A weighbridge verification is essential for businesses that rely on accurate weight measurements for trade, compliance, and safety. In Australia, obtaining this certificate involves a structured process to ensure that your weighbridge meets national standards passed down by the department of fair trade.
What Is a Weighbridge Verification?
A weighbridge verification serves as official documentation confirming that your weighbridge has been tested and verified for accuracy within tolerances legislated by the National Measurement Institute (NMI). NMI is the Australian federal government’s regulatory arm focused completely on upholding fair trade via metrological measurement. Verification is mandatory for compliance when the weighbridge is to used for the buying and selling of goods and/or services – a trade application.
What is a Public Weighbridge?
A public weighbridge can be defined by applying the term – “weight as a service” – and is a application that mandates legal for trade compliance, where the weight obtained by a weighbridge is the service.
These weighbridges are generally open to the public for anyone to obtain a legal-for-trade measurement, for a fee.
Some reasons why someone may use a public weighbridge are;
- Don’t have access to their own legal-for-trade weighbridge.
- May require a weight measurement on an oversize load.
- To obtain a vehicle or trailer tare weight for registration purposes.
- To confirm load compliance is within GVM and legal on Australian roads.
Public Weighbridge Process
To obtain a public weighbridge licence in Australia, follow these steps:
- Application Submission: Complete and submit the public weighbridge licence application form to the National Measurement Institute (NMI).
- Operator Competency: Ensure that at least one weighbridge operator has successfully completed the NMI’s weighbridge operator’s recognition kit and holds a statement of attainment.
- Weighbridge Verification: Have your weighbridge inspected and calibrated by a servicing licensee within the last 12 months. This step confirms that the equipment meets the required accuracy standards.
- Documentation: Provide a National Police Check (less than 12 months old) for each principal of the business, including all directors and partners. Also, submit an example of your public weighbridge measurement tickets.
- Fee Payment: At the time of writing this article, the applicable fees include $785 for a new licence application and $550 for each year of the licence (up to 3 years).
The NMI may take up to 28 days to process the application and grant the licence.
Maintaining Public Weighbridge compliance
To retain a valid public weighbridge licence:
- Regular Calibration: Have your weighbridge calibrated by a servicing licensee, like Sensortronic Weighing and Inspection Australasia, at least once every 12 months.
- Operator Training: Ensure that operators maintain their competency through ongoing training and assessments.
- Record Keeping: Maintain accurate records of all weighbridge operations and calibrations.
- Compliance Audits: Be prepared for periodic audits by NMI to verify compliance with regulations.
Benefits of Verification
Obtaining and maintaining a weighbridge verification offers several advantages:
- Legal Compliance: Ensures adherence to the National Measurement Act 1960 and National Trade Measurement Regulations 2009.
- Accuracy Assurance: Provides confidence in the accuracy of weight measurements, which is vital for trade transactions.
- Business Credibility: Demonstrates your commitment to quality and compliance, enhancing your reputation with clients and partners.
- Operational Efficiency: Reduces the risk of disputes over weight discrepancies, leading to smoother operations.
For more detailed information on the application process and requirements, visit the National Measurement Institute’s official website.
Need your weighbridge certified or calibrated? Learn more about our professional service and calibration offerings here.
- Can SWIA issue a weighbridge certificate for my site?
Yes. SWIA is licensed to provide both calibration and verification services required to obtain or renew your weighbridge compliance. They also assist with public weighbridge verifications, operator training, and compliance audits across Queensland and beyond.
