Weighbridge Operators Manual - National Measurement Institute
Contents
1. 20 91 accuracy OL MEASUTCMGNLSS 11 5 20 0 2 7 41 21 99 21 111 PREFACE This manual provides guidance on how to operate weighbridges used for trade including public weighbridges It should not be relied upon for legal advice and it does not replace the requirements of the National Measurement Act 1960 and the National Trade Measurement Regulations 2009 If you are in anyway in doubt of your obligations you should seek independent legal advice The significant differences between the fourth and fifth editions of this manual are it includes changes defined in licensing directives up to PW 12 05 check www measurement gov au PWlicensees for more recent directives a table has been added to clause 3 5 that defines allowable deviations for weighbridge approaches worked examples of correctly completed measurement tickets have been added and clauses related to portable and unattended weighbridges measurement tickets for non public weighings and law enforcement by road transport authorities have been deleted The following document2. 5 2 6 6 3 00111 1 5 AD get on 6 65 7 WV C18 Ino FO Ce CU M tocca NS rT tcu eto I ieee 7 W pA ito eR Tc 111 9 3 233 3111111 0 9 6 2 ec ee 9 0 5 Axle 1 11 4 10 Measurement TICK i e ee Mate ect e t ed OU oa en D Malta ud e Ma Rosa eap O M skids 10 7 General Requirements and Guidelines 2202 6 10 7 2 Electronically Generated Measurement Tickets 66 11 do 1 0 12 Ju dndeandsEnd Measurement Tickets coer ee 12 T gt Axle Measurement LICKetS 3 3 3 3331 1 1 13 ERIPUIT T 9 13 oL OMeNCes and Penales vores 2 2 2 2322 13 6 2 rade 7 111 110 13 y Asked i
3. Australian Government National Measurement Institute Weighbridge Operators Manual A Guide for Operators who Conduct Public Weighings 9 Commonwealth of Australia 2008 First edition February 2008 oecond edition September 2008 Third edition December 2010 Fourth edition February 2012 Fifth edition January 2013 National Measurement Institute Bradfield Road Lindfield NSW 2070 PO Box 264 Lindfield NSW 2070 T 612 8467 3600 F 61 2 8467 3610 W www measurement gov au CONTENTS 0 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 111 4 7 1 31 13 7 1 1V rN 1 ET 1 Ie quie Wie tt E Ud obama 3 o Approval and a a oR 0 3 o AIUTO TT 3 71 111111111 3 3 DA 1 7 9 3 0 9 71 3 4 o ME icm 4 35 Electrical and EIeetronic De VICES 5 3 31111 4 CVV CM SC a 110 4 do 2 ene ent iR nc nee en te ne one Une ane ee ee ep ner Tee er 5 4 2 Leo Operation and IndicatiOl isi 1 11 1 2
4. of a vehicle Refer to clause 7 particularly clause 7 5 on how to complete an axle measurement ticket Such tickets may not be used for trade Before weighing ensure the approaches to the weighbridge e have a smooth and level surface e are inthe same horizontal plane as the top of the platform s and e have a clearly indicated perimeter Weighing can only proceed if e the brakes gears etc are not engaged e the suspension of the vehicle is not manipulated e there are no items or mechanisms affecting the measurement the wheels of the axles being weighed are wholly on the platform and e the wheels on all of the axles of the vehicle not being weighed are intside the marked perimeter The following is a suggested method normally used for axle weighing However there are a number of variations that can be used because of different platform lengths axle configurations and wheelbase lengths e Drive the vehicle completely onto the platform and record the total weight of the vehicle weight 1 WEIGHT 1 STEER DRIVE TRAILER e Move the vehicle forward so the steer axle is Just off the platform and on the level approach to minimise inaccuracies the axles which are off the platform should be as close as possible 1 2013 10 of 22 to the platform Record the weight of the drive and trailer axles weight 2 Subtract weight 2 from weight to give the weight on the steer axle i e WE
5. between the frame and the platform is kept free from obstructions AJU O oa Utility Tandem trader 6 vor pr stoor Tri asle Sons gm 4 toad 1 Dog type a ea ength nc meo gt 19 m amp 217m Station Waegon Carnvarn oi 7 MM o nith single point ee den Eum Quad Dog type 3 Length mc mr TU m amp 27 m 8 Do ave type 3 gt oos crit Length inc ood f9m amp 21 sued Dog type 4 ed PO u Length nc ec Pr 7 n Douhle 2 Twin steer Length inc 19 m 21 m rn Dog type 4 Super he 3 Avigth mc 21 1 n ci f B Double e type 2 Single Axle Rigid i Lengt mo badi gt 19 m amp zT Quad Pig type 4 r e Length mnc iw TU m A 21 m Right 2 axted vehicle wah Pig waiter E B Double type L vigth nc Edu nof exceed A Length nc ood 21 m amp 25 a Doubla ype 3 ram gt Length Ano badi 21m lt Special Purpose Vehicle Rigid 3 axied vuhicie wath Pig trailer Length dnc nof anomang 8 m Multi Combination Dosie el y j Cannot exceed 25 meats Tri Azie Rigid Mult Combination articulaind vehicu with dog trailer Tandem Twin Steer Rigid Multi Combination articulated vehicle with 2 dog trailers Cano exceed SI 5 moves Tri Axia Twin Steer
6. end weighing the approaches are within 0 25 of level horizontal measured from the end next to the platform For multi platform weighbridges the dead space if applicable between the platforms of the weighbridge shall be level and in the same plane as each of the platforms See Table 1 for more information on in the same plane 3 6 Platform Each platform of a weighbridge must be composed of concrete steel or other approved material If a weighbridge has more than one platform e the dead space between each platform must not exceed 2 m e each platform must operate in a manner that does not affect the operation of any other platform the upper surface of a platform should be in the same plane as the upper surface of each other platform and a summing indicator must be installed If a weighbridge does not have a pit e the clearance under the lowest live part of the platforms must be at least 150 mm e the floor between load cell supports must be composed of concrete at least 75 mm thick effectively drained and kept free from any accumulation of water mud or debris e the clearance from the external edges of the platform must be wide enough for servicing maintenance and drainage and must be free from obstructions that may interfere with the operation or accuracy of the weighbridge and e the load cell footings must be stable 3 Pit If a weighbridge has one or more pits e each pit en
