S.I. No. 71/1928 - The Weights and Measures (General) Regulations, 1928.

STATUTORY RULES AND ORDERS. 1928. No. 71.

THE WEIGHTS AND MEASURES (GENERAL) REGULATIONS, 1928.

WEIGHTS AND MEASURES.

THE WEIGHTS AND MEASURES (GENERAL) REGULATIONS MADE BY THE MINISTER FOR INDUSTRY AND COMMERCE ON THE 15th DAY OF NOVEMBER, 1928, PURSUANT TO THE WEIGHTS AND MEASURES ACTS, 1878 TO 1928.

GENERAL PROVISIONS.

Pursuant to the powers conferred on him by the Weights and Measures Acts, 1878 to 1928, and all other powers in that behalf enabling him, the Minister for Industry and Commerce hereby makes the following Regulations :—

1. These Regulations may be cited as The Weights and Measures (General) Regulations, 1928.

2. These Regulations shall come into force on the First day of December, 1928, and from that date The Weights and Measures Regulations, 1907, The Weights and Measures (Standard Bottles) Regulations, 1926, The Weights and Measures (Amending) Regulations, 1927, and The Weights and Measures (Amending) Regulations, 1928, shall be revoked.

3. In the construction of these Regulations:—

" The Minister " means the Minister for Industry and Commerce ;

" The date of these Regulations " means the First day of December, 1928;

" Capacity " in reference to a weighing instrument means the maximum load which is purported by the indication marked on the instrument to be weighed correctly ;

" Instrument " means weighing instrument and measuring instrument and includes both types of instrument save where otherwise required by the context;

" Requirements of these Regulations " or " requirements " includes requirements of the Weights and Measures Acts ;

" Regulations " shall be deemed to include The Weights and Measures (General) Regulations, 1928, The Weights and Measures (Stamps) Regulations, 1928, and The Weights and Measures (Bottle Factory) Regulations, 1928, where the wider meaning is not excluded by the context ;

" Correct " in reference to a weight or measure or instrument means correct within the limits of error specified in Schedule II. or otherwise prescribed ;

" Error " in reference to an instrument includes deficiency in sensitiveness, where a test for sensitiveness is required by these Regulations ;

" Sub-standards" includes working standards ;

" An inspector " means an inspector or ex-officio inspector of weights and measures, and includes a special inspector where the wider meaning is not excluded by the context ;

" A special inspector " means a special inspector appointed under Section 4 of the Act of 1928 ;

In these Regulations, and in the Instructions issued thereunder by the Minister, the expression " the Act " means the Weights and Measures Act of the year named.

4. On the appointment of an inspector, or the termination of the appointment of an existing inspector, for any area, notice thereof shall be given to the Minister.

5. The local authority shall provide, and maintain in good order, such local standards and local standard balances as the Minister shall determine to be necessary for the requirements of its area.

The local authority shall provide for the use of the Inspector within its area in accordance with the form, material and design, and the quantity, directed by the Minister from time to time—

(a) The requisite sub-standards, balances and instrumental equipment.

(b) Dies, punches, stencil plates, branding irons, etching and engraving implements and sand-blasting machinery where necessary for impressing the verification stamp or for obliterating the stamp; together with such tools as may be required by the inspector for the performance of his duties.

(c) Any other article, which in the opinion of the Minister is required for the proper carrying out of the work of the inspector.

6. Where a large number of sub-standard weights is required, as in the testing of weighbridges, the local authority shall provide a quantity of not less than one ton.

Suitable methods for transport of the equipment of the inspector, including such manual assistance as may be required for removal, shall be supplied by the local authority, provided that where it is necessary to verify and stamp any instrument in situ the expenses involved by the verification shall be paid by the owner of the instrument.

Every article provided by a local authority under these Regulations, shall be maintained by that authority in good order and condition, to the satisfaction of the Minister.

Local standards shall be kept apart and shall be used solely for the verification of sub-standards.

7. All local standards, sub-standards, balances, and other apparatus, used by the Inspector in the verification and inspection of weights, measures or instruments, shall bear the stamp of the Minister, and shall be submitted to the Minister for re-verification and if necessary for adjustment, at least once every five years: provided that this requirement shall not apply to heavy iron weights. Sub-standards and balances shall be compared with and adjusted to the local standard, by the custodian of the local standards once in every six months, and the results of such comparison shall be reported to the Minister.

Standards, sub-standards, and instruments, provided for special inspectors by the Commissioner, Gárda Síochána, shall be submitted annually to the Minister for re-verification.

Local standards, and balances or other instruments required for the verification of sub-standards, shall be adjusted only under the direction of the Minister.

Where a sub-standard balance is found to be incorrect, a report on the test shall be submitted to the Minister before any adjustment is made.

8. The local authority shall provide and maintain, to the satisfaction of the Minister, suitable office accommodation, with such office equipment and facilities as may be necessary for the proper performance by the Inspector of his duties; together with cases or presses for the due security of his standards, instruments, and books.

An Inspector's office shall be selected as far as possible with a view to freedom from vibration; and unless no others suitable premises are available the stamping office, whether temporary or otherwise, shall not, except with the approval of the Minister, be on premises where intoxicating liquor is sold.

9. The Inspector shall visit the premises of every trader in his district for the purpose of inspecting all weights, measures, and instruments, in use for trade, at least once a year. Provided, nevertheless, that authority may be obtained from the Minister to extend such period to not more than two years with respect to the whole, or some part of the district, or to certain trades.

Arrangements shall also be made for special surprise visits from time to time.

10. The Inspector shall furnish to the Minister a quarterly report as to inspection and verification in his district together with a return of the number and results of the special surprise visits made during the three months. Such reports and returns, and any other returns to be furnished, or records to be kept, shall be in the form directed by the Minister from time to time; and every return required by the Minister shall be furnished to him within twenty-one days from the end of the period covered by such return.

11. All weights, measures and instruments presented to the Inspector for testing shall be in a thoroughly clean condition, and the Inspector shall be justified in refusing to test any weight, measure, or instrument which does not comply with this requirement.

12. The Inspector shall not stamp any weight, measure, or instrument, until he has ascertained that it complies with the requirements of these Regulations, and that its correctness is within the errors allowed under Schedule II., or as otherwise prescribed with respect to verification.

13. A weight, measure, or instrument presented for verification shall be complete in itself, and shall not bear any mark which might be mistaken for the Inspector's stamp. The denomination and capacity, and, in the case of an instrument, the maker's name, shall be prominently and indelibly inscribed on the weight, measure, or instrument.

No mark shall be permitted on a weight, measure or instrument if it be so placed as to obscure the Inspector's stamp, or interfere with the facilities for stamping; nor shall any notice be permitted which conveys an expression of approval, or guarantee of accuracy, other than the Inspector's stamp, or the number of a certificate issued under Section 6 of the Act of 1904.

14. No weight, counterpoise, measure, or weighing instrument presenting any novel feature, and no measuring instrument, shall be stamped unless of a pattern approved by the Minister under Section 6 of the Act of 1904, and unless the conditions of the notice accompanying the certificate, and of any other conditions imposed by the Minister in connection therewith have been fully complied with. Every weight, measure, or instrument which is so certified after the date of these Regulations shall be indelibly marked with the certificate number in the following form :—

M.I.C. Certificate No.........

In the event of any departure from the required conditions, the case shall be submitted to the Minister for his decision.

The Inspector shall, pending instructions from the Minister, decline to stamp any weight, measure or instrument which is purported to be certified under Section 6 of the Act of 1904, if the maker of the weight, measure or instrument be not the person to whom the certificate has been issued. Every such case shall be reported forthwith to the Minister who may sanction the stamping of any such article, where authorisation of transfer of manufacture in accordance with the registered specification has been ratified by him.

15. The denomination or capacity of a weight, measure, or instrument if not marked in full, shall be indicated only by one of the abbreviations set forth in Schedule I. of these Regulations.

16. No weight, measure, or instrument shall be stamped which is not sufficiently strong to withstand the wear and tear of ordinary use in trade.

No instrument with removable parts, the removal of which would affect the accuracy of the instrument, shall be stamped : Provided that where the parts are such that the instrument cannot be used without them, their use under special conditions may be authorised by the Minister.

