Everything you need to know about scales: verification and regulation

The scale is a device we encounter in our everyday lives that helps us measure weights. It is an indispensable tool in many areas, be it industrial processes, parcel shipping or cooking.

A scale is basically an instrument designed to measure the weight of an object. It usually consists of a platform or hanging device and an indicator on which the weight can be read. By placing the object to be weighed on the platform or hanging it from the hanging device, the weight can be determined.

In the field of scales, however, there are different types and categories, which are differentiated according to the area of application and functionality. An important distinction in the industrial sector is that between non-automatic and automatic scales.

Non-automatic vs. automatic scales

A non-automatic weighing instrument (NAWI) – often referred to in the guidelines mentioned below in particular – is a type of weighing instrument that requires measurement by operators. A non-automatic weighing instrument has a scale or display on which the weight of the object to be weighed can be read. The use of NAWI is widespread in commerce, industry and other areas where precise measurements are required.

In contrast, there are self-acting scales that perform the weighing automatically. The process of weighing is always started by itself and consequently, self-acting scales play a crucial role in the automation of industrial production.

In the following part, we will focus on non-automatic weighing instruments and the regulations that must be observed.

What is a verified scale?

A verified scale is a non-automatic weighing instrument that has been subjected to verification and that complies with the legal requirements (in particular EU Directive 2014/31, EU Directive 2014/32 – also known as MID) in legal metrology, as well as being subject to regular inspection by the Weights and Measures Office.

The aim of verification is to protect the consumer and the public interest. Verification by an authorised body ensures that the scale provides accurate and reliable weight measurements and that verification error limits are observed.

When do verified scales have to be used?

Directive 2009/23/EC on non-automatic weighing instruments states that verified instruments must be used in the following circumstances:

• Determination of mass for the purposes of commercial transactions,
• Determination of quantity for the calculation of a toll, tariff, tax, bonus, penalty, allowance, compensation or similar type of payment.
• Determination of quantity for the application of laws or regulations; expert evidence in legal proceedings.
• Determination of price on the basis of quantity for the purposes of direct sale to the public and the assembling of prepackages.
• Determination of mass in the practice of medicine when weighing patients for the purposes of medical supervision, examination and treatment.
• Determination of quantity in the practice of medicine for weighing patients for the purposes of monitoring, diagnosis and medical treatment.
• Determination of quantity for the preparation of medicines on prescription in a pharmacy and determination of quantity in analyses in medical and pharmaceutical laboratories.

How do you recognise a verified scale?

The so-called verification seal or also metrology marking (M) with corresponding CE marking expresses that the scale complies with the legal regulations.

Sealing switch for industrial weighing systems: Important function for verification and safety

The seal switch plays a crucial role in the verification and security of scales, especially in commercial and industrial environments. This special switch, often referred to as a seal switch, is an essential element that ensures the integrity and compliance of a calibrated scale.

What is a seal switch?

The seal switch is a safety mechanism that is built into many scales. It is used to control and secure access to the calibration and adjustment settings of the scale. After Verification, the seal switch is sealed to prevent unauthorised or unintentional changes. This ensures that the scale continues to comply with legal requirements and calibration standards.

Handling the sealing switch

• Verification and sealing: After a scale has been verified, the sealing switch is sealed by an authorised verification body. This is to ensure that the settings of the scale have not been changed since the last verification.
• Maintenance and repair: If a scale requires maintenance or repair, it may be necessary to remove the seal. In this case, the scale must be re-verified and the sealing switch resealed to ensure conformity with legal requirements.

Using verified scales is essential in various industries to ensure precise measurements, compliance with legal regulations, and consumer protection. At Gram Group, we understand the critical role of reliable weighing systems in your operations. Our range of high-precision scales meets the highest industry standards, ensuring compliance and performance you can trust.

Contact us to learn more about our verified scales and how we can support your weighing needs.