Legal Metrology An Overview

The term ‘Metrology’ in its broadest definition, is the science of measurement. Legal Metrology is the application of legal requirements to measurements and measuring instruments. The objective of Legal Metrology is to ensure consumer protection against exploitation in transaction of commodities in respect of their Weights and Measures.

The Legal Metrology Act, 2009 is a single Act which was laid down to cover the provisions of the Standards of Weights and Measures Act, 1976 and Standards of Weights and Measures (Enforcement) Act, 1985. Department of Consumer Affairs is responsible for implementation of the Act. There are seven major rules which have been framed under the Act, out of which The Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodity) Rules, 2011 is the one, which is applicable on all the products that come in the form of a pre-packed commodity.

“Pre-Packaged commodity” means a commodity which without the purchaser being present is placed in a package of whatever nature, whether sealed or not, so that the product contained therein has a pre-determined quantity. As per the The Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodity) Rules, 2011, no person can pre-pack any commodity for sale, distribution or delivery unless the package bears on a securely affixed label having all the mandatory declarations. The purpose is to help the consumers to know important and intricate details of the commodity helping them in order to make an informed decision about purchasing a product.

Another important highlight of Legal Metrology (PC) Rule is Registration and Nomination.

· Registration of Manufacturer, Packer, and Importer who or which pre-packs or imports any commodity for sale, distribution or delivery shall make an application, within 90 days of commencement of the packaging procedure.
· The Companies may nominate a director to be in-charge of and be responsible for the conduct of business of the Company or any establishment, branch, or unit thereof to prevent the commission of any offence by the company under the Legal Metrology Act, 2009.