7. measurement ticket is not altered after a duplicate ticket has been issued Do not remove an original or unused measurement ticket from the book pad When a mistake 1s made completing a measurement ticket cancel the ticket and retain all copies of the ticket Issue a new ticket to replace the cancelled ticket Providing any required fee 1s paid you must provide a copy of a previously issued measurement ticket to an interested party within the preservation period If a duplicate is not available either e take a photocopy of the original measurement ticket and clearly mark it as a CODy Or copy the information from the original measurement ticket onto the next ticket in the book and strike out the ticket number and write the words copy of ticket no quoting the number of the original ticket Maintain client confidentiality of the information on the measurement tickets Retain all used original measurement tickets all copies of any cancelled tickets and any unissued copies of the measurement ticket in the book or system for at least 3 years from the date of issue Note Other legislation may require a longer preservation period Ensure measurement tickets are kept 1 an accessible but secure location Blank and incomplete tickets left inappropriately may lead to fraudulent activities Measurement tickets can incorporate other business information and may be a tax invoice 7 2 Electronically Gen
8. of the axles not being weighed are inside the marked perimeter 1 2013 The following method could be used for end and end measurement of a semi trailer 1 Position the prime mover on the platform so the trailer axles are as close as possible to the platform on the level approach 2 Record the weight of the prime mover weight 1 3 Move the vehicle forward so the trailer axles are on the platform Ensure the prime mover axles are as close as possible to the platform on the level approach 4 Record the weight of the trailer axles weight 2 5 To determine the total weight add weight and weight 2 together Example Tare mass prime mover 566 JVN 6 90t Tare mass trailer QBB 932 7 19t Gross mass prime mover 566 JVN 17 10 1 Gross mass of trailer QBB 932 19 01 t 1 Add the tare mass of the prime mover and trailer together to obtain the total tare mass 6 90 t 7 19 t 14 09 t 2 Record this mass on the measurement ticket 3 Add the gross mass of the prime mover and trailer together to obtain the total gross mass 17 10 t 19 01 t 36 11 t 4 Record this mass on the measurement ticket 5 Subtract the total tare mass from the total gross mass to obtain the net mass of the load 36 11 t 14 09 t 22 02 t 9 of 22 Weighbridge Operators Manual v5 0 6 3 Axle Load Measurement Axle load measurements are made to determine the mass supported by separate axles or groups of axles
9. rules the driver may be required to stay in the vehicle 4 Weigh the loaded or unloaded vehicle Record the gross or tare mass on the measurement ticket as soon as the weighing 1s completed 5 Once the vehicle returns weigh the unloaded or loaded vehicle Ensure the tare or gross mass 1s included on the measurement ticket as soon as the weighing is completed Weighbridge Operators Manual v5 0 6 Toobtain the net mass subtract the tare 5 When tare and gross measurements are mass from the gross mass Record the made the operation generally occurs net mass on the measurement ticket within 24 hours Notes 6 Tare only and gross only measurement must not be stored for more than 24 1 Always determine measurements with appropriate care hours 7 Registration numbers must be recorded and it 15 good practice to record the configuration of the vehicle s refer to the chart below This 1s to ensure the tare and gross masses recorded are identified for the same vehicle and the vehicle configuration has not changed between measurements VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION Tandem asio Semi Quad Dog type 1 Leongth Ore 79 Length Ano ia lt 19 m e cow v Semi Tri CarfTrailer Quad Dog type 2 Langh fem Au Levigth me koi T9 m amp 2T en 2 Never use a weighbridge in conditions which affect its performance 3 Always keep the platform clean 4 Make sure the space
10. 15 00 Net mass 13 7 2011 4 25 pm Tare mass only Note When weighing a vehicle to determine the tare mass for the purposes of registration an operator must issue the appropriate tare mass only measurement ticket 7 3 2 Gross Mass Only Measurement When only the gross mass of a vehicle is required you must clearly indicate it is a gross mass measurement by for example crossing out the words tare mass and net mass and writing gross mass only in the blank spaces provided for those measurements You may also mark GROSS 1 2013 12 of 22 MASS ONLY across the face of the measurement ticket Date and time 12 8 2011 10 00 am Tonnes including decimals Gross mass 42 40 care mass Gross mass only Net mass Gross mass only 7 3 3 Net Mass Measurement When the net mass of a vehicle is required record the two measurement activities in the order they occur Record the tare mass and the gross mass in the appropriate spaces on the same measurement ticket Subtract tare mass from gross mass and record the result in the net mass space Date and time 12 9 2011 4 35 pm 12 9 2011 3 15 pm Tonnes including decimals Gross mass 42 40 Tare mass 15 00 Net mass 27 40 The tare and gross measurements must be made and recorded within 24 hours of one another When a net mass measurement is requested but the second measurement is made between 24 and 72 hours of the first meas
11. IGHT 2 DRIVE TRAILER e Move the vehicle forward again until the drive axles are just off the platform with the prime mover on the level approach Record the weight of the trailer axles weight 3 Le WEIGHT 3 TRAILER e Subtract weight 3 from weight 2 to determine the weight on the drive axle e Where approaches are sufficiently long the measurements may be determined by advancing the truck onto the weighbridge platform by one axle axle group at a time 7 MEASUREMENT TICKETS 7 1 General Requirements and Guidelines Refer to Regulations 3 26 to 3 36 of the National Trade Measurement Regulations for the minimum requirements for completing measurement tickets Ensure your tickets comply with the directives published after PW 12 05 on www measurement gov au PWlicensees Complete measurement tickets in the appropriate form for the measurement made namely e direct measurement tare gross and net see clause 7 3 e end and end measurement tare gross and net see clause 7 4 and axle load measurement see clause 7 5 Weighbridge Operators Manual v5 0 Use the same unit of measurement as the indicator of the weighbridge kilograms or tonnes Issue measurement tickets from a bound book or pad of tickets or generate them electronically A bound book or pad may contain more than one copy of each original ticket Issue measurement tickets in numerical order from within the same book Fa
