuel specifications and method of sale sections were revised to address the additional products. Other changes included expansion of the definitions section and addition of sections on retail storage tanks, condemned product, registration of engine fuels designed for special use, and test methods and reproducibility limits.
In 2007, the Petroleum Subcommittee (now referred to as the Fuels and Lubricants Subcommittee) undertook a review of this regulation to update it by eliminating reference to "petroleum products" and to reflect the addition of new engine fuels to the marketplace.
At the 2008 NCWM Interim Meeting, the Laws and Regulations Committee changed the Petroleum Subcommittee's name to the Fuels and Lubricants Subcommittee (FALS) in recognition of its work with a wide variety of fuels including petroleum and biofuels.
The Uniform Regulation for Engine Fuels and Automotive Lubricants was adopted by the NCWM in 1995 and the latest amendments were adopted in 2008. The status of state actions with respect to this Regulation is shown in the table beginning on page 10.
(Amended 2008)
*The National Conference on Weights and Measures (NCWM) is supported by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in partial implementation of its statutory responsibility for "cooperation with the states in securing uniformity in weights and measures laws and methods of inspection."
Uniform Engine Fuels and Automotive Lubricants Regulation
(Added 2004)
Ignition Engine Fuel" describes the acceptable denaturants for denatured fuel ethanol to be blended into spark ignition engine fuels- "Ethanol" as defined in Section 1.20. Ethanol.
(Amended 2014)
(Added 2014)
(Amended 2014)
(Amended 2014)
(Added 2012)
(Added 2013)
(Added 2012)
(Added 2012)
(Added 1998) (Amended 1999)
(Added 2003)
(Added 2004)
(Amended 2008)
(Added 1998) (Amended 1999)
(Added 1998) (Amended 1999 and 2014)
(Added 2009)
The vapor pressure exceptions in subsections 2.1.2. Gasoline-Ethanol Blends will remain in effect until ASTM incorporates changes to the vapor pressure maximums for ethanol blends, whichever occurs earlier.
NOTE 1: The temperature values (e.g., 54 °C, 50. °C, 41.5 °C) are presented in the format prescribed in ASTM E29 "Standard Practice for Using Significant Digits in Test Data to Determine Conformance with Specifications."
(Added 2009) (Amended 2016)
(Amended 2009)
(Amended 2003)
(Amended 2014)
NOTE: Also reference Gas Processors Association 2140, Liquefied Petroleum Gas Specification and Test Methods.
(Added 1997) (Amended 2014)
(Added 1997)
(Added 2004) (Amended 2014)
(Added 2004)
(Added 2004)
(Added 2004)
(Added 2004) (Amended 2008)
(Added 2012)
(Added 2014)
(Amended 2008, 2012)
Table 1. Minimum Antiknock Index Requirements | ||
Term | Minimum Antiknock Index | |
ASTM D4814 Altitude Reduction Areas IV and V | All Other ASTM D4814 Areas | |
Premium, Super, Supreme, High Test | 90 | 91 |
Midgrade, Plus | 87 | 89 |
Regular Leaded | 86 | 88 |
Regular, Unleaded (alone) | 85 | 87 |
Economy | -- | 86 |
(Table 1. Amended 1997)
(Amended 1996)
(Added 2014)
(Added 2014)
(Amended 1996 and 2014)
(Added 2012)
(Added 1998) (Amended 1999)
(Added 2012)
(Amended 1998, 1999, 2008, and 2012)
NOTE: For example, NFPA 407, 2007 edition: Section 4.3.18 Product Identification Signs. Each aircraft fuel servicing vehicle shall have a sign on each side and the rear to indicate the product. The sign shall have letters at least 75 mm (3 in) high of color sharply contrasting with its background for visibility. It shall show the word "FLAMMABLE" and the name of the product carried, such as "JET A," "JET B," "GASOLINE," or "AVGAS." (NOTE: Refer to the most recent edition NFPA 407.)
(Amended 2008)
NOTE: For example, NFPA 407, 2007 edition: Section 4.3.18 Product Identification Signs. Each aircraft fuel servicing vehicle shall have a sign on each side and the rear to indicate the product. The sign shall have letters at least 3 in (75 mm) high of color sharply contrasting with its background for visibility. It shall show the word
"FLAMMABLE" and the name of the product carried, such as "JET A," "JET B," "GASOLINE," or "AVGAS." (NOTE: Refer to the most recent edition NFPA 407.)
(Amended 2008)
"Warning - Not Suitable For Use In Unvented Heaters Requiring No. 1-K."
The lettering of this legend shall not be less than 12.7 mm (1/2 in) in height by 1.5 mm (1/16 in) stroke; block style letters and the color of lettering shall be in definite contrast to the background color to which it is applied.
(Added 2014)
(Amended 2007, 2008, and 2014)
Example: M85
Example: M85 Methanol
(Amended 2008)
(Amended 2012 and 2014)
(Added 2012 and 2014)
(Amended 2012 and 2014)
(Added 2014)
(Added 2012) (Amended 2014)
(Added 2012) (Amend 2013 and 2014)
(Added 2013) (Amended 2014)
(Amended 2012, 2013, and 2014)
(Added 2004)
(Added 2004)
The lettering of this legend shall not be less than 6 mm (1/4 in) in height by 0.8 mm (1/32 in) stroke; block style letters and the color shall be in definite contrast to the background color to which it is applied.
(Added 2005) (Amended 2008)
Effective date shall be January 1, 2016. (Added 2014)
(Amended 2008, 2012, and 2014)
(Amended 2008, 2012, and 2014)
(Amended 2014)
(Added 2008) (Amended 2014)
(Amended 2008)
(Amended 2003)
(Amended 2008)
(Added 2008)
(Added 2008)
as adopted by The National Conference on Weights and Measures*
The NCWM established the Price Verification Working Group in 1993 to respond to public concern about price accuracy in retail stores. More than 500 retailers, consumer representatives, and state and local weights and measures officials participated in the development of the procedure. It was adopted by the NCWM at the 80th Annual Meeting in 1995.
The procedure applies to all retail stores, including food, hardware, general merchandise, drug, automotive supply, convenience, and club or other stores. Model inspection reports are included to promote the collection of uniform data. The model reports and uniform procedures will serve as the foundation for the collection and summarization of price accuracy data on a national basis. This information may be used to provide reliable information on price accuracy with a national perspective. The procedure provides administrators with the tools, guidance, and background information, as well as uniform test procedures and enforcement practices, to enhance the economic well-being of consumers and retail businesses in their jurisdiction. By implementing this program in cooperation with industry, officials will help to restore and maintain consumer confidence in retail pricing practices and technologies, such as scanners, and provide economic benefits for consumers and the business community.
The Examination Procedure for Price Verification was recommended for adoption by the Conference in 1995. The table beginning on page 10 shows the status of adoption of the procedure.
*The National Conference on Weights and Measures (NCWM) is supported by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in partial implementation of its statutory responsibility for "cooperation with the states in securing uniformity in weights and measures laws and methods of inspection."
Examination Procedure for Price Verification
These procedures may be used to conduct price verification inspections in any type of store, including those that use Universal Product Code (UPC) scanners and price-look-up codes at the check-out counter as a means for pricing. Procedures are included for test purchases and verifying manual entries. The purpose of the procedure is to ensure that consumers are charged the correct price for the items they purchase. The "randomized" and "stratified" sampling procedures are intended for use in routine inspections to determine how well a store is maintaining price accuracy. Nothing in this procedure should be construed or interpreted to redefine any state or local law or limit any jurisdiction from enforcing any law, regulation, or procedures that relates to the accuracy of advertisements of retail prices, or any other legal requirement.
NOTE: These devices either retain a "batch" file of entered prices and identities for later comparison to the database or operate "on-line" via FM radio to the database. When used for price verification, they shall only be used with the active point-of-sale database. If you use a hand-held scanner, verify all price discrepancies by scanning the item at a check-out register and request a printed receipt to document the price that consumers would be charged.
NOTE: These recommendations are not intended to modify the enforcement policy of any jurisdiction unless they are adopted by the jurisdiction.
These recommendations do not modify the inspection policy of any jurisdiction unless adopted by the jurisdiction.
Inspection Control. - After a program has been in place for a period of time and a database is established, procedures can be developed to randomly select stores for inspection, or to focus inspections on stores with low levels of compliance.
The following materials and equipment are recommended for use in conducting the inspections in this procedure: Inspection report:
* Copy of laws or regulations
* Hand-held counter or Price Verification Tally Sheets
* 1 lb (or 1 kg) test standard
* Merchandise cart (if required and available)
Other equipment and materials provided by the store when available:
* Current newspaper advertisement or store sales brochures
* Hand-held scanning device(s) - Stores are not required to have this equipment or to make it available for your use. However, many stores use this equipment to maintain price integrity and may make it available for your use on request.
Prior to conducting an inspection, it is recommended that you contact the store management, identify yourself, and explain the purpose of your visit. Determine if there are any health, sanitation, or safety rules. If requested, provide information on the law or the inspection procedure.
NOTE: When verifying manual price entries or conducting test purchases, store management is typically not notified of the test until the items have been totaled and the transaction completed.
Perform the following inspections:
NIST Handbook 44 defines "point-of-sale system" as an assembly of elements including a weighing element, indicating element, and a recording element (and may be equipped with a scanner) used to complete a direct sale transaction.
NOTE: The importance of consumer access to the cash register display of product information and price cannot be overstated. If consumers cannot verify prices as the items are being scanned, they must wait until the transaction is completed (i.e., they must pay by cash, check, or credit card) before they receive the receipt and can confirm the prices charged for the items.
These procedures shall be used to conduct inspections in any type of store, whether the store uses scanners or automated price look-up registers, or where a clerk manually enters the prices.
Table 1. Samples, Sample Collection, and Accuracy Requirements | |||
Column 1. Type of Store | Column 2. Samples | Column 3. Sample Collection Procedures | Column 4. Accuracy Requirements (See Section 10) |
Convenience or Any Other Small Retail Store NOTE: For this procedure, a small store is typically one with three or fewer check-out registers. | Two-Stage Sample: First Stage = 25 items Second Stage = 25 items or more Total = 50 items or more or Single-Stage Sample: 50 items or more | Use the Randomized Sample Collection in 7.3.1 or the Stratified Sample Collection in 7.3.2. and Use Manual or Automated Inspection Procedures NOTE: Test the store as a whole unit by taking samples from all "areas" of the store, or divide the store into "areas" and select samples from several "areas" (e.g., at least 10 or one-third of the "areas") | If 1 error is found in the 25-item sample, test an additional 25 items. If more than 1 error is found in the 50-item sample, the store fails. NOTE: If more than 1 error is found in the first 25 items, the store fails. |
All Other Retail Stores | Two-Stage Sample: First Stage = 50 items Second Stage = 50 items or more Total = 100 items or more | If 1 error is found in the 50-item sample, the store passes. If 2 errors are found in the 50-item sample, test an additional 50 items. If more than 2 errors are found in the 100 item sample, the store fails. NOTE: If more than 2 errors are found in either stage, the store fails. | |
Single-Stage Sample: 100 or more items | If more than 2 errors are found in the 100-item sample the store fails; or If more than 100 items are sampled, the error rate shall not exceed 2 %. | ||
NOTE 1: These sampling procedures allow flexibility in sample collection for use in any type or size of store. You can take several different approaches and select a number of "areas" to sample using the sample sizes in Table 1. For example, to perform a 100-item inspection in a department store with 20 "areas," you can either verify 5 items in an "area," 10 items in each of 10 "areas," or 20 items from each of 5 "areas."
NOTE 2: The sample sizes used for routine inspections in this procedure should not be used to estimate the overall accuracy of prices in a store.
NOTE 3: In some stores, price reductions are not programmed into the point-of-sale system. Instead, discounts are manually entered by a sales clerk; however, the sales clerks should have a means of identifying a sale item. When conducting normal inspections, verify the price of the sale items by allowing the sales clerk to determine the price of the item using the store's customary procedures. This will ensure that the customer receives the correct price regardless of the location where the check-out occurs.
The steps of the randomized sampling collection procedure are as follows:
Examples:
* Select 5 items from all of the shelves and displays in the produce section which are grouped as a single "area,"
* Select 85 items by choosing 5 items from either side of several of the 13 aisles (e.g., there are 26 rows of shelves from which samples may be selected. To select 85 items, select 5 items from 17 of the 26 rows of shelves).
* Select 5 items from the counters along the back of the store, and
* Select 5 items from the deli-bakery and the cash register areas which are grouped as a single "area."
The following breakdown of "areas" is illustrated in Figure 2; the same approach is used in Figure 3. Figure 4 illustrates an example of sampling 100 items by selecting 20 items from 5 different areas in a department store.
1 - All shelves and displays in the produce section are grouped as a single "area."
28 - The 13 aisles (26 rows of shelves), the counters along the back of the store, and the cash register areas are counted as "areas."
1 - The "end-of-aisle" displays at the front and back of the store are grouped as a single "area."