Where an instrument has interchangeable or reversible parts, the interchange or reversal shall not affect the accuracy of the instrument.

17. All indication, denomination, or other marks on a weight, measure, or instrument shall be clear and indelible; and graduations marked on an instrument shall consist of sharply defined lines.

18. No weighing instrument other than a Class " A " beam scale shall be stamped unless provided by the manufacturer with a plug or stud of soft metal on which to place the Inspector's stamp, such plug or stud being made irremovable by under-cutting or by some other method approved by the Minister. In the case of a measuring instrument, the provision for the impression of an Inspector's stamp shall be that prescribed by the notice accompanying the certificate or by other directions issued by the Minister.

19. The Inspector shall stamp weights, measures and instruments only with a stamp approved by the Minister, whose approval of the stamp used must be obtained in each instance. Every cancelled or worn-out stamp shall be deposited with the Minister.

The Inspector shall impress a date-mark, indicating the date of verification or re-verification on every weight, measure (other than a glass, earthenware or enamelled-metal measure)and instrument, except where the small size renders it impracticable.

20. The Inspector shall not stamp a glass or earthenware measure on the premises of a manufacturer or dealer, or on premises rented from the manufacturer or dealer, without the sanction of the Minister.

21. Where a duly stamped weight, measure, or instrument which has, not been repaired, adjusted, or altered, since stamping, is found by an Inspector on inspection to be correct within the limits laid down in these Regulations, he shall not obliterate or deface the stamp, but may impress a date-mark.

Subject to the proviso at the end of this Regulation the Inspector on inspection shall obliterate the stamp:

(a) On any weight, measure, or instrument which is such that it should not have been stamped, or cannot be re-stamped, under these Regulations.

(b) On any weight, measure, or instrument on which the allowances for error laid down with regard to inspection, in Schedule II. of these Regulations, are exceeded.

(c) On a weight or measure broken or much indented, in such a manner as not to permit of proper adjustment.

(d) On any instrument a material part of which is broken or injured to an extent which may affect the accuracy of the instrument.

(e) On a weight or measure which since the last stamping has been repaired, altered, or re-adjusted.

(f) On any instrument which since the last stamping has been, so repaired or altered that it has become necessary to ascertain that the indications on the instrument are correct.

(g) On any weight, measure, or instrument of the pattern of which the Minister has notified his disapproval under Section 6 of the Weights and Measures Act, 1904.

(h) If it be a stamp which has not been prescribed by the Minister.

Provided that where the incorrectness of a weight, measure, or instrument (other than an instrument for the measurement of liquid fuel or lubricating oil) exceeds the limits of error laid down in Schedule II., or otherwise prescribed, by not more than ten per cent., the Inspector may leave with the trader a notice calling on him to have the weight, measure, or instrument corrected within a stated period, not to exceed in any case twenty-eight days, but shall obliterate the stamp if the correction has not been made within such period.

22. The Inspector shall act in compliance with the instructions in Schedule III., and with such additional instructions as may be issued by the Minister from time to time.

23. Where in the special circumstances of any case, or cases, it appears to the Minister to be inadvisable to comply literally with any requirement of these Regulations, the Minister may, if he thinks fit, dispense with the observance of, or vary such requirement upon such conditions, if any, as he may impose.

24. These Regulations, so far as they relate to material, shall not apply to weights, measures, or instruments used in the manufacture of explosives.

25. In any case in which a trader disputes the interpretation by an Inspector of these Regulations, or questions the procedure adopted as to the method of testing and verifying, the Inspector shall notify the trader of his right of appeal to the Minister under sub-section 1 of Section 7 of the Act of 1904. Should the trader notify the Inspector of his intention to exercise the right of appeal, the Inspector and the trader shall jointly seal the article which forms the subject of such contention in such manner as to prevent interference therewith, pending the decision of the Minister.

Where in the case of proceedings before a Court it is decided by the Court to refer to the Minister, as provided by sub-section (2) of Section 7 of the Act of 1904, the question of the accuracy or efficiency of any weight, measure, or instrument, the accuracy or efficiency of which is disputed, the Inspector shall make application for the retention of the weight, measure, or instrument in the custody of the Court pending submission to the Minister.

26. The following personal obligations are imposed on every Inspector, ex-Officio Inspector, and Special Inspector :

(a) An Inspector shall not wilfully disclose or cause to be disclosed directly or indirectly the secrets of the business of any manufacturer or trader, of which secrets the Inspector has become possessed in the course of the performance of his duties, nor shall he otherwise betray the confidence of his office.

(b) An Inspector shall not accept any gratuity or reward from any manufacturer or trader.

(c) An Inspector shall not recommend either directly or indirectly any particular scale-maker or tradesman, with respect to the purchase, provision, repair, or adjustment of any weight, measure, or instrument; and shall not in his office exhibit the advertisement or notice of any scale-maker or tradesman who supplies, repairs, or adjusts weights, measures, or instruments.

(d) An Inspector shall not adjust weights or measures unless he has been authorised by the Minister to act as an adjuster under the provisions of sub-section (2) of Section 12 of the Act of 1889.

(e) Where adjustment of a weight or measure is required, the Inspector shall notify the owner of the weight or measure, or his authorised agent, that he (the owner or agent) may elect to carry out the work himself, or empower the Inspector to arrange for the work to be done; and the Inspector shall not in any instance adjust, or cause to be adjusted, any weight or measure unless by direct authority of the aforesaid owner or agent.

MEASURES OF LENGTH.

27. Measures of length shall be made of steel, brass, ivory, hard wood, woven tape, or other material approved by the Minister. They shall be examined with the object of discovering flaws in construction, or material, or as to deviation from straightness, or absence of strength, and they shall be denominated and graduated clearly and indelibly. Wooden measures of two feet or more in length shall have both ends tipped with metal and the tips shall be riveted. In measures or instruments which have sliding or calliper arms, the arms shall have no more play than is necessary for easy movement. A sub-divided measure of length shall have its numbered divisions of longer lines than the minor graduations.

End measures of length which are not sub-divided shall not be stamped unless engraved or marked by the manufacturer " not subdivided. " The Inspector shall not stamp (a) a yard or foot measure which is properly graduated and denominated, but is divided on the reverse side throughout its length into centimetres, etc.; or (b) a metric measure which is properly graduated and denominated, but is divided on its reverse side throughout its length into inches, etc.

Every measure of length shall be verified by comparison with a standard at or near the normal temperature.

28. A linked measure, or a riband or tape measure, shall be tested when subjected to a tension or pull as follows :

The measure under test shall, where practicable, be supported throughout its whole length on a plane and even base.

Measures shall be stamped near the beginning of the scale on each graduated side. In the case of linked measures the stamp may be placed on a metal label or disc permanently attached to the measure, or on a brass handle.

LIQUID MEASURES OF CAPACITY.

29. Liquid measures shall be made of glass, earthenware, tin, tin alloys, pewter, brass, bronze, copper, tin-plate, white metal, aluminium, nickelled or nickel-plated or stainless steel, sheet iron, enamelled metal, or other material or materials approved by the Minister.

Measures made of pewter or of other tin alloy, shall contain at least 80 per cent by weight of tin, and shall not contain more than 10 per cent. by weight of lead. Questions of doubt as to the foregoing proportions shall be referred to the Minister. A measure made of an alloy composed chiefly of tin, shall bear the name and address of the maker on the underside of the bottom of the measure.

Measures made of brass, bronze, or copper shall be well tinned all over the inside. The coating of nickel on nickelled measures shall be uniform and show no sign of peeling.

Where there are strengthening ribs or bands, they shall not take such a form as to show, by indentation or otherwise, divisions inside the measure which might be mistaken for graduations.

30. A liquid measure if its capacity is clearly defined may have a top rim, lip, or retaining edge to prevent spilling, provided that the capacity thus added does not exceed 10 per cent. of the marked capacity of the measure.

31. A measure which is not completely emptied when tilted to an angle of 120 degrees from the vertical shall not be stamped.

A measure with a tap shall not be stamped unless the tap completely empties the measure without tilting.

32. A metal, glass, or earthenware measure, other than an apothecary's measure, may be provided with a spout or projecting mouth, and may also have a bottom rim. In a measure of a pint or under, such rim shall not project more than half an inch below the bottom of the measure.