12. Rigid 1 2013 8 of 22 Weighbridge Operators Manual v5 0 6 WEIGHING METHODS 6 1 Direct Measurement Direct measurement is used when the vehicle fits on the platform it is the most accurate weighing method and must be used whenever possible Direct measurement is a single operation namely the vehicle has all wheels of all axles on one or more platforms of the weighbridge at all times 6 2 End and End Measurement End and end measurement is used when it is not possible to determine the mass of a vehicle by direct measurement because the entire vehicle does not fit onto the platform s As a result two measurements have to be determined one for the front and the other for the rear of the vehicle End and end measurement may only be performed on a weighbridge that has suitable approaches and is permitted to perform such measurements Refer to clause 7 particularly clause 7 4 on how to complete an end and end measurement ticket Before weighing ensure the approaches to the weighbridge e have a smooth and level surface are inthe same plane as the top of the platform s see clause 3 5 and e have a clearly indicated perimeter Weighing can only proceed if e the brakes gears etc are not engaged e the suspension of the vehicle is not manipulated e there are no items or mechanisms affecting the measurement e the wheels of the axles being weighed are wholly on the platform and e all the wheels
13. ass only have the axle weights totalled or have all the axles bracketed together with one total mass shown What if I don t have the correct axle measurement tickets Could I use direct measurement tickets and alter them to suit No You are not permitted to carry out weighing of axles unless you use the correctly formatted axle measurement tickets Weighbridge Operators Manual v5 0
14. atform s 1s clean Ensure the space between the platform s and the approaches or surround frame is free from obstructions Ensure there is no debris on or under the platform s Ensure the pit 1f applicable is clean the pump if required is working and the pit does not contain a build up of water mud or debris Before every weighing operation ensure the weighbridge indicator is at zero or the steelyard is in balance What must I do if I know or have reason to believe my weighbridge is incorrect Immediately stop using your weighbridge and contact a weighbridge repair servicing company urgently If an operator issues a measurement ticket using a weighbridge which he she knows or believes to be incorrect the operator commits a breach of measurement legislation In the case of a public weighbridge the operator must immediately advise NMI that the weighbridge is out of use What action must I take if the load to be weighed is too heavy for the weighbridge or is too wide or too long to fit on the platform Refuse to weigh the load and refer the person to a larger weighbridge However it may be possible to carry out an end and end measurement if the weighbridge is permitted to be used for this purpose It may also be possible to weigh the vehicle by unhooking the trailer and weighing the truck and trailer separately and completing separate tickets for each part 1 2013 20 of 22 Can I conduct an end and end measurement on a s
15. ber PW 0742 Registration number s of the vehicle s WSD 991 NBC743 ALD337 Axle number Tonnes front to rear including decimals 5 22 You must bracket axles which are weighed together MASSES SHOWN ON THIS TICKET MAY NOT BE USED FOR TRADE Operator s name Hamid Al Shazar Operator s signature Date ticket issued On 10 October 2012 Rodney James drives his loaded truck consisting of a prime mover and two trailers to the public weighbridge at 457 Junction Road White Hill WA 6152 The prime mover registration number is WSD 991 and registration number of the first trailer is NBC743 and the second trailer is ALD337 Rodney requests an axle measurement which this weighbridge is suitable to conduct Operator Hamid Al Shazar e weighs the different axles and groups of axles the weights are shown on the diagram below e calculates the weights for each axle axle group records them on the ticket and brackets those axle groups weighed or calculated together 21 08 t 25 38 t 12 62 t Figure 6 Worked example of an axle measurement ticket 1 2013 19 of 22 Weighbridge Operators Manual v5 0 9 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS 9 1 Accuracy of Measurements Do I need to check the accuracy of my weighbridge on a regular basis Yes as part of your quality system simple tests should be carried out on a regular basis As an operator what checks must I do to ensure the weighbridge is operating correctly Check the pl
16. capacity on both your weighbridge and another verified weighbridge After making allowance for the weight of fuel used 10 L of diesel has a weight of about 8 3 kg compare the indications The difference should not exceed two scale intervals 4 5 2 Comparison Check B Weigh a test object and compare the indication with the known mass of the test object 1 e the mass determined directly after verification The difference should not exceed one scale interval Test objects should be atleast one third the capacity of the weighbridge although other suitable capacities may be used and e retained solely as a test object and not be subject to weight change 5 WEIGHING PROCEDURE Generally a weighbridge is used to determine the weight of goods being carried or to determine the load on each axle to ensure the vehicle 1s not overloaded before travelling on a public road Fees for the use of a weighbridge are not prescribed by legislation At the beginning of each shift visually inspect the weighbridge to ensure it 1s 1 good working order see clause 4 1 Before each measurement make sure the weighbridge indicates zero see clause 4 2 Weigh the vehicle using the appropriate weighing method When the vehicle fits on the platform you must use direct measurement clause 6 1 otherwise use end and end measurement clause 6 2 Use axle measurement clause 6 3 to determine the load on each axle or axle group N
17. emi trailer on my weighbridge because the unit is too long to fit on the platform or too heavy when weighed as a total unit Yes providing your weighbridge is permitted for end and end measurement see above and the approaches can accommodate the length of the semitrailer not on the platform Are there any precautions I should take when weighing in wet weather Be aware that an accumulation of water and mud on the platform under the platform or in the pit may require adjustment to zero balance Also be aware the stored tare mass of the vehicle could change due to the accumulation of water and or mud This may require tare masses to be determined more often Can a person leaning on a vehicle being weighed affect the weight Yes The person adds mass to the measurement Unless prohibited for occupational health and safety reasons the driver and any passengers should get out of the vehicle and stand clear of the platform When weighing sand gravel or grain trucks etc continuously am I allowed to store the tare mass of the vehicle in my computer system Stored tare masses should not be used unless you can guarantee they are correct The use of stored tare masses could result in incorrect net weights particularly if fuel usage is considerable or if the tare mass is changed through the removal of spare tyres gates and tarps The onus is on the public weighbridge licensee or operator to ensure all measurements or net weight calc