30 - Total "areas"
Figure 1. Illustration of the Randomized Sampling Procedure
Figure 2. Illustration of the Randomized Sampling Procedure
NOTE: Randomness can be increased by starting on different shelves or at the midpoint or rear of an aisle during an inspection, or by starting at different locations in a store on subsequent inspections. Always start at a different location on subsequent inspections of a store. To maintain "randomness," do not search for obvious pricing errors. If you see pricing errors, have them corrected. The sample should not include more than one of the same item from the same display. If an item is out of stock, select the next item.
NOTE 1: Include at least 5 to 10 Price Look Up (PLU) and store-coded items in the samples. In food stores, these items do not usually have to be removed from the produce, bulk foods section, or deli display for use in this procedure. You can use a hand-held scanner or record the identity and item price designated at the product sales display of the items from the different department (produce, bakery, deli), if available, for price comparison through either the PLU programmed in the department's scale or at the point-of-sale system. Have the PLU entered in the scale (See Note 2) or point-of-sale system (or have "store-coded" items scanned) and record the price, comparing it with the displayed sale price. Record any errors (See Note 3). When checking "store-coded" items from the meat or other departments, remember a "UPC symbol" on a random weight label is read by a scanner to obtain the total price and identity. The price is not stored in the point-of-sale database, but in the memory of the prepackaging scale.
NOTE 2: Some scales or point-of-sale systems do not display or record the unit price associated with the PLU unless a weight is on the scale. For this type of device, a one pound standard (or 1 kg) is placed on the scale load-receiving element. Some systems automatically deduct tare, so check to make sure that this does not affect the price indication.
NOTE 3: When you manually enter PLU codes and find errors, reenter the PLU number to ensure that the error was not caused by a keying mistake and that the item was identified accurately.
Figure 3. Illustration of the Randomized Sampling Procedure
For stratified sample collection, items are randomly selected from different "merchandise groups" in a store. They are tested in the first stage of the two-stage manual sampling plan to determine if (1) any group has more errors than any other and (2) the sample taken in the first stage meets accuracy requirements. This method should be modified depending on the marketing practices of the store in which it is used (e.g., if you are in a department store, there may be fewer groups to sample from, or the list provided below may not include the types of groups typically encountered in a hardware superstore). The next example shows how to conduct a stratified sample and how it is used, but it should not be the sole basis for sample collection because a specific list of items does not look at the store as a whole. Focusing on specific merchandise groups takes time, but this may be necessary when investigating a complaint or following up on a prior noncompliance. Select only one item from each brand or product from a display that has two or more items of the same product, size, and price displayed side by side if they are the same price.
Figure 4. Stratified Sample Collection
Figure 5. Randomized Sample Collection
Sample Size. - In this example, a large food store is inspected using a two-stage sampling plan (50 items/100 total items). The inspection begins with an initial sample of 50 items (see Column 1. Type of Store for All Other Retail Stores and Column 2. Sample Sizes in Table 1).
Stratified Sample Collection. - Select 50 items from the merchandise groups listed below (provided as examples only; stores may have other groups that should be included). This procedure allows you to focus on specific merchandise groups to determine if errors are indeed occurring in groups where they are thought to occur most frequently (e.g., sale and direct delivery items).
If there is an insufficient number of items in any merchandise group, or if the group of items is not available, increase the number of "randomized" items selected from the overall inspection lot to obtain a total of 50 items. As marketing practices evolve, these groups may change as well. You may substitute "other" or new merchandise groups for any of those listed below (e.g., you may have identified errors in the "health and beauty aids" section or on "manager specials" during a previous inspection, so samples from these groups may be substituted for any of the groups listed below). Model "Price Verification Tally Sheets" in Section 14. Model Forms for Price Verification Inspections are provided for your use with the test procedures to keep track of the number of items selected.
First-Stage: 50 items. - Use the "randomized" sample collection procedures described in 7.3.1. Randomized Sample Collection to select the following items. These sample collection procedures simplify the inspection process and ensure that samples are collected as randomly as possible.
Examples:
* Twenty-five "Regular Priced" items. Select one or two items at random from different shelves in each "area" or limit your sampling to shelves in one-half the "areas" in the store, and
* Twenty-five Items. Select a total of 25 items. Include several items from any of the following merchandise groups:
- "Direct-Store-Delivery (DSD)" items. If the store allows vendors to price DSD items, include those items in the sample.
- "End-of-Aisle" or "Tie-In-Display" items. This group can include both regular and sale-priced items.
- "Advertised Sale" items. Use the store's sales brochure or newspaper advertisements to identify sale items.
- "Special" items. This includes any item with a reduced price (e.g., items on "special" including "cents-off" or "percentage-off" items, 2-for-the-price-of-1 specials, manager and in-store specials, or discontinued items). Items typically discounted on a percentage basis include a manufacturer's product line, greeting cards, magazines, or books.
- "PLU" items. This includes both regular and sale priced items offered in the produce, bakery, or bulk food departments and over scales at the direct sale counters. For direct service departments (e.g., produce, deli, specialty meats, etc.), select products at random (include some sale or special prices) and enter the code in the scale [NOTE1,page208] to verify that the coded price matches the advertised price [NOTE2,page208].
- "Store-coded" items. This includes items offered in the produce, bakery, or meat departments that have labels with the UPC symbol generated by scales and printers in the store. For store-coded items, scan the item and determine if the total price and identity on the label are accurately read by the point-of-sale system. When checking "store-coded" items from the meat or other departments, remember that a "UPC symbol" on a random weight label is read by a scanner to obtain the total price and identity. The price is not stored in the point-of-sale database.
- "Other" items. This category is included to provide flexibility in selecting a sample so that "seasonal" items, or products unique to the store or local market, can be included. Both regular and sale-priced items can be included in this category.
NOTE 1: Some scales or point-of-sale systems do not display or record the unit price associated with the PLU unless weight is on the scale. For these devices, a 1 lb (or 1 kg) standard is placed on the scale load-receiving element. Some systems automatically deduct tare, so make sure this does not affect the price indication.
NOTE 2: When a not-on-file item is found, another item is selected at random to replace it in the sample. A "not-on-file" item is not an error unless you determine (e.g., by conducting a test purchase or by asking the check-out clerk to determine the price of the item using the store's customary procedures) that the price "charged" for the item is incorrect. If the price determined is not correct, the error is included in the total.
Figure 6.
Figure 7.
Identify the item on an inspection report (e.g., record a brief description, item number, shelf, or advertised price and aisle location. The aisle location makes it easy to find the product if errors are found and to re-shelve the items). As items are selected, use the "Price Verification Tally Sheet," or other means, to keep track of the number of items collected. (See Section 14. Model Forms for Price Verification Inspections. The "Model Price Verification Reports" in this proposal were developed with the assumption that it is only necessary to record information of items found with price errors, not all items verified. This reduces paperwork and saves time.) Either use a hand-held scanning device or take the items to a cash register, verify the prices by scanning the items or entering a PLU code into the register and printing a receipt. The prices "charged" at the register are then compared to the advertised price of each item. For large or perishable items, record the identity, UPC Code, location, and price and manually enter the UPC number into the register to verify the price. However, this method is subject to recording and key entry errors.
Evaluation of Results on First-Stage.
See Section 9. Evaluation and Inspection Results for guidance on which errors are considered violations: One error in a 50-item sample is permitted. If not more than one error is found and verified, the store passes; if 3 items are found in error in the first 50 items, the store fails and the inspection is complete.
If two errors are found, collect 50 more items using the randomized sampling procedures and verify a total of 100 items. If errors were found in any specific merchandise group (or groups) of items (e.g., direct-store-delivery items, PLU codes, or specials), the additional 50 items should include items from those merchandise groups.
Accuracy.
Refer to Column 4 in Table 1. Samples, Sample Collection, and Accuracy Requirements. The required accuracy is 98 % on the 100-item sample (that is, at most two errors are permitted on a 100-item sample). If more than two errors are found and verified, the store does not meet the accuracy requirement.
NOTE: The "randomized" and "stratified" sample collection procedures in this section are intended for use in routine inspections to determine how a store is maintaining price accuracy on all of the items it offers for sale. If you use these sampling procedures in routine inspections and uncover a significant number of errors in a particular merchandise group (e.g., a significant number of the pricing errors are found with "advertised sale item" items), a randomized sample can be collected entirely within this specific merchandise group. For example, if the error rate for "advertised specials" is higher than the rate for regular priced items, a more focused inquiry to determine if there is a significant error rate in this merchandise group may be justified. If several "advertised specials" have been the subject of consumer complaints, or if they are repeatedly found to be in error during routine inspections, then a randomized sample can be limited to the "advertised specials" merchandise group. In this case, a randomized sample (e.g., a 50/100 item two-stage approach) is taken from all of the "advertised sale items" offered for sale in the store or in a specific "area." The results of this sample are applicable only to the "advertised specials" group and not to all items in the store.
NOTE: When verifying manual price entries, store management is typically not notified of the test until the items have been totaled and the transaction completed.
Several examples of Model Price Verification Reports are contained in pages 219 to 224. These forms were developed so that you only have to record the items found with price errors.
NOTE: It is recommended that you work with the store representative to identify the cause of any error and note the problem/cause on the report. This may not change your findings, but will help to identify problems related to staff errors, failure to follow through on established store pricing procedures, data entry errors, or failure of management to provide correct written data, etc. The supporting information will help with enforcement decisions as well as in-house monitoring of product pricing.
For example: a sample of 100 items is verified; 3 overcharges and 1 undercharge are found for a total of 4 errors:
4÷100 = 4 % sample error.
3 overcharges/1 undercharge = a 3 to 1 ratio.
NOTE: As the history of store compliance develops, the number of overcharges and undercharges may be evaluated to determine if systematic errors or other problems exist. This ratio should be maintained when at least 10 errors are found over several inspections, or in a single large sample size (e.g., the results of several 100-item inspections collected over a period of time or if 1000 items are sampled in one inspection.)
Table 2. Price Errors
(This table shows the percentage of errors in different sample sizes)
Percentage of Errors Sample Size
No. of Errors | 25 | 50 | 100 | 150 | 200 | 300 |
1 | 4 % | 2 % | 1 % | 0.67 % | 0.50 % | 0.33 % |
2 | 8 % | 4 % | 2 % | 1.33 % | 1.00 % | 0.67 % |
3 | 12 % | 6 % | 3 % | 2.00 % | 1.50 % | 1.00 % |
4 | 16 % | 8 % | 4 % | 2.67 % | 2.00 % | 1.33 % |
5 | 20 % | 10 % | 5 % | 3.33 % | 2.50 % | 1.67 % |
6 | 24 % | 12 % | 6 % | 4.00 % | 3.00 % | 2.00 % |
7 | 28 % | 14 % | 7 % | 4.67 % | 3.50 % | 2.33 % |
8 | 32 % | 16 % | 8 % | 5.33 % | 4.00 % | 2.67 % |
9 | 36 % | 18 % | 9 % | 6.00 % | 4.50 % | 3.00 % |
10 | 40 % | 20 % | 10 % | 6.67 % | 5.00 % | 3.33 % |
NOTE: Random pricing errors are to be expected, but the ratio of overcharges to undercharges will rarely be exactly 1 to 1 (e.g., of 10 errors, 5 overcharges and 5 undercharges); the ratio will likely vary both ways over several inspections. If a store has more overcharges than undercharges (e.g., 2 to 1, or 3 to 1), it may indicate that the store is not following good pricing practices, but enough errors must be present in order to make this determination. (Consider the example of 12 pricing errors consisting of 8 overcharges and 4 undercharges: the ratio of overcharges to undercharges is 2 to 1. Similarly, 10 pricing errors consisting of 6 overcharges and 4 undercharges correspond to a ratio of 1.5 to 1; since all decimal values are truncated to whole numbers, 1.5 is truncated to 1, and the ratio becomes 1 to 1.)
The one-to-one ratio should be applied to any sample size if at least 10 errors are present. For example, if 1000 items are verified and 10 items are found in error, the sample has an accuracy of 99 %. However, if 9 of the 10 errors are overcharges (i.e., a ratio of 9 overcharges to 1 undercharge), the store should be considered to have poor pricing practices or other problems; if 100 items are verified and a 90 % accuracy is found, 10 items in error not meeting the overcharge to undercharge ratio can be used in enforcement action as evidence of poor pricing practices.
(Amended 2001)
NOTE: Many computer systems do not allow for the immediate correction of errors in the database. Downloading information throughout the day may not be possible. Therefore, for the purposes of this section, "immediate" correction of errors may entail the removal or correction of problem signs, manually changing marked prices, or communicating notice of the corrected price to all applicable stores through facsimile, e-mail, or any other appropriate medium to ensure that consumers are charged the correct price.
These recommendations do not modify the enforcement policy of any jurisdiction unless adopted by that jurisdiction.
(Amended 2001)
If the store is on increased inspection frequency, a warning should be issued and the store re-inspected within 30 business days. If price accuracy is less than 98 %, higher levels of enforcement action should be taken.
(Amended 2001)
Examples:
For the 100-item sample size:
* If 100 items are verified and three overcharges are found in the sample, the error rate is 3 %. In this example, higher levels of enforcement action should be taken.
