Canada
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Economy Detail
1. Laws of Metrology
The main Federal acts governing legal metrology are the:
The main federal acts governing legal metrology are the following:
Weights and Measures Act (R.S.C 1985)
Electricity and Gas Inspection Act (R.S.C 1985)
Consumer Packaging and Labeling Act (R.S.C.1985)
The government bodies responsible for the application of these acts (all part of the department of Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada) update and publish the following regulations, which have legal force:
Weights and Measures Regulations (C.R.C., c. 1605)
Electricity and Gas Inspection Regulations (SOR/86-131)
Consumer Packaging and Labelling Regulations (C.R.C., c. 417)
1.1 Legal requirements for traceability
The concept of legal metrology was outlined in the British North America Act (1867), later renamed the Constitution Act, which provided the exclusive authority to the Parliament of Canada to create legislation and regulations governing weights and measures. Legal requirements for traceability are set in the Weights and Measures Act, the Electricity and Gas Inspection Act and the National Research Council Act.
The main federal acts governing legal metrology are the following:
Weights and Measures Act (R.S.C 1985)
Electricity and Gas Inspection Act (R.S.C 1985)
Consumer Packaging and Labeling Act (R.S.C.1985)
The government bodies responsible for the application of these acts (all part of the department of Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada) update and publish the following regulations, which have legal force:
Weights and Measures Regulations (C.R.C., c. 1605)
Electricity and Gas Inspection Regulations (SOR/86-131)
Consumer Packaging and Labelling Regulations (C.R.C., c. 417)
1.1 Legal requirements for traceability
The concept of legal metrology was outlined in the British North America Act (1867), later renamed the Constitution Act, which provided the exclusive authority to the Parliament of Canada to create legislation and regulations governing weights and measures. Legal requirements for traceability are set in the Weights and Measures Act, the Electricity and Gas Inspection Act and the National Research Council Act.
2. Legal Units of Measurement
The legal units of measurement in Canada are based on the International System of Units (SI) established by the General Conference of Weights and Measures.
The basic units of measurement and supplementary and derived units, along with their symbols, are listed and described in Parts I, II and III of Schedule I of the Weights and Measures Act. In addition to the SI units, other customary units of measurement may also be used in Canada: Canadian units of measurement (Imperial System) and units of measurement to describe certain land in Quebec, found in Schedules II and III of the Weights and Measures Act.
The basic units of measurement and supplementary and derived units, along with their symbols, are listed and described in Parts I, II and III of Schedule I of the Weights and Measures Act. In addition to the SI units, other customary units of measurement may also be used in Canada: Canadian units of measurement (Imperial System) and units of measurement to describe certain land in Quebec, found in Schedules II and III of the Weights and Measures Act.
3. Structure of Metrological Control Authorities
3.1 National organization for legal metrology
Measurement Canada
Standards Building
151 Tunney’s Pasture Driveway
Ottawa, Ontario K1A OC9
Fax No: 613-957-1265
Website: http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/mc-mc.nsf/eng/Home
Measurement Canada, an agency of the federal department of Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, has exclusive national responsibility and authority for legal metrology activities in Canada. The Agency is composed of several directorates, including Engineering, Innovative Services and Program Development. The Program Development Directorate is composed of two divisions: the Weighing and Measuring Division and the Utility Metering Division.
The Program Development Directorate is responsible for the development of requirements and programs (this includes making legislative and regulatory amendments, developing specifications and establishing approaches for marketplace monitoring) to minimize inaccurate measurement and inequity in the trade of goods and services provided on the basis of measurement. It also establishes metrological policies and procedures for the approval, verification, re-verification, installation and use of measuring devices, as well as enforcement policies and marketplace monitoring programs.
The Engineering and Laboratory Services Directorate, besides assisting in the development of specifications and procedures, is responsible for the examination and approval of prototype weighing and measuring machines and prototype electricity and gas meters and metering devices used in trade. The directorate is also responsible for the calibration and certification of local measurement standards used by government and authorized service providers.
The Innovative Services Directorate is responsible for the development, implementation and review of alternative service delivery mechanisms. This includes the development of mutual recognition agreements with the United States (National Conference on Weights and Measures) for the approval of certain prototype devices. The directorate is also responsible for industry accreditation and registration programs that delegate specified mandated inspection activities to private sector organizations (commonly known as authorized service providers) which meet Measurement Canada’s requirements.
Measurement Canada fulfills its mandate through a field inspection program carried out by inspection staff located in its three regions and nine districts. The following activities are carried out:
The regions are also responsible for administering the accreditation and registration programs, including close monitoring of authorized service providers. Measurement Canada also investigates and arbitrates measurement disputes between the buyers and sellers of electricity and gas.
3.2 Custodian of National Standards
National Research Council of Canada
Measurement Science and Standards
Building M-36
Montreal Road
Ottawa, Ontario KIA OR6
3.3 National organizations responsible for maintaining primary standards
Reference standards and other standards of measurement kept by Measurement Canada for the purpose of determining the accuracy of local standards used by inspectors are calibrated and certified by the National Research Council of Canada (NRC).
3.4 Regional and local verification organizations
Measurement Canada administers its programs and services through three regional offices and nine district offices located across Canada. Each regional office is responsible for providing metrology services in a particular geographical area, which is done through inspection staff located in various district offices. The three regional offices are:
Eastern region (office in Montréal, Québec)
Ontario region (office in Markham, Ontario)
Western region (office in Winnipeg, Manitoba)
3.5 Instrument calibration and evaluation systems
Only the department of Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, through Measurement Canada, has the power in Canada to issue official certificates of calibration and inspection for measuring instruments used in trade. However, the NRC may evaluate and calibrate measuring instruments other than those used in trade, in particular instruments used in scientific laboratories.
Measurement Canada
Standards Building
151 Tunney’s Pasture Driveway
Ottawa, Ontario K1A OC9
Fax No: 613-957-1265
Website: http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/mc-mc.nsf/eng/Home
Measurement Canada, an agency of the federal department of Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, has exclusive national responsibility and authority for legal metrology activities in Canada. The Agency is composed of several directorates, including Engineering, Innovative Services and Program Development. The Program Development Directorate is composed of two divisions: the Weighing and Measuring Division and the Utility Metering Division.
The Program Development Directorate is responsible for the development of requirements and programs (this includes making legislative and regulatory amendments, developing specifications and establishing approaches for marketplace monitoring) to minimize inaccurate measurement and inequity in the trade of goods and services provided on the basis of measurement. It also establishes metrological policies and procedures for the approval, verification, re-verification, installation and use of measuring devices, as well as enforcement policies and marketplace monitoring programs.
The Engineering and Laboratory Services Directorate, besides assisting in the development of specifications and procedures, is responsible for the examination and approval of prototype weighing and measuring machines and prototype electricity and gas meters and metering devices used in trade. The directorate is also responsible for the calibration and certification of local measurement standards used by government and authorized service providers.