18. end weighing and completes the ticket 5313 13 sle Weighbridge platform Defined approach Gross mass 33 02 1 Tare mass 15 90 t Defined approach Weig hbridge platform Gross mass 29 78 1 Tare mass 8 72 t Figure 4 Worked example of an end and end measurement ticket 17 of 22 Weighbridge Operators Manual v5 0 TICKET NOTES Identify tickets as an original or a copy Original tickets must be kept for 3 years Issue copy of ticket to customer Company logo and details Tickets shall be numbered and issued in sequence OPTIONAL Company logo and trading details This can include information required for a tax invoice like an ABN The licence number and name shall match that displayed on the public weighbridge licence Use the unit of measurement on the indicator either kilograms or tonnes Use enough rows to accomodate the expected number of axles to be weighed Text must be atleast 4 mm high The operator s name shall be registered against the public weighbridge licence The use of operator s ID on printed copies of electronic tickets is acceptable OPTIONAL Payment details example Figure 5 An approved form of an axle measurement ticket 1 2013 18 of 22 Weighbridge Operators Manual v5 0 AXLE MEASUREMENT TICKET ORIGINAL Ticket number 0044 1 National Measurement Act 1960 National Trade Measurement Regulations 2009 Division 3 2 Public Weighbridge Licence Num
19. erated Measurement Tickets If the weighbridge is fitted with a ticket printer check the printed measurement ticket reproduces the exact figures shown on the indicator If it does not either the ticket printer is faulty or the computer software may not have been programmed Weighbridge Operators Manual v5 0 correctly The weighbridge must not be used until repaired or corrected The requirements for printers connected to a weighbridge that simply reproduce information shown on the indicator are given in general supplementary certificates S1 0 A and S1 0B Computerised ticketing systems that store information or perform calculations shall be approved by NMI and verified T 3 Direct Measurement Tickets Direct measurement tickets can be used to record e tare mass only see clause 7 3 1 e gross mass only see clause 7 3 2 and e net mass see clause 7 3 3 See Figure 1 for an example of the approved form of a direct measurement ticket and Figure 2 for a worked example 7 3 4 Tare Mass Only Measurement When only the tare unloaded mass of a vehicle is required you must clearly indicate it is a tare mass measurement by for example crossing out the words gross mass and net mass and writing tare mass only in the blank spaces provided for those measurements You may also mark TARE MASS ONLY across the face of the ticket Date and time Tonnes including decimals Grossmass Tare mass only Taremass
20. every 12 months Additionally the onus is on the weighbridge owner operator to ensure their weighbridge measures accurately at all times As a result owners operators should regularly test their weighbridges themselves or engage servicing licensees to do so 1 2013 21 of 22 9 3 Public Weighbridges Who may apply for a public weighbridge licence Individuals partnerships and companies who are able to satisfy the legal requirements and are over 18 may apply for a public weighbridge licence When licensed they are known as public weighbridge licensees What are the display requirements for a public weighbridge You must clearly display a sign which is marked in clear and contrasting lettering at least 100 mm high with the words and figures public weighbridge no showing the registration licence number of the weighbridge Who is responsible for operating the public weighbridge correctly The public weighbridge licensee contractor and the operator are responsible for the day to day operation of the public weighbridge However the public weighbridge licensee 1s responsible for employing competent operators and making them aware of the conditions set out in the legislation Who is permitted to conduct public weighings Only the public weighbridge licensee contractor and their employee s who are competent to do so What documentation is required at a public weighbridge The public weighbridge lice
21. ge that measures a weight or force applied to it and sends an electronic signal to the indicator to display the weight A weighbridge may incorporate several load cells Mass The amount of matter of an object regardless of location in simple terms the weight e Gross mass is the mass of the vehicle including the load e Tare mass is the mass of the vehicle prior to being loaded e Net mass is the result of the subtraction of the tare mass from the gross mass Maximum Permissible Error MPE Maximum difference positive or negative allowed by regulation between the indication of an instrument and the corresponding true value as determined using appropriate reference standards Measurement Ticket Measurement tickets are issued for measurements made at public weighbridges Includes original and copy tickets There are three types of tickets e direct measurement tickets e end and end measurement tickets and e axle load measurement tickets 1 2013 2 of 22 Both direct and end and end measurement tickets can be used to record three different types of measurement information e gross mass only e tare mass only and e net mass Non public Weighing See clause 1 Operator The person who personally determines the measurement of a vehicle or goods by use of a weighbridge Platform The part of a weighbridge intended to receive the load Preservation Period Three years from the date of issue or cance
22. has enough room to move on and off the weighbridge without having to turn on any platform any indicating or visual summing device is protected from wind and rain e water mud or debris does not accumulate on or under a platform or in the pit and e vehicles must be able to move on and off the weighbridge without having to reverse 3 4 Visibility An operator must have a clear view of each platform and the measurement displayed on the indicator without moving from their normal operating position The driver of a vehicle being weighed should have a clear view of the indicator 3 5 Approach An approach to a weighbridge must e have a hard true and durable surface of concrete or another approved material e have the perimeters of the level approaches clearly indicated by painted marks or other approved means e be arranged so drainage from the surface of the approach does not flow into the pit and be in the same plane as the platform for a minimum distance of 3 m if the platform is less than 18 m or 1 m if the platform is 18 m or more may need to be longer for end and end and axle measurements The approach is in the same plane as the platform if Weighbridge Operators Manual v5 0 e for weighbridges not used for end and end weighing the whole of the surface of the approach is within 2 of level horizontal measured from the end next to the platform e for weighbridges used for end and
