Bill to ensure quality of SA measurements before Parliament

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The Department of Trade and Industry is revamping legislation intended to ensure the quality and credibility of measurements in SA, says a Business Day report.

The proposals are outlined in the Legal Metrology Bill tabled in Parliament. The report says the new legislation will also allow for the regulation of medical instruments such as those used to measure temperature and blood pressure; safety measurements used in speed and alcohol testing; and environmental measurements for smoke and water pollution. According to a memorandum, the Bill 'seeks to expand the scope of trade metrology to legal metrology and strengthen the enforcement thereof within an appropriate legislative framework'. The Bill also 'seeks to protect consumers against short measure, level the playing field for industry and support the competitiveness of local industry'. The report notes the National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications will administer the Bill. Full Business Day report (subscription needed) Draft Legal Metrology Bill (PDF file)