The Innovative Services Directorate is responsible for the development, implementation and review of alternative service delivery mechanisms. This includes the development of mutual recognition agreements with the United States (National Conference on Weights and Measures) for the approval of certain prototype devices. The directorate is also responsible for industry accreditation and registration programs that delegate specified mandated inspection activities to private sector organizations (commonly known as authorized service providers) which meet Measurement Canada’s requirements.
Measurement Canada fulfills its mandate through a field inspection program carried out by inspection staff located in its three regions and nine districts. The following activities are carried out:
- certification of test equipment used by industry and government inspection personnel;
- verification of the accuracy and appropriate usage of weighing and measuring devices used in trade;
- verification of the net quantity of commodities sold on the basis of measure;
- resolution of trade measurement complaints from consumer;
- examination and verification of meter performance prior to use;
- periodical re-verification of meter performance; and
- performance of on‑site verification of complex measuring systems.
The regions are also responsible for administering the accreditation and registration programs, including close monitoring of authorized service providers. Measurement Canada also investigates and arbitrates measurement disputes between the buyers and sellers of electricity and gas.
3.2 Custodian of National Standards
National Research Council of Canada
Measurement Science and Standards
Building M-36
Montreal Road
Ottawa, Ontario KIA OR6
3.3 National organizations responsible for maintaining primary standards
Reference standards and other standards of measurement kept by Measurement Canada for the purpose of determining the accuracy of local standards used by inspectors are calibrated and certified by the National Research Council of Canada (NRC).
3.4 Regional and local verification organizations
Measurement Canada administers its programs and services through three regional offices and nine district offices located across Canada. Each regional office is responsible for providing metrology services in a particular geographical area, which is done through inspection staff located in various district offices. The three regional offices are:
Eastern region (office in Montréal, Québec)
Ontario region (office in Markham, Ontario)
Western region (office in Winnipeg, Manitoba)
3.5 Instrument calibration and evaluation systems
Only the department of Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, through Measurement Canada, has the power in Canada to issue official certificates of calibration and inspection for measuring instruments used in trade. However, the NRC may evaluate and calibrate measuring instruments other than those used in trade, in particular instruments used in scientific laboratories.
4. Range of Equipment Subject to Legal Metrology
All devices used in trade for measuring weight, volume, length and area, as well as electricity and natural gas meters used in commercial transactions, are subject to legal metrology control.
5. Type Approval
5.1 Legal and technical requirements for type approval
Measurement Canada is responsible for evaluating whether the design, composition, construction and performance of weighing and measuring devices intended for trade use, and electricity and natural gas meters, comply with legislated requirements. Compliance with these requirements is intended to ensure a population of measurement devices that is reasonably accurate under conditions of normal use, and to minimize the possibility of fraudulent usage.
Measurement Canada carries out this responsibility by examining the designs of weighing and measuring devices and by testing sample devices. Once a device type has been approved, Measurement Canada’s Engineering and Laboratory Services Directorate issues a notice of approval that bears an approval number. Production devices of an approved type must be marked with their approval number and must be initially verified before being sold or put into service for trade applications. The marking of the approval number on a production device is the primary indication to Measurement Canada inspectors and accredited meter verifiers that the device model is approved for use in trade.
Approval requirements are found in the Weights and Measures Act and its associated regulations and specifications, as well as in the following Measurement Canada documents:
Policy documents related to type approval, which apply to all types of meters and devices:
Bulletin GEN-04—Notices of conditional approval—naming convention, terms and conditions, disclosure, notification, initial inspection, and inspection certificates
Bulletin GEN-6—Application of new specifications and approval of trade measurement devices that incorporate technologies not covered by the existing specifications
Bulletin GEN-25—Policy on electricity and gas legal units of measurement and functions used for billing
Bulletin GEN-26—Modifications to approved weighing and measuring devices and electricity and gas meters
Bulletin GEN-38—Principles and prerequisites for approval of electricity and gas metering devices incorporating new technology
Bulletin GEN-40—Application and implementation of Measurement Canada's specifications for the approval of both software controlled electricity and gas meters and event loggers
Specification documents related to type approval published under the authority of the Electricity and Gas Inspection Act:
Electricity
LMB‑EG‑07—Specifications for the approval of type of electricity meters, instrument transformers, and auxiliary devices
S-E-05—Specifications for approval of type of electronic meters—net metering
S-E-06 Specification for the approval of type of electricity meters and auxiliary devices—amendments to Measurement Canada specification LMB-EG-07
S-E-07—Specifications for the approval of measuring instrument transformers
S-E-09—Specification for the approval of type of 80mA and 100mA class measuring current transformers
PS‑E‑05—Provisional specification for the approval of type of electricity meters
PS-E-12—Provisional specifications for the approval of type of electricity meters—approval requirements for electricity meters with multiregister metering functions
PS-E-13—Provisional specifications for the approval of electronic current transformers
PS-E-15—Provisional specifications for approval of electronic voltage transformers
PS-E-17—Provisional specifications for the approval of type, verification and sealing of electricity meters with remote display modules
PS-EG-01—Provisional specifications for the approval of prepayment meters
S-EG-01—Electricity and gas meter pattern approval applications—quality and measurement reliability information requirements in support of a lengthened initial reverification period
S-EG-02—Specifications for approval of physical sealing provisions for electricity and gas meters
S-EG-05—Specifications for the approval of software controlled electricity and gas metering devices
S-EG-06—Specifications relating to event loggers for electricity and gas metering devices
Gas
LMB‑EG‑08—Specifications for the approval of type of gas meters and auxiliary devices
S-G-03—Specifications for approval of type of gas meters and auxiliary devices—amendments to Measurement Canada specification LMB-EG-08
S-G-04—Specifications for approval, installation, use and verification of flow conditioners used in gas measurement systems
S-G-06—Specifications for the approval, verification, reverification, installation and use of cone-shaped differential pressure meters
PS‑G‑06—Provisional specifications for the approval, verification, reverification, installation and use of ultrasonic meters
PS-G-13—Provisional specifications and procedures for the approval of correction devices and linearization functions incorporated in meters and flow computers
PS-G-15—Provisional specifications for the approval, verification, installation and use of fluidic oscillation meters
S-EG-01—Electricity and gas meter pattern approval applications—quality and measurement reliability information requirements in support of a lengthened initial reverification period
S-EG-02—Specifications for approval of physical sealing provisions for electricity and gas meters
S-EG-05—Specifications for the approval of software controlled electricity and gas metering devices
S-EG-06—Specifications relating to event loggers for electricity and gas metering devices
Documents published under the authority of the Weights and Measures Act:
Weights and Measures Regulations
Part V, Division I - Devices in General
Part V, Division II - Weights
Part V, Division III - Static Volumetric Measures
Part V, Division V - Machines and Weighing Machines in General
Part V, Division VI - Automatic Weighing Machines
Part V, Division VII - Linear Measuring Machines
Part V, Division VIII - Area Measuring Machines
Part V, Division IX - Solid Volume Measuring Machines
Part V, Division X - Volumetric Liquid Measuring Machine in General
Part V, Division XI - Volumetric Liquid Meters
Part V, Division XII - Measuring and Vehicle Meters
Weights and measures ministerial specifications:
SGM‑4—Railway Track Scales for In‑Motion Weighing Specifications
SVM‑1—Electronic Registers and Ancillary Equipment incorporated in
Metering Assemblies Specifications
SVM‑2—Metering Assemblies Incorporating Electronic ATCs Specifications
SVM‑3—Propane Dispenser Specifications
Specifications Relating to Non‑automatic Weighing Devices
Terms and Conditions for the Approval of Multiple Dimension Measuring Devices
Terms and Conditions for the Approval of Metrological Audit Trials
Terms and Conditions for the Approval of Timber Dimension Measuring Devices
Terms and Conditions for the Approval of Coriolis Liquid Meters
Terms and Conditions for the Approval of Electronic APC Incorporated Into Electronic Registers
Terms and Conditions for the Approval of Pressure Transducers
Weights and Measures Laboratory Procedures Manuals:
Laboratory Test Manual (Gravimetric Devices)
Laboratory Test Manual (Volumetric Devices)
5.2 Authority responsible for issuing type approval
While under the Weights and Measures Act the Minister of Industry is the authority responsible for issuing notices of approval, the President holds this authority under the Electricity and Gas Inspection Act. Under both statutes this authority is further delegated to the Director and senior engineers of the Approval Services Laboratory.