23. if direct measurement is not feasible 8 LAW ENFORCEMENT 8 1 Offences and Penalties Failure to comply with legislative requirements may result 1 a financial penalty for the operator and or public weighbridge licensee Typical offences include using a weighbridge whichis not verified e whichis not accurate in an unjust manner e g not on Zero at start of the measurement operation e to weigh a mass greater than the maximum capacity of the weighbridge 1n a single measurement e whichis not clean and e when the approaches are unsuitable The following offences only apply to public weighbridges e conducting public weighings without obtaining a licence from NMI e engaging in fraudulent activities 1 2013 13 of 22 e failure to notify NMI within 14 days of change of address of licensee names and addresses of new operators and contractors and last date of employment of ex operators and ex contractors e failure to keep unloaded weighbridge indication at zero e failure to keep original measurement tickets 1 a book or filing system or electronically during the preservation period e failure to complete measurement tickets in numerical order e carrying out end and end measurement when the measurement can be performed in a single operation or when the weighbridge is not approved for such measurement e failure to produce a measurement ticket to a relevant person d
24. ithfully reproduce the exact value and units of measurement indicated by the weighbridge on the measurement ticket Do not include extra zeros or move the decimal point Some vehicles have a tare mass marked on the vehicle This must not be used as it 1s only an indication of what the vehicle weighed when registered over time tare mass may vary due to wear and tear and modifications made to the vehicle Ensure the time and date of each measurement is completed Enter all registration numbers for separately registered vehicles which are weighed in combination on the same measurement ticket If unregistered use any relevant information such as the VIN engine chassis or manufacturer s number Never leave a blank space on a measurement ticket Every line on the ticket must be completed unless the line is not applicable mark with a line or N A Enter additional information in the margin at the foot or on the back of the measurement ticket not on the ticket itself Such information should be consistent with and should not qualify the meaning or accuracy of the information on the measurement ticket Retain original measurement tickets and only issue duplicate tickets Issue a measurement ticket immediately after its completion except if cancelled or when waiting for a net weight to be completed Ensure duplicate measurement tickets are an exact copy of the original ticket 1 2013 11 of 22 Ensure the original
25. llation of a measurement ticket issued for a public weighbridge Public Weighing See clause 1 Scale Interval The difference between the scale values corresponding to two successive scale marks or indications of a digital indicator Vehicle Includes a vessel aircraft or any other means of conveying persons or goods Verification Mark An inspector s mark the mark allotted to a trade measurement inspector or a servicing licensee s mark the mark approved for use by or on behalf of a servicing licensee in verifying measuring instruments Verifier A person permitted to verify a measuring instrument namely a trade measurement inspector a servicing licensee or an authorised employee of a servicing licensee Weighbridge A measuring instrument of a capacity of 3 tor more which has one or more platforms capable of determining the mass of a vehicle or of livestock Weighbridge Operators Manual v5 0 3 WEIGHBRIDGE REQUIREMENTS 3 1 Approval and Verification Weighbridges used for trade must first be pattern approved and then tested by a verifier in accordance with the requirements in NITP 6 1 to 6 4 National Instrument Test Procedures for Non automatic Weighing Instruments to ensure e they measure to within the maximum permissible errors specified in the National Trade Measurement Regulations e they comply with their certificate of approval and they comply with the requirements of National Trade Measuremen
26. nly measurement ticket Then issue a separate tare mass only measurement ticket dated today You are entitled to charge the appropriate fees for the separate measurements Gross mass only and tare mass only measurement tickets can be issued up to 72 hours after the initial measurement After 72 hours the measurement ticket must be cancelled 1 2013 22 of 22 Can I determine the weight of a caravan while it is connected to a tow vehicle No To correctly weigh the caravan you should place the caravan centrally on the platform uncouple it from the towing vehicle then remove the towing vehicle from the platform A caravan company has eight similar caravans to weigh Can I issue eight tare mass tickets for them by just weighing one No Because there may be slight variations in the construction and materials used you must weigh each one individually Am I correct in telling drivers that the axle masses I determine for them are for their own purposes e g to check for overloading and cannot be used for trade Yes Axle masses cannot be used for trade transactions Any axle measurement tickets must be in the approved format and be marked masses shown on this ticket are not suitable for trade These tickets must never be endorsed nor bear any additional markings which could indicate they are a prescribed measurement ticket to be used for trade They must never be marked gross mass only tare m
27. nsee 1s responsible for obtaining and making available measurement tickets in the appropriate approved format Do operators need to be aware of the conditions of a public weighbridge licence Yes operators must be able to understand the conditions of the public weighbridge licence that affect their duties Weighbridge Operators Manual v5 0 What fees can I charge customers for public weighing The fees charged for public weighing are not regulated Every business can make its own commercial decisions with regard to fees If I don t charge the public a fee for conducting measurements on a weighbridge is it still public weighing Yes it is public weighing whenever a vehicle is weighed for a member of the public a third party unless specifically exempt Can I use end and end measurement to weigh produce for the public weighbridge licensee s grain store Yes provided the weighbridge is permitted to conduct end and end measurement NMI approval 1s only required for trade weighbridges where the weighbridge wasn t previously permitted to end and end weigh under state legislation Can I issue a net mass measurement ticket to a driver who gross weighed a vehicle 2 days ago and has returned today to determine the tare mass No The vehicle must be reweighed within 24 hours of the first measurement What can I do in these circumstances Complete and issue the measurement ticket initiated 2 days ago as a gross mass o