33. A metal dipping measure, of a capacity not exceeding half a gallon, used for the sale of milk, shall be of circular or elliptical section with vertical sides. The height shall not differ by more than ten per cent. from one and a half times the mean diameter of the section ; provided that in the case of a stamped-out measure, a tapering between the diameter at the top and the bottom not exceeding 1/8; of an inch may be allowed.

The handle of the dipping measure should project sufficiently beyond the brim to preserve the milk from contact with the hand, but must not exceed in length twice the depth of the measure.

34. A glass measure shall not be stamped unless the capacity is defined either :—

(a) By the brim of the measure ; or

(b) By a line at least two inches in length distant not less than ½ inch or more than 1½ inches from the brim.

On sub-divided glass measures of a gallon or under, other than apothecaries' measures, the sub-divisions shall be defined by lines at least one inch in length.

An earthenware measure shall not be stamped unless the capacity is defined by the brim, or by an indelible line marked entirely round the inside of the measure, so that the distance of the bottom of the line from the brim does not exceed 3/8 inch on measures of a quart or under, or ¾ inch on measures of higher capacities.

The sub-division of metal measures of a capacity not exceeding ½ gallon is not permitted. On a sub-divided measure of a capacity not exceeding five gallons, there shall be two graduated metal strips fixed opposite each other inside. In a graduated measure exceeding five gallons, the graduations shall be marked on a metal strip, or shall be on tablets securely soldered on the measure. The graduations shall be marked in sharply incised lines.

35. Every measure shall have its denomination clearly, permanently and legibly marked on the outside of the body thereof, and not on the handle, bottom, rim, or edges, and on glass measures in which the capacity is defined by a line, the denomination of the measure shall be plainly marked at the line, unless otherwise prescribed. On an enamelled metal measure the denomination shall be marked in a distinctly different colour from that of the body of the measure. On a metal milk measure of a capacity exceeding five gallons, the denomination shall be marked on the graduated strip, or on the tablet, as well as on the outside. In the case of a measure made of sheet metal, the denomination shall be marked on the body of the measure, or on a slip of tin, or on a shield (e.g., of sheet brass) securely soldered on the measure, with a small piece of tin or solder securely fixed thereto for receiving the stamp.

36. Apothecaries' measures may be of conical or cylindrical form.

A glass measure in which the sub-divisions are less than one-twelfth inch apart shall not be stamped.

The total number of the graduations shall be marked on the measure.

A measure also marked with equivalents in weight may be stamped, provided that the words " of water " are marked on the measure in addition to the denomination.

37. Every measure shall be tested by filling the standard with water and emptying the contents of the standard into the measure submitted for verification : Provided that a variation of this procedure may be adopted in certain specified cases with the approval of the Minister.

Where the capacity is indicated by a line, the measure shall be tested to the bottom of the line. A lip or rimmed measure shall be tested to the bottom of the lip or rim.

In testing a glass measure the capacity of which is not defined by the brim, the level of the water shall be taken at the bottom of the meniscus.

38. The verification mark shall in the case of glass or earthenware measures, other than apothecaries' measures, be etched or sandblasted beneath or near the denomination outside the measure. On apothecaries' measures it shall be placed underneath the marking of the number of the graduations. On metal measures other than lip or rimmed measures, it shall be stamped outside near the denomination. On lip or rimmed measures, the stamp shall be placed on the bottom of the inside of the lip or rim, or as near thereto as practicable.

39. A graduated metal measure shall be stamped in two place, namely, on solder, affixed beforehand to the inside tablet or slip, near to the top graduation, and on the outside of the measure near the denomination.

STANDARD BOTTLES.

40. This regulation shall apply only to the bottles containing one-third of a pint, one half-pint, or one pint, used for the sale of ale, beer, porter, or stout, as prescribed by the Intoxicating Liquor (Standardisation of Bottles) No. 3 Order of 1925, but save as aforesaid it shall be construed as one with the Regulations applicable to measures in so far as it is not inconsistent therewith.

The Inspector shall not stamp any bottle which does not comply with the following requirements :—

(a) The capacity of the bottle shall be defined by a line of not less than three-quarters of an inch in length, and distant not less than one-and-five-eighth inches, nor more than one-and-seven-eighth inches from the brim of the bottle.

(b) The denomination, and the line indicating the capacity, shall be cast on the bottle during the process of manufacture, and shall be clearly decipherable.

(c) The bottle shall be correct within the limits of error permissible on verification and inspection, viz. : 60 minims in deficiency and 180 minims in excess.

(d) The bottle can be completely emptied when tilted to an angle of 130 degrees from the vertical.

(e) If the denomination of a bottle be abbreviated it shall be indicated by the abbreviated form of " Pt., " " ½ Pt., " or " 1/3 Pt., " respectively ; provided that the largest letter of the denomination shall not exceed one inch in depth.

(f) If a maker's or trader's name is stamped on the bottle it shall be in letters not exceeding one-half inch in depth.

(g) If a bottle be constructed with a false bottom, the false bottom shall not exceed in depth three-quarters of an inch.

Bottles which have been stamped by an Inspector previous to the date of these Regulations, but which do not conform to the foregoing requirements, or any of them, may be continued in use for trade during such period as the Minister shall prescribe by order.

If the stamp of verification on a bottle is covered or obscured by the affixing of a printed label, the stamp shall be deemed to be defaced

DRY MEASURES OF CAPACITY.

41. Dry measures of capacity shall be made of sheet iron or steel (with or without nickel-plating), tin-plate, brass, bronze, copper, nickel, aluminium, well-seasoned wood, or other material approved by the Minister.

Wooden measures turned from the solid, or made of soft or unseasoned wood, shall not be stamped.

Measures of half a bushel or upwards, shall be provided with handles.

42. All dry measures of capacity of a bushel or under, shall be of circular cylindrical form, and the internal diameter shall not differ by more than five per cent. from the depth or double the depth.

43. Measures made of wood of the capacity of a gallon and upwards, shall be bound or strengthened with metal or wooden straps or hoops, except when made of wicker or similar open material. A metal band shall be placed round the rim of all such wooden measures of the capacity of a peck and upwards.

44. The denomination shall be marked on the measure in the same manner as in the case of a liquid measure. On a wooden measure the denomination shall be branded.

Measures made of wicker or similar open material, shall have the denomination marked on a suitable brass tablet or plate, fastened to the measure by means of a copper wire, or branded on a tablet of wood securely worked into the side of the measure.

45. No measure shall be stamped which is constructed to contain more than one denomination of measure, unless of a pattern approved by the Minister under Section 6 of the Act of 1904.

46. Every dry measure of capacity, not being a measure made of wicker or other open material, shall be tested with water.

Measures made of wicker or other open material shall be tested by means of cereals of the smallest size practicable.

47. Metal measures shall be stamped near the brim in a vertical line with the denomination. Where necessary, metal measures shall be provided by the maker with a soft plug to receive the stamp.

Wooden measures shall be branded outside in a vertical line with the denomination, and also in the inside angle at the bottom of the measures.

Measures made of wicker, or other open material shall be stamped on the tablet, plate, or fastening in such a manner that it cannot be removed without defacing the stamp.

QUARTER CRAN MEASURE.

48. The quarter cran measure of capacity shall be used in trade solely in connection with the purchase, sale or delivery of fresh herrings or of such other fish as may be determined by an order of the Minister for Lands and Fisheries. Nothing in this regulation shall be interpreted as a prohibition of, or restriction on, the sale of fish by weight, number, or bulk.

The statutory capacity of the cran having been defined as 37½ standard gallons, the capacity of the quarter cran shall be 93/8 gallons.

The capacity shall be verified by means of cereals of the smallest size practicable.

The quarter cran measure shall be a wicker basket of circular form but if so approved by the Minister for Lands and Fisheries, may be made of other material. The basket shall be of the following dimensions : Interior diameter at bottom, 14½ inches ; interior diameter at mouth, 17½ inches ; diagonal measurement from inside of the bottom to the inner side of the mouth, 21½ inches ; interior height of side, 14½ inches ; rise in the bottom, 1½ inches.

