Chapter II - Standard Weights and Measures
Section 8
Section 8: Standard weight, measure or numeral
A weight or measure is standard only if it conforms to the applicable standard units and section 7 requirements. Section 8 restricts use as a standard and manufacture or import of non-conforming weights or measures, with a stated export/research proviso.
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Need advice on Section 8?
This article is for general information. Refer to the Legal Metrology Act, 2009 official text for the official provisions. If you need professional advice for your situation, contact Bizeneed.
Statutory text
Bare law
(1) Any weight or measure which conforms to the standard unit of such weight or measure and also conforms to such of the provisions of section 7 as are applicable to it shall be the standard weight or measure.
(2) Any numeral which conforms to the provisions of section 6 shall be the standard numeral.
(3) No weight, measure or numeral, other than the standard weight, measure or numeral, shall be used as a standard weight, measure or numeral.
(4) No weight or measure, shall be manufactured or imported unless it conforms to the standards of weight or measure specified under section 8: Provided that provisions of this section shall not apply for manufacture done exclusively for export or for the purpose of any scientific investigation or research.
Introduction
Section 8 distinguishes a conforming standard weight or measure from a non-standard one and bars use of a non-standard item as a standard. It also restricts manufacture or import of a non-conforming weight or measure.
Use sections 5 and 7 for the underlying units and specifications, and section 20 for a separate import rule.
Key takeaways
Scope and trigger
Section 8 distinguishes a conforming standard weight or measure from a non-standard one and bars use of a non-standard item as a standard. It also restricts manufacture or import of a non-conforming weight or measure.
Operational step
Obtain specifications and conformity evidence for the proposed model or standard. If claiming the export or scientific-investigation exception, document the exclusive purpose and segregate the item from ordinary domestic commercial use.
Limit
The proviso is attached to the manufacture restriction and is purpose-limited; it should not be read as a general permission to sell or use a non-standard measuring instrument domestically.
Who and what it covers
Section 8 distinguishes a conforming standard weight or measure from a non-standard one and bars use of a non-standard item as a standard. It also restricts manufacture or import of a non-conforming weight or measure.
Use sections 5 and 7 for the underlying units and specifications, and section 20 for a separate import rule.
How to apply it
Obtain specifications and conformity evidence for the proposed model or standard. If claiming the export or scientific-investigation exception, document the exclusive purpose and segregate the item from ordinary domestic commercial use.
Document conformance before manufacture or import and identify whether the narrow export or scientific-investigation exception applies. Do not treat an untested device as a standard.
Boundary and exceptions
The proviso is attached to the manufacture restriction and is purpose-limited; it should not be read as a general permission to sell or use a non-standard measuring instrument domestically.
Hypothetical example
Hypothetical: a manufacturer builds a non-standard prototype exclusively for scientific research. It records that purpose and checks the section 8 proviso rather than putting the device into commercial service.
Practical preparation
Document conformance before manufacture or import and identify whether the narrow export or scientific-investigation exception applies. Do not treat an untested device as a standard.
Primary sources
The statutory text is drawn from the official Act copy.
Practical checklist
Do
- Obtain evidence that the weight or measure conforms to section 7 and the standard unit.
- Document any claim that manufacture is exclusively for export or scientific investigation or research.
- Keep a research or export prototype out of ordinary commercial use until the applicable standards are met.
Avoid
- Do not treat section 8 as dispensing with its stated conditions, exceptions or prescribed details.
Glossary
- Standard measure
- A measure that meets the applicable statutory standard-unit and section 7 requirements.
- Prescribed
- Set by rules made under the Legal Metrology Act, 2009.
Frequently asked questions
Does the research proviso make a prototype suitable for retail transactions?
No. The proviso concerns the stated manufacture exception; commercial use engages other Act requirements.
Does a supplier’s “calibrated” label alone establish a standard measure?
No. The statutory section 8 conformity requirements must be met.
Need help applying this provision to your situation?
Contact BizeneedLast updated 10 October 2026