28. ote End and end measurement may only take place on weighbridges permitted to conduct such measurements 1 2013 7 of 22 Complete the measurement ticket in an approved form in numerical order with appropriate care and as soon as practicable after making the measurement For more information see clause 7 To ensure the weighbridge is weighing accurately at all times conduct regular accuracy checks see clauses 4 2 to 4 5 When it is suspected a weighbridge will produce an incorrect measurement withdraw the weighbridge from use until it is repaired tested and marked with a verification mark by an authorised verifier clause 3 1 If it cannot be repaired the public weighbridge licensee must inform NMI The following basic procedure is good practice for determining the net weight of a load on a vehicle 1 Instruct the driver to approach the weighbridge slowly and to proceed directly onto the platform without turning or harshly applying brakes 2 Ensure the vehicle is completely on the platform Ensure no tyres are rubbing against anything because this will produce inaccurate results 3 Unless prohibited for occupational health and safety reasons ask the driver and any passengers to get out of the vehicle and off the platform It may not be the same driver or the passengers could be missing when the vehicle returns This 1s the appropriate procedure for trade transactions however for law enforcement of road
29. r example on a weighbridge with a scale interval of 20 kg a forklift that indicates 5 960 kg in the centre of the platform is placed over the four load bearing points Indications ranging between 5 940 and 5 960 kg or 5 960 and 5 980 kg are considered acceptable However indications less than 5 940 or more than 5 980 kg are not acceptable Weighbridge Operators Manual v5 0 Weighbridge Checklist W etPlibridee ToC AU ON s soeur 3 11111 1 Operator s RU IRR ees E VES AUS ERU PEN E Ve UH aede Date of Check 5 s Visual Inspection clause 4 1 Is the pit pump operational yes no na Is the weighbridge in good condition yes no Are the weighbridge approaches smooth level and in good condition and are the yes no perimeters clearly marked Are any dial and unit weight mechanisms in good working condition yes no na Do additional indicating devices work and repeat the indication exactly yes no na Is the indicator set to zero yes no Check Results Zero tracking check clause 4 3 O Pass O Fail O N A Eccentricity check clause 4 4 O Pass O Fail O N A Comparison check A clause 4 5 1 Difference between measurements of the same mass on O Pass O Fail O N A two different weighbridges Comparison check B clause 4 5 2 1 2013 6 of 22 Weighbridge Operators Manual v5 0 4 5 Comparison Check 4 5 1 Comparison Check A Use the direct measurement method see clause 6 1 to weigh a load of 50 to 7096 of the
30. s referred to in this manual may be downloaded from here or our website www measurement gov au General Supplementary Certificate of Approval 1 0 A Electronic Indicating and Printing Devices for Measuring Instruments General Supplementary Certificate of Approval S1 0B Electronic Indicating Summing or Printing Devices which are Interfaced and Auxiliary to an Approved Measuring Instrument National Measurement Act 1960 Cth National Measurement Regulations 1999 Cth National Trade Measurement Regulations 2009 Cth General Information for Test Procedures and NITP 6 1 to 6 4 National Instrument Test Procedures for Non automatic Weighing Instruments 1V 1 INTRODUCTION This manual provides guidance on how to operate weighbridges used for trade including public weighbridges in compliance with the National Measurement Act and the National Trade Measurement Regulations A weighbridge is used for trade when it is used or made available for others to use to buy or sell goods to determine freight costs or other charges based on weight or to determine a tax A public weighbridge is defined in the National Measurement Act as a weighbridge that e is open for use by or on behalf of the public and e is available for use for a charge A public weighing occurs when a weighbridge is made available in either of the two circumstances stated above without a prior contractual arrangement between the controller of the
31. st ensure the indicator 1s at zero or the steelyard is in balance before the vehicle drives onto the platform Always zero balance the weighbridge in accordance with the manufacturer s instructions The operator should also observe the indicator after the vehicle has left the platform to ensure it returns to zero balance During wet weather it is important to check the zero balance frequently to allow for the accumulation of water on the platform 4 3 Zero Tracking A weighbridge with zero tracking will automatically return to zero if the amount left on the platform does not exceed half a scale interval This can be up to 10 kg on a weighbridge with 20 kg scale intervals However if sufficient debris 1s allowed to build up on the platform the weighbridge will not return to zero balance and the platform will need to be cleaned in order for the weighbridge to return to zero balance 4 4 Eccentricity The eccentricity check is designed to ensure the weighbridge weighs the same regardless of where the load is placed on the platform To complete this check e Place a forklift 5 to 6 t in the centre of the platform and note the reading e Progressively place the forklift over the load bearing points knife edges or load cells until all load bearing points have been tested Record the indications in each position It 1s good practice to ensure there is no more than one scale interval variation between all the indications Fo