The minimum requirements in respect of the materials of which the quarter cran basket shall be made, and of the method of construction, shall be as follows : Willows—6 long lays in the bottom and side ; 6 short sticks in the bottom ; 20 stakes in the bottom and side ; 18 bye sticks in the side. Hoopwood and hardwood uprights—6 pieces of hoopwood, each 1 inch broad, to be placed in the side at equal distances from each other and with their bark side outermost ; and 2 uprights of suitable hardwood, one of which shall be placed in the side in the centre of each of the spaces between the two ends of the handles. The hardwood uprights to be flat and smooth on the outside to receive the brands ; they shall be notched at top and middle and bevelled to inside of basket, each being 1½ inches broad from the top to the middle notch and thence tapering to the bottom. The hoopwood and uprights shall be straight. Two strong cane handles shall be affixed. The basket shall be well bound, and shall have strong and suitable binding and waling at the bottom and mouth, and a fitching of cane at each of the following places—the lower end of the bottom binding ; the centre ; and the lower end of the mouth binding.

Notwithstanding the provisions of other regulations, the denomination of, and the stamp on a quarter-cran measure, shall be branded on one of the hardwood uprights.

WEIGHTS.

49. All weights shall be made entirely of some metal other than lead, except where lead is inserted for the purpose of adjustment. Weights made of soft metals or soft alloys, e.g., tin or solder, shall not be stamped. Cased weights, weights composed of two or more unalloyed metals, or constructed of aluminium or other metals or alloys of low density, shall not be stamped : Provided that weights may be protected by galvanisation or other process approved by the Minister.

50. Avoirdupois weights of iron shall be either flat-circular, bar, bell or ring weights ; but 50 lb., 20 lb., 10 lb., and 5 lb. weights shall be of octagonal form. Iron weights of flat shape of other capacities than from 4 lbs. to 4 oz. inclusive., shall not be stamped. No iron weight under 4 ozs. shall be stamped.

Avoirdupois weights, other than iron weights, shall be flat-circular, bar, or bell shaped ; but 50 lb., 20 lb., 10 lb., and 5 lb. weights shall be of octagonal form. Flat weights shall only be stamped from 4 lbs. to half dram inclusive, and the weights in each set shall be of similar form and proportional dimensions.

51. Troy bullion weights, apothecaries' weights, and grain weights of one oz. and upwards shall be made of solid brass, gun-metal, or bronze, and shall be cylindrical with either handles or knobs. Those below one oz. shall be flat or of wire, and shall be made of solid brass, gun-metal, bronze, platinum or aluminium.

52. No weights shall be stamped which are not free from flaws, and quite smooth on all their surfaces.

Iron weights shall not have removable or split rings.

53. Every avoirdupois weight of one oz. and over shall be provided with one adjusting hole and no more. The hole shall be in the undersurface of the weight, shall not extend to the upper surface, and shall be undercut. Lead only shall be used for adjustment. The lead shall be melted and poured in ; and shall cover the bottom of the hole, but must not project beyond the surface. No weight adjusted in any other manner shall be stamped.

54. In iron weights of flat shape, the lead inserted for adjustment shall not be less than one-eighth of an inch thick. The approximate depth of the hole shall be equal to three-fifths of the centre thickness of the weight, and the approximate minimum distance of lead from the surface when new shall be one-fifth of the centre thickness of the weight.

The hole shall be circular ; and for 4 lb. and 2 lb. weights the diameter shall be approximately 1 inch ; for 1 lb. weights, ¾; inch ; and for 8 oz. and 4 oz. ½; inch.

The adjusting holes of iron weights of other than flat shape shall be rectangular or circular, and shall not exceed the area of a rectangle of the following approximate dimensions :—

The adjusting holes of weights, other than iron weights, shall be circular and approximately of the following dimensions :—

Solid troy, bullion, apothecaries', grain, or metric weights (other than those of iron) which have no adjusting hole may be stamped.

55. Weights shall be stamped on the lead in the adjusting hole. Weights which are not required to have and are not provided with an adjusting hole shall be stamped on the under surface.

WEIGHING INSTRUMENTS.

56. A weighing instrument of the vibrating type shall be tested for sensitiveness by loading the instrument with the maximum testing load, with the beam or steelyard in a horizontal position, and ascertaining that it moves with the addition of the amount prescribed in Schedule II. for sensitiveness. No test for sensitiveness at a lower load shall be made. For beam scales, the addition of this amount on either side shall cause a movement of the beam that can be detected. For other vibrating instruments the addition of this amount shall cause the beam or steelyard to rise or fall to the limit of its range of movement.

57. Weighing instruments of the vibrating type shall be tested for error, by ascertaining the weight in excess or deficiency (if any) required to bring the beam or steelyard of the machine to a horizontal position when fully loaded.

Weighing instruments of the accelerating type shall be tested for error by ascertaining the weight required, when the machine is fully loaded, to keep the beam or steelyard in a horizontal position on its stop or carrier, and no more ; and shall be further tested by ascertaining the weight required to bring back the beam or steelyard from its position of greatest displacement to the horizontal position, the machine being fully loaded and truly balanced.

The tests under this Regulation shall be subject to the allowances for error prescribed, with respect thereto in Schedule II.

58. Movable instruments provided with a base shall be tested on a level plane, and instruments which are suspended in use shall be suspended when tested.

59. A weighing instrument with removable hooks (other than the hooks or bearings of " swan-neck " beams, and the hooks at the end of steelyards of compound lever machines) shall not be stamped unless it is of a pattern approved by the Minister, under Section 6 of the Act of 1904.

60. All knife-edges and bearings shall be of hard steel or agate, or other material approved by the Minister ; they shall be so fitted as to allow the beam or steelyard to move easily, and the knife-edges shall practically bear upon the whole length of their working parts.

61. No weighing instrument having a counterpoise or travelling poise shall be stamped, unless such counterpoise or travelling poise is provided by the manufacturer with a hole (or other means for adjustment approved by the Minister) such adjusting hole being undercut. If loose material is used in a travelling poise, it shall be securely enclosed.

The Inspector shall ascertain that a weighing instrument is properly balanced when not loaded ; that the beam has sufficient room for oscillation and that it returns to the position of equilibrium, or that the indicator returns to the zero mark when the load is removed.

62. The error permissible on the verification of any weighing instrument of the self-indicating or semi-self-indicating type, shall not exceed the weight corresponding to one-half of the smallest interval between consecutive graduations on the weight-indicating scale ; but the permissible error shall not in any case exceed the allowance specified in Schedule II. for the particular capacity and class of instrument concerned: Provided that where the weight corresponding to one-half of the smallest interval between consecutive graduations, is less than 50 per cent. of the allowance permitted under the appropriate Table of Schedule II., such allowance shall not be reduced by more than 50 per cent.

Any self-indicating or semi-self-indicating machine, which has been or is stamped prior to the 1st January, 1929, and on which the indications are ascertained to be correct within the appropriate allowances prescribed under Schedule II., may be continued in use and be re-stamped by an Inspector up to the 31st day of December, 1938, subject to compliance with the other requirements of the Regulations applicable to such machine.

In addition to the tests prescribed for a weighing instrument at full load, the Inspector shall, on the examination of a self-indicating or semi-self-indicating weighing machine, test each denominated graduation individually; the allowance for such test being, as far as is practicable, the calculated proportion of the allowance prescribed in Schedule II., with respect to the particular type of instrument.

63. Every weighing instrument constructed to calculate and indicate prices, shall indicate those prices correctly within the money limits marked on the chart. The Inspector shall test each price graduation separately, and shall not stamp a machine on which any price indication is ascertained to be incorrect, notwithstanding that the machine has passed all other tests required.

BEAM-SCALES.

64. The term "beam-scale" means any equal armed weighing instrument the pans of which are below the beam.

65. All beam-scales shall be divided into three classes:—

Class A. includes only chemical and assay balances, and other beam-scales provided with means for relieving all the bearings and knife-edges. Class A. instruments must satisfy the requirements under Schedule II. and need not be marked with a class mark.

Class B. includes only beam-scales, other than Class A. instruments, which satisfy the requirements of Schedule II. for Class B. instruments.

Class C. includes all beam-scales, other than instruments in Class A. or Class B., which satisfy the requirements of Schedule II. for Class C. instruments.

66. Every beam-scale, other than a Class A. instrument, shall be indelibly marked beforehand either "Class B." or "Class C.," and shall satisfy the requirements of Schedule II. with reference to the class with which it is marked.

