Traders Urged to Verify Weighing Scales or Face Seizure

3 March 2026, 11:34 am

By Annet Nakato

Traders using weighing scales have been urged to present their equipment for verification and calibration during scheduled inspection camps or risk having them confiscated.

Dianel Arorwa Mananger Market Surveillance Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) say they operate an all year round calendar, moving to different districts to inspect and calibrate weighing scales used in trade.

The exercise ensures that machines remain accurate, as continuous use can cause defects that lead to under measurement.

When a scale is supposed to read one kilogram, overuse may cause inaccuracies, meaning the customer gets less than they paid for,” Arorwa explained.

However, He noted that some traders hide their weighing scales during verification exercises.

UNBS warns that failure to present equipment voluntarily leaves enforcement teams with no option but to seize non compliant scales.

Traders are also reminded to use only approved weighing scales designed for commercial trade.

Handheld or hanging scales are not permitted for retail transactions, as they are prone to manipulation and inaccuracies.

Consumers are encouraged to remain vigilant and insist on proper, approved weighing equipment to avoid being cheated.