Weights and Measures Inspection - Cambridge Bylaw
Cambridge, Massachusetts requires accurate commercial weighing and measuring devices to protect consumers and ensure fair commerce. Local inspections verify scales, fuel pumps, meters, and packaged goods for accuracy and labeling. The city identifies the responsible office and procedures on its official Inspectional Services pages[1], and statewide standards and testing methods are published by the Massachusetts Division of Standards[2].
Penalties & Enforcement
Fines and specific monetary penalties for noncompliant weighing or measuring devices are not specified on the cited page and vary by instrument and violation; see the official references for exact figures and statute citations.[1][2]
- Fines: not specified on the cited page; consult the city or state reference for amounts.
- Escalation: first, repeat, and continuing offences: not specified on the cited page.
- Non-monetary sanctions: orders to correct or remove devices, seizure of equipment, stop-sale or court action may be used.
- Enforcer: Cambridge Inspectional Services or a designated Weights and Measures officer; contact details are on the city page.[1]
- Inspection and complaint pathways: businesses can request certification and the public can report suspected inaccuracies via the city or state offices.
- Appeals and review: procedural appeals follow administrative rules; specific time limits are not specified on the cited page.
Applications & Forms
The official city page describes inspection procedures and contact points; a specific downloadable application form for weights and measures inspections is not specified on the cited page. For state-level testing, the Massachusetts Division of Standards publishes technical guides and contact procedures on its site.[1][2]
How inspections work
Inspections typically check device accuracy, seals, required labels, and maintenance records. Inspectors may test devices on site, tag or seal compliant devices, and issue orders if devices fail. Businesses should keep calibration certificates and maintenance logs available for inspectors.
Common violations
- Uncalibrated or inaccurate scales and meters.
- Missing required labels or unit markings on devices or packaged goods.
- Altered seals, tampering, or blocked adjustment points.
- Failure to correct known defects after notice.
FAQ
- Who enforces weights and measures rules in Cambridge?
- The City of Cambridge enforces local rules through its Inspectional Services office or a designated weights and measures officer; statewide technical standards are available from the Massachusetts Division of Standards.[1][2]
- How do I request an inspection or report a suspected inaccurate device?
- Contact Cambridge Inspectional Services using the official city contact details; the state Division of Standards also accepts reports and provides technical support for testing methods.[1][2]
- What happens if a device fails inspection?
- Inspectors may tag or seal the device, issue an order for repair or removal, and in some cases initiate seizure or court action; monetary penalties are referenced on official pages or statutes.
How-To
- Identify the device needing inspection and gather maintenance and calibration records.
- Contact Cambridge Inspectional Services to request an inspection or to report a concern.[1]
- If the device fails, arrange certified repair or recalibration and retain proof of correction.
- Pay any required reinspection fees or fines as directed by the enforcing office; consult the cited pages for fee details.
Key Takeaways
- Keep calibration certificates and records on site.
- Contact Cambridge Inspectional Services for inspection requests and complaints.
- State standards provide technical testing methods; consult the Division of Standards.
Help and Support / Resources
- City of Cambridge - Inspectional Services
- Massachusetts Division of Standards
- Cambridge Code of Ordinances