As the Chinese New Year approaches on January 29th, the importance of accurate product weight is in the spotlight for many shoppers in Singapore. Inaccurate measurements can lead to customers paying more than they should, as even an additional 50g of certain items like ginseng or sea cucumber can cost up to S$100 more. To combat this issue, shop owners like Ms. Peggy Ho from Sum Khiong Lian Kee Trading are going the extra mile to ensure precise measurements by eliminating any potential factors that could affect the accuracy of their weighing scales.
At Bee Cheng Hiang, a chain known for its bak kwa, or barbecued pork jerky, staff members take precautions like ensuring the weighing machine is placed on a level surface before weighing products. This attention to detail is crucial to prevent any discrepancies in product weight, which could ultimately lead to customers being overcharged.
Enterprises in Singapore are not alone in their efforts to ensure accuracy in product weight. The Weights and Measures Office of Enterprise Singapore (EnterpriseSG) conducts spot checks on weighing instruments at various businesses, including supermarkets, goldsmiths, and hotpot stalls. These inspections are vital to maintaining fairness in transactions and protecting consumers from being misled by inaccurate measurements.
Director of the Weights and Measures Office, Beatrice Wong, emphasizes the importance of renewing accuracy labels to maintain compliance with regulations. Businesses can obtain new accuracy labels or renew old ones through authorized verifiers like KSA Metrology. These verifiers conduct tests to calibrate both digital and traditional scales, ensuring that all areas of the weighing scales are accurate and tamper-proof.
To increase public awareness of the significance of accuracy labels, Ms. Wong’s department has implemented measures like digital posters in the heartlands. Consumers are encouraged to check for valid accuracy labels and scan any QR codes present to verify the authenticity of the weighing instrument. This transparency empowers consumers to make informed decisions and report any suspicions of inaccurate measurements.
In a bustling city like Singapore, where shopping is a way of life, ensuring the accuracy of product weight is not just a matter of fairness but also a reflection of the city’s commitment to consumer protection. By taking proactive steps to verify weighing scales and educate both businesses and consumers, EnterpriseSG is setting a standard for precision and integrity in trade practices. As the Chinese New Year celebrations approach, shoppers can rest assured that their purchases are weighed with care and precision, thanks to the diligence of EnterpriseSG officers and conscientious businesses.