5.3 Recognition/acceptance of type approval work performed by other countries
Canada is a utilizing participant in the International Organization of Legal Metrology (OIML) Mutual Acceptance Arrangement for load cells and non-automatic weighing devices.
Due to differences between OIML and Canadian approval requirements and procedures, Canada does not currently recognize OIML certificates, but Measurement Canada is moving toward adopting certain OIML recommendations.
Canada has negotiated mutual recognition of device type approval with the United States. This agreement allows the staff of approval laboratories in either country to perform type evaluations to the common and unique requirements of both countries. On the basis of the test results, each country issues its own approval certificate. The scope of the agreement covers the following:
1000 kg (2000 lb)
Measurement Canada recognizes and accepts calibration certificates for high‑pressure high‑flow gas meters from certain proving facilities in various countries, including the United States, the Netherlands, Germany and Canada.
5.4 Authority responsible for testing for type approval
Measurement Canada, an agency of Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, is the authority responsible for testing for type approvals.
5.5 List of major test facilities available
5.5.1 Facilities operated in support of the Weights and Measures Act:
A liquid meter test facility in the 10 L/min to 2 000 L/min range. This facility allows testing with liquid temperature variations from 0 °C to 30 °C. Water, stove oil and mineral spirit are the test liquids. Facilities also exist to test mass flow meters gravimetrically.
Environmental Test Facilities
The temperature controlled chambers operate over a range of ‑30 oC to 45 oC. The relative humidity is maintained at 50% or less.
5.5.2 Facilities in support of the Electricity and Gas Act
5.6 Fee structure
5.6.1 Weights and Measures Act
There is an hourly based fee for approval examinations and administration related to approval activities. In addition, there are charges for the use of equipment such as volumetric provers or weight trucks when tests are performed on site. The fees and charges for type approval are found in Part IV of the Weights and Measures Regulations.
The cost of type evaluations varies with the type of device and the extent of testing required. A typical laboratory test for a simple device requires approximately 40 hours of labour and costs C$2,500 to C$3,000. For some complex devices the total time charged may reach 200 hours.
Measurement Canada is responsible for evaluating whether the design, composition, construction and performance of weighing and measuring devices intended for trade use, and electricity and natural gas meters, comply with legislated requirements. Compliance with these requirements is intended to ensure a population of measurement devices that is reasonably accurate under conditions of normal use, and to minimize the possibility of fraudulent usage.
Measurement Canada carries out this responsibility by examining the designs of weighing and measuring devices and by testing sample devices. Once a device type has been approved, Measurement Canada’s Engineering and Laboratory Services Directorate issues a notice of approval that bears an approval number. Production devices of an approved type must be marked with their approval number and must be initially verified before being sold or put into service for trade applications. The marking of the approval number on a production device is the primary indication to Measurement Canada inspectors and accredited meter verifiers that the device model is approved for use in trade.
Approval requirements are found in the Weights and Measures Act and its associated regulations and specifications, as well as in the following Measurement Canada documents:
Policy documents related to type approval, which apply to all types of meters and devices:
Bulletin GEN-04—Notices of conditional approval—naming convention, terms and conditions, disclosure, notification, initial inspection, and inspection certificates
Bulletin GEN-6—Application of new specifications and approval of trade measurement devices that incorporate technologies not covered by the existing specifications
Bulletin GEN-25—Policy on electricity and gas legal units of measurement and functions used for billing
Bulletin GEN-26—Modifications to approved weighing and measuring devices and electricity and gas meters
Bulletin GEN-38—Principles and prerequisites for approval of electricity and gas metering devices incorporating new technology
Bulletin GEN-40—Application and implementation of Measurement Canada's specifications for the approval of both software controlled electricity and gas meters and event loggers
Specification documents related to type approval published under the authority of the Electricity and Gas Inspection Act:
Electricity
LMB‑EG‑07—Specifications for the approval of type of electricity meters, instrument transformers, and auxiliary devices
S-E-05—Specifications for approval of type of electronic meters—net metering
S-E-06 Specification for the approval of type of electricity meters and auxiliary devices—amendments to Measurement Canada specification LMB-EG-07
S-E-07—Specifications for the approval of measuring instrument transformers
S-E-09—Specification for the approval of type of 80mA and 100mA class measuring current transformers
PS‑E‑05—Provisional specification for the approval of type of electricity meters
PS-E-12—Provisional specifications for the approval of type of electricity meters—approval requirements for electricity meters with multiregister metering functions
PS-E-13—Provisional specifications for the approval of electronic current transformers
PS-E-15—Provisional specifications for approval of electronic voltage transformers
PS-E-17—Provisional specifications for the approval of type, verification and sealing of electricity meters with remote display modules
PS-EG-01—Provisional specifications for the approval of prepayment meters
S-EG-01—Electricity and gas meter pattern approval applications—quality and measurement reliability information requirements in support of a lengthened initial reverification period
S-EG-02—Specifications for approval of physical sealing provisions for electricity and gas meters
S-EG-05—Specifications for the approval of software controlled electricity and gas metering devices
S-EG-06—Specifications relating to event loggers for electricity and gas metering devices
Gas
LMB‑EG‑08—Specifications for the approval of type of gas meters and auxiliary devices
S-G-03—Specifications for approval of type of gas meters and auxiliary devices—amendments to Measurement Canada specification LMB-EG-08
S-G-04—Specifications for approval, installation, use and verification of flow conditioners used in gas measurement systems
S-G-06—Specifications for the approval, verification, reverification, installation and use of cone-shaped differential pressure meters
PS‑G‑06—Provisional specifications for the approval, verification, reverification, installation and use of ultrasonic meters
PS-G-13—Provisional specifications and procedures for the approval of correction devices and linearization functions incorporated in meters and flow computers