* If 100 items are verified and three overcharges and two undercharges are found, the error rate on the sample is 5 %, but overcharges are 3 %. In this example, higher levels of enforcement action should be taken.
* If 100 items are verified and two overcharges and three undercharges are found, the error rate is still 5 %, but overcharges are only 2 % of the sample. In this example, a lower level enforcement action would be taken.
For stores: | For program review: |
* store name | * total number of undercharges |
* address | * total dollar value of undercharges |
* telephone | * average dollar value of undercharges |
* type of store | * percent undercharges of total |
* frequency of inspection | * ratio of overcharges to undercharges |
* sample size | * total error in percent |
* accuracy | * accuracy levels of stores |
* number of overcharges | * store type |
* dollar value of overcharges | * total stores tested |
* number of undercharges | * total stores tested (each type) |
* dollar value of undercharges | * total items tested |
* average money value of undercharges | * total number of overcharges |
* ratio of overcharges to undercharges | * total dollar value of overcharges |
* average dollar value of overcharges | |
* percent of overcharges of total |
These models can be used to develop formal report forms, or they can be copied and used as worksheets for conducting inspections:
Price Verification Tally Sheet - Food Stores
Price Verification Tally Sheet - Department Stores
Price Verification Report I
Price Verification Report I (completed sample)
Price Verification Report II
Price Verification Report II (completed sample)
NCWM Policy, Interpretations, and Guidelines
Introduction
This section of the handbook includes NCWM interpretations, policies, recommendations, inspection outlines, and information on issues that have come before the Conference. Several sections include information on federal requirements related to the uniform laws and regulations presented in the handbook. The purpose of this section is to assist users in understanding and applying the uniform regulations and to guide administrators in implementing new programs or procedures. The guidelines or recommendations provided should not be construed to redefine any state or local law or limit any jurisdiction from enforcing any law, regulation, or procedure (unless the section describes a specific federal regulation that preempts local requirements).
(Added 1997)
(L&R, 1985, p. 77)
The measuring elements of a point-of-sale system are "weights and/or measures." Errors in pricing when found in point-of-sale systems come under "Misrepresentation of Pricing" in the weights and measures law and are under the jurisdiction of weights and measures.
Background
A recommendation was made to change the definition of "weights and measures" in the Uniform Weights and Measures Law to specifically define a scanner or point-of-sale system as under weights and measures jurisdiction.
Several state representatives said that they had enforcement problems when a scanner or point-of-sale system was being used and when the price marked on an item (or on the shelf) was not the same as the price printed on the receipt. These officials believe that unless the law specifically defines these devices as "weights and measures," they have no jurisdiction over the devices' function.
The Committee disagreed. The NCWM Uniform Weights and Measures Law has a section that forbids the practice of a different price on the retail shelf as compared with the price provided by a scanner. Section 15 of the Uniform Weights and Measures Law reads:
No person shall misrepresent the price of any commodity or service sold, offered, exposed, or advertised for sale by weight, measure, or count, nor represent the price in any manner calculated or tending to mislead or in any way deceive a person.
This section (plus Section 14 forbidding misrepresentation of quantity), if enacted by a state, already provides enforcement authority over scanners and point-of-sale systems.
In addition, the Committee does not want to set a precedent by listing by name the types of devices that might be considered weights and measures devices. This might provide a potential "loop-hole" for those devices not specifically listed. Finally, the Committee members pointed out that it is the human element (the person reading in data or receiving price updates) that introduces the discrepancies in shelf and receipt prices rather than any inherent incapability of the reading device or scanner. Therefore, it is much more effective to forbid the practice of mispricing rather than focus on a single device or apparatus as the means for obtaining compliance.
(L&R Committee, 1986, p. 143)
Packaged food not containing meat or poultry does not have to have an identity statement if the identity of the commodity can easily be identified through the wrapper or container.
Background
Virginia Weights and Measures recommended revision to Section 19(a) of the Uniform Weights and Measures Law (UWML) to eliminate the exemption of an identity statement from packages when the item "can easily be identified through the wrapper or container." The Committee is of the opinion that there is merit in retaining the language in Section 19(a) of the Uniform Law. Packages of fresh product packaged in a retail establishment are considered to be packages as long as a price is attached. If the exemption were eliminated, such packages instead of being marked, for example, "12/89 cents" would have to be marked "lemons, 12/89 cents." It was argued that there could be a problem in deciding whether or not a commodity could "easily be identified" (such as might occur in an ethnic specialty grocery or with an exotic produce item). In researching the issue, the Committee has determined that Title 21, Section 101.100(b)(3) of the Code of Federal Regulations specifically exempts the food identity statement from having to appear ". . . if the common or usual name of the food is clearly revealed by its appearance." Since no specific problems of enforcement were brought to the attention of the Committee concerning this issue, the Committee recommends no change to Section 19(a) at this time. However, the Committee recommends that Section 3.1. and 4. of the Uniform Packaging and Labeling Regulation be noted as follows:
Section 19(a) of the Uniform Weights and Measures Law, and 21 CFR 101.100(b) (3) for non-meat and non-poultry foods, specifically exempt packages from identity statements if the identity of the commodity "can easily be identified through the wrapper or container."
(L&R, 1987, p. 123)
(L&R, 1987, p. 124)
A jurisdiction seeking to enforce the provision of the Uniform Weights and Measures Law that prohibits the sale of an incorrect device would have to show that the seller knowingly sold or offered for sale for use in commerce an incorrect weight or measure. Under Section 22, a seller would not be responsible for actions taken by the purchaser or distributor, in which the seller did not participate or have prior knowledge. Thus, the seller would not be liable:
In cases such as those noted above, the Committee feels that the seller would be protected from prosecution. Only sellers who knowingly violate the provision would be subject to prosecution.
(L&R, 1990, p. 81)
Interpretation
Non-consumer sales of "primary mill paper" were discovered by weights and measures officials to be labeled and invoiced on what was called a "gross weight" basis. Primary mill paper is produced for commercial or industrial companies for subsequent additional processing, such as paper for newspaper or magazine publishers or sanitary tissue manufacturers. The primary mill paper is cut from "parent rolls" but is still a commercial-sized item weighing from several hundred to several thousands of pounds.
The key to understanding the longstanding trade practice is that the purchaser of such paper specifies not only the quality of the paper being purchased, such as the thickness, surface coating, etc., but the purchaser also specifies the core around which the paper is to be wound, the type of overwrap, the number of overwraps, and such other requirements that will ensure receipt of the primary mill paper in proper condition for subsequent processing. The weight of the core and wrapping is approximately 1 % of the gross weight. It is recycled by the purchasers in their own or other paper recovery or reuse systems.
Having reviewed the practices in the industry in the specification and purchasing of primary mill paper, the Committee concludes that the true product is the paper plus the packaging (in order to assure maintenance of quality) and an appropriate core (to ensure a fit on the recipient's equipment). Therefore, in the Committee's opinion, the sale of primary mill paper is not at all on a gross weight basis. This is and has been a misnomer. The true identity of the purchased product has been misunderstood by weights and measures authorities, further compounded by the industry use of the term "gross weight." The product is the primary mill paper plus the core and overwrap specified by the purchaser.
The Committee, therefore, believes that the industry should review its invoicing and labeling to clarify that the weight of the specified product is the weight of the primary mill paper, core, and overwrap. Although this weight is the gross weight of the entire item as produced and shipped, it is the net weight of the item as specified by the purchaser.
This interpretation applies only to primary mill paper and is not intended to be applied to all non-consumer products ordered by specification; it is a narrow interpretation applying to the specific method of sale in this trade where the service of packaging and the packaging is part of the purchase.
Resol. 1975, p. 237)
See also Interpretation 2.2.8.
Interpretation
Seasonal gift packages are often put up in retail stores in baskets and other decorative containers using cellophane or other clear flexible wrap to enclose a number of similar or dissimilar prepackaged items (for example: cheese, jellies, sausages, wine, fruit, etc.). The resulting combination or variety package must have a legally conforming label including the net contents statement.
(L&R, 1978, p. 151)
Interpretation
Sand put up in permanent wooden bins is a consumer package and must be labeled with all mandatory information as required by the Uniform Packaging and Labeling Regulation.
Background
The State of Hawaii raised the issue of the sale of sand in permanent wooden bins and sold by price per cubic measure. The Committee agrees with Hawaii that the sale of sand in this manner is subject to the Uniform Packaging and Labeling Regulation, under the definition of "Consumer Package" (Section 2.2. of the Uniform Packaging and Labeling Regulation) and that no further action is needed.
(L&R, 1974, p. 220)
Interpretation
The trade practice of crating citrus fruit in 4/5 bushel units is a long-standing one. It is not intended to be a consumer package. If offered as a consumer package, the general consumer usage and trade custom in the particular state would have to be explored:
Section 6.10. (b)(1) of the Uniform Packaging and Labeling Regulation would permit a declaration employing different fractions in the net quantity declaration other than those permitted under Section 6.10.(b) if there exists a firmly established practice of using 4/5 bushel in consumer sales and trade custom.
Background
It has been called to the attention of the Committee that certain commodities are being sold to consumers in "unacceptable" fractional units of dry measure in violation of Section 6.10. of the Uniform Packaging and Labeling Regulation. Specifically, the Committee has been asked for an interpretation as to whether the packaging of oranges in a 4/5 bushel, which is later sold unweighed to a consumer, is a violation of the binary submultiple principle as implied in Section 6.10.(b). Some Committee members asserted that a clear exception exists under Section 6.10.(b)(1) which applies to this long established tradition of crating citrus fruit in 4/5 of a bushel. Approximately 85 % of this fruit is sold by this trade practice. Additionally, it was asserted that the packager never intended the 4/5 bushel to be a consumer package, but if the 4/5 bushel of citrus fruit is sold to consumers, this would be a matter between the appropriate state or local official and the retailer.
The consensus of the Committee is that this action of the packagers is not in violation of the indicated section.
(L&R, 1981, p. 95)
Policy
The requirements for the average package net contents to meet or exceed the labeled declaration may be applied to production lots, shipments, or deliveries. Shipments or deliveries are smaller collections of packages than production lots that may or may not consist of mixed lot codes.
Emphasis in inspection activities should be placed on warehouse and in plant testing without neglecting retail consumer protection.
Background
The Committee heard a petition from the California Brewers Association to define a lot as:
...a selection of containers under one roof produced by a single company of the same size, type and style, manufactured or packed under similar conditions with a minimum number to be equivalent to one production line shift.
The intention of the petition is to focus Weights and Measures enforcement on production lots as opposed to small collections of packages on retail shelves, because the production lot is under the control of the packager.
An alternative proposal was made that would require mingling of lot and date codes in package inspection at warehouse locations.
The Committee has reviewed the proposals in light of Section 7.6. and Section 12.1. of the Uniform Packaging and Labeling Regulation which refers to "shipment, delivery, or lot." If the petition is approved, the terms "shipment" and "delivery" would have to be dropped from this Uniform Regulation.
The Committee recognizes the inherent value of in-plant and warehouse inspection and is of the opinion that, wherever possible, such inspections should be carried out. At the same time, the Committee recognizes the need for the state and local weights and measures officials to protect the consumer at the level where the ultimate sale is made. Therefore, the Committee recommends no change to the Uniform Regulation.
The Committee looks forward to the work of the Special Study Group on Enforcement Uniformity of the NCWM which will be exploring the mechanisms that might be instituted to make in-plant inspection workable.
(L&R, 1976, p. 248)
See also Guideline 2.2.7.
Interpretation
It is the opinion of the NCWM that an FDA opinion as expressed in the Fair Packaging and Labeling Act Manual Guide FDA 7563.7, not objecting to volume declarations on aerosol products, does not supersede or preempt state requirements that aerosols be labeled by net weight.
Background
The Department of Commerce through the Office of Weights and Measures of the National Institute of Standards and Technology, under its statutory responsibility for "cooperation with the states in securing uniformity in weights and measures laws and methods of inspection," developed Section 10.3.
Several states, which are among the 32 that have adopted the Uniform Packaging and Labeling Regulation, indicated that pressurized cans were currently being marked by volume rather than by weight as required above. Industry representatives indicated that according to the FDA, they are permitted to mark this type of container by volume and that for competitive purposes they will continue to do so. The NCWM was asked to contact FDA and inform them that a declaration of volume on pressurized containers is not acceptable to the states since it cannot be verified.
A meeting was requested to express NIST/NCWM's concern over the FDA position on quantity of contents declarations on aerosols, which is found in the Fair Packaging and Labeling Act (FPLA) Manual Guide FDA 7563.7. This Guide states that in the past, the FDA has not objected to the use of units of volume to declare the net contents of aerosol preparations that would be liquid if not combined with the propellant and a net weight statement in avoirdupois units for products that would be solids if not combined with a propellant. The FDA was asked to modify its position to provide that existing state regulations (concerning aerosol quantity of contents declarations) are not superseded by FDA Guidelines. FDA officials stated that the FDA would consider the request, but it did not appear at the time of the Interim Meetings that the FDA would make any statement to modify its position without following its administrative procedures and permitting interested parties to exhaust every element of due process.
