Statute Details
- Title: Weights and Measures Regulations 2005
- Full Title: Weights and Measures Regulations 2005
- Act Code: WMA1975-S844-2005
- Type: Subsidiary Legislation (sl)
- Commencement Date: 1 January 2006
- Parts: Part I: PRELIMINARY
- Key Sections: Section 2: Definitions
- Related Legislation: Weights and Measures Act, Timeline, Authorising Act
What Is This Legislation About?
The Weights and Measures Regulations 2005 is a piece of subsidiary legislation enacted under the Weights and Measures Act of Singapore. It establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework for the use of weighing and measuring instruments in Singapore. The regulations cover a range of requirements and procedures related to the approval, inspection, testing, and use of such instruments to ensure accuracy and compliance with legal metrology standards.
The key purpose of this legislation is to maintain the integrity and reliability of the weights and measures system in Singapore. It aims to protect consumers and businesses by ensuring that weighing and measuring instruments used for commercial transactions meet specified technical and performance requirements. This helps to prevent fraud and ensure fair trade practices in the marketplace.
The regulations apply to a wide variety of weighing and measuring instruments used for commercial purposes, such as scales, meters, and other devices. They set out the rules and procedures that must be followed by suppliers, users, and regulatory authorities to ensure the proper approval, verification, and use of these instruments.
What Are the Key Provisions?
The Weights and Measures Regulations 2005 are divided into 10 parts, each addressing different aspects of the regulatory framework:
Part I - Preliminary establishes the citation and commencement of the regulations, and provides definitions of key terms such as "International Recommendation" and "liteng".
Part II - Application specifies the scope of the regulations, including the types of weighing and measuring instruments that are subject to the requirements.
Part III - General Requirements for Weighing or Measuring Instruments sets out the maximum permissible errors for weighing and measuring instruments, as well as requirements related to "litengs" (traditional Chinese herb weighing instruments).
Part IV - Inspection and Testing outlines the procedures for dismantling, inspecting, and testing weighing and measuring instruments, including at premises other than the office of an Authorised Verifier or inspector.
Part V - Stamps and Part VI - Accuracy Label establish the requirements for affixing stamps and accuracy labels on approved weighing and measuring instruments, as well as the rules for obliterating or cancelling these markings.
Part VII - Pattern Approval covers the process for obtaining approval for the design and construction of weighing and measuring instruments, and the withdrawal of such approvals.
Part VIII - Authorised Verifiers sets out the qualifications, appointment, and duties of individuals authorised to verify the accuracy of weighing and measuring instruments.
Part IX - Registration of Suppliers of Weighing and Measuring Instruments requires suppliers of these instruments to register with the regulatory authority.
Part X - Miscellaneous includes provisions for maintaining registers, penalties for non-compliance, and the revocation of the regulations.
How Is This Legislation Structured?
The Weights and Measures Regulations 2005 are structured in a logical and organized manner, with each part addressing a specific aspect of the regulatory framework. The parts are further divided into sections and subsections, making it easy for readers to navigate and find relevant information.
The preliminary part establishes the citation, commencement, and key definitions. The subsequent parts then cover the application of the regulations, general requirements for weighing and measuring instruments, inspection and testing procedures, the use of stamps and accuracy labels, pattern approval, the appointment and duties of Authorised Verifiers, the registration of suppliers, and various miscellaneous provisions.
This structure allows the regulations to comprehensively address all the important elements of the weights and measures system in Singapore, while maintaining a clear and logical flow of information.
Who Does This Legislation Apply To?
The Weights and Measures Regulations 2005 apply to a wide range of individuals and entities involved in the use, supply, and regulation of weighing and measuring instruments in Singapore. This includes:
- Owners and users of weighing and measuring instruments used for commercial purposes
- Suppliers and manufacturers of weighing and measuring instruments
- Authorised Verifiers responsible for inspecting and testing the accuracy of these instruments
- Regulatory authorities, such as the Controller of Weights and Measures, responsible for administering and enforcing the regulations
The regulations establish specific requirements and procedures that each of these stakeholders must follow to ensure the proper approval, use, and verification of weighing and measuring instruments in Singapore.
Why Is This Legislation Important?
The Weights and Measures Regulations 2005 play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and reliability of the weights and measures system in Singapore. Accurate and reliable weighing and measuring instruments are essential for fair commercial transactions, consumer protection, and the smooth functioning of the economy.
By setting clear technical and performance requirements for these instruments, and establishing robust procedures for their approval, inspection, and use, the regulations help to prevent fraud and ensure a level playing field for businesses and consumers. This, in turn, fosters consumer confidence, promotes fair trade practices, and supports the overall economic development of Singapore.
The regulations are actively enforced by the regulatory authorities, with penalties in place for non-compliance. This ensures that the requirements are taken seriously by all stakeholders, further enhancing the effectiveness of the weights and measures system.
Overall, the Weights and Measures Regulations 2005 are a vital component of Singapore's legal and regulatory framework, contributing to the country's reputation for high-quality standards, consumer protection, and a business-friendly environment.
Related Legislation
- Weights and Measures Act (Chapter 349)
- Timeline of Weights and Measures Regulations
- Authorising Act for the Weights and Measures Regulations 2005
Source Documents
This article provides an overview of the Weights and Measures Regulations 2005 for legal research and educational purposes. It does not constitute legal advice. Readers should consult the official text for authoritative provisions.