Weights and Measures Inspectors Protecting Holiday Travelers this Weekend
Lincoln, Nebr. (PRWEB) May 21, 2014 -- Lincoln, Neb. The National Conference on Weights and Measures (NCWM) reminds Holiday travelers that they can fill up those fuel tanks with confidence this Memorial Day weekend because of the hard work of weights and measures inspectors who test those pumps for accuracy.
Every state has weights and measures inspectors who inspect and seal gasoline pumps along with other commercial weighing and measuring devices. In many states inspections are carried out by county or city inspectors. These inspectors are trained to understand today’s technology and marketing practices in industries that include motor fuels, agricultural products, taxi meters, and the packaging and labeling of consumer products. Many consumers know they get what they pay for, but few know who are actually looking out for them.
When inspecting fuel pumps, inspectors test for accuracy, check for tampering, look for leaks, check that the customer displays are working and are accurate and verify posted price signs. Some states also test fuel quality.
“Most retailers strive for honesty at the pump and depend on weights and measures inspectors to provide them with a level playing field as they compete for business,” said NCWM Chairman John Gaccione, Director of Westchester County Weights and Measures in New York. “The retail gasoline market is extremely competitive. Without accurate and consistent measurement, consumers and honest retailers alike are at a disadvantage.”
Consumers can also protect themselves at the pump by doing the following:
Always check the price per gallon before starting to pump the fuel. Make sure it matches street sign.
Make sure you select the correct blend (regular, midgrade, premium).
Check for cash vs. credit/debit pricing surprises.
Make sure the display reads zero before you open the nozzle.
Check the total price after filling up to make sure it is computed properly.
Consumers should report any problems to the retailer at the time of the transaction and also contact the local weights and measure authority if they believe they are not getting what they pay for. An inspection decal on the dispenser tells which weights and measures agency inspected that pump. NCWM provides contact information for all 50 states on their website at http://www.ncwm.net.
The National Conference on Weights and Measures is a professional nonprofit association of state and local weights and measures officials, federal agencies, manufacturers, retailers and consumers. NCWM has developed national weights and measures standards since 1905. The organization brings the right interests together to keep pace with innovative advancements in the marketplace.
Don Onwiler, NCWM, http://www.ncwm.net, +1 (402) 434-4871, [email protected]
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