One industry representative stated that there has been a good deal of concern that fluorocarbon propellants may in the long run cause the partial destruction of the ozone layer in the upper atmosphere surrounding the earth, and that the diminution of the ozone layer would have adverse effects on human health. Therefore, they have converted to new formulations which eliminate fluorocarbon propellants. As a result of this conversion to a non-fluorocarbon propellant system, which uses a propellant with a much lower density than that of the usual fluorocarbon propellants, continued use of a weight measure would be highly misleading to the consumer. Therefore, some spray labels have been changed so as to denote the contents in terms of fluid measure, rather than in terms of weight measure.
The industry representative stated that if manufacturers were to be required to use weight measure, consumers would be deceived into buying products, such as hair spray, with large amounts of fluorocarbon that vaporizes before it reaches the hair. Consumers prefer products with a large amount of base. Industry further indicated that they wanted to avoid a confrontation with the states over this issue and believe that the matter can readily be resolved without the need for litigation. Although the use of fluid measure on the principal panel will give consumers the most helpful information at the point of purchase, the industry would have no objection to putting the net weight on the back of the label.
The Committee wants to commend FDA for their interest in this matter and the manufacturers who seek to improve their product and its labeling information. The Committee is also encouraged to work with all interested parties to resolve this issue. However, the Committee does not believe that mere guidelines can preempt a Uniform Regulation developed under the technical authority of the federal agency delegated by Congress and adopted by the states through its representatives, no matter how broad the preemptive clause of an act might be. Additionally, the Committee cannot support open and notorious violations of state regulations where those violations occurred prior to bringing the issue before the Conference. Therefore, the Committee believes that NCWM should support a firm stand by the states that their regulations must be respected.
(Liaison, 1979, p. 239)
See also Guideline 2.2.6.
Policy
The NCWM recommends all aerosol packages be labeled by net weight. FDA permits volume declarations. The NCWM has requested the FDA to change its regulations and revise its interpretation of these regulations.
Substance of Petition
The NCWM petitions the FDA to make the necessary changes to their regulations and interpretation of 21 CFR 101.105(g) as appearing in the FDA Fair Packaging and Labeling Manual Guide, 7563.7 pertaining to the quantity of contents declaration on aerosol packaged products. I t is requested that the net quantity statement on aerosol packaged products or similar pressurized packages be made in terms of net weight only. The reasons for recommending such changes are as follows:
(L&R, 1982, p. 149)
See also Guideline 2.2.1.
Interpretation
Background
The Committee reviewed Section 10.5 and Section 10.6 of the Model Packaging and Labeling Regulation in order to determine the need for further clarification. Several questions have arisen over the years with respect to:
The Committee believes that there is no need to modify these sections, but the discussions below may serve as guidance to enforcement officials and packagers on these sections.
Concerning labeling requirements for seasonal gift packages, it must first be determined what the individual units comprising each package are. The following examples are possibilities:
Examples (a) and (c) above are combination packages and should be labeled with net quantities of each unit or type of unit. It is possible to combine fruit net weight (or count if appropriate) as one declaration, cheese net weight as a second declaration, etc.
Example (b) above is a variety package and must be labeled with the total net weight or count (as appropriate) of fruit in the package. It is also reasonable for packagers to include, for full consumer information, a declaration of the individual net contents of each type of package or item in the gift package although this latter declaration is not required (e.g., 1 lb bananas, 3 pears). This is also the key to the second question asked above concerning the example provided in Section 10.6.; that is, although a declaration of individual item net contents is not required, packagers are encouraged to provide additional information wherever useful to the consumer.
(L&R, 1977, p. 215)
Interpretation
Background
The State of California and the American Textile Manufacturers Institute asked the NCWM Laws and Regulations Committee and the National Institute of Standards and Technology to assist in the resolution of two textile-product issues. In the first issue California asks for help in correcting a short measure condition, apparently a nationwide problem, which has been found in the packaging and labeling of textile yard goods put up on bolts or rolls.
The problem is outlined as follows:
Example:
58/60 in (inch) width
California favors the repeal or clarification of Section 10.9.3. and suggests amending Section 10.9.2.(k) to read:
The quantity statement for packages of textile yard goods packaged on the bolt or roll for either wholesale or retail shall state its net measure in terms of yards for the length and width of the item, or its net weight in terms of avoirdupois pounds or ounces, or in terms of their metric equivalent.
During the Interim Meetings, a representative of the American Textile Manufacturers Institute (ATMI) informed committee members that the proposal to identify the width of yard goods with a single measurement (as opposed to a range) would be given serious consideration by their members, after which a recommendation will be finalized and submitted to the Laws and Regulations Committee.
After the Interim Meetings, the National Home Sewing Association said that if a single width declaration is required, the following could result:
California officials state that roll or bolt fabric should be labeled accurately with a single declaration. Additionally, they believe that industry does have enough shrinkage data on fibers used in the manufacturing processes, and thus could provide accurate measurement declaration on finished fabrics or materials.
The Committee believes that accurate quantity information should be provided on consumer products; however, no labeling changes should be required until patterns and yard goods are marketed in metric units. At that time, all measures shall be singularly stated (eliminating dual numbers) and, until that time, any products where size declaration is a range and found to be less than the smaller of the range declaration shall be subject to enforcement action. For example, a product marked "58 to 60 in" and found to be less than 58 inches should be considered to be in violation of weights and measures laws and/or regulations.
Additionally, the Committee affirms that the intent of the Variations from Declared Dimensions permitted in Section 10.9.3. in no way eliminates the requirement that quantity declarations for textiles must, on the average, not be less than declared declarations.
(L&R, 1983, p. 153)
Interpretation
The appropriate net contents declaration for yarn is weight.
Background
A consumer has requested that the net quantity statement for yarn be changed from weight to length. The proposal is based on the consumers' use of the product, darker colors often weigh more per unit of length. Therefore, they found that a lighter color yarn will "go farther" in craft applications than a darker yarn; consumers indicate that it is difficult to predict how much yarn of varying colors to purchase based on a weight declaration. The Committee is sympathetic to the request but must support existing labeling requirements for several reasons.
Yarn, by nature, is extremely stretchy; in order to label yarn by length, a specified tension would have to be applied in order to make any repeatable length measurement. Such a tension would have to be agreed upon by all the yarn manufacturers, and they would have to apply to compliance testing of product by weights and measures officials. Even if this tension "standard" were negotiated and decided upon, it would have little real meaning in use by needle crafters, knitters, and others. The tension applied to yarn in use varies from user to user and from application to application; therefore, the length also varies. Not only does dyeing yarn change the weight, dyeing also changes the length of yarn. For these reasons, industry representatives also support the requirements as they presently are written in the Uniform Packaging and Labeling Regulation.
The Committee recognizes the difficulty of working with this product and suggests that users of yarn consider buying an excess of the yarn over what is expected to be used in any application. The consumers should find out before purchase if, after finishing the product, they can return the unopened skeins to the retailers from whom the skeins were purchased.
(L&R, 1986, p. 146)
Section 11.23. of the Uniform Packaging and Labeling Regulation currently permits tint base paints (paints to which colorant must be added prior to sale) to be labeled in terms of the volume (a quart or gallon) that will be delivered to the purchaser after addition of the colorant only if three conditions are met:
(L&R, 1990, p. 86)
Background
Section 6.5.(b) was revised to clarify that the reference temperature of 4.4 ºC (40 ºF) applies only to products that must be refrigerated to maintain product quality, rather than to items, such as carbonated soft drinks, that are refrigerated for the purchaser's convenience.
Guideline
The Committee also discussed how an inspector could decide whether a product under refrigeration is required to be maintained under refrigeration. The following guidelines are provided:
(L&R, 1990, p. 93)
Background
Many food products are made by the retail store and labeled with names that may or may not have standards of identity or standards of composition in federal regulation or policy (for example, chicken cordon bleu). Weights and measures officials need to know which names have standards of identity that must be followed in formulating the product and, therefore, in providing the ingredient statement.
Food Standards
The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (USDA - FSIS) and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' FDA share the responsibility of assuring truthful and accurate information on product labels. USDA - FSIS has responsibility for the development and application of the labeling requirements applicable to meat and poultry products containing more than 3 % fresh meat or at least 2 % cooked poultry meat. FDA oversees the labeling of most other food products.
USDA Standards of Identity and Composition
USDA has statutory authority to establish standards of identity for meat and poultry products. A standard of identity prescribes a manner of preparation and the ingredients of a product that is labeled with a particular name. A food that bears the name of a standardized food that does not satisfy the requirements of the applicable standard is misbranded. Examples of standardized products include: "Ham," "Ham Water Added," "Hot Dogs," "Chicken and Noodles," and "Spaghetti Sauce with Meatballs."
Almost all standards enforced by FSIS are called "standards of composition." These standards identify the minimum amount of meat or poultry required in a product's recipe. For example, the standard of composition for "beef a la king" states that, if a product carries this name on its label, at least 20 % cooked beef must be used in the recipe.
But standards of composition do not prevent a manufacturer from increasing the meat or poultry content or adding other ingredients to increase a product's appeal. For instance, a processor has the option of using more than the required amount of beef in beef a la king and adding other ingredients to make the product unique. A listing of meat and poultry content and labeling requirement including terms that are further defined can be found in the USDA FSIS Food Standards and Labeling Policy book which is available at http://www.fsis.usda.gov/OPPDE/larc/Policies/Labeling_Policy_book_082005.pdf.
Label Approval
Food manufacturers are responsible for compliance with the FSIS labeling rules and adherence to the process maintained by FSIS for the evaluation and approval of meat and poultry product labels. This Guide provides the basic information necessary to devise a label for meat and poultry products and to understand the regulatory process administered by FSIS. A Guide to Federal Food Labeling Requirements for Meat and Poultry Products (2007) URL is located atwww.fsis.usda.gov/PDF/Labeling_Requirements_Guide.pdf.
(L&R, 1991)
Interpretation
Typewriter and computer printer ribbons must be labeled by length. In addition, character yield information may be disclosed on the principal display panel.
Background
Packages of typewriter and computer printer ribbons and tapes have been found in the marketplace with no declaration of quantity of any kind. There is information on the package about the type of machine the ribbon or tape is designed to fit, but this is not a declaration of quantity. Purchasers have been misled as a result of the failure of some manufacturers to disclose the length; ribbons designated for a particular machine may be sold at a low price, but with substantially less length than ribbons ordinarily produced for the machine.
(L&R, 1977, p. 219)
Interpretation
No additional net contents information (other than weight) is required for instant coffee, tea, and cocoa.
Background
It was proposed that certain products, such as instant coffee, tea, and cocoa, should have a dual statement of weight including the number of cups (e.g., makes ten 6 oz cups).
The National Coffee Association of U.S.A., Inc., offered the following comments:
Other issues that the Committee discussed included the authority to require precise directions (rather than, for example, 2 to 3 heaping teaspoons) and the issues of product variability and uniform enforcement.
(L&R, 1979, p. 176; 1980; 1982, p. 152; 2008)
Guideline
Recognizing the difficulty faced by consumers when more than one method of sale is employed in the same outlet for the same product, non-comparable methods of sale (e.g., weight and measure) for the same produce item in the same outlet should be minimized.
This guideline applies to all sales of fruits and vegetables. There are two tables, one for specific commodities and one for general commodity groups. Search the specific list first to find those commodities that either do not fit into any of the general groups or have unique methods of sale. If the item is not listed, find the general group in the second table. The item may be sold by any method of sale marked with an X.
(Amended 2008)
Method of Retail Sale for Fresh Fruits and Vegetables Specific Commodity | |||||
Commodity | Weight | Count | Head or Bunch | Dry Measure (any size) | Dry Measure (1 dry qt or larger) |
Artichokes | X | X | |||
Asparagus | X | X | |||
Avocados | X | ||||
Bananas | X | X | |||
Beans (green, yellow, etc.) | X | X | |||
Brussels Sprouts (loose) | X | ||||
Brussels Sprouts (on stalk) | X | ||||
Cherries | X | X | X | ||
Coconuts | X | X | |||
Corn on the Cob | X | X | |||
Dates | X | ||||
Eggplant | X | X | |||
Figs | X | ||||
Grapes | X | ||||
Melons (cut in pieces) | X | ||||
Mushrooms (small) | X | X | X | ||
Mushrooms (portobello, large) | X | X | |||
Okra | X | ||||
Peas | X | X | |||
Peppers (bell and other varieties) | X | X | X | ||
Pineapples | X | X | |||
Rhubarb | X | X | |||
Tomatoes (except cherry/grape) | X | X | X | ||
Method of Retail Sale for Fresh Fruits and Vegetables General Commodity Groups | |||||
Commodity | Weight | Count | Head or Bunch | Dry Measure (any size) | Dry Measure (1 dry qt or larger) |
Berries and Cherry/Grape Tomatoes | X | X | |||
Citrus Fruits (oranges, grapefruits, lemons, etc.) | X | X | X | ||
Edible Bulbs (onions [spring or green], garlic, leeks, etc.) | X | X | X | X | |
Edible Tubers (Irish potatoes, sweet potatoes, ginger, horseradish, etc.) | X | X | |||
Flower Vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, brussel sprouts, etc.) | X | X | |||
Gourd Vegetables (cucumbers, squash, melons, etc.) | X | X | X | ||
Leaf Vegetables (lettuce, cabbage, celery, etc.) | X | X | |||
Leaf Vegetables (parsley, herbs, loose greens) | X | X | X | ||
Pitted Fruits (peaches, plums, prunes, etc.) | X | X | X | ||
Pome Fruits (apples, pears, mangoes, etc.) | X | X | X | ||
Root Vegetables (turnips, carrots, radishes, etc.) | X | X | |||
(L&R, 1974, p. 223)
Guidelines and Interpretations
Cardboard cartons should be sold by their dimensions. Identification numbers used in the trade do not correspond to these dimensions and could tend to mislead the uninformed purchaser (although there is no actual unit such as inches associated with the identification numbers). Sales or catalogue literature will have to be investigated to determine whether there is sufficient information upon which to make a purchasing decision.