67. Weighing instruments used in the special trades of the first class set out below, shall be either Class A. or Class B. instruments, or shall satisfy the requirements for Class B. instruments in Schedule II.

Weighing instruments brought into use in the special trades of the second class set out below shall be either Class A., Class B., or Class C. instruments, or shall satisfy the requirements for Class C. instruments in Schedule II.

SPECIAL TRADES.

First Class.

Dealings in gold, silver, or other precious metals, or precious stones: in silk by weight; or in drugs or fine chemicals.

Second Class.

Dealings in tea, coffee, cocoa, or tobacco.

68. Beam-scales, the beam of which is under 16 inches in length, or which are of a capacity of 7 lb. or under, with swan-neck ends, shall not be stamped. Larger beam-scales of this nature shall have flat end bearings and swivel hooks.

Beam-scales with loaded weight pans (i.e. where lead is affixed in such a manner that it can be tampered with, or readily detached), or beam-scales of a capacity less than 2 cwt., with wooden scale boards, shall not be stamped.

Any attachment for adjusting the balance of a beam-scale shall be permanently fastened.

Beam-scales with wooden scale boards shall be provided with a balance ball or box.

69. With the pans loaded to half the capacity, no difference which can be detected in the accuracy of the instrument shall result from moving the knife-edges or bearings laterally, or backwards and forwards, within their limits of movement.

The instrument shall be correct whether the load is on the middle or near the edge of the pan.

70. On beam-scales the verification mark shall be placed on the stud or plug on the beam, immediately under or over the central knife-edge.

COUNTER MACHINES.

71. The term "counter machine" means any equal armed weighing instrument of a capacity not exceeding 1 cwt., the pans of which are above the beam; and includes, together with the ordinary type, such instruments as are especially designed for counter use, and which do not exceed the above mentioned capacity.

72. When the beam or body has two sides, they shall be connected together by not less than two cross bars; and the supports for the pans shall be of suitable rigid structure, such as crosses strengthened by straps.

Centre forks shall be fixed so that they shall not get out of place.

The bearing surfaces and points of contact of all stays, hooks, and loops shall be of hard steel, or agate, or other material approved by the Minister.

73. Where a counter machine is adjusted by means of a balancing box, the box shall be permanently fixed beneath the weight pan, and shall be only large enough to contain loose material to an amount not exceeding one per cent. of the capacity of the machine.

If a balancing box be screwed to the machine not less than two screws shall be used. No other adjusting contrivance is permissible unless approval be given in a notice issued with a certificate under Section 6 of the Act of 1904.

74. No sliding or tare weight is permissible.

75. The minimum fall, either way, on counter machines shall be as prescribed in Schedule II.

76. With the pans loaded to half the capacity, no appreciable difference in the accuracy of the instrument shall result from moving the knife-edges or bearings laterally, or backwards and forwards, within their limits of movement.

77. When the goods pan is not in the form of a scoop, the instrument shall indicate the same weight within half the limits of error allowed for the full capacity (e.g., the extreme difference between the indications of the instrument), if the centre of a load equal to half the capacity is placed on the goods pan as near to the centre of the pan as is practicable, or, if the pan has a vertical side, against the middle of that side; the weight being entirely on the weights pan, and distributed over it: Provided that where the error is all one way, the highest amount ascertained in excess or deficiency shall be taken as the total error.

When the goods pan is in the form of a scoop, the instrument shall be correct if half the full load is placed against the middle of the back of the scoop, and the other half in any position on the scoop other than on the top of or against the first half load.

In ordinary tests for sensitiveness and error, the load shall be distributed over the platform.

78. The plug or stud provided for the impression of the verification stamp shall be in a conspicuous part of the beam or body of the machine.

SPRING BALANCES.

79. A spring balance, with the goods pan below the spring, shall be permanently suspended from a stand, support, or bracket, and if not so suspended shall not be stamped.

80. The extremity of the index finger of the dial shall not exceed 1/32 inch in width, and shall not be more than 1/10 inch from the scale or dial. The scale shall be graduated in approximately equal parts, and the minimum width apart of the graduations shall not be less than 1/8 of an inch for a capacity of 30lb and under, and not less than ¼ of an inch for a capacity of 40 lb and over: Provided that where in an instrument which has been stamped previous to the date of these Regulations the width apart of the graduations is one-sixteenth or one-eighth inch respectively, a period of use of five years from the date of the Regulations may be allowed, if the other requirements of the Regulations are complied with. The interval between consecutive graduation marks shall be as prescribed in Schedule II.

Capacities under 100lb other than those specified in the above table are not permitted.

If the graduation commences at a fixed load the position of the index, when there is no load, shall be clearly indicated by a zero mark.

81. When a spring balance is provided with an adjustable indicator the range of adjustment shall not exceed one per cent. of the capacity of the instrument, except in the case of instruments used for colliery purposes when it shall not exceed two per cent.

82. When the pan is below the spring, the prescribed limits of error shall not be exceeded wherever the load is placed upon it. When the pan is above the spring the Regulations regarding the position of the load on the pans of counter machines are to be applied.

83. Every graduation shall be tested.

The instrument shall be correct, whether the test is forward or backward, provided that in either case the spring shall be allowed to vibrate before the reading is taken.

The Inspector shall test the balance for efficiency or ability to recover by leaving on a load equal to the maximum capacity for a period of 24 hours, and then, after the expiration of four hours without the load, by testing for accuracy.

84. Spring balances of a capacity of 30lb and under shall satisfy the requirements as regards error of counter machines of similar capacity. For spring balances of a capacity of 40 lb and over, the error shall not exceed the weight corresponding to a quarter of the interval between consecutive graduations.

Spring balances shall not be tested for sensitiveness.

85. Wherever practicable, the plug to receive the Inspector's stamp shall be so fitted on spring balances as to pass through the dial and frame: and shall be so supported as to avoid risk of injury to the instrument by stamping. The plug shall be irremovable, and otherwise shall not be stamped.

STEELYARDS.

86. Steelyards shall be made of wrought iron, steel, or other material approved by the Minister. The shank shall be perfectly straight.

Each set of notches, or graduations, on the shank shall be cut in one plane, and be at right angles to the shank.

All steelyards shall be provided with a stop or other suitable arrangement to prevent excessive oscillation of the shank.

Sliding poises and suspending hooks shall be securely attached to the instrument.

All end fittings shall be securely fixed to the shank.

The sliding poise shall be freely movable without risk of injury to the notches from constant use, and there shall be a stop to prevent it from travelling behind the zero mark or lowest graduation.

87. Every graduation shall be tested, and the instrument shall be correct whether the test is forward or backward.

88. The plug or stud to receive the verification stamp shall be on the front face of the shoulder of the steelyard.

DEAD WEIGHT MACHINES.

89. The term "dead weight machine" means any weighing instrument similar in principle of construction to a counter machine, but constructed to weigh loads of a capacity of 1 cwt. or over, and includes:—

(a) The Low pattern with the weighing platform near the ground, and the connecting stays or hooks above the beam.

(b) The High pattern with the weighing platform at a convenient height, and the connecting stays or hooks below the beam. This form includes equal-armed machines for weighing coal or vegetables.

(c) The Double machine, a combination of (a) and (b).

90. The bearing surfaces and points of contact of all stays, hooks, and loops, shall be of hard steel, and the centres shall have rectangular shoulders and fit into rectangular holes, being firmly secured.

The bearing surfaces of the adjustable slides shall be of hard steel, and the stems holding them in position shall be secured by lock nuts with steel spring washers, or other approved method.

The goods platform shall not exceed in length the length of the beam, and in width double the width of the beam. Folding wings shall not increase such dimensions more than one-third in either direction.

Platforms shall be of metal or hard wood.

The minimum fall in dead weight machines shall be 5/8 inch both ways for vibrating machines, and 7/8 inch one way for accelerating machines.

91. Loose balancing material shall be contained in a balancing box, permanently fixed beneath one platform, and its weight shall not exceed ¾ per cent. of the capacity of the machine.

Any other balancing material shall be in one piece, and shall be permanently attached to the machine.

