Section 12, Weights and Measures Act, 2010

12. (1) Subject to the provisions of this section, every weight, measure and instrument for weighing or measuring for use in trade or industry shall be verified and stamped by an Inspector with a stamp of verification, and the Inspector shall issue a certificate of verification at the time of stamping: Marking of weights and measures with denomination. Stamping, verification and issue of certificates. Provided that where the small size of a weight renders it impracticable for the Inspector to stamp it with his stamp of verification, he may on being satisfied with the identity and denomination of such weight, dispense with stamping and issue a certificate of verification. (2) A certificate of verification issued under subsection (1), shall remain in force for such period as may be prescribed and shall during that period authorize the use of the weight, measure or instrument for weighing or measuring in any part of Sierra Leone unless it is unjust. (3) Every person who has in his possession for use for trade or industry any weight, measure or instrument for weighing or measuring shall retain in his possession the certificate of verification issued in respect thereof and shall produce the certificate for inspection whenever required to do so by an Inspector. (4) Every weight, measure and instrument for weighing or measuring which has been stamped and verified under subsection (1), shall be authenticated within such intervals as the Minister may prescribe. (5) The verification and stamping or authentication under this section shall be made by reference to a Working Standard. (6) Where any weight, measure or instrument for weighing or measuring is of such a character as not to be capable of being readily or conveniently brought to an Inspector for the purpose of examination, such Inspector shall upon the written request of the person in possession of the weight, measure or instrument, and on payment by him of the prescribed fees, attend at the premises where it is located and there examine it. (7) An Inspector shall not verify, stamp, certify or authenticate any weight, measure or instrument for weighing or measuring where– (a) it is not in conformity with subsection (1) of section 10 or subsection (2) of section 10; or (b) it presents unusual features which do not conform to such pattern or specifications as the Custodian of Weights and Measures may prescribe generally by notice published in the Gazette; or (c) it contravenes or fails to comply with any of the provisions of this Act or regulations made thereunder.