Background
Copies of letters received by the New York Bureau of Weights and Measures regarding cardboard containers were forwarded to the Committee. These letters highlight the confusion that exists when these containers are sold to new businessmen by an identity number which is often mistaken for the size of the box. For example, a 30 × 4 identification number refers to a box whose actual size is 27 × 3 inches. It was suggested that a new section be added to the Method of Sale of Commodities Regulation so that these containers can be sold on a basis that will provide more accurate information.
An important argument in support of adding a new section is that small businessmen just getting started need as much assistance as can be provided in order to survive and grow.
An argument opposing this change is that a table, similar to Table 1. of Section 2.9. (Softwood Lumber) of the Uniform Method of Sale Regulation, could be printed showing the relationship between identity and size; this would not solve the problem.
It is the consensus of the Committee that these containers should be sold by actual size. The Committee does not believe, however, that every trade practice must be controlled through the Uniform Laws and Regulations. This is particularly true where the item does not directly concern the retail consumer. The Committee, therefore, recommends that the appropriate trade associations be contacted and asked to correct this practice on a voluntary basis.
(L&R, 1981, p. 100)
Guideline and Interpretation
The proper method of sale of catalyst beads used in automobile exhaust systems is by volume. It is appropriate for the quantity declaration to be supplemented by part number or other description of the specific converter for which the package of catalyst beads is intended.
Background
A communication from the General Motors Corporation AC Spark Plug Division was forwarded to the Committee which proposes discontinuing the labeling of their catalyst beads by weight. When the catalyst becomes contaminated by leaded gasoline or prolonged use, the catalytic converter in the exhaust system of recent GM cars and trucks (running on unleaded gasoline) must be emptied of its catalyst beads and be refilled by volume with replacement catalyst beads in order to meet emission standards. The beads are used by volume (to fill a catalytic converter), are hygroscopic, and vary in core material density. Therefore, packages of beads meeting a net weight label require an additional one-third pound (on the average) over the packages labeled by volume, cost about $7.50 more per package, and the additional weight of beads will be discarded in actual use.
(L&R, 1978, p. 151)
Interpretation
Incense labeled by count is fully informative and sufficient.
Background
The State of Oregon raised the issue of proper quantity declarations for the sale of incense. The question is what, if any, information other than count, such as weight or volume or length, is necessary for an adequate description on packages of incense. The Committee is of the opinion that a statement of count as defined in Section 6.4.1(c) of the Uniform Packaging and Labeling Regulation is fully informative and is sufficient in this case.
(L&R, 1976, p. 223)
Guideline
Sea shells shall be sold by count and weight for packages of 50 sea shells or less and by volume and weight for packages containing more than 50 sea shells.
(L&R, 1976, p. 233)
Guideline
Tire tread rubber products shall be sold by net weight. The polyethylene film protective backing shall be part of the product and included in the net weight. The core is part of the tare and must be deducted from the gross weight to determine the net weight.
(L&R, 1979, p. 182)
Interpretation
There is a trade custom of labeling automobile wiper blades by the length of the metal backing or vertebra, not the length of the blade. This is an acceptable method of sale and net contents declaration.
Background
The Committee received a request from a manufacturer of automobile wiper blades that had a problem with one state concerning the measurement of length as labeled on their packages. The state felt that the proper designation should be the length of the blade itself; the manufacturer said that traditionally the industry measured the length of the metal backing or vertebra.
The Committee, after some discussion, determined that since there was no intent to mislead customers, the traditional measurement of the metal backing or vertebra was acceptable.
(L&R, 1975, p. 174)
Interpretation
Time of burning is not an appropriate quantity declaration for fireplace logs. (Section 2.4.3. of the Uniform Method of Sale of Commodities requires single logs to be sold by weight, or if packaged and less than 4 ft3, weight plus count.)
Background
The enforceability of quantity declarations using time as the basis of measurement for commodities, including packaged commodities, must be considered carefully if equity in the marketplace is to be achieved. The Committee wants to stress to those who have submitted time declaration questions that the enforceability factor should not override consumer protection and uniformity considerations. Based on the above criteria, the Committee recommends that the Conference take the position that time is not an appropriate quantity declaration for fireplace logs.
(L&R, 1982, p. 152)
Interpretation
Packaged foods and cosmetics sold from vending machines must be labeled the same as similar items not sold in vending machines, including identity, responsibility, net contents, and ingredient declaration, except that Section 3.3. of the Uniform Regulation for the Method of Sale of Commodities permits identity and net contents to be posted on the machine in lieu of appearing on the package.
Background
As part of its review of the Uniform Regulation for the Method of Sale of Commodities, the FDA recommended adding a statement to Section 3.3. that packaged foods and cosmetics sold in vending machines must in general be labeled in accordance with requirements for similar articles not sold in vending machines (e.g., ingredient declaration requirements). The Committee recommends that this information be made a guideline rather than incorporated as part of the uniform regulation.
(L&R, 1975, p. 174)
Guideline
Movie film may be sold by linear measure. Magnetic tapes and cassettes may be sold by either linear measure or playing time.
Background
The enforceability of quantity declarations using time as the basis of measurement for commodities, including packaged commodities, must be carefully considered to achieve equity in the marketplace. The Committee wants to stress to those who have submitted time declaration questions that the enforceability factor should not override consumer protection and uniformity considerations. The committee further recommends that the states follow FTC guidelines in requiring lineal measure for the sale of movie films and permit either linear measure or playing time for magnetic tapes and cassettes.
(L&R, 1983, p. 208)
Guideline and Interpretation
Packaged liquid vegetable oil must be labeled by liquid volume, although net weight may also be declared.
Background
Packages of liquid vegetable oil are being sold for restaurant and other small food business use labeled by weight. It has been brought to the attention of the Committee that containers of product labeled "5 gal" look identical in dimensions to those labeled "35 lb" but the density of the vegetable oil is such that the 35 lb cans contain only about 41/2 gal. The Institute of Shortening and Edible Oils indicated that companies selling liquid vegetable oils often compete with those selling solid shortening, and that a net weight comparison is useful for these purposes. Recipes for food products in large sizes sometimes provide ingredient quantities by weight or volume.
It is the opinion of the members of the Committee that packaged liquid vegetable oil must be labeled by liquid volume although a net weight may be declared in addition to the net volume statement.
When a single manufacturer of vegetable oil packages the same oil in the same size container with two such widely different net quantity statements, this practice could easily be considered (a) misleading to the customer, and (b) nonfunctional slack fill. Weights and measures enforcement action should be taken.
(L&R Committee, 1986, p. 140)
When packaged or wrapped items (such as individually wrapped candies) are sold from bulk displays by weight, the price must be based on the net weight, not the weight including the individual piece wrappings. This will require (1) subtracting the weight of the bag into which the customer puts the pieces plus (2) subtracting the weight of the piece wrappings (the latter is a percentage of the gross weight - that is, the tare increases as the customer selects more of the commodity).
Background
Retail food stores are merchandising prepackaged commodities such as candies, pet food, snack bars, and bouillon cubes from bulk displays. Some retailers sell these products by gross weight. Section 1.2. of the Uniform Weights and Measures Law reads in part: "The term 'weight' as used in connection with any commodity means net weight. . ."
A workshop was held on June 20, 1986, at the U.S. Department of Commerce, Washington, D.C., to explore the issues and alternatives involved in the sale of prepackaged goods from the bulk food sales areas of supermarkets. Representatives of the packaging, supermarket, and small grocery industries, scale and point-of-sale (POS) systems manufacturers, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, weights and measures agencies, and the National Institute of Standards and Technology attended. No final recommendations came from this meeting; however, the participants expressed an interest in meeting again after a written report of the June 20, 1986, meeting was made available and before the Interim Meetings of the NCWM in January 1987. The following issues were discussed:
Federal regulations covering packaged goods and every state Weights and Measures Law require any sale by weight to be "net weight" (not including the weight of the wrapping materials). In some areas of the nation, many items are being sold on a gross weight basis in the supermarkets, for example, fresh fruit and vegetables in poly bags in the produce area. Perhaps because of the light weight of these bags (that is, the minimum size of the scale division on the ordinary supermarket checkout scale is large with respect to the weight of the poly bags), low priority is given to correcting this sales practice, and a lack of uniformity in enforcement of the net weight requirements results. Weights and measures officials have found tare amounting to over 40 % of the gross weight in prepackaged items sold from bulk; the majority of cases seems to range from 3 % to 12 %. Officials see the need to "draw the line" in a sales practice that appears to have evolved from other practices that were not heavily monitored and corrected at their inception.
Automatic deduction of tare is preferable for large-scale retailers because of its speed. No equipment (either stand-alone scale or POS) is available at the present time that can:
Deduction of tare in the bulk food area using a scale other than the checkout scale can be done more easily than at checkout if a POS system is being used. A tare look-up table used in conjunction with the scale appears to be the only currently used method that meets the net weight requirements when packaged products are sold from bulk. (The procedure is to gross weigh the product, look up the tare, subtract it from the gross weight, and then determine a final net weight and total price.)
Each retailer will have to consider the cost of additional manpower (as the weighing and marking of the purchase in the bulk food area might require), new equipment (purchasing scales or POS systems with percentage tare capability), or retrofit of existing equipment as compared with the value of the market share contributed by the bulk marketing of prepacked commodities. However, two supermarket chain representatives said that they expected some growth in this type of sale (because of the customers' perception of cleanliness of the product, for example).
Suggestions were made that advertising on a "wrapped weight" basis would properly inform the consumer. However, it was pointed out that a typical purchaser does not know what "wrapped weight" is (i.e., gross weight). Moreover, selling packaged goods on a gross weight basis is illegal; it thwarts value comparison with other products sold by net weight.
Bulk food sales advertising often includes claims of savings of, for example, 10 % to 20 % over a purchase of the same commodity in standard-pack form. These advertising claims can be exaggerated and misleading if the comparisons referenced are between standard-pack commodities sold net weight and products sold from bulk on a gross weight basis.
The possibility of advertising a net weight unit price, but actually weighing at the checkout on a gross weight basis (and charging at a lower gross weight unit price) was discussed. For example, a sign could be posted with the following:
"$1.50 per pound, net weight. We are not able to weigh this packaged product on a net weight basis (that is, without the wrapper), and will therefore charge you $1.40 per pound including the wrapper weight at the checkout."
Everyone agreed that advertising claims and appropriate wording would have to be chosen carefully if this is to be viable. However, those weights and measures officials present were generally opposed to this alternative based on the difficulty of enforcement and lack of assurance that a consumer would really understand explanatory signage.
(Exec, 1988, p. 94)
The Task Force on Commodity Requirements limited its work to only a few product categories, using these categories as models for addressing moisture loss. The gray-area concept is the result of this work.
Recognizing several candidates for future work in moisture loss, the Task Force recommends that the following guidelines for moisture loss be followed as far as possible by any industry requesting consideration:
Information concerning the relative fractions of imported and domestically produced product should be available, for example, in order to assess the feasibility of interacting with the manufacturer on specific problem lots.
- during manufacturing; or
- during distribution.
Data will be needed to show the relative proportion of moisture loss in these different locations since moisture loss is permitted only under good distribution practices. Geographical and seasonal variations may apply.
When all the preliminary information recommended above has been collected, a field test of the proposed compliance scheme should be conducted by weights and measures enforcement officials to prove its viability.
See the plan diagrammed on the next page.
Plan For NCWM Resolution of Individual Requests For Recognition of Moisture Loss
(S&T, 1980, p. 227)
Guideline
The National Institute of Standards and Technology published equivalent rounded values for metric equivalents of U.S. customary units should be used. They are:
3.785 411 784 liters = 1 gallon 0.264 172 052 4 gallon = 1 liter
A "Rule of Reason" should apply to the corrected value so that the value used is consistent with the quantity of the transaction. The converted value should never have fewer than four significant digits and should have at least the same number of significant digits as the number of significant digits in the quantity of product being converted. For example, if a 1000 gal delivery were to be converted to liters the value would be 3785 L; for 10 000 gal, 37 854 L; for 100 gal, 378.5 L.
