Heavy Capacity Scale Equipment
Scheduled Test and Maintenance
Two types of maintenance
There are two types of ongoing scheduled activities that are required for legal-for-trade truck scales: weights-and-measures checks and preventive maintenance.
Weights and measures checks /Calibrations / Re-certifications
In many locations, a scale provider can perform the initial calibration and accuracy check on the scale when it is installed. However, after 60 days, the scale’s accuracy needs to be verified with tests performed by the local weights and measures (W&M) authority.
These tests are done in one of three ways:
- The W&M agency is equipped to perform those tests and does so with its own truck and technicians.
- The tests are performed by a scale service provider but must be witnessed by a W&M representative.
- The tests are performed by a scale service provider and the scale owner must provide proof of the test and the results to the W&M agency. W&M tests typically happen at predetermined intervals, most commonly once per year.
To test the scale, a service technician will bring a special truck equipped with certified test weights to the scale site. These weights will be applied to the scale in specific weight intervals and in different locations on the deck. The technician will monitor the weight to check for accuracy and consistency. Your operation will then be provided with a report noting the scale’s level of accuracy and findings from the inspection.
If the scale does not pass the test:
If the scale’s error is beyond the legal tolerance, the W&M agency may issue a yellow or red tag (or something similar). A yellow tag is a warning that gives the scale owner a period (usually 60 days) to have the scale recalibrated by a service provider. During this time, the scale can still be used. In contrast, a red tag requires that the scale be closed immediately and not used until it is recalibrated. Preventive maintenance can help avoid such a disruption.