92. The instrument shall indicate the same weight within half the limits of error allowed for the full capacity (e.g. the extreme difference between the indications of the instrument) if a load of one-fourth the capacity is placed successively at the middle of the front and back of each platform, and centrally over the knife-edges on each side: Provided that where the error is all one way, the highest amount ascertained in excess or deficiency shall be taken as the total error.

93. When carrying out tests for sensitiveness and error, the Inspector shall distribute the load over the platform; but in the case of a Double machine half the load shall be distributed over each of the goods platforms.

94. The plug or stud for the verification mark shall be inserted in a conspicuous part of the beam of the machine.

PLATFORM MACHINES AND WEIGHBRIDGES.

95. A " platform machine " means a machine having two or more levers, whether portable, dormant, or suspended, with or without loose weights, whether fitted with dials or steelyards, and with or without rails on the platform. A " weighbridge " usually means a machine for weighing loads which are conveyed by rail or road.

96. Weighbridges and dormant platform machines shall be verified and stamped in situ. A preliminary test on the premises of the maker or agent may be made, but the machine shall not be stamped as a result of such test.

97. The pit of a weighbridge shall be readily accessible to the Inspector and shall be properly drained.

98. The steelyard of a machine shall not involve any readily removable parts, except the support for the counterpoises.

There shall be a stop or stops to prevent the sliding poise or poises from travelling behind the zero mark.

The steelyard or registering mechanism may be confined in a locked box or case, provided that the indications or graduations are visible.

99. If a movable hutch, barrow, frame or bucket is used instead of the ordinary platform, it shall form an essential part of the machine, without which it cannot be balanced.

All counterpoises for use in connection with the hutch, etc.; shall be tested.

All loose counterpoises shall be identified with the machine by a number or other sufficient mark of identification, which shall be indelible. They shall be marked with their equivalent weights in the following manner:—e.g.=1 cwt.

A loose counterpoise marked with a denomination other than a metric denomination, shall not be of hexagonal shape.

100. The small portable coal machine of the type known as the "bob-up machine," in the operation of which the shorter lever exercises an upward thrust on the other lever, shall not be stamped.

101. A balancing arrangement for wear and tear is not compulsory, but where used the instrument shall not have a range exceeding the allowances set forth in Schedule II. The balancing arrangement shall be securely attached and actuated by a detachable key.

102. The following provisions apply specially to platform machines and weighbridges with dials:—

Racks and pinions shall be of hard metal.

The extremity of the index shall be in no position at a greater distance from the graduated surface of the dial than 3/16 inch, and shall be made to meet, but not to obscure the graduation marks.

The registration mechanism and cylinders or tanks containing liquid (if any) shall be protected from dust, and from excessive variations of temperature.

In a self-indicating pit-bank weighing machine, the pendulous lever, suspension rod, and waterbox shall be suitably enclosed.

In platform machines with dials of the capacity of 100lbs and upwards, the weight corresponding to the intervals between consecutive graduations on the dial shall not exceed ½00th of the capacity of the machine.

103. Before proceeding to test a platform machine or weighbridge, the Inspector shall, if he thinks it necessary, require the mechanism to be exposed sufficiently to enable him to examine the working parts.

104. The Inspector shall, in other than dial machines, proceed to test each graduation up to one ton, or to such smaller amount as the last graduation on the steelyard may indicate. He shall then test the loose counterpoises where such are provided, and finally test the machine ton by ton with his sub-standards, supplemented by loose material. With the necessary modifications, the test of dial machines shall be made in a similar manner.

105. With one quarter the maximum load, or as near thereto as is dracticable, the machine shall indicate the same weight within half the limits of error allowed for the full capacity (e.g., the extreme difference between the indications of the instrument) whether the load is placed on the middle, or near the end, or corners of the platform: Provided that where the error is all one way, the highest amount ascertained in excess or deficiency shall be taken as the total error.

The Inspector shall not apply this Regulation in any case in which the provisions are modified by the notice accompanying a certificate issued under Section 6 of the Act of 1904.

106. When a platform machine is fitted with relieving gear, the prescribed limits of error shall not be exceeded when the machine is put out of and into gear. The plate or platform shall be entirely disengaged from its bearings when the machine is in relief.

107. The tests for sensitiveness and error are to be made at full load

108. In the repairing of any platform machine or weighbridge one steel liner, but not more, may be used for the fitting of each centre, such liner being properly dovetailed or riveted or otherwise securely fixed.

109. On a dial machine the stamping stud or plug shall be fixed on the dial, unless otherwise prescribed by the Minister. On a platform machine or weighbridge other than a dial machine, the plug or stud shall be in a conspicious part either on the shoulder or the opposite end of the indicating lever or steelyard. The Inspector shall impress his date stamp on the lead in the adjusting hole of loose counterpoises.

110. The continued use of platform machines and weigh-bridges which have knife-edges and bearings other than those required by these Regulations, but which were installed for use, and were originally stamped, prior to the 1st January, 1908, shall be permitted up to the 1st January, 1933; provided that on test they are ascertained to be correct within the allowances prescribed under Schedule II.

CRANE MACHINES.

111. Crane weighing machines may be constructed upon the lever, spring, or hydraulic principle.

All working parts shall be suitably protected from damp and dust.

In a lever machine, the steelyard may, subject to the approval of the Minister, be made of special metal to resist atmospheric influence. The rack and pinion in a dial machine shall be of hard metal.

112. The range of balancing or adjusting arrangements shall not exceed the limits prescribed in Schedule II.

113. A crane machine shall be tested to its full weighing capacity.

The steelyard movement shall be correct, and the dial hand work freely and return to its starting point after the load is removed.

Each numbered division shall be tested as far as practicable.

Spring crane machines shall not be tested for sensitiveness.

The stamping plug shall be placed on a conspicuous part, either of the steelyard or of the dial of the machine.

114. Hydraulic machines in which it is necessary, in order to get a correct weight indication, to twist the load hook, shall not be stamped.

AUTOMATIC MACHINES.

115. The term "automatic weighing machine" means a machine in which special self-acting machinery is introduced to effect an automatic feed.

116. Automatic machines shall satisfy the requirements of these Regulations, where such are applicable as regards principle, detail, or material of construction, and except as may be otherwise provided by the notice accompanying the certificate issued under Section 6 of the Act of 1904.

Beams shall be identified with the machine by a number or other sufficient mark of identification which shall be indelible.

The adjusting mechanism shall be suitably secured or protected so that it cannot be readily tampered with.

The accuracy of the output of the machine shall be verified by re-weighing on an Inspector's beam-scales not less than 20 continuous loads.

117. The errors permissible on the verification and inspection of automatic machines shall be as defined by the notice accompanying the certificate issued under Section 6 of the Act of 1904, or as otherwise prescribed by the Minister.

118. The stamping plug shall be placed upon the beam, shank, or dial of the machine.

PRICE COMPUTING WEIGHING INSTRUMENTS.

119. The Inspector shall ascertain that any weighing instrument constructed to calculate and indicate price, passes the tests with respect to weighings specified in these Regulations for the particular class of instrument to which it may belong, and that it indicates price correctly.

The weight indication shall be clearly visible.

All numbered graduations shall be tested.

The stamping plug shall be fitted on a conspicuous part of the instrument.

WEIGHTS, MEASURES, AND INSTRUMENTS OF THE METRIC SYSTEM.

120. These Regulations shall apply to weights, measures and instruments of the metric system wherever applicable. The errors permissible on metric weighing instruments shall be proportional to those permitted on those instruments of similar capacity as defined under Schedule II.

121. A weight, measure, or instrument, other than a platform machine or weighbridge, shall not be marked in both metric denomination and any other denomination. Platform machines and weighbridges used for weighing metric and other denominations shall bear on the pillar an inscription showing plainly that they are intended to be used for these dual purposes.

All iron metric weights, including counterpoise weights, on weighing machines, shall be of hexagonal shape; and all other metric weights shall be either of cylindrical, hexagonal, or flat shape, or of wire. In cylindrical weights the height of the cylindrical portion shall be approximately equal to the diameter.

No iron weight below 100 grammes shall be stamped.

Measures marked with the temperature at which they are graduated shall be tested against measures standardised at the same temperature.

MEASURING INSTRUMENTS.

Instruments for the Measurement of Liquid Fuel.