PS-G-15—Provisional specifications for the approval, verification, installation and use of fluidic oscillation meters
S-EG-01—Electricity and gas meter pattern approval applications—quality and measurement reliability information requirements in support of a lengthened initial reverification period
S-EG-02—Specifications for approval of physical sealing provisions for electricity and gas meters
S-EG-05—Specifications for the approval of software controlled electricity and gas metering devices
S-EG-06—Specifications relating to event loggers for electricity and gas metering devices
Documents published under the authority of the Weights and Measures Act:
Weights and Measures Regulations
Part V, Division I - Devices in General
Part V, Division II - Weights
Part V, Division III - Static Volumetric Measures
Part V, Division V - Machines and Weighing Machines in General
Part V, Division VI - Automatic Weighing Machines
Part V, Division VII - Linear Measuring Machines
Part V, Division VIII - Area Measuring Machines
Part V, Division IX - Solid Volume Measuring Machines
Part V, Division X - Volumetric Liquid Measuring Machine in General
Part V, Division XI - Volumetric Liquid Meters
Part V, Division XII - Measuring and Vehicle Meters
Weights and measures ministerial specifications:
SGM‑4—Railway Track Scales for In‑Motion Weighing Specifications
SVM‑1—Electronic Registers and Ancillary Equipment incorporated in
Metering Assemblies Specifications
SVM‑2—Metering Assemblies Incorporating Electronic ATCs Specifications
SVM‑3—Propane Dispenser Specifications
Specifications Relating to Non‑automatic Weighing Devices
Terms and Conditions for the Approval of Multiple Dimension Measuring Devices
Terms and Conditions for the Approval of Metrological Audit Trials
Terms and Conditions for the Approval of Timber Dimension Measuring Devices
Terms and Conditions for the Approval of Coriolis Liquid Meters
Terms and Conditions for the Approval of Electronic APC Incorporated Into Electronic Registers
Terms and Conditions for the Approval of Pressure Transducers
Weights and Measures Laboratory Procedures Manuals:
Laboratory Test Manual (Gravimetric Devices)
Laboratory Test Manual (Volumetric Devices)
5.2 Authority responsible for issuing type approval
While under the Weights and Measures Act the Minister of Industry is the authority responsible for issuing notices of approval, the President holds this authority under the Electricity and Gas Inspection Act. Under both statutes this authority is further delegated to the Director and senior engineers of the Approval Services Laboratory.
5.3 Recognition/acceptance of type approval work performed by other countries
Canada is a utilizing participant in the International Organization of Legal Metrology (OIML) Mutual Acceptance Arrangement for load cells and non-automatic weighing devices.
Due to differences between OIML and Canadian approval requirements and procedures, Canada does not currently recognize OIML certificates, but Measurement Canada is moving toward adopting certain OIML recommendations.
Canada has negotiated mutual recognition of device type approval with the United States. This agreement allows the staff of approval laboratories in either country to perform type evaluations to the common and unique requirements of both countries. On the basis of the test results, each country issues its own approval certificate. The scope of the agreement covers the following:
- Gasoline and diesel dispensers
- High-speed dispensers
- Gasoline and diesel meters (for use in fuel dispensers and truck refuellers only)
- Electronic computing and non-computing bench and floor scales with a capacity up to
1000 kg (2000 lb)
- Weighing/load receiving elements with a capacity of up to 1000 kg (2000 lb)
- Electronic indicators (except those that are software based)
- Mechanical scales up to 10 000 kg (20 000 lb)
Measurement Canada recognizes and accepts calibration certificates for high‑pressure high‑flow gas meters from certain proving facilities in various countries, including the United States, the Netherlands, Germany and Canada.
5.4 Authority responsible for testing for type approval
Measurement Canada, an agency of Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, is the authority responsible for testing for type approvals.
5.5 List of major test facilities available
5.5.1 Facilities operated in support of the Weights and Measures Act:
A liquid meter test facility in the 10 L/min to 2 000 L/min range. This facility allows testing with liquid temperature variations from 0 °C to 30 °C. Water, stove oil and mineral spirit are the test liquids. Facilities also exist to test mass flow meters gravimetrically.
Environmental Test Facilities
The temperature controlled chambers operate over a range of ‑30 oC to 45 oC. The relative humidity is maintained at 50% or less.
5.5.2 Facilities in support of the Electricity and Gas Act
- Facilities to test electricity meters under three‑phase loads of up to 600 V and 200 A under sinusoidal or no sinusoidal conditions.
- Facilities to test potential transformers at up to 69 kV.
- Facilities operating at up to 735 kV exist in Canada.
- Facilities to test current transformers at up to 6000 A.
- Facilities to test gas meters using air at atmospheric pressure and flow rates up to 4000 m3 per hour, with control of the temperature surrounding the meter over the range of ‑30 to 40 °C. (Independent control of the temperature of the flowing air will be added in later.)
- Facilities to perform dead‑weight pressure calibrations up to 17.5 MPa.
5.6 Fee structure
5.6.1 Weights and Measures Act
There is an hourly based fee for approval examinations and administration related to approval activities. In addition, there are charges for the use of equipment such as volumetric provers or weight trucks when tests are performed on site. The fees and charges for type approval are found in Part IV of the Weights and Measures Regulations.
The cost of type evaluations varies with the type of device and the extent of testing required. A typical laboratory test for a simple device requires approximately 40 hours of labour and costs C$2,500 to C$3,000. For some complex devices the total time charged may reach 200 hours.
6. Verification (Conformity Assessment), Inspection and Reverification
6.1 Legal and technical requirements for verification and reverification
6.1.1 Weights and Measures Act
Unless exempted by the Weights and Measures Regulations, a weighing or measuring device intended to be used in trade must be of an approved type and, prior to being sold, must be initially verified by a weights and measures inspector. The device must operate within the appropriate limits of error as prescribed by the Weights and Measures Regulations or ministerial specifications. Devices that need to be installed before an inspection can be performed (e.g., vehicle scales) are verified on site. Others are required to be inspected at the dealer's or manufacturers' premises before they are delivered to customers. Some measuring devices that are used in certain categories of trade (e.g., retail petroleum) must be re-verified within the period of time prescribed in the Weights and Measures Regulations.
