Inside This Issue: - Chairman's Column - 110th NCWM Annual Meeting - Annual Meeting Special Event - Reno, Local Sights and Cuisine - The Meetup by Elisa Stritt - NCWM Headquarters Open House - Event Calendar - 2026 Interim Meeting - NTEP Column - CALM Article - In the World of Legal Metrology by Jim Perry and Lisa Corn - May Tip of the Month - Safety Article - EVSE Training for Weights and Measures Inspectors and Service Agents - Welcome New NCWM Members - Women in Weights and Measures Column
Chair’s Column............................................................................. 1 110th NCWM Annual Meeting..................................................... 5 Annual Meeting Special Event...................................................... 6 Reno Local Sights and Cuisine...................................................... 7 The Meetup.................................................................................... 8 NCWM Headquarters Open House................................................ 11 Event Calendar............................................................................... 12 2026 Interim Meeting..................................................................... 14 NTEP Column................................................................................ 15 CALM Article................................................................................ 19 In the World of Legal Metrology................................................... 24 May: Tip of the Month................................................................... 29 Safety Article................................................................................. 30 EVSE Training for W&M Inspectors & Service Agents............... 33 Welcome New NCWM Members.................................................. 34 Women in Weights and Measures Column.................................... 39
Marc Paquette -Vermont NCWM Chair
It is with much thought that I write my third and final newsletter submission as the NCWM Chair. It was almost two years ago that I became the Chair Elect, followed by the Chair of the organization. In that time, I have had the privilege to travel around the country to regional, board, training, and other meetings. I now have only two regional meetings left to attend in my tenure, NEWMA and CWMA (April and May). I have so enjoyed and valued the interactions at all these different events. What a pleasure it has been to speak with many of you. The work being done throughout the country to promote the goals of weights and measures programs is truly impressive. Each region has its own personality with unique priorities, often based on regional industries. For example, issues that may impact agriculture in the Midwest may not be as relevant in the Northeast. I have never seen a grain moisture meter. Conversely, issues with VTM ‘s selling fuel oil, or industry-specific items impacting the maple industry, are likely not a priority in the Southern or Western states. However, even with the many differences between the regions, the goals are the same: to provide equity in the marketplace between buyer and seller, to provide that level playing field, to ensure consumers get what they pay for. Those goals stay the same regardless of region, equipment, or commodity. In support of these common goals, there have been many accomplishments and tasks both completed and put in process in the two years since I started as Chair Elect. There is not enough space to mention all those initiatives in this article, but I will highlight a few:
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NCWM has a new centralized headquarters and NTEP lab in Lincoln, Nebraska. In addition to administrative functions, this state-of-the-art facility is also being utilized for many NCWM meetings. The NTEP lab is active, and there are a growing number of submissions from manufacturers. The lab is designed for future growth and will be able to accommodate an anticipated increase in demand. NCWM has recognized the need for and requests for training from members. A first-ever NCWM-sponsored training has been developed, EVSE Training for Weights and Measures Inspectors and Service Agents in Denver, Colorado this August. Many thanks to the EVSE Training and Planning Committee for all the work being done for this event. This event and the work of the committee have created a foundation for future training that NCWM can consider offering. In support of ongoing accuracy and disclosure in retail pricing, the NIST-led, NCWM-supported Unit Pricing Working Group is on target for completion of much of its work by the Annual Meeting. This includes updating the NIST SP 1181 Unit Pricing Guide and the submitting of a Form 15 to update the NIST HB 130 Unit Pricing Regulation. This will all be of great benefit to those jurisdictions that adopt unit pricing laws and regulations and to retailers seeking more uniformity between states. The Standards Development Task Group was launched in March. This group is represented by one member from each regional association, industry, NCWM administration, and NIST. As part of ongoing initiatives to improve the standards development process, members will evaluate past reports and actions taken and make recommendations to the NCWM Board. A final report will be issued and can be utilized for ongoing strategic planning for standards development. I am very enthusiastic about this initiative and look forward to the final evaluation from these volunteers. As previously stated, so much new and continuing work has been done just in the last few years. This is all being built on the foundation of past Chairs, members, technical advisors, and our many committed volunteers. While new activities are being completed, the organization continues to do what it does well, which is to administer the meetings where consideration is given to additions or changes to NCWM standards published in NIST Handbooks 44, 130, and 133. I look forward to seeing many of you at the next national event in Reno, Nevada, for the 110 Annual NCWM Meeting. th
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At this meeting, subcommittees, focus groups, and task groups will meet on Sunday, followed later in the week by the Chair’s Reception, Open Hearings, General Session, Awards Ceremony, and Outings. And of course, don’t forget the voting session where delegates have an opportunity to vote on many proposals. I encourage you to attend as many of the activities as possible. It will be a busy week with much activity taking place and many opportunities to participate. As I am getting close to the end of my 24-month commitment as Chair Elect and Chair, I would like to acknowledge some of the support and assistance I have received. I want to thank the Vermont Agency of Agriculture Food and Markets, and those who oversee our program for their support in my serving, and the time needed to take me away from my normal programmatic responsibilities. I appreciate the Vermont Weights & Measures staff to whom I delegated additional responsibilities in my absence. Our section is now stronger and better equipped to serve after receiving additional cross-training and experience. A very special thank you to my wife, who has been so supportive. There were missed family functions, a late/delayed visit to see our first grandchild, and leaky pipes that didn’t get fixed on time, to name just a few impacts of being away. The NCWM Board of Directors and Don and his NCWM Team have been a pleasure to work with. And of course, a huge thank you to the NCWM membership. The regions and members have been and continue to be supportive and helpful as we work toward common goals. There are so many of you who are willing to serve on the various standing committees, subcommittees, focus groups, and task groups. Without your willingness to volunteer, this organization and its mission would not succeed.