In the case of expressing a unit price equivalent for consumer value comparisons in retail gasoline sales, the following formula should be used: (advertised, posted, or computing device unit price per liter) × 3.785 = (equivalent unit price per gallon, rounded to the nearest 1/10 cent.)
Examples:
26.9 cents per liter × 3.785 = $1.018 per gallon 26.8 cents per liter × 3.785 = $1.014 per gallon 26.7 cents per liter × 3.785 = $1.011 per gallon 26.5 cents per liter × 3.785 = $1.003 per gallon 26.4 cents per liter × 3.785 = $0.999 per gallon
This method is preferable to the alternative method of dividing the price per gallon by 3.785, which results in the same price per liter for three or more different prices per gallon when rounded to the 1/10 cent.
(L&R, 1981, p. 101)
Guideline
Each retail outlet should use exclusively only one measurement method of sale (gallon or liter). A change from one method to another should be carried out for all devices dispensing motor fuels in the retail outlet.
In the case of liter sales, suitable posting of per gallon and per liter prices at the device, service island, premises of the retail outlet, or any other locations must be in accordance with state and local laws, regulations, and ordinances, and in a manner that facilitates consumer comparisons between the per gallon price and the per liter price. Additional requirements may be necessary to avoid uncertainty as to nomenclature, location, and size of information on signs.
It is recommended that:
Examples:
27. 1¢ per liter = $1.026 per gallon 3.785 liters = 1 gallon
It is required that dispensers be designed to clearly show all required quantity and price information on the face(s) of a motor fuel dispenser in accordance with Handbook 44.
As an interim alternative to "half pricing," a number of computer modification kits have been installed to modify existing retail motor fuel dispensers that were not designed to compute and indicate prices over 99.9¢ per gallon.
Some of the modification kits that have been referred to state weights and measures officials for approval have been rejected as failing to conform to Handbook 44 requirements. It is recommended that all modification kits and future modifications of dispensers be so designed and made as to be in full compliance with all applicable requirements of Handbook 44.
(Liaison, 1979, p. 240)
Guideline
Weights and Measures officials should report to the FTC any instances of failure to post octane ratings by service stations. These would most likely occur during routine inspections of service station gasoline dispensers. Reports should be made to the appropriate FTC regional offices as listed below.
Background
As of June 1, 1979, the FTC requires the determination of octane ratings by refiners, the certification of octane ratings by refiners and distributors, and the posting of octane ratings by retailers on all gasoline pumps. The requirements are set forth in Public Law 95 297, the Petroleum Marketing Practices Act (PMPA), passed in June 1978 and the FTC's Octane Rule, 16.C.F.R. Part 306. Although the octane posting rule has no effect on most FTC programs administered by state weights and measures officials with respect to checking gasoline dispensing devices for accuracy, the Liaison Committee feels that the Conference should be generally informed about the law and the FTC rule, if only to be prepared to answer inquiries about it or for some possible future enforcement demands. Keeping apprised of developments associated with the rule may be advisable. In addition, it will affect states which have octane certification and posting programs.
Regi onal Offices, Addresses, and Telephone Numbers:
Northeast Region (CT, ME, MA, NH, NJ, NY, PR, RI, VT, and U.S. Virgin Islands) Federal Trade Commission One Bowling Green New York, NY 10004 (877) 382-4357 | East Central Region (DE, DC, MD, MI, OH, PA, VA, and WV) Federal Trade Commission 1111 Superior Avenue Suite 200 Cleveland, OH 44114-2507 (877) 382-4357 | Southeast Region (AL, FL, GA, MS, NC, SC, and TN) Federal Trade Commission Suite 1500 225 Peachtree Street, NE Atlanta, GA 30303 (877) 382-4357 |
Midwest Region (IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, NE, ND, MN, MO, SD, and WI) Federal Trade Commission 55 West Monroe Street Suite 1825 Chicago, IL 60603 (877) 382-4357 | Northwest Region (AK, ID, MT, OR, WA, WY) Federal Trade Commission 915 Second Avenue, Room 2896 Seattle, WA 98174 (877) 382-4357 | Southwest Region (AR, LA, NM, OK, and TX) Federal Trade Commission 1999 Bryan Street Suite 2150 Dallas, TX 75201-6808 (877) 382-4357 |
Western Region (AZ, Northern CA, Southern CA, CO, HI, NV, and UT) Federal Trade Commission 901 Market Street Suite 570 San Francisco, CA 94103 (877) 382-4357 | Western Region (AZ, Northern CA, Southern CA, CO, HI, NV, and UT) Federal Trade Commission 10877 Wilshire Boulevard Suite 700 Los Angeles, CA 90024 (877) 382-4357 |
The preemption section of PMPA (204) reads as follows:
Section 204. To the extent that any provision of this title applies to any act or omission, no state or any political subdivision thereof may adopt, enforce, or continue in effect any provision of any law or regulation (including any remedy or penalty applicable to any violation thereof) with respect to such act or omission, unless such provision of such law or regulation is the same as the applicable provision of this title.
Section 204 prohibits states and other political subdivisions from enforcing requirements that are not the same as the applicable provisions of this law. Jurisdictions having octane requirements should carefully review with their legal advisors the effect of this law.
The FTC's Octane rule was published in final form on March 30, 1979, in the Federal Register (Vol. 44, No. 63, Part V, pp. 19160 19172). The rule became effective June 1, 1979.
The law requires that refiners determine octane ratings of their products, and certify them to their distributors. The distributors must pass along the certification to the retailer, unless he blends the gas, in which case he may have to certify his blend.
A similar procedure relating to the posting of octane ratings is set forth for the retailer. The FTC is responsible for enforcement with respect to the accuracy of the certified ratings. The FTC is also empowered to check records, which must be retained for one year by each link in the distribution chain.
The FTC is in need of help from the state and local jurisdictions in the area of surveillance and testing. Such assistance could occur at a number of levels. Notice of octane mislabeling and failure to post octane ratings is requested.
Other levels of assistance would concern jurisdictions that have octane testing programs and would be interested in cooperating with FTC in testing or in reporting discrepancies in octane rating.
For more information contact the Federal Trade Commission at 600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Washington, D.C. 20580, phone (202) 326-2222.
(L&R, 1982, p. 150; L&R, 1985, p. 100) (L&R, 1988, p. 162)
Policy
Charging different prices for the same product depending upon the manner of payment, other purchases, amount of service, etc., is a management decision of the merchandiser. Those merchants who elect to offer multiple prices for motor fuel must comply with the state and local weights and measure laws and regulations, including Handbook 44. They must also make marketing decisions that comply with state truth in lending, cash discount, price advertising, and usury laws. All such laws are intended to prohibit deceptive, misleading, or misrepresentative information being given to the consumer. The following guidelines are intended to apply to price advertising or posting at the street side or highway as well as at the pump or dispenser, and to the price computed at the device. These guidelines are applicable to other discount or combination offers (such as combination purchases of car wash and gas, for example).
(L&R, 1981, p. 95; L&R, 1996, p. 135)
Interpretation
The addition of water to grain for the purpose of adding weight prior to selling grain by weight is an illegal practice under federal laws.
NOTE: Effective February 11, 1995, the Federal Grain Inspection Service adopted a regulation in 7 CFR Part 800.61 prohibiting the application of water to grain except for milling, malting, or similar processing operations. See Volume 59, No. 198 for Friday, October 14, 1994, or page 52 071, for additional information.
Background
A letter from the Oklahoma Grain and Feed Association was forwarded to the Committee asking whether the addition of water to grain is legal. The request was prompted by an article reporting on methods of adding water to grain to bring the moisture content up to market standards. For example, when soybeans are sold at 8 % moisture content, there is less weight sold (and less revenue for the soybeans to the seller) than if water were added to the same soybeans to bring them to 10 % moisture content.
However, the Committee is greatly concerned about the ramifications of such practices. Many grain experts do not believe that over-dried grain should be valued as highly as grain at moisture contents close to market standards. Overly dry grain is more susceptible to breakage, for example.
Water added after harvest will not be taken up chemically the way that naturally moist grain binds water. Errors in adding water or the particular biochemical nature of the grain after addition of water can lead to spoiled grain. Studies on the long term keeping qualities of grain with water added have not been carried out. The calibration of moisture meters is based on naturally moist grain, and there is a known difference between the electrical properties of naturally moist grain and grain with moisture added.
Of a more basic nature, however, the Committee recognizes the fact that a grain buyer purchases grain expecting such grain to be naturally moist or dried, not to be with water added. The seller who adds water to grain solely to add weight, therefore, misrepresents his product.
Both the FDA and USDA have sent letters to the Committee indicating that the addition of water to grain solely for the purpose of adding weight is an illegal practice. Because existing federal laws already prohibit this practice, the Committee recommends no further action on the part of the Conference at this time.
(L&R, 1994, p. 129-135; L&R, 2006, p. L&R-8) (Developed by the Petroleum Subcommittee.)
The petroleum fuels and lubricants laboratory is an integral element of an inspection program and is generally developed to satisfy the testing requirements as described in the laws and rules of the regulating agency. Guidelines have been developed to assist states in evaluating their options of employing a private lab or building or expanding their own lab. This information is available at www.nist.gov/pml/wmd/.
(L&R, 1992, p. 148)
Interpretation
References to a product's conformance with product standards (for example, "manufactured to standard EN235" or similar product conformance statements) on labels for wallcovering or other products, are not considered qualifying terms and do not violate Section 6.12.1., Supplementary Quantity Declarations of the Uniform Packaging and Labeling Regulation, provided the requirements of Section 8.1.4. Free Area is met.
Background
The Wallcovering Manufacturers Association (WMA) requested the Conference's position on the use of conformance statements on the labels of wallcovering and border material. This issue relates to wallcovering products that originate from manufacturers in Europe where a declaration of conformance to a specific government standard is required on consumer packages. Thousands of product "standards" or "Euronorms" are being established for the European Community. Conformance declarations are required to provide consumers and customs officials with information on the product. The issue relates to the use of such statements as "manufactured to standard EN235" on labels of wallcovering that are imported from Europe. The WMA requested the Committee's opinion on the use of this type of statement if a package is labeled in conformance with sections Section 6.12.1. Supplementary Quantity Declarations and Section 8.1.4. Free Area. One question is whether the display of the conformance statement would be permitted provided that it did not include an unacceptable quantity declaration. Another question concerns the need to comply with the requirement for adequate free area around the quantity declaration when the conformance declaration is placed on the label. It was the Committee's opinion that conformance statements on package labels would not violate any provisions of the PLR if the requirements of Sections 6.12.1. and 8.1.4. are met.
The Committee recommended this interpretation for inclusion in Handbook 130 because it is likely that this type of notice will become common as more and more free market trading areas are opened to expand international trade. This interpretation does not indicate acceptance or endorsement of any requirements contained in product conformance statements.
(L&R, 1993, p. 279; L&R, 1994, p. 294)
The following lists indicate the commodities and commodity groups that are and are not within the scope of the Fair Packaging and Labeling Act administered by the FTC. The following codes appear with each excluded commodity and designate the reason that the particular commodity has been excluded.
CI (Commission Interpretation) - designates those categories that have been excluded by the Commission in the light of legislative history of the definition of "consumer commodity." By applying this definition to individual commodities, the Commission has more narrowly applied the latter term and set forth a list of items that do not meet the criteria of consumer commodities. On occasion the Commission is requested in both a formal and informal manner to consider individual products and to determine their status relative to the definition of "consumer commodity" as it is used in the Act.
EPA - designates commodities subject to the Federal Environmental Pest Control Act of 1972 administered by the Environmental Protection Agency.
FDA - designates those commodities which are subject to regulation by the FDA either under the portion of the FPLA administered by that agency or the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (Section 10(a)(3) and Section 7 of the FPLA). Following the code FDA will be a letter further designating the commodity as either a food (F), drug (D), cosmetic (C), or device (DV).
TTB (formerly known as BATF) - designates commodities subject to laws administered by the Alcohol, and Tobacco Tax, and Trade Bureau.
USDA - designates those commodities excluded from jurisdiction by Section 10(a) of the FPLA and represents a commodity within one of the following categories: meat or meat products, poultry or poultry products, or tobacco or tobacco products.
It may be of some help in ascertaining whether a particular product is or is not included within the FPLA definition of "consumer commodity" and thus subject to FTC jurisdiction under that Act, to refer to the following definition:
". . . Any article, product, or commodity of any kind or class which is customarily produced or distributed for sale through retail sales agencies or instrumentalities for consumption by individuals, or use by individuals for purposes of personal care or in the performance of services ordinarily rendered within the household, and which is usually consumed or expended in the course of such use."
By applying these criteria to the particular product in question and then reviewing the list of excluded commodities, the observer will be able, in most instances, to determine the status of the item. In the event, however, that the observer is unable to ascertain whether a particular commodity is covered or excluded from FTC jurisdiction, contact FTC for an opinion.