6.1.2 Electricity and Gas Inspection Act
6.1.2.1 Initial verification of meters
Before an electricity measuring or gas measuring meter may be placed in service for trade purposes, it must be verified in accordance with meter verification specifications. The purpose of verification is to ensure that meters that are to be placed in service conform to an approved pattern, function properly and have acceptable metrological characteristics.
Various specification documents exist which establish the verification and reverification requirements for electricity and gas meters. The S-S-series (S-S-01, and S-S-03 to S-S-06) specification documents establish the statistical sampling plans and requirements to be used for the verification or reverification or seal period extension of electricity or gas meters.
The verification process involves the following subsequent and distinct steps:
1) The meter is examined for conformance with the relevant notice of approval; and
2) The meter is then inspected to determine whether it meets all performance, mechanical and administrative requirements established for its type.
Meters may be inspected individually (100% inspection) or, where it is possible to form homogeneous lots, through statistical analysis of the inspection results of a representative sample selected from the lot. Each meter inspected is subjected to tests at points throughout its measuring range. A meter which complies with all specified verification requirements provides the utility and its customer with a high degree of confidence that it will operate accurately in service. Verification is normally indicated by either a government seal or an accredited meter verifier seal on the meter, which also serves as a deterrent to tampering. Each meter verification is also accompanied by the issue of a certificate attesting to the meter's status.
eter verifier seal on the meter, which also serves as a deterrent to tampering, Each meter verification is also accompanied by the issue of an certificate attesting to the meter's status.
6.1.2.2 Periodic reverification of meters
Since meter accuracy can deteriorate with usage and time, verification alone is often insufficient to ensure that the standards of measurement are being maintained. Consequently, at periodic intervals throughout a meter's useful life, the meter must be reverified in accordance with meter re-verification specifications.
The purpose of re-verification is to ensure that previously verified meters, after some period of use, continue to operate at an acceptable level. Re-verification is performed in the same manner as verification, through 100% inspection or through sampling inspection. Re-verification can take place at two stages in a meter's life cycle. Formerly verified meters may be removed from service, reworked, recalibrated and then submitted for re-verification. Re-verification may also take place while the meters are still in service, through inspection of a representative sample of meters selected from a homogenous lot. After the sample test results are statistically analyzed, the re-verification interval for meters in the lot may be extended, if warranted. The frequency of meter re-verification is established for each meter type based on past compliance experience. The re-verification interval is set such that there is a high probability that the meter's error will not exceed the error tolerance limits defined in the legislation.
6.1.2.3 Determination and application of measurement uncertainty
Specification document S-S-02 establishes requirements for the determination and use of measurement uncertainty for measurement standards and its use in the evaluation of conformity of meters for pattern approval, verification, reverification, or other inspection purposes, including auditing, monitoring and general enforcement of the legislation. This specification additionally provides guidance on the establishment of specification limits for meter performance characteristics.
6.2 Range of equipment verified and reverified and any statistical information available
Device types inspected under the authority of the Weights and Measures Act
Certain device types or devices used in certain applications are exempted from approval or initial inspection, or both. The following are some examples of device types that fall in this category:
Device types inspected under the authority of the Electricity and Gas Inspection Act
Electricity metering:
Gas metering:
Instrument transformers are tested for approval, but are exempted from verification.
6.3 Fee structure
6.3.1 Weights and Measures Act
Fees for device inspections are charged on the basis of the actual time required to complete the inspections, including the associated travel time plus the cost of any required meals and accommodation. Measurement Canada inspectors charge C$60/hour plus travel and the costs associated with the transportation and utilization of specialized test equipment.
6.3.2 Electricity and Gas Inspection Act
Meter inspections are charged on a fee per meter and/or fee per function basis, in accordance with the fee schedule found in the Electricity and Gas Inspection Regulations and the requirements of bulletin GEN-17.
6.1.1 Weights and Measures Act
Unless exempted by the Weights and Measures Regulations, a weighing or measuring device intended to be used in trade must be of an approved type and, prior to being sold, must be initially verified by a weights and measures inspector. The device must operate within the appropriate limits of error as prescribed by the Weights and Measures Regulations or ministerial specifications. Devices that need to be installed before an inspection can be performed (e.g., vehicle scales) are verified on site. Others are required to be inspected at the dealer's or manufacturers' premises before they are delivered to customers. Some measuring devices that are used in certain categories of trade (e.g., retail petroleum) must be re-verified within the period of time prescribed in the Weights and Measures Regulations.
6.1.2 Electricity and Gas Inspection Act
6.1.2.1 Initial verification of meters
Before an electricity measuring or gas measuring meter may be placed in service for trade purposes, it must be verified in accordance with meter verification specifications. The purpose of verification is to ensure that meters that are to be placed in service conform to an approved pattern, function properly and have acceptable metrological characteristics.
Various specification documents exist which establish the verification and reverification requirements for electricity and gas meters. The S-S-series (S-S-01, and S-S-03 to S-S-06) specification documents establish the statistical sampling plans and requirements to be used for the verification or reverification or seal period extension of electricity or gas meters.
The verification process involves the following subsequent and distinct steps:
1) The meter is examined for conformance with the relevant notice of approval; and
2) The meter is then inspected to determine whether it meets all performance, mechanical and administrative requirements established for its type.
Meters may be inspected individually (100% inspection) or, where it is possible to form homogeneous lots, through statistical analysis of the inspection results of a representative sample selected from the lot. Each meter inspected is subjected to tests at points throughout its measuring range. A meter which complies with all specified verification requirements provides the utility and its customer with a high degree of confidence that it will operate accurately in service. Verification is normally indicated by either a government seal or an accredited meter verifier seal on the meter, which also serves as a deterrent to tampering. Each meter verification is also accompanied by the issue of a certificate attesting to the meter's status.
eter verifier seal on the meter, which also serves as a deterrent to tampering, Each meter verification is also accompanied by the issue of an certificate attesting to the meter's status.
6.1.2.2 Periodic reverification of meters
Since meter accuracy can deteriorate with usage and time, verification alone is often insufficient to ensure that the standards of measurement are being maintained. Consequently, at periodic intervals throughout a meter's useful life, the meter must be reverified in accordance with meter re-verification specifications.
The purpose of re-verification is to ensure that previously verified meters, after some period of use, continue to operate at an acceptable level. Re-verification is performed in the same manner as verification, through 100% inspection or through sampling inspection. Re-verification can take place at two stages in a meter's life cycle. Formerly verified meters may be removed from service, reworked, recalibrated and then submitted for re-verification. Re-verification may also take place while the meters are still in service, through inspection of a representative sample of meters selected from a homogenous lot. After the sample test results are statistically analyzed, the re-verification interval for meters in the lot may be extended, if warranted. The frequency of meter re-verification is established for each meter type based on past compliance experience. The re-verification interval is set such that there is a high probability that the meter's error will not exceed the error tolerance limits defined in the legislation.