122. Regulations 123 to 129 shall apply exclusively to instruments used in retail trade for the measurement of liquid fuel ; but all other regulations having reference to measuring instruments, in so far as those regulations are appropriate to instruments for the measurement of liquid fuel, shall be applied to such instruments.

123. An instrument which is of a fixed type shall not be verified or stamped until it is completely erected and ready for use, and is in the situation in which it is to be used for trade.

On inspection the Inspector shall obliterate the stamp on any instrument of fixed type which since the last stamping has been re-erected; and shall re-verify the instrument.

124. The Inspector shall not stamp any instrument unless the following requirements are complied with:—

(a) In addition to suitable provision for receiving the impression of the Inspector's stamp, there shall be provided such arrangement for sealing as may be required by the Minister in respect of any particular pattern.

(b) Each stop, or setting device, shall be clearly marked in such manner as to indicate the capacity it represents, or shall be associated with a suitable indicating device for the same purpose.

(c) Indications or notices which have direct reference to the operation of measurement or delivery, shall be indelibly and clearly marked, and maintained in that condition.

(d) Totalisers or counters which are provided on the instrument for the trader's use, as distinct from sales indicators, shall, where deemed necessary, be fitted with covers, or other suitable arrangements for screening the figures from the customer's view.

(e) Graduated scales or other indicating devices shall be numbered in numerical sequence in one direction only.

(f) Graduated scales and dials shall be firmly rivetted or otherwise permanently attached to their supports; and pointers if used, shall also be permanently attached.

(g) The disposition of the instrument shall be such that the operation and indications are clearly visible from the discharge end of the hose when in its normal position.

(h) No graduated measuring bowl shall have a diameter exceeding 18 inches: Provided that the Minister may permit the use of bowls of larger diameter in certain specific cases in which measurement is determined by and dependent on mechanical means.

(i) Graduated measuring bowls shall be so constructed that the full range of graduation shall be visible on the bowl, and shall be clear and unobstructed to view. Protective netting must be cut away sufficiently to allow a clear and full range view of the graduated scale unless it be of a type which in the opinion of the Minister will allow a full range view of the graduated scale.

(j) The delivery of any pre-determined quantity shall be uninterrupted and complete.

(k) The valves by which measurement and delivery are controlled, shall be of such construction, and in such condition, as to give free and smooth control of the rate of flow and instantaneous cut-off.

Where, to meet any requirement of this Regulation, a structural alteration has to be made on an instrument of a fixed type which is in use for trade at the date of these Regulations, a period of time not exceeding six months may be allowed by the Minister for such alteration.

125. A flexible hose for delivering liquid from any instrument shall not exceed twelve feet in length and the internal diameter of any section of the hose shall not be less than three-quarters of an inch : Provided that under special circumstances a variation of these dimensions may be allowed under the authority of the Minister.

Every hose shall be so arranged as to provide for ready flow and complete drainage of the correct quantity of liquid.

No swing arm or other extension pipe, nor any other apparatus supplementary to the design for which a certificate has been granted under Section 6 of the Act of 1904, shall be fitted to the instrument, nor shall any departure from that design be permitted without the authority of the Minister.

126. An instrument shall not be stamped, unless the amount of liquid fuel delivered therefrom be the same, whether the instrument be operated slowly or quickly.

127. The following requirements shall apply exclusively to instruments which are permitted to be used for trade for a prescribed period by authority of a licence granted by the Minister under the provisions of Sub-section (2) of Section 11 of the Act of 1928 with respect to instruments which have not been certified under Section 6 of the Act of 1904 :—

(a) Upon an application being received by the Minister for a licence, the Inspector shall, on behalf of the Minister, test for accuracy the uncertified instrument in regard to which the application has been made. The Inspector shall furnish his report of the test to the Minister within three days, but shall not impress any mark on the instrument as the result of that test.

(b) The inspector shall test each uncertified instrument in accordance with the allowances for error defined under Schedule II., subject to such variation of those allowances as the Minister may have permitted in regard to any particular type of instrument.

(c) The Inspector shall ascertain that the requirements of these Regulations are adhered to.

(d) Upon the grant of a licence by the Minister, the Inspector shall again examine the instrument, and if he ascertains that it complies with the conditions which the Minister has embodied in or attached to the licence, he shall impress upon the instrument the number of the licence.

(e) Every licensed instrument shall be examined and tested on behalf of the Minister for Industry and Commerce at intervals of not more than six months. On such examination it shall be ascertained that the arrangements for priming are in working order.

(f) An Inspector shall not mark a licence number on an instrument, nor shall he obliterate such number, excepting by the specific authority of the Minister.

(g) The maximum period for which a licence, granted under Sub-section 2 of Section 11 of the Act of 1928, may be in force shall be 10 years.

(h) Every application made to the Minister for a licence shall include an application for the examination and testing by the Minister, of the instrument in respect of which the licence is sought.

128. Every instrument for the measurement of liquid fuel, whether certified or licensed, shall be tested in actual working conditions with the fuel that is intended to be delivered in trade. The person having an instrument in his possession for trade shall permit the Inspector to use a sufficient quantity of liquid fuel for the test, and in the event of refusal of compliance with this requirement the Inspector, on verification, shall decline to stamp the instrument or, on inspection, shall obliterate the stamp : Provided that any fuel used by the Inspector under this regulation shall be returned on completion of the test, and a receipt therefor obtained by the Inspector.

Before passing any instrument as accurate, the Inspector shall ascertain that it complies with (a) the requirements of these Regulations, (b) the conditions of the notice accompanying the certificate given under Section 6 of the Act of 1904, or alternatively, the conditions of the licence, and (c) any supplemental conditions that may be laid down by the Minister under special circumstances ; and also that it operates within the allowances for error permitted under Schedule II.

129. In the event of any repair or alteration on an instrument, or the alteration of the position of an instrument of a fixed type, notice thereof shall be served on the Inspector for the area in which the instrument is installed ; and the Inspector shall be entitled to obliterate the stamp on such instrument, if he ascertains that an alteration or repair has been made without the service of notice upon him.

130. A tank from which liquid fuel is supplied in bulk to a trader for re-sale (usually termed a road tank), and a dipping rod used in conjunction with any such tank or compartment thereof for the measurement of the fuel, shall not be used for trade unless and until it has been stamped by an Inspector. The road tank shall be of one of the standard designs authorised by the Minister ; the form and material of the dipping rod must receive the approval of the Minister ; and the following requirements shall be complied with :—

(a) The dipping rod shall be marked and denominated at 5 gallon graduations, and shall also be marked with undenominated lines indicating 2½ gallon graduations. The dipping rod shall be accurately calibrated with the road tank.

(b) A tube shall be fitted vertically at the centre of the top of each road tank (or compartment thereof) to receive the dipping rod used in conjunction therewith. Such tube shall be not less than 6 inches in length, and the diameter of the tube shall be such as to permit a clearance of the rod by not more than 1/8 of an inch each way.

(c) The Inspector shall ascertain that the tank is at true level when in position at the filling station of the central depot or branch depot of the owner of the tank ; and he shall then test the calibration of the tank or dipping rod by measurement of water, or of refined oil of approved type, in accordance with the allowances for error prescribed in Schedule II. If he is satisfied as to the accuracy of the calibration and as to compliance with the other requirements, he shall impress his stamp at a line marked 2 inches from the extremity of the lower end of the dipping rod, and on the plug or stud provided for the purpose on the tank.

(d) An individual number for each road tank and dipping rod (inclusive) will be assigned by the Minister. This number shall be prominently and legibly stamped or inscribed on the side of the tank, and shall also be stamped at the upper end of the dipping rod.

(e) The calibration of the road tank with the dipping rod used in conjunction with it shall be re-verified by the Inspector at least once in every two years. Should an alteration or adjustment of the dipping rod be found to be necessary at any time during the aforesaid period of two years, such altered rod shall not be used until it has been re-calibrated by the Inspector.

(f) An alteration which may in any way affect the measurement of fuel, shall not be made in any road tank until the expiration of seven days from the date on which notice has been served on or posted to the Inspector. Such notice shall embody full particulars of the proposed alteration ; and the tank when so altered shall not be used until the Inspector has re-tested the calibration of the rod and tank, if such re-test be deemed necessary.