Commodities Included Under FTC Jurisdiction | |
Soaps and Detergents | Powder, flakes, chips, etc. |
Liquid | |
Paste, cake, or tablet | |
Cleaning Compounds | Liquid |
Powder | |
Paste or cake | |
Solvent and cleaning fluids for home use | |
Laundry Supplies | Conditioners and softeners, ironing aids, distilled water |
Sizings and starches | |
Bluings and bleaches | |
Pre-soaks, enzymes, etc. | |
Cleaning Devices | Sponges and chamois |
Steel wool, scouring and soap pads | |
Food Wraps | Plastic and cellophane |
Wax paper and paper | |
Foil (aluminum wrap) | |
Paper Products | Toweling |
Napkins, table cloths, and place mats | |
Facial tissues | |
Bathroom tissues | |
Disposable diapers | |
Crepe paper | |
Other (e.g., shelf paper, wrapping paper, eye glass tissues) | |
Waxes and Polishes | Powder |
Liquid | |
Paste and cake | |
Other (e.g., polish impregnated cloths, scratch removers) | |
Household Supplies | Matches |
Candles | |
Toothpicks | |
Cordage (string, twine, rope, clothes line, etc.) | |
Drinking straws | |
Lighter and propane torch fuel, flints, pipe cleaners, etc. | |
Lubricants | |
Household Supplies (continued) | Picnic supplies |
Sand paper and emory paper | |
Charcoal briquets, chips, logs, etc. | |
Dyes and tints | |
Camera film, photo supplies and chemicals | |
Protective foil cooking utensils | |
Aluminum foil cooking utensils | |
Christmas decorations | |
Solder | |
LPG for other than home heating or cooking | |
Waxes for home use | |
Light bulbs | |
Dry cell batteries | |
Pressure sensitive tapes, excluding gift tapes | |
Containers | Paper (plain, waxed, or plastic coated) |
Foil | |
Plastic or Styrofoam | |
Air Fresheners and Deodorizers | Potpourri |
Adhesives and Sealants | |
Cordage |
Commodities Excluded from FTC Jurisdiction | ||
Term | Description | FTC Jurisdiction |
Adhesive Tape | FDA-D | |
Alcoholic Beverages | TTB | |
Aluminum Clothesline | Plastic clothesline with a steel core | CI |
Antifreeze | CI | |
Artificial Flowers and Parts | CI | |
Automotive Accessories | Floor mats, seat covers, spare parts, etc. | CI |
Automotive Chemical Products | Auto polish, wax, and finish conditioner, rubbing compound, tire paint, chrome polish, gasoline additives, etc. | CI |
Bath Oil and Bubble Bath | FDA-C | |
Bicycle Tires and Tubes | CI | |
Books | CI | |
Bottled Gas | Cooking or heating | CI |
Brushes | Bristle, nylon, etc., including hair-brushes, toothbrushes, hand and nail brushes, paint brushes, etc. | CI |
Brooms and Mops | Glass, floor, and dish mops, etc. | CI |
"Bug Proof" Shelf Paper | EPA | |
Candle Holders | Without candles | CI |
Cameras | CI | |
Chinaware | CI | |
Christmas Light Sets | Replacement or other bulbs sold separately are not excluded | CI |
Cigarette Lighters | CI | |
Clothespins | CI | |
Clothing and Wearing Apparel | Socks, gloves, shoelaces, underwear, etc. | CI |
Compacts and Mirrors | CI | |
Cosmetics | Defined by Section 201(i) of the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act as "(l) articles intended to be rubbed, poured, sprinkled, or sprayed on, introduced into, or otherwise applied to the human body or any part thereof for cleansing, beautifying, promoting attractiveness, or altering the appearance, and (2) articles intended for use as a component of any such articles; except that such term shall not include soap." | FDA-C |
Cotton Puffs | Sterilized | FDA-D |
Crystalware | CI | |
Detergent Bar with Any Drug or Cosmetic Claim | If the observer experiences difficulty in ascertaining whether or not a given product is a soap or a detergent, contact the manufacturer or FDA. | FDA-D or C |
Decorative Magnets | CI | |
Devices | Defined by Section 201(h) of the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act as | FDA-DV |
"instruments, apparatus, and contrivances, including their components, parts, and accessories, intended (1) for use in the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease in man or other animals; or (2) to affect the structure or any function of the body of man or other animals." This category includes trusses, syringes, arch supports, etc. | ||
Diaries and Calendars | CI | |
Disinfectants | EPA | |
Drugs | Defined by Section 201(g) (1) of the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act as "(a) articles recognized in the official United States Pharmacopeia, official Homeopathic Pharmacopeia, or official National Formulary, or any supplement to any of them; and (b) articles intended for use in the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease in man or other animals; and (c) articles (other than food) intended to affect the structure or any function of the body of man or other animals; and (d) articles intended for use as a component of any articles specified in clause (a), (b) or (c); but does not include devices or their components, parts, or accessories." | FDA-D |
Durable Articles or Commodities | CI | |
EPA Covered Products | Products subject to regulation under the Federal Environmental Pesticide Control Act that is administered by the Environmental Protection Agency. | EPA |
Fingernail Files | CI | |
Flowers, Flower Seeds, Fertilizer, and Fertilizer Materials, Plants or Shrubs, Garden and Lawn Supplies | CI | |
Food | Defined by Section 201(f) of the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act as "(1) articles used for food and drink for man or other animals, (2) chewing gum, and (3) articles used for components of any such article." | FDA-F |
Fountain Pens, Mechanical Pencils, and Kindred Products | Ball point pens, lead pencils, and lead refills, etc. | CI |
Garden Tools | Hoses, trowels, grass clippers, etc. | CI |
Germ Killing or Germ Proofing Products | EPA | |
Gift Tape and Ties | Ribbon, tape, etc. | CI |
Gift Wrapping Material | Decorative wrapping foil, paper, cellophane, etc. | CI |
Glasses and Glassware | Disposable plastic glasses are not excluded | CI |
Gloves (of Any Type) | CI | |
Greeting Cards | CI | |
Hair Combs, Nets, and | FDA-DV |
Pins | ||
Hand Tools | CI | |
Handicraft and Sewing Thread | Yarn, etc. | CI |
Hardware | Extension cords, thumb-tacks, hose clamps, nails, screws, picture hangers, etc. | CI |
Household Appliances, Equipment, or Furnishings, Including Feather and Down-Filled Products, Synthetic-Filled Bed Pillows, Mattress Pads and Patchwork Quilts, Comforters, and Decorative Curtains | CI | |
Ink | CI | |
Insecticides | Insect repellents in any form, mothballs, etc. | EPA |
Ironing Board Covers | CI | |
Jewelry | CI | |
Lambs Wool Dusters | CI | |
Luggage | CI | |
Magnetic Recording Tape | Reels, cassettes, and cartridges. | CI |
Meat and Meat Products | USDA | |
Metal Pails | CI | |
Motor Oil | Including additives. Household multi-purpose oil is not excluded. | CI |
Mouse and Rat Traps | CI | |
Mouthwash | FDA-D | |
Musical Instruments | CI | |
Paints and Kindred Products | Wallpaper, turpentine, putty, paint removers, caulking and glazing compounds, wood fillers, etc. Note, however, that bathroom caulking materials, patching plaster, spackling compound, and plastic wood are not excluded. In the event of uncertainty, contact FTC. | CI |
Paintings and Wall Plaques | CI | |
Pet Care Supplies | CI | |
Pewterware | CI | |
Photo Albums | CI | |
Pictures | CI | |
Plastic Buckets and | CI |
Garbage Cans | ||
Plastic Tablecloths, Plastic Place Mats | CI | |
Plastic Shelf Lining | CI | |
Pre-Moistened Towelettes | FDA-C | |
Polishing Cloths | Polishing cloths that are impregnated with polish or chemicals (silicone, etc.) are not excluded. | CI |
Poultry and Poultry Products | USDA | |
Rubber Gloves | CI | |
Rubbing Alcohol | FDA-D | |
Safety Flares | CI | |
Safety Pins | CI | |
Sanitary Napkins | FDA-D or C | |
School Supplies | Rulers, crayons, paper, pencils, etc. | CI |
Self-Stick Protective Felt Tabs | CI | |
Seeds of All Kinds | USDA | |
Sewing Accessories | Needles of any type, thimbles, kindred articles, etc. | CI |
Shampoo | FDA-C or D | |
Shoelaces | CI | |
Small Arms Ammunition | CI | |
Silverware, Stainless Steelware, and Pewterware | CI | |
Smoking Pipes | CI | |
Soap Bars with a Drug Claim | Including any claim for removing facial blemishes, etc. Refer to Detergent Bars for further discussion in this area. | FDA-D |
Soap Dishes | CI | |
Souvenirs | CI | |
Sporting Goods | CI | |
Stationery and Writing Supplies | Looseleaf binders, paper tablets, etc. | CI |
Textiles and Items of Wearing Apparel | Cloth laundry bags, towels, cheese cloth, shoe shine cloths, etc. | CI |
Tobacco and Tobacco Products | Pipes, cigarettes, etc. | TTB -USDA |
Toothpaste | FDA-D |
Toys | CI |
Typewriter Ribbon | CI |
Wire of Any Type | CI |
Woodenware | CI |
(L&R, 1995, p. 97)
Guideline
If size descriptor terms for shrimp (e.g., small, medium, large, or colossal) are used on packages, advertisements, or on signs when offering shrimp for sale from bulk, a statement of count-per-kilogram, if sold by kilogram, or count-per-pound, if sold by pound, should be included adjacent to the size descriptor (e.g., medium-large, 31 to 40 shrimp per pound).
Purpose
These guidelines are provided to assist weights and measures programs in establishing an administrative review process. They are not intended to be the only process an agency may use nor are they intended to supersede any agency's existing process. Before implementing ANY process, it should be approved by legal counsel.
These guidelines ensure that persons affected by "inspection findings" (e.g., price misrepresentations or shortweight packages), or who are deprived of the use of their property (devices or packages placed under "stop" or "off-sale" order), are provided a timely-independent review of the action. The process enables affected persons to provide evidence which could be relevant in determining whether the enforcement action was proper. The purpose of the process is to ensure that a person's ability to conduct business is not hindered by improper enforcement actions. This process is independent of any other action (e.g., administrative penalties, prosecutions, etc.) that may be taken by the enforcement agency.
Background
In the course of their work, weights and measures officials take enforcement actions that may prohibit the use of devices or the sale of packaged goods (e.g., "stop-sale" or "off-sale" orders for packages and "stop-use" or "condemnation" tags issued on devices). Improper actions (e.g., not following prescribed test procedures, enforcing labeling requirements on exempted packages, or incorrectly citing someone for a "violation") place the official and the jurisdiction in the position of being liable for the action if it is found that the action was "illegal." In some cases, weights and measures jurisdictions could be ordered to pay monetary damages to compensate the affected party for the improper action.
This process is one way to provide affected persons an opportunity to present evidence which may be relevant in determining whether the order or finding has been properly made to an independent party. The procedure enables business operators to obtain an independent review of orders or findings so that actions affecting their business can be evaluated administratively instead of through litigation. This ensures timely review, which is essential because of the impact that such actions may have on the ability of a business to operate and in cases where perishable products may be lost.
Parti es affected by enforcement actions must be given the opportunity to appeal enforcement actions.
Inspectors are the primary contacts with regulated firms and thus are in the best position to ensure that the enforcement actions they take are "proper." "Proper" means that inspections are conducted (1) within the scope of the authority granted by law, (2) according to recognized investigative or testing procedures and standards, and (3) that enforcement actions are lawful. The "burden" for proving that actions are "proper" falls on the weights and measures program, not on regulated firms.
Weights and measures officials are law enforcement officers. Therefore, they have the responsibility to exercise their authority within the "due process" provisions of the U.S. Constitution. As weights and measure programs carry-out their enforcement responsibilities in the future, more and more challenges to their actions and authority will occur. It is in the best interest of any program to establish strict operational procedures and standards of conduct to prevent the occurrence of improper actions which may place the jurisdiction in an untenable position in a court challenge of an enforcement action. The foundation for ensuring "proper" actions is training, clear and concise requirements, and adoption of, and adherence to uniform test procedures and legal procedures.
Prior to taking enforcement actions the inspector should recheck test results and determine that the information on which the action will be taken is accurate.
Inspections shall be conducted with the understanding that the findings will be clearly and plainly documented and reviewed with the store's representative.
During the review of the findings, the firm's representative may provide information which must be used by the inspector to resolve the problems and concerns before enforcement actions are taken. In some cases, the provided information may not persuade the inspector to forego the action. In some cases, the inspector and business representative may not understand the circumstances surrounding the violations, or there may be a conflict between the parties that they cannot resolve. In other cases, the owner or manufacturer may not learn that an enforcement action has occurred until long after the inspector leaves the establishment.
Steps:
A notice of the right to administrative review should be included on all orders or reports of findings or violations and should be communicated to the responsible firm (e.g., person or firm identified on the product label):
Sample Notice
You have the right to Administrative Review of this order or finding. To obtain a review, contact the Director of Weights and Measures by telephone or send a written request (either postmarked, faxed, or hand delivered) to :
(Name, Address or Fax Number of the Director or other Designated Official)
Your request should reference any information that you be lieve supports the withdrawal or modification of the order or finding.