Again, I look forward to seeing you at the 110 Annual NCWM Meeting in Reno, Nevada. Please feel free to reach out to me, your board representative, or Don for questions, suggestions, or ideas. th
Sincerely,
Marc
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Coming up....
110th NCWM Annual Meeting July 13th - 17th | Reno, Nevada
The Annual Meeting is the high point of our year where all the hard work pays off. At this meeting, stakeholders will debate important proposals to amend the United States standards for weights and measures. When the debating is done, the votes will be cast. Our committees have their work cut out for them with some very full and diverse agendas. Committee agendas are available on our Publication 16 page.
Meeting Location Silver Legacy Resort Casino
407 N Virginia Street Reno, Nevada 89501
(833) 410-3767 Room Rate: $99 Reservation Discount Deadline: June 20th, 2025 Make your Hotel Reservation Now!
Events The Chair’s Reception will honor Marc Paquette from the State of Vermont. The reception will be Sunday, July 13th, from 5:30pm - 7:00pm. The reception attire is business casual. Our Special Event is on Wednesday, July 16th, where we will enjoy a relaxing evening with colleagues and friends at Greater Nevada Field!
Register by June 20th to secure discounted rates 5
ANNUAL MEETING SPECIAL EVENT
Join us for an evening at
GREATER NEVADA FIELD
WENDESDAY JULY 16TH, 2025
A CASUAL EVENING NETWORKING WITH
FRIENDS AND COLLEAGUES WHILE ENJOYING AN OPEN BAR, BUFFET DINING, AND ENTERTAINMENT
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Things to do in Reno, Nevada
Local Sights
-Visit the Reno Riverwalk District -Hike the Tahoe Pyramid Trail -Visit Pyramid Lake -Visit National Automobile Museum -Try your luck at Atlantis Casino -Visit Nevada Museum of Art -Visit Terry Lee Wells Nevada Discovery Museum -Visit the Animal Ark -Visit Fleischmann Planetarium and Science Center -Take a drive to Lake Tahoe Local Cuisine -Ramsay’s Kitchen Reno at the ROW -Piezzetta -Los Gallos Taqueria -Estella -Louis’ Basque Corner -The Fe -Mellow Fellow -Dubs Sports Lounge
-Wild River Grill -Smith and River
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Elisa Stritt NCWM - Director of Operations
The 110 Annual Meeting is right around the corner! This July, we are heading to Reno, Nevada, the Biggest Little City in the World, to discuss and vote on the critical issues facing the weights and measures community. We hope you will join us at the Silver Legacy Resort in the heart of The Row in downtown Reno. The Row consists of three Caesars’ resorts: Eldorado Reno, Circus Circus Reno, and Silver Legacy Reno; and all three are connected, yet distinctive, for a one-of-a-kind resort experience. Award-winning dining, world-class entertainment, and over 200,000 square feet of casino space make up this six-city block “row”. Once inside The Row, it appears as one large resort and guests can explore without realizing they are leaving one property and entering another. th Wanting some fresh air and a change of scenery? We have that, too. Our location is ideal for exploring downtown Reno’s local eateries, shopping, and the Riverwalk. Check out Visit Reno Tahoe’s page dedicated to the best of the Reno Riverwalk. This year’s special event takes us to Greater Nevada Field, a short walk from the resort. We have the space to ourselves and, although there is no ball game that evening, expect to be entertained! We welcome Denny Corby, the unforgettable magician, comedian, and performer from our 2021 special event, to host the evening for us. We hope you will join us for this casual outdoor event with an open bar, buffet dinner, and three hundred of your closest weights and measures friends. Guests are welcome as well; make sure to RSVP when completing your meeting registration!