(g) In the event of a road tank being changed to a vehicle other than that on which it had been tested and stamped by the Inspector, the owner of the tank shall ascertain that it is re-set at true level.

(h) The full quantity of liquid fuel required for fulfilment of each order for supply of 200 gallons or over, shall be measured in the road tank (or one of the compartments thereof) on the premises of the supplier, and when the full quantity is so measured, the tank (or the particular compartment) shall be closed and shall be sealed in the prescribed manner at a drip cap, on the outlet tap with a seal of which the design has been registered with the Minister. The trader to whom the specific supply is to be delivered, shall be empowered to ascertain, and shall be provided by the supplier with an opportunity to ascertain, that the seal is unbroken before delivery is made ; and in addition shall be empowered to test, and shall be provided by the supplier with an opportunity to test with the dipping rod, the contents of the tank or compartment previous to any discharge therefrom. Where a delivery of less than 200 gallons is made, from a tank or a compartment containing more than the required quantity, the trader or his representative shall be empowered to test, and shall be given by the supplier an opportunity to test, the contents of the tank with the dipping rod both before and after delivery.

(i) The Inspector, for the purpose of inspection, shall avail of every opportunity that may arise, to test with the dipping rod the correct delivery of an ascertained quantity to a trader.

(j) Where, in order to meet the requirements of this Regulation, any alteration has to be made in any road tank which had been in use for trade previous to the date of these Regulations, a period of six months from that date shall be allowed for such alteration. The Minister may authorise a variation of the requirements with respect to road tanks which have been in use for trade previous to the date of these Regulations.

Instruments for the Measuring of Lubricating Oil.

131. Instruments for delivering lubricating oil shall be used in trade only for the purpose of delivering oil into a measure of standard denomination which has been stamped by an Inspector ; unless the instrument has been certified under Section 6 of the Act of 1904 as suitable for other purposes, and that it shall have been stamped by an Inspector as having complied with the requirements of these Regulations.

The errors permissible on verification and inspection shall be the same as those prescribed in Schedule II., with respect to instruments for the measurement of liquid fuel, which have been certified under Section 6 of the Act of 1904.

Taximeters.

132. An instrument intended for use on a vehicle plying for hire, for the purpose of measurement of distance or calculation of time as the basis of hireage (herein termed a " taximeter "), shall not be so used unless it is of a pattern which has been certified by the Minister under Section 6 of the Act of 1904.

In the area of the Dublin Metropolitan Division of An Gárda Síochána, the use of a taximeter shall be subject to the regulations made with respect thereto by the Commissioner of An Gárda Síochána. In every other area the use of a taximeter shall be subject to the conditions of the notice accompanying the certificate issued under Section 6 of the Act of 1904, with regard to the pattern of such taximeter.

Every taximeter shall be re-tested, re-verified and re-stamped at least once in each year by or under the supervision of an Inspector.

On the test for verification, re-verification, or inspection of a taximeter, whether with respect to time or to distance, the allowance for error permissible shall not exceed 6.25 per cent. in deficiency. No allowance shall be made for error in excess.

Where a taximeter which has been fitted to a vehicle plying for hire previous to the date of these Regulations has not been certified under Section 6 of the Act of 1904, and cannot be so certified, its continued use may be authorised by a licence issued by the Minister under Section 11 of the Act of 1928, subject to such conditions as shall accompany the licence, and for such period not exceeding five years as the Minister shall prescribe with respect of each taximeter so licensed. Every application made to the Minister for a licence shall include an application for the examination and testing by the Minister of the instrument in respect of which the licence is sought.

Water Meters.

133. This Regulation shall apply only to an instrument (herein termed a " water meter ") used for the registration of a supply of water by standard measure, where in respect to that supply a charge is made.

No water meter shall be used under this Regulation unless the pattern thereof has been approved by the Minister under Section 6 of the Act of 1904, and the meter has been stamped by an Inspector under these Regulations.

Every such water meter shall be re-verified and re-stamped at least once in every five years.

The allowance for error permissible on verification and re-verification shall not exceed three per cent. in deficiency or excess.

Where water meters are used in any area with respect to which provision has not been made for the verification of such instruments, the Inspector of any other area in which the necessary provision has been made, may test any such meter, and shall stamp same if found to be correct.

Where a water meter which is in use at the date of these Regulations has not been certified by the Minister under Section 6 of the Act of 1904, and cannot be so certified, its continued use may be authorised by a licence issued by the Minister under Section 11 of the Act of 1928, subject to such conditions as shall accompany the licence, and for such period, not exceeding ten years, as the Minister may prescribe with respect to each water meter so licensed. Every application made to the Minister for a licence shall include an application for the examination and testing by the Minister of the instrument in respect of which the licence is sought.

Types of Measuring Instruments not Previously Defined.

134. Instruments for the measurement of textiles, instruments for delivery into containers by measurement of any liquid other than liquid fuel or lubricating oil, or any other measuring instruments as defined by the Acts of 1889 and 1928, with respect to which provision has not been made in the foregoing Regulations, shall be used in trade solely in accordance with the conditions prescribed by the Minister in the notice accompanying a certificate granted under Section 6 of the Act of 1904 ; and shall be verified and stamped by an Inspector under the conditions prescribed in that notice.

By Order of the Minister for Industry and Commerce,

GORDON CAMPBELL,

Secretary.

Department of Industry and Commerce,

Fifteenth day of November, 1928.

SCHEDULE I.

PERMISSIBLE ABBREVIATIONS OF DENOMINATIONS WEIGHTS AND MEASURES.

MEASURES OF LENGTH.

LIQUID MEASURES (other than Apothecaries' Measures).

DRY MEASURE.

Quarter Cran............................................................ ............................................................ ..............................Qr. Cran.

APOTHECARIES' MEASURES.

WEIGHTS.

METRIC WEIGHTS AND MEASURES.

SCHEDULE II.

TABLES OF ERROR PERMISSIBLE ON VERIFICATION AND INSPECTION.

METRIC SYSTEM.

TABLE I.—MEASURES OF LENGTH.

TABLE II.—LIQUID MEASURES OF CAPACITY

TABLE III.—APOTHECARIES' GRADUATED GLASS MEASURES.

TABLE IV.—DRY MEASURES OF CAPACITY.

TABLE V.—AVOIRDUPOIS WEIGHTS.

TABLE VI.—TROY BULLION WEIGHTS.

TABLE VII— APOTHECARIES' WEIGHTS.

TABLE VIII.—GRAINS WEIGHTS.

TABLE IX.—BEAM-SCALES. CLASS A.

TABLE X.—BEAM-SCALES. CLASS B.

TABLE XI.—BEAM-SCALES. CLASS C.

TABLE XII.—WEIGHING INSTRUMENTS FOR SPECIAL TRADES.

TABLE XIII.—COUNTER MACHINES.

TABLE XIV.—SPRING BALANCES.

TABLE XV.—SPRING BALANCES—(Continued).

TABLE XVI.—STEELYARDS.

TABLE XVII.—DEAD-WEIGHT MACHINES.

For this purpose, " Dead-Weight " includes contracted or unequal armed Coal machines.

TABLE XVIII.—PLATFORM MACHINES (VERIFICATION).

Note.—The last column of this Table, and of Table XIX shall apply only to " Platform machines fitted with dials," which were stamped prior to the date of these Regulations. Any such machine installed for trade subsequent to the date of these Regulations, shall be subject to the allowances prescribed for Accelerating Machines in this Table or Table XIX.

TABLE XIX.—PLATFORM MACHINES (INSPECTION).

See Note to Table XVIII.

TABLE XX.—WEIGHBRIDGES (VERIFICATION).

TABLE XXI.—WEIGHBRIDGES (INSPECTION).

TABLE XXII.—CRANE MACHINES.

TABLE XXIII.—INSTRUMENTS FOR MEASUREMENT OF LIQUID FUEL IN RETAIL TRADE.

(a) Instruments which have been certified under Section 6 of the Act of 1904.

(b) Licensed Instruments

TABLE XXIV.—INSTRUMENTS USED SOLELY IN WHOLESALE TRADE FOR THE FILLING OF LIQUID FUEL INTO CONTAINERS.

TABLE XXV.—CALIBRATION OF TANK AND DIPPING ROD.

TABLE XXVI.—METRIC MEASURES OF LENGTH.