For example:
Good Quantity Control Practices means that the plant managers should take all reasonable precautions to ensure the following quantity control standards or their equivalent are met:
After the inspection, meet with the management representative to discuss inspection findings and observations. Provide additional information as needed (e.g., information on laws and regulations or explanations of test procedures used in the inspection). Be informative, courteous and responsive. If problems/violations are found during the inspection/test, bring them to the attention of the appropriate person.
Plant Management: information that must be shared with the inspector.
Plant Management: information that may be shared with the inspector.
(L&R, 1998, p. 27)
* Scale with a minimum division of 0.5 g (0.001 lb) or less.
* Scientific calculator with a sample standard deviation function.
General Formula for Sheet Paper
Where:
PA = measured area of one sheet of paper
BW = labeled basis weight
BSS = area of basic sheet size from Table 1
SC = labeled package sheet count
TNW = target net weight of paper
Verify the basis weight declared on a package using the following gravimetric procedure:
Basis Weight Worksheet (see Figure 1)
Type of Paper (TP): | Copy Paper |
Length (L): | 11 in |
Width (W): | 81/2 in |
Area (PA) of Sheet (L×W): | 93.5 in2 |
Package Sheet Count (PSC): | 500 |
Basis Weight (BW): | 20 lb |
Basic Sheet Size (BSS): | 17 in × 22 in |
Area of BSS from Table 1 or | 374 in2 |
by calculation: |
Use the General Formula to compute Target Net Weight (TNW):
Target Net Weight (TNW) = 5 lb
Figure 1. Sample Label
NOTE: Three factors will cause actual sample weights to differ from the TNW:
Actual sheet count in package
Actual basis weight of paper being tested
Actual dimensions of the paper being tested
This procedure is used to identify potentially violative packages. If the Average Basis Weight (ABW) for the sample determined by this procedure is not equal to or greater than the labeled basis weight, other steps must be taken. Moisture affects the weight of paper, but the moisture content of paper can only be determined in a measurement laboratory according to the Technical Association of the Pulp and Paper Industry (TAPPI) (www.tappi.org/) TAPPI - T410 om-08, "Grammage of Paper and Paperboard (Weight per Unit Area)."
- For packages with more than 100 sheets, use 100 sheets; or
- For packages with 100 sheets or less, verify the sheet count and use all of the sheets.
Where:
A = area of basic sheet size from Table 1
PA = area (l × w) of one sheet of paper
EC = exact sheet count of sample
ENBSS = equivalent number of basic size sheets
Where:
BW = basis weight for each package
ABW = average basis weight
ENBSS = equivalent number of basic size sheets from step iii
NW = net weight of sample
RC = Ream Count (500; for tissue paper, use 480)
Table 1. Common Types of Paper and Area of Basic Sheet Size | |
Paper Type | Area |
Bond, Ledger, Thin, Writing, and Track Feed Printer Paper | 2412 cm2 (374 in2) |
Manuscript Cover | 3599 cm2 (558 in2) |
Blotting | 2941 cm2 (456 in2) |
Cover | 3354 cm2 (520 in2) |
Blanks | 3974 cm2 (616 in2) |
Printing Bristols | 4135 cm2 (641 in2) |
Wrapping, Tissue, Waxed, Newsprint and Tag Stock | 5574 cm2 (864 in2) |
Book, Offset, and Text | 6129 cm2 (950 in2) |
Index Bristol | 5019 cm2 (778 in2) |
This procedure is for use in verifying that the basis weight included in a statement of identity is not misleading or deceptive. It is not intended to be used as the final criterion on which enforcement action is taken. Instead, the test procedure is only used to identify potentially volatile lots. There are two alternative actions that can be taken if the test results indicate that a lot is potentially volatile. The first is to review the documentation supplied by the original manufacturer to the converter to determine if any misrepresentation has occurred. The second is to collect packages of the paper and test them according to the latest version of ASTM International Method D646 for "Grammage of Paper and Paperboard."
(L&R, 1999, p. L&R-25)
These requirements are based on the Uniform Packaging and Labeling Regulation in the 1999 edition of NIST Handbook 130, "Uniform Laws and Regulations" and regulations and guidelines of the Federal Trade Commission.
General
The following information must be declared on the principal display panel of the chamois package. The principal display panel is the tag, or label that consumers can examine under normal and customary conditions of display.
* Identity - what the package contains
* Net Quantity of Contents - how many items the package contains and the area of the item(s) The following information may appear anywhere on the package.
* Responsibility - the party responsible for packaging or distributing the product.
Example:
Chamois, Natural Chamois Leather
Count
* The package must include a count declaration (e.g., 1 Chamois) unless the statement of identity clearly expresses the fact that only one unit is contained in the package. A package containing two or more units shall bear a statement in terms of count (e.g., 2 Chamois).
Area
* Chamois packages must have area declarations in both U.S. customary and metric units. Metric
* For areas that measure less than 1 m2, the area shall be stated in square decimeters and decimal fractions of a square decimeter or in square centimeters and decimal fractions of a square centimeter;
* For areas that measure 1 m2 or more, the area shall be stated in square meters and decimal fractions to not more than three places.
To facilitate value comparison and simplify the measurement process, chamois should be measured in one quarter square foot (2.322 57 decimeter) increments. Dimensions should be rounded down to avoid overstating the area.
For example: 2 square feet (18.5 square decimeters) or 2 ft2 (18.5 dm2)
Conversion Factors:
1 ft2 = 9.290 30 dm2 1 in2 = 6.451 6 cm2 1 yd2 =83.612 7 dm2
U.S. Customary Units
* For areas that are less than 1 ft2 (929 cm2), the area declaration shall be expressed in square inches and fractions of square inches;
* For areas of 1 ft2 (929 cm2), or more, but less than 4 ft2 (37.1 dm2), the area shall be expressed in square feet with any remainder expressed in square inches or in fractions of a square foot;
* For areas of 4 ft2 (37.1 dm2) or more, the area should be expressed in terms of the largest whole unit (e.g., square yards, square yards and square feet, or square feet) with any remainder expressed in square inches and fractions of a square inch or in fractions of the square foot or square yard.
Chamois labeled for retail sale is exempt from these requirements if (a) the area of a full skin is expressed in terms of square feet with any remainder in terms of the common or decimal fraction of the square foot
(929 cm2), or (b) the area for cut skins of any configuration is expressed in terms of square inches and fractions thereof. Where the area of a cut skin is at least one square foot (929 cm2) or more, the statement of square inches shall be followed in parentheses by a declaration in square feet with any remainder in terms of square inches or common or decimal fractions of the square foot.
Prohibited Labeling Practices
* Do not use qualifying terms or phrases (e.g., "Approximate Size," "Size when Wet," "Up to 20 % Larger When Wet").
* Do not use unacceptable symbols (e.g., using (") as a symbol for inches is not acceptable).
Example:
Chamois Tanning Company
8190 Main Road
Tarpon Springs, FL 34568
The address shall include street address, city, state (or country if outside the United States), and ZIP Code (or the postal code, if any, used in countries other than the United States); however, the street address may be omitted if it is shown in a current city directory or telephone directory.
Sample Labels
(L&R, 1999, p. L&R-31)
These requirements are based on the Uniform Packaging and Labeling Regulation in NIST Handbook 130, "Uniform Laws and Regulations" and regulations and guidelines of the Federal Trade Commission. All indicated dimensions and conversions from metric to U.S. customary units are approximate only and are used for illustration purposes only.
General
The following information must be declared on the principal display panel (PDP) of a package of sponge(s). The PDP is the part of label (or package) most likely to be displayed, presented, shown to or examined by consumers. A tag or spot label may be used.
* Identity - what the package contains
* Net Quantity of Contents - how many items in the package and the dimensions of the item(s) The following information may appear anywhere on the package.
* Responsibility - the name of the processor or distributor
Example:
Sea Wool Sponge, Rock Island Sponge, Sea Grass Sponge, Sea Yellow Sponge, or Atlantic Silk Sponge
* Origin - Natural or Synthetic
* For natural sponges, the label must specify if they are "Cut" or "Form." "Cut" sponges are those that have been cut into halves, quarters, or fourths while "forms" are whole sponges.
* For natural sponges, indicate type of sponge (e.g., "silk," "seawool," or "yellow")
* Terms which indicate locations of origin on some natural sponges (e.g., "Atlantic Sea Sponge") are permitted to be used for identification if they accurately describe the source of the sponge.
* Use of terms that may be interpreted by consumers to imply quality, durability, or "expert" endorsement (e.g., "professional quality sponge") are permitted as identifiers if they are not misleading. However, terms that imply quality should be used with care if they are not based on a recognized grading system. Use of terms to describe sponge texture such as "fine," "medium," or "coarse" are acceptable.
* Count
The package must include a count declaration (e.g., 1 sponge) unless the statement of identity clearly expresses the fact that only one unit is contained in the package. A package containing two or more units shall bear a statement in terms of count (e.g., 2 sponges).
* Dimensions
The package must include the dimensions of the sponges in inches and centimeters.
To facilitate value comparison and simplify the measurement process, sponges should be measured in 1/2 in (1 cm) increments. Dimensions should be rounded down to avoid overstating the size of a sponge.
Example:
* 6 in, 61/2 in, and 7 in for inch declarations;
* 15 cm, 16 cm, and 17 cm for metric declarations
* Synthetic sponges: the dimensions shall include length × width × height (thickness). Either unit of measure can be the primary declaration (e.g., the metric or U.S. customary units can be presented first).
1 sponge 17 × 10 × 5 cm (7 × 4 × 2 in)
* Natural sponges: the declaration shall be a single measurement representing the maximum dimension of one axis of a sponge that is passed through a circular template. When measured, the sponge is "classified" as a specific size when at least three (including two opposing) points of the sponge touch the template (e.g., see graphic on the following page where the sample sponge is designated as a 7 in [17 cm] sponge).
As the following pictures show, natural sponges are irregular in size and shape and have traditionally been measured using this procedure. It is difficult to develop a meaningful or cost effective measurement process that would provide a means of direct comparison between synthetic and natural sponges based on dimensions. Requiring declarations, such as average height, length, or width of natural sponge procedures would increase the costs for industry and consumers.
This graphic illustrates an irregular form of a natural sponge passing through a 17 cm (7 in) template and touching at least two opposite points. This sponge could be labeled 7 in.
* For banana sponges the size will be determined as shown below. This sponge is 17 cm (7 in).
Good Measurement Practice
* Dimensions are determined with the sponge wet.
* Measuring templates (see photo below for the currently used type templates):
- should be constructed of rigid metal or plastic material.
- circular openings should graduate in increments of one-half inch (one centimeter).
- The error in the circular openings shall not be greater than ± 1/32 in (± 0.79 mm) as specified in Table 2. Tolerances in Section 5.52. Linear Measures of NI ST Handbook 44 "Specifications, Tolerances, and Technical Requirements for Weighing and Measuring Devices."
Prohibited Labeling Practices
* Stating country of origin declarations that are not accurate.
* Declaring ranges of dimensions (e.g., 4"- 5" in) or using terms such as "half or semi form" instead of either "cut" or "form."
* Using qualifying terms. (e.g., "Wet Size," "Approximate" or "Jumbo")
* "Anti-bacterial" claims must meet EPA requirements.
* Using type size that does not meet minimum height requirements.
* Using unacceptable symbols (e.g., using (") as a symbol for inches is not acceptable).
Example:
Processed by
Argonaut Sponge Company
8190 Main Road
Tarpon Springs, Florida 34568
The address shall include street address, city, state (or country if outside the United States), and ZI P Code (or the postal code, if any, used in countries other than the United States); however, the street address may be omitted if this is shown in a current city directory or telephone directory.
Sample Labels
I f a natural sponge is in a box, carton, or package that does not permit consumers to see how many sponges are in the box, the package must include a count declaration (e.g., 1 sponge) unless the statement of identity clearly expresses the fact that only one unit is contained in the package. A package containing two or more units shall bear a statement in terms of count (e.g., 2 sponges). The following sample label would apply.
I f a package does not permit the consumer to see how many sponges are the box, it must include a count declaration (e.g., 1 sponge) unless the statement of identity clearly expresses the fact that only one unit is contained in the package. A package containing two or more units shall bear a statement in terms of count (e.g., 2 sponges). A transparent bag of small pieces of sponge may be sold on the basis of count if the words "Irregular Dimensions" appear in conjunction with the declaration of count (e.g., 10 Sponges - Irregular Dimensions).
(L&R, 2000, p. L&R-13)
A minimum of 1.2 L (0.3 gal) of motor fuel shall be flushed from a dispenser before taking a sample for octane verification. The flush shall be returned to the storage tank containing the lowest octane.
2 See General Code, Section 1.10.; User Requirement G-UR.4.3. Use of Adjustments.
3 Recommendations regarding the specifications and tolerances for suitable field standards may be obtained from the Office of Weights and Measures of the National Institute of Standards and Technology. Standards will meet the specifications of the National Institute of Standards and Technology Handbook 105-Series standards (or other suitable and designated standards). This section shall not preclude the use of additional field standards and/or equipment, as approved by the Director, for uniform evaluation of device performance.
209.02.16 Ark. Code R. 002