Overview
The Bureau of Weights and Measures ensures that people and businesses pay fair and accurate prices, as well as protect them from deception. The Bureau achieves this by inspecting and sealing all weighing/ measuring devices, like the scales and scanners at the grocery store or pumps at the gas station. The Bureau also investigates consumer complaints about accuracy. When equipment is failing or inaccurate, the Bureau can issue violations and condemn equipment.
If you suspect that there is faulty or deceptive weighing or measuring equipment, contact the Bureau at 216.664.3388.
Helpful Consumer Information
Gas Pumps
Drivers can make sure they are charged the correct amount based on the posted price by noting the following:
- The posted price on the street sign must be the same as the posted price on the gas pump for the grade and type of service selected (full serve, self-serve, cash/credit).
- Before fueling, dollar and gallon amounts on the pump should be set to zero. The receipt should match the amount indicated on the pump, and motorists should take receipts with them.
- Multiplying the gallons purchased by the price per gallon will ensure that the dispenser is correctly computing the price. This can be done at the station with the gallons indicated on the pump, or with the gallons indicated on the receipt.
- The vehicle tank capacity in a car’s owner’s manual is only an estimate, and gas tanks may hold more than the stated capacity to allow for expansion of fuel in hot weather.
Patrons who have problems with Cleveland gas stations involving incorrect pricing or short volume should call the Bureau of Weights and Measures at 216.664.3388.
Deli Scales
Shoppers can verify that a scale has been tested for accuracy if it features a City of Cleveland Bureau of Weights and Measures approval seal.
The net weight and total price indications should be set at zero before the product is weighed, and the correct price per pound should be entered into the scale. Inspectors check scales for accuracy according to weight.
In over-the-counter sales, the scales and their quantity value indicators must be in plain view of the consumer.
UPC Scanner Systems
Almost every product bears the Universal Product Code (UPC). This symbol, a series of numbers and vertical bars of varying thicknesses, is shorthand for product information. When a cashier passes the UPC symbol over an electronic scanner, a computer decodes the symbol and sends data to the register. The price then appears on the display screen and the printed receipt.
The price charged for the commodity must be the same as the advertised price. Inspectors randomly check items to ensure pricing accuracy in retail establishments.