6.1.2.3 Determination and application of measurement uncertainty
Specification document S-S-02 establishes requirements for the determination and use of measurement uncertainty for measurement standards and its use in the evaluation of conformity of meters for pattern approval, verification, reverification, or other inspection purposes, including auditing, monitoring and general enforcement of the legislation. This specification additionally provides guidance on the establishment of specification limits for meter performance characteristics.
6.2 Range of equipment verified and reverified and any statistical information available
Device types inspected under the authority of the Weights and Measures Act
- Gasoline, diesel, propane and other motor fuel dispensers
- Loading rack meters and systems for petroleum products and chemicals
- Mass flow meters
- Milk receiving meters and systems
- Retail weighing devices
- Postal scales
- Hopper scales (automatic or non‑automatic), tank scales
- Multiple dimension measuring devices
- Vehicle scales
- Railroad scales (static or in‑motion weighing)
- Belt conveyor scales
- Timber dimensioning measuring devices
- Linear measuring machines
- Automatic weighing machines
Certain device types or devices used in certain applications are exempted from approval or initial inspection, or both. The following are some examples of device types that fall in this category:
- Water meters
- Taxi meters
- Parking meters
- Packing devices
- Milk measuring tanks for farm use
Device types inspected under the authority of the Electricity and Gas Inspection Act
Electricity metering:
- Energy measuring meters, induction-type and static-type (watt-hour, var-hour and volt-ampere-hour)
- Demand measuring meters, induction-type and static-type (watts and volt-amperes)
- Instrument transformers (voltage and current).[1]
- Auxiliary electricity devices
- Pulse initiators
- Pulse recorders
- Transducers (voltage and current)
- Automatic meter reading devices
- Remote registers
- Sub-metering systems
- Energy loss meters, induction-type and static-type (A2/h and V2/hr)
Gas metering:
- Diaphragm-type meters
- Rotary meters
- Turbine meters
- Orifice meters
- Ultrasonic meters
- Domestic ultrasonic meters
- Vortex meters
- Fluidic-oscillation meters
- V-cone meters
- Mass flow meters
- Chart recorders (temperature, pressure, differential pressure)
- Volume conversion devices, mechanical-type (temperature, pressure and supercompressibility)
- Volume conversion devices, electronic-type (temperature, pressure and supercompressibility)
- Pressure regulators (for fixed pressure-factor metering)
- Pulse initiators
- Pulse recorders
- Transducers (temperature, pressure and differential pressure)
- Flow computers
- Chromatographs (gas analyzers)
- Energy density meters
- Relative density meters
- Density meters
- Compressed natural gas dispensers (vehicle fuel)
Instrument transformers are tested for approval, but are exempted from verification.
- Energy density meters
- Relative density meters
- Density meters
- Compressed natural gas dispensers (vehicle fuel)
6.3 Fee structure
6.3.1 Weights and Measures Act
Fees for device inspections are charged on the basis of the actual time required to complete the inspections, including the associated travel time plus the cost of any required meals and accommodation. Measurement Canada inspectors charge C$60/hour plus travel and the costs associated with the transportation and utilization of specialized test equipment.
6.3.2 Electricity and Gas Inspection Act
Meter inspections are charged on a fee per meter and/or fee per function basis, in accordance with the fee schedule found in the Electricity and Gas Inspection Regulations and the requirements of bulletin GEN-17.
7. Accreditation and Certification Systems
USE OF ALTERNATIVE SERVICE DELIVERY MECHANISMS
Alternative service delivery mechanisms are used for many inspection and certification activities traditionally performed by Measurement Canada.
Accreditation and Registration Programs for Device Inspections
Measurement Canada has two programs that permit other organizations to inspect and certify measuring devices under the authority of the Weights and Measures Act or the Electricity and Gas Inspection Act.
The Accreditation Program was launched in 1986 for electricity and gas organizations and was expanded in 1995 to include weights and measures organizations. An accredited organization must document, establish and maintain a quality management system which meets the requirements of Measurement Canada’s accreditation standard S-A-01—Criteria for the Accreditation of Organizations to Perform Inspections Pursuant to the Electricity and Gas Inspection Act and the Weights and Measures Act. These requirements are modeled after the ISO 9001 standard. In addition, technicians in weights and measures accredited organizations must pass mandatory theoretical and practical evaluations.
Organizations accredited by Measurement Canada are not limited in terms of which trade sectors they can offer their inspection services in. An accredited organization can certify any device under the scope of its accreditation regardless of the sector that the device is used in. To ensure compliance, the quality management system established by an accredited organization is subject to an annual surveillance and product audit by Measurement Canada.
The Registration Program was launched for weights and measures organizations in April 2004. This program also authorizes organizations to inspect and certify measuring instruments under the authority of the Weights and Measures Act. Initially, stakeholders in the downstream petroleum sector, including vulnerable parties, asked for the development and implementation of such a program. The Registration Program has since been expanded to include other sectors of the economy. The Registration Program is offered only following a consensus of the stakeholders of a given trade sector. The program scope is limited to the inspection of measurement equipment used in the trade sectors identified in the Registration Program Terms and Conditions. These Terms and Conditions also stipulate the requirements to be met by organizations seeking registration.
Organizations registered by Measurement Canada must have their technicians attend and successfully complete the mandatory Measurement Canada theoretical training. All potential recognized technicians must successfully pass theoretical and practical evaluations by Measurement Canada prior to becoming recognized. In addition, as there is no requirement for the implementation of a quality management system in the Registration Program, there is more frequent Measurement Canada monitoring of recognized technicians working for registered organizations than there is for recognized technicians working for accredited organizations.
Both the Accreditation and Registration Programs are open to organizations in Canada, the United States and Mexico.
Delegation of Authorities Program for Measuring Apparatus and Test Equipment Calibration
In May 2003, Measurement Canada launched a program permitting the calibration by other organizations of certain measuring apparatus and test equipment used under the Electricity and Gas Inspection Act. The present scope of this program applies to the calibration and re-certification of electricity meter calibration consoles and the calibration and certification of pressure, temperature and dimensional standards used in the natural gas sector. Program requirements are established in C-D-01—Conditions for the Delegation of Authorities for the Calibration and Certification of Measuring Apparatus Pursuant to the Electricity and Gas Inspection Act.
Recognition of ISO 17025 Laboratories
Two other more recent alternative service delivery mechanisms exist as follows:
USE OF QUALITY MANAGEMENT PRINCIPLES
Measurement Canada is committed to the use of quality management principles in its program and service delivery. In 2001, Measurement Canada received ISO 9001 (Quality management systems - Requirements) recognition for the delivery of its alternative service delivery programs that authorize private sector organizations to conduct measuring device inspections. This recognition has been maintained since 2001.