32. surement on the indicator either kilograms or tonnes Text must be at least 4 mm high The operator s name shall be registered against the public weighbridge licence The use of operator s ID on printed copies of electronic tickets is acceptable OPTIONAL Payment details example Figure 3 An approved form of an end and end measurement ticket 1 2013 16 of 22 Weighbridge Operators Manual v5 0 1 2013 END AND END MEASUREMENT TICKET ORIGINAL Ticket number 00832 National Measurement Act 1960 National Trade Measurement Regulations 2009 Division 3 2 Public Weighbridge Licence Number PW 0742 Registration number s of the vehicle s NMI 195 TMS013 TMC 007 Details of goods weighed Tonnes including decimals 33 02 2978 62 80 28 9 2012 11 35 am 15 90 24 62 29 9 2012 9 15 am THE ACCURACY OF THE WEIGHING IS NOT GUARANTEED Operator s name Alison Jones Operator s signature Date ticket issued A truck driven by Norah Abbot carrying sheep arrives at the public weighbridge at 457 Junction Road White Hill WA 6152 at 11 35 am on 28 September 2012 The prime mover registration number is NMI 195 registration number of the first trailer is TMS 013 and the second trailer is TMC 007 weighbridge operator is Alison Jones and weighbridge is permitted to conduct end and end weighing At 9 15 am the next day Norah returns with the empty vehicle to the weighbridge where Alison completes another end and
33. t Regulations A verification mark 15 applied to weigh bridges which meet these requirements Verification marks must contain the following information e the code identification for the verifier e g ABCO123 which is comprised of the servicing licensee mark e g ABC or inspector s mark NMI followed by a four digit verifier verification number e g 0123 e the month code on which the mark was made A Jan B Feb etc and e the year code on which the mark was made 0 first year of decade 9 last year of decade Here is an example of a completed label bearing a verification mark INSTRUMENT VERIFIED UNDER THE NATIONAL MEASUREMENT ACT 1960 ABC0123 A 0 Public weighbridges must be re verified every 12 months If a public weighbridge fails re verification the verifier will remove the verification mark and advise the operator the weighbridge may not be used for any weighing public or non public Once repaired the weighbridge must be re tested and re verified before it can be used for trade 1 2013 3 of 22 3 2 Display Sign At public weighbridges there must be a sign displayed in a prominent position which identifies the weighbridge as a public weighbridge and includes its public weighbridge licence number The sign must be easy to read each letter and number must be at least 100 mm high and contrast with the background colour 3 3 Location A weighbridge must be located so avehicle
34. t on the indicator either kilograms or tonnes The operator s name shall be registered against the public weighbridge licence The use of operator s ID on printed copies of electronic ticket is acceptable OPTIONAL Payment details example Figure 1 An approved form of a direct measurement ticket 1 2013 14 of 22 Weighbridge Operators Manual v5 0 On 2 October 2012 Simon Ng of SouthWest Abattoirs drives his unloaded truck and trailer to the public weighbridge at 457 Junction Road White Hill WA 6152 The truck registration number is QNX 587 and the trailer registration is OSM 129 At 3 27 pm his vehicle is weighed in a single operation by operator Alex Haines The weight of the truck and trailer is 16 52 t At 4 45 pm he returns fully loaded with meat The meat is being delivered to Joe s Butchery Alex Haines determines the weight of the loaded vehicle to be 44 80 t Figure 2 Worked example of a direct measurement ticket 1 2013 15 of 22 Weighbridge Operators Manual v5 0 TICKET NOTES Identify tickets as an original or a copy Original tickets shall be kept Company logo for 3 years Issue copy of ticket to and details customer Tickets shall be numbered and issued in sequence OPTIONAL Company logo and trading details This can include information required for a tax invoice like an ABN The licence number and name shall match that displayed on the public weighbridge licence Use the unit of mea
35. trance must be covered e each part of the underwork must be freely accessible and e pits must be kept free from any accumulation of water mud or debris and be free draining or be provided with automatic mechanical drainage 3 8 Electrical and Electronic Devices If a weighbridge is equipped with electrical or electronic devices they must be protected from electrical and electronic interference and the rays of the sun Also the load cell data plate must be accessible so it may be read with ease 4 CHECKING A WEIGHBRIDGE The operator must make sure the weighbridge always operates correctly and advise the public weighbridge licensee whenever there is a problem To achieve this an operator should e visually inspect the weighbridge at the beginning of each shift see clause 4 1 e conduct regular checks which might indicate a problem with weighbridge accuracy see clauses 4 2 to 4 5 and e monitor performance keep records of the tare mass of specific vehicles and report unexplained variations in mass Results can be recorded on the checklist Table 1 Defining level for weighbridge approaches Distance from end of weighbridge m Maximum deviation for 0 25 mm Maximum deviation for 34 0 69 8 104 8 139 7 174 6 209 5 2444 279 4 314 3 3492 2 0 mm 1 2013 4 of 22 Weighbridge Operators Manual v5 0 When it is suspected a weighbridge will produce an incorrect measurement
36. ulations are correct Remember for public weighing there is a 24 hour limit for stored tare only and gross only masses Weighbridge Operators Manual v5 0 9 2 Weighbridges used for Trade What does used for trade mean Weighbridges used for trade include those used for buying or selling goods to determine freight or other charges or to determine any tax What is required for my weighbridge to be legal if it is to be used for trade Before your weighbridge can be used for trade it must be of a pattern approved by NMI and must be tested and marked verified by a verifier A verifier is a trade measurement inspector a servicing licensee or an authorised employee of a servicing licensee How can I tell if my weighbridge has been tested and marked Marked weighbridges are identified by a verification mark These marks are applied by verifiers and are normally applied to the primary indicator In the case of digital indicators where there 1s more than one indicator i e multi platform weighbridges the verification mark is applied to each primary indicator These marks indicate the weighbridge was found to be correct at the time of testing When verifying weighbridges verifiers are required to issue a written verification form to owners It is an offence not to have a verification mark on a weighbridge used for trade Do I have to get my weighbridge tested and marked regularly Public weighbridges must be re verified
