Buckinghamshire and Surrey Trading Standards are marking the 150th anniversary of World Metrology Day today (Tuesday 20 May) — a foundational agreement that established the international framework for measurement standards.
Goods that consumers buy, such as ingredients for a recipe, petrol from the station or medicine doses, must be accurately measured to ensure that consumers are getting what they pay for.
So, does Surrey measure up?
- In July 2024, our Trading Standards inspectors checked petrol/diesel pumps on forecourts and found that 96% were dispensing fuel accurately.
- Later that year in November, the team took to green grocers, butchers and supermarkets to check the accuracy of scales. They found that 91% of all scales were accurate.
In both cases, those not accurate were taken further by the team – issuing compliance notices or immediately taken out of service.
Mandy Poole, Assistant Director of Trading Standards, said: “I think at the heart of this awareness day is that people are getting what they are paying their money for. Whether it’s checking fuel pumps, weighing scales in shops, or ensuring packaged goods meet legal standards, our work helps protect consumers and businesses alike.
“I’m pleased to see that Surrey does measure up most of the time, and that our hardworking teams are able to put it right with businesses when this is not the case.”
Surrey Trading Standards officers routinely inspect and verify thousands of measuring instruments across the county, ensuring compliance with legal standards and supporting businesses in maintaining accuracy and transparency.
As part of the celebration, the team will be sharing insights on social media about how metrology impacts everyday life and encouraging residents to learn more about the hidden science behind the things they buy and use.
If you think something isn’t weighing up right – report it to Buckinghamshire and Surrey Trading Standards: Reporting to Trading Standards – Citizens Advice.
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