Part 1, Section 1: Introduction
There should exist a similarity in attitude, procedure and performance by all Measurement Canada personnel and recognized technicians of accredited or registered organizations performing the same general inspections. Uniform application and consistent interpretation of legislation, policies and procedures is key to the effective administration and enforcement of the Weights and Measure Act, Regulations and Ministerial Specifications.
The purpose of this Field Inspection Manual (Inspection Procedure Outlines and Standard Test Procedures) is to provide inspectors and other interested parties with a guide to the inspection of basic volumetric measuring devices and systems. The Inspection Procedure Outlines (IPO) outline the minimum tests which must be performed to ensure that basic volumetric measuring devices comply with the legislation. The Standard Test Procedures (STP) provide examination criteria for installation and use of devices and describe test procedures.
The use of the STPs and IPOs to evaluate the compliance of a basic volumetric measuring device or system should be considered the norm rather than the exception. In some circumstances, additional tests may be warranted. In cases such as these, Measurement Canada Regional Specialists should be consulted. Care must be taken to ensure that these tests adhere to the intent of the Act, Regulations and Specifications for volumetric measuring machines.
Enforcement action shall be initiated when an infraction sufficient enough to warrant non compliance with the legislation is identified. The enforcement strategy shall be in accordance with the Weights and Measures Enforcement Policy for Weighing and Measuring Devices.
The Field Inspection Manual does not provide operating procedures for particular testing equipment such as pipe provers, compact pipe provers, or gravimetric provers. The manner of achieving the tests described in this manual may vary depending upon the type of test equipment used. Consult available documentation regarding operating procedures of specialised testing equipment. Testing equipment must be designated as local standards and must be certified by Measurement Canada.
Measurement Canada encourages the reference and use of test procedures and test equipment as identified in this manual, but acknowledges that there are alternative test procedures or test equipment that can be used to inspect a weighing or measuring device. Subject to the review and approval of the proposed test procedure or test equipment by Measurement Canada, the alternative methodology will be accepted and documented in the respective Standards Test Procedure (STP) or Inspection Procedure Outline (IPO) on a case-by-case basis.
Revision
Original document