37. unless e the vehicle is too wide or too long to fit on the weighbridge e the operator believes the measurement would be inaccurate or e payment is requested up front but the customer refuses to pay There are penalties for public weighbridge licensees and operators who fail to comply with legislative requirements See clause 8 1 for typical offences Operators must demonstrate they are competent They can do this by completing a recognition kit found at www measurement gov au recognitionkit 2 TERMINOLOGY Axle Load Measurement A measurement which 1s not an end and end measurement made to determine the mass supported by separate axles or groups of axles of a vehicle see clause 6 3 End and End Measurement When a vehicle is too long to fit on the platform the weight of a vehicle 1s determined by adding two measurements one for the front and one for the rear of the vehicle see clause 6 2 Weighbridge Operators Manual v5 0 Indicating Device Part of the measuring device from which the direct reading of the result 1s obtained Inspector A trade measurement inspector Licence A licence is either a servicing licence or a public weighbridge licence Licensee A licensee 1s the holder of either a servicing licence or a public weighbridge licence Load Bearing Points The locations on the deck of a weighbridge directly over load cells or knife edges Load Cell A load cell is a component of a weighbrid
38. urement the measurement ticket may be issued as a tare mass only or gross mass only measurement ticket as appropriate Cancel partially completed tickets if no request for a completed measurement ticket is made within 72 hours of the first measurement 7 4 End and End Measurement Tickets End and end measurement tickets can be used to record tare mass only clearly indicate it is a tare mass measurement by following the instructions 1 clause 7 3 1 e gross mass only clearly indicate it is a gross mass measurement by following the instructions in clause 7 3 2 and e net mass Weighbridge Operators Manual v5 0 See Figure 3 for an example of an approved form of an end and end measurement ticket and Figure 4 for a worked example Write each separate measurement on the ticket and calculate the total mass 7 5 Axle Measurement Tickets Axle measurement tickets are used to determine the mass of a single axle or groups of axles on a weighbridge that 1s permitted to perform such measurements See Figure 5 for an example of the approved form of an axle measurement ticket and Figure 6 for a worked example When recording the mass supported by an axle group bracket those axles on the ticket Never add the axle weights together to give a total mass If a total weight 1s required complete a standard measurement ticket using the weight determined by direct measurement or end and end measurement
39. uring the preservation period and e removal or alteration of an original measurement ticket 8 2 Trade Measurement Inspectors Trade measurement inspectors have the power to enter business and residential premises and to inspect business vehicles Inspectors also have the power to search and seize items This includes powers to copy documents record information and test articles and measuring instruments Inspectors routinely audit weighbridges to ensure weighings and measurement tickets comply with legislation If an inspector asks an operator to determine a measurement of a loaded or unloaded vehicle the operator must comply with the inspector s request and no fee should be charged If a weighbridge is either inaccurate or in breach of legislation the inspector will issue a notice and may remove the verification mark The weighbridge will then require repair and or recalibration followed by re testing and re verification see clause 3 1 Weighbridge Operators Manual v5 0 TICKET NOTES Identify tickets as an original or a copy Original tickets shall be kept for 3 years Issue copy of ticket to customer Company logo and details Tickets shall be numbered and issued in sequence OPTIONAL Company logo and trading details This can include information required for a tax invoice like an ABN The licence number and name shall match that displayed on the public weighbridge licence Use the unit of measuremen
40. weighbridge and the person for whom the weighing is being performed A non public weighing occurs when the use of the weighbridge e is subject to a prior contractual arrangement between the controller of the weighbridge and person for whom the weighing is being performed which does not include a fee per use charge or e isfor the operation of the controller s business i e to weigh goods in which the controller trades or e isto determine the tare mass of a vehicle or trailer for registration purposes Public weighbridge licensees are able to contract with other businesses to operate the weighbridge on their behalf Anyone 18 years or over may apply for a licence either individually or as a company Or a partnership 1 2013 1 of 22 A licence is not required when e the third party measurements are for weighing vehicles for registration purposes specific conditions for issuing measurement tickets apply e weighing stock on the hoof or e there is a contractual arrangement between the weighbridge owner and the business using the weighbridge To operate a weighbridge effectively an operator must be able e to adhere to all legislative requirements e to understand their legal obligations and duties e to provide an accurate measurement for the vehicle or goods being weighed and to issue measurement tickets correctly An operator should weigh any vehicle during normal operating hours
41. withdraw the weighbridge from use until it is repaired tested and marked with a verification mark clause 3 1 If it cannot be repaired the public weighbridge licensee must inform NMI Note Weighbridges should also comply with the relevant requirements in clause 3 4 1 Visual Inspection Refer to the suggested checklist on the next page and also check e There is a continuous gap between the platform and the edge of the weighbridge surround to prevent binding Stones or other foreign matter jammed between the platform and its surrounds may cause binding e There is no water mud or debris on the platform Water can accumulate on the platform due to rain or run off from a vehicle being weighed Excess water can affect zero balance e There is no water mud or debris under the weighbridge Loose loads such as sand can accumulate in the pit or build up under the platform and affect zero balance see clause 3 7 e The weighbridge structure is in good condition with no lose bolts and no broken missing or rusty components e The weighbridge approaches are in good condition and the perimeters are clearly marked see clause 3 5 e Any steelyards or dial and weight unit mechanisms are in good working condition e Any digital indications are clear and all segments work e Any additional indicating devices work and repeat the indication exactly 1 2013 5 of 22 4 2 Zero Operation and Indication The operator mu
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