Measurement Canada also has ISO 17025 (General requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories) recognition for its natural gas, liquid volume, temperature, mass and electricity calibration programs. The Agency’s calibration laboratory was first accredited by the Standards Council of Canada (SCC) and the Calibration Laboratory Assessment Service (CLAS) from the NRC in 2009 as meeting ISO 17025.
Quality management principles were also applied for the development of administrative monetary penalties (AMPs) processes as part of the Electricity and Gas Inspection Act, the Weights and Measures Act and accompanying regulations.
7.1 Accreditation systems for legal metrology, calibration and testing laboratories. Traceability to national, regional, international or foreign measurement standards
A national accreditation program jointly administered by the SCC and the NRC verifies the competency of calibration laboratories and evaluates their ability to perform accurate measurements within specified ranges of uncertainty.
The SCC has the legal mandate to accredit calibration laboratories, and assesses the administrative, financial and operational quality systems in place through the Program for Accreditation of Laboratories ‑ Canada (PALCAN). The NRC, through the CLAS, assesses the capability of private and government laboratories to perform specified calibrations linked to basic physical standards maintained by the NRC.
In the future, measurements performed by accredited laboratories will, through the North American Calibration Cooperation, be recognized as equivalent to measurements performed by calibration laboratories in the United States and Mexico.
The NRC is responsible for primary standards of physical measurements as established by the Weights and Measures Act and the National Research Council Actand it maintains national standards for all base units and for derived units for which there is a need. Measurement Canada provides a hierarchy of government-owned standards, traceable to NRC primary standards, for use in device and commodity inspections. Other Government of Canada calibration laboratories (e.g., National Defense) which perform calibrations for their operational units in support of their mandate, and accredited calibration laboratories also have measurement standards traceable to NRC primary standards.
7.2 Legal and applied metrological activities in products certification
Measurement Canada only certifies the accuracy of standards and test measures owned by Measurement Canada inspectors or by industry (meter/device manufacturers, accredited or registered meter/device service organizations, utility companies, etc.) that are used for the purpose of verifying and re-verifying meters or devices.
Alternative service delivery mechanisms are used for many inspection and certification activities traditionally performed by Measurement Canada.
Accreditation and Registration Programs for Device Inspections
Measurement Canada has two programs that permit other organizations to inspect and certify measuring devices under the authority of the Weights and Measures Act or the Electricity and Gas Inspection Act.
The Accreditation Program was launched in 1986 for electricity and gas organizations and was expanded in 1995 to include weights and measures organizations. An accredited organization must document, establish and maintain a quality management system which meets the requirements of Measurement Canada’s accreditation standard S-A-01—Criteria for the Accreditation of Organizations to Perform Inspections Pursuant to the Electricity and Gas Inspection Act and the Weights and Measures Act. These requirements are modeled after the ISO 9001 standard. In addition, technicians in weights and measures accredited organizations must pass mandatory theoretical and practical evaluations.
Organizations accredited by Measurement Canada are not limited in terms of which trade sectors they can offer their inspection services in. An accredited organization can certify any device under the scope of its accreditation regardless of the sector that the device is used in. To ensure compliance, the quality management system established by an accredited organization is subject to an annual surveillance and product audit by Measurement Canada.
The Registration Program was launched for weights and measures organizations in April 2004. This program also authorizes organizations to inspect and certify measuring instruments under the authority of the Weights and Measures Act. Initially, stakeholders in the downstream petroleum sector, including vulnerable parties, asked for the development and implementation of such a program. The Registration Program has since been expanded to include other sectors of the economy. The Registration Program is offered only following a consensus of the stakeholders of a given trade sector. The program scope is limited to the inspection of measurement equipment used in the trade sectors identified in the Registration Program Terms and Conditions. These Terms and Conditions also stipulate the requirements to be met by organizations seeking registration.
Organizations registered by Measurement Canada must have their technicians attend and successfully complete the mandatory Measurement Canada theoretical training. All potential recognized technicians must successfully pass theoretical and practical evaluations by Measurement Canada prior to becoming recognized. In addition, as there is no requirement for the implementation of a quality management system in the Registration Program, there is more frequent Measurement Canada monitoring of recognized technicians working for registered organizations than there is for recognized technicians working for accredited organizations.
Both the Accreditation and Registration Programs are open to organizations in Canada, the United States and Mexico.
Delegation of Authorities Program for Measuring Apparatus and Test Equipment Calibration
In May 2003, Measurement Canada launched a program permitting the calibration by other organizations of certain measuring apparatus and test equipment used under the Electricity and Gas Inspection Act. The present scope of this program applies to the calibration and re-certification of electricity meter calibration consoles and the calibration and certification of pressure, temperature and dimensional standards used in the natural gas sector. Program requirements are established in C-D-01—Conditions for the Delegation of Authorities for the Calibration and Certification of Measuring Apparatus Pursuant to the Electricity and Gas Inspection Act.
Recognition of ISO 17025 Laboratories
Two other more recent alternative service delivery mechanisms exist as follows:
- RC-01—Conditions and Administrative Requirements for the Recognition Program of Calibration Results from CLAS Laboratories, which sets out the conditions and requirements to be met by ISO 17025 CLAS laboratories to have their calibration results for mass and temperature standards recognized by Measurement Canada in order to be certified pursuant to the Weights and Measures Act. Section 7.1 below describes the CLAS program.
- RT-01—Conditions and Administrative Requirements for the Recognition of Test Results from ISO 17025 Accredited Test Facilities, which permits the recognition of test results from ISO 17025 accredited test facilities for the testing of previously approved electricity meters which have been modified and are being re-submitted for approval purposes.
USE OF QUALITY MANAGEMENT PRINCIPLES
Measurement Canada is committed to the use of quality management principles in its program and service delivery. In 2001, Measurement Canada received ISO 9001 (Quality management systems - Requirements) recognition for the delivery of its alternative service delivery programs that authorize private sector organizations to conduct measuring device inspections. This recognition has been maintained since 2001.
Measurement Canada also has ISO 17025 (General requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories) recognition for its natural gas, liquid volume, temperature, mass and electricity calibration programs. The Agency’s calibration laboratory was first accredited by the Standards Council of Canada (SCC) and the Calibration Laboratory Assessment Service (CLAS) from the NRC in 2009 as meeting ISO 17025.
Quality management principles were also applied for the development of administrative monetary penalties (AMPs) processes as part of the Electricity and Gas Inspection Act, the Weights and Measures Act and accompanying regulations.
7.1 Accreditation systems for legal metrology, calibration and testing laboratories. Traceability to national, regional, international or foreign measurement standards
A national accreditation program jointly administered by the SCC and the NRC verifies the competency of calibration laboratories and evaluates their ability to perform accurate measurements within specified ranges of uncertainty.