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On the topic of getting together with friends, we are excited to invite you to Lincoln, Nebraska for the NCWM Headquarters and NTEP Lab Open House! Join us as the NCWM board of directors and staff host this celebration, featuring a ribbon-cutting ceremony to commemorate this significant milestone in our association’s history. The building was move-in ready in October and the months following were spent “making it a home”, as they say. The NTEP lab accepted its first project shortly after and has not looked back since. Since opening our doors, we hosted the 2025 NTEP Lab Meeting with evaluators from across the country and will host upcoming NTEP sector and board meetings. Before we let the calendar get too carried away, we invite you to spend the afternoon with us to catch up, tour the facilities, and learn about what we do here! Keep an eye on our social media and website for the latest updates!
Thank you to the NTEP Evaluators for taking time to do some great work while visiting our new office and lab in Lincoln, Nebraska!
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May 19th-22nd | CWMA Annual Meeting Duluth, Minnesota July 13 -17 | 110 NCWM Annual Meeting th th th Reno, Nevada August 5th | NTEP Grain Analyzer Sector Meeting Kansas City, Missouri 5th-8 | EVSE Training for Weights and Measures th Inspectors and Service Agents Denver, Colorado 19th-20th | NTEP Weighing/Belt-Conveyor Sector Meeting Lincoln, Nebraska 20th-21st | NTEP Software Sector Meeting Lincoln, Nebraska September 7th-11th | WWMA Annual Meeting Helena, Montana 16th-17th | NTEP Measuring Sector Meeting Pensacola Beach, Florida 29 -October 2 | CWMA Interim Meeting th nd Dubuque, Iowa October 26th-29th | SWMA Annual Meeting Greenville, South Carolina Event Calendar 2025 12
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Looking Forward ............
2026 Interim Meeting January 11th-14th | Mobile, Alabama
The Interim Meeting is where our standing committees come together to hear testimony on new proposals brought forth from the regional meetings as well as carryover items from the previous year. In addition, the committees will determine the status of each item for the voting session of our Annual Meeting in July. There will be presentations, testimony, and work sessions throughout the week. Committee agendas will be available on our Publication 15 page. Meeting Location Renaissance Mobile Riverview Plaza Hotel 64 S Water Street Mobile, Alabama 36602 Group Rate: $114 Prevailing Government Per Diem Make your Hotel Registration Now! Reservation Discount Deadline: December 18th, 2025 Event The Chair’s Reception will honor Kevin Schnepp from the State of California. The reception will be Sunday, January 11th, from 5:30pm- 7:00pm. Dress is business casual.
Register by December 18th to secure discounted rates 14
Jeff Gibson NCWM - NTEP Administrator
Proposed Change to the Verified Conformity Assessment Program Policy
This article is to bring to your attention a proposed change to the Verified Conformity Assessment Program (VCAP) Policy. These proposed changes, if adopted, may impact your VCAP compliance audit requirements. The following proposal is currently published in the NTEP Committee Agenda and is open to your comments during the NTEP Committee Open Hearing at both the NCWM Annual and Interim Meetings. The proposal recommends adding water meters to the current list of nine device types. If you currently hold a Manufacturer or Private Label Certificate of Conformance for any of the nine device types, you are familiar with the VCAP requirements and understand the change this proposal would make if adopted. If you hold a Manufacturer or Private Label Certificate of Conformance for the proposed new addition, this proposal, if adopted, will require you to comply with current VCAP requirements. (Note: the VCAP requirements do not apply to software-only applications.) To learn more about the VCAP requirements, visit the NCWM website at VCAP | National Conference on Weights & Measures (ncwm.com).
ADM-25.1
I
Addition of Water Meters to the Verified Conformity
Assessment Program
Source: NTEP Administrator
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Purpose: To modify the current Verified Conformity Assessment Program Policy to include Water Meters to the list of covered devices. Justification: California has reported a high failure rate related to the performance of NTEP certified water meters. The Verified Conformity Assessment Program is designed to require additional in-house testing and document verification to show proper control of design changes and component purchasing guidelines. By adding these devices to the Verified Conformity Assessment Program, NTEP would perform audits to ensure continued compliance. This will result in fewer failures during the initial verification inspection.
Item Under Consideration: Amend Pub 14 Administrative Policy as follows.
21.1.3.NTEP Verified Conformity Assessment Program Procedures
Many NTEP certified devices must meet NIST Handbook 44 requirements for influence factors. It is not possible to verify these requirements during the Initial Verification in the field. Therefore, manufacturers of metrological devices (instruments) and/or components (modules) which are subject to influence factors, as defined in NIST Handbook 44 identified in paragraphs 21.1.3.1., and 21.1.3.7, must have a Verified Conformity Assessment Program (VCAP) in place to ensure that these metrological devices and/or components are produced to perform at a level consistent with that of the device and/or component previously certified. The Verified Conformity Assessment Program audit will be at one or more sites as required to verify compliance. For weighing devices that are subject to influence factors, and other devices identified in paragