Whether you run a warehouse for e-commerce shipping or a highway truck weigh station, there are a lot of options when it comes to weigh scales and the suppliers you work with.
When choosing a service provider for services such as calibration, certification and repairs, our best advice is to always go with an authorized scale provider. Why? Keep reading to learn more.
What is an Authorized Service Provider?
Canadian weigh scales face incredibly stringent standards. They are subject to the Weights and Measures Act which comes with a series of responsibilities of the scale owner, discussed further below.
An Authorized Service Provider is recognized by Measurement Canada (on behalf of the Government of Canada) to inspect and certify weigh scales. To become an Authorized Service Provider, these organizations must undergo significant training and meet strict requirements. They also undergo regular reviews to ensure their services continue to maintain the highest of standards.
Measurement Canada keeps an online database of all Authorized Service Providers. Click here to find out what companies are certified close to you.
Accuracy is Your Responsibility
According to the Canadian government, the accuracy of the scale is the legal responsibility of owner. This means that any scale used in a trade setting must be certified and is subject to random inspection at any time.
The Canadian government can also investigate any reports of inaccurate measurements from customers who claim to have not received accurate measures.
Due to your responsibility to ensure your scale remains accurate, you need to ensure the weigh scale you use is approved, inspected and certified before you use it for business. Your Authorized Service Provider can perform this inspection and will provide you with a certificate to keep on hand.
You must also ensure that the scale you select is appropriate for all materials you are measuring. Certain scales are designed and calibrated differently depending on what is being measured.
How Do You Know if a Scale is Certified?
Do your research. If you’re purchasing products based on a specific weight or quantity, such as produce or gas, you’ll want to ensure a certified scale is being used.
To help businesses and consumers have confidence in the accuracy of purchases, Measurement Canada launched their “Spot the Sticker” initiative. This allows businesses whose scales have up-to-date certifications to display this sticker (as shown below) so their customers can know that they’re committed to ensuring the accuracy of their weighing devices.
It’s important to note that it’s not a requirement to display this sticker. If you’re not sure about a business’ scales, just ask. Most companies will be very upfront if they have obtained the proper accreditations because they know how important it is for their customers. They should be able to easily provide you with a certificate without hesitation.
Active Scale is Ontario’s Authorized Service Provider Since 2007
Active Scale is a proud Authorized Service Provider of Measurement Canada. We have maintained this accreditation since 2007. This privilege is earned through annual audits of the ISO-based Quality Management System conducted by Measurement Canada.
We have performed thousands of inspections for certifications on industrial platform scales, commercial platform scales, can scales, hopper and truck scales, overhead rail scales, high capacity customs devices, truck scales and railroad truck scales.
We have locations all over Southern Ontario to ensure the best and most convenient service for our customers. Contact Active Scale today so our technicians can perform an inspection and certification of your weigh scales.