The SCC has the legal mandate to accredit calibration laboratories, and assesses the administrative, financial and operational quality systems in place through the Program for Accreditation of Laboratories ‑ Canada (PALCAN). The NRC, through the CLAS, assesses the capability of private and government laboratories to perform specified calibrations linked to basic physical standards maintained by the NRC.
In the future, measurements performed by accredited laboratories will, through the North American Calibration Cooperation, be recognized as equivalent to measurements performed by calibration laboratories in the United States and Mexico.
The NRC is responsible for primary standards of physical measurements as established by the Weights and Measures Act and the National Research Council Actand it maintains national standards for all base units and for derived units for which there is a need. Measurement Canada provides a hierarchy of government-owned standards, traceable to NRC primary standards, for use in device and commodity inspections. Other Government of Canada calibration laboratories (e.g., National Defense) which perform calibrations for their operational units in support of their mandate, and accredited calibration laboratories also have measurement standards traceable to NRC primary standards.
7.2 Legal and applied metrological activities in products certification
Measurement Canada only certifies the accuracy of standards and test measures owned by Measurement Canada inspectors or by industry (meter/device manufacturers, accredited or registered meter/device service organizations, utility companies, etc.) that are used for the purpose of verifying and re-verifying meters or devices.
8. Legal Metrology Practitioners
8.1 Numbers
Measurement Canada has approximately 280 inspection staff, approvals and calibration technologists, clerical staff, technical support staff and managers involved in the administration of the legal metrology statutes. These employees are located in three regional offices and nine district offices throughout Canada.
8.2 Qualification/training
Prerequisite education for inspectors and technologists includes a two-year or three-year post-secondary school education in a technical field related to metrology (such as electronics or electricity, etc.). All inspectors and technologists then receive in‑house instruction through the Agency’s National Technical Training Program (NTTP).
8.3 Training organizations and courses organised
The NTTP consists of instruction in technical and device theory, legal standards, testing methodologies, equipment and facilities.
8.4 Range of functions
The NTTP consists of six to eight weeks of basic instruction, with refresher training (advanced and specialized) provided as needed.
Measurement Canada has approximately 280 inspection staff, approvals and calibration technologists, clerical staff, technical support staff and managers involved in the administration of the legal metrology statutes. These employees are located in three regional offices and nine district offices throughout Canada.
8.2 Qualification/training
Prerequisite education for inspectors and technologists includes a two-year or three-year post-secondary school education in a technical field related to metrology (such as electronics or electricity, etc.). All inspectors and technologists then receive in‑house instruction through the Agency’s National Technical Training Program (NTTP).
8.3 Training organizations and courses organised
The NTTP consists of instruction in technical and device theory, legal standards, testing methodologies, equipment and facilities.
8.4 Range of functions
The NTTP consists of six to eight weeks of basic instruction, with refresher training (advanced and specialized) provided as needed.
9. Packaging
The Competition Bureau of the federal department of Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada administers the Consumer Packaging and Labeling Act for retail non-food commodities. Regional and local district offices across Canada conduct the inspection of pre-packaged products.
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency administers and enforces the Consumer Packaging and Labeling Act for retail food commodities.
ties.
9.1 Legislative control for packaging
The Weights and Measures Act and Consumer Packaging and Labeling Act require that products and services traded on the basis of measure be measured, priced and labelled accurately. The legislation applies to most trade transactions based on measure, including products sold in bulk, commodities packaged for wholesale and retail sale, and all services provided on the basis of measure (e.g., freight and shipping charges).
9.2 Organization responsible
Measurement Canada and the Competition Bureau of Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency administer and enforce the governing legislation. Measurement Canada is responsible for administering and enforcing packaging requirements for non-retail and bulk commodities.
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency administers and enforces the Consumer Packaging and Labeling Act for retail food commodities.
ties.
9.1 Legislative control for packaging
The Weights and Measures Act and Consumer Packaging and Labeling Act require that products and services traded on the basis of measure be measured, priced and labelled accurately. The legislation applies to most trade transactions based on measure, including products sold in bulk, commodities packaged for wholesale and retail sale, and all services provided on the basis of measure (e.g., freight and shipping charges).
9.2 Organization responsible
Measurement Canada and the Competition Bureau of Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency administer and enforce the governing legislation. Measurement Canada is responsible for administering and enforcing packaging requirements for non-retail and bulk commodities.
10. Sanctions
10.1 Under the Electricity and Gas Inspection Act
Infractions include falsifying certificates and/or meter readings and registrations, meter tampering, intent to mislead or defraud, altering certificates, seals, stamps, labels, tags or markings required under the Act, and stealing stamps, seals and labels. Offences can result in penalties up to a maximum fine of C$50,000 or five years imprisonment for serious infractions.
10.2 Under the Weights and Measures Act
Infractions include importing, selling or using a prohibited device in trade, using a device not installed in accordance with requirements and using a device that does not measure within the limits of error prescribed, adjusting or tampering with vehicle odometers and falsifying the quantity of products and services. Offenses can result in seizure of devices, fines up to C$50,000 and a maximum of two years imprisonment.
10.3 Under the Consumer Packaging and Labeling Act
In addition, AMPs were introduced to provide Measurement Canada with an enforcement tool that encourages compliance with the Acts and Regulations through the application of civil monetary penalties.
10.4 Under the Consumer Packaging and Labeling Act
Infractions include false representation of products and failure to correctly declare the net quantity. Penalties include seizure of goods, a fine of up to C$10,000 and a maximum of one year imprisonment for non-food products and a fine of up to C$250,000 and a maximum of two years imprisonment for food products.
Infractions include falsifying certificates and/or meter readings and registrations, meter tampering, intent to mislead or defraud, altering certificates, seals, stamps, labels, tags or markings required under the Act, and stealing stamps, seals and labels. Offences can result in penalties up to a maximum fine of C$50,000 or five years imprisonment for serious infractions.
10.2 Under the Weights and Measures Act
Infractions include importing, selling or using a prohibited device in trade, using a device not installed in accordance with requirements and using a device that does not measure within the limits of error prescribed, adjusting or tampering with vehicle odometers and falsifying the quantity of products and services. Offenses can result in seizure of devices, fines up to C$50,000 and a maximum of two years imprisonment.
10.3 Under the Consumer Packaging and Labeling Act
In addition, AMPs were introduced to provide Measurement Canada with an enforcement tool that encourages compliance with the Acts and Regulations through the application of civil monetary penalties.
10.4 Under the Consumer Packaging and Labeling Act
Infractions include false representation of products and failure to correctly declare the net quantity. Penalties include seizure of goods, a fine of up to C$10,000 and a maximum of one year imprisonment for non-food products and a fine of up to C$250,000 and a maximum of two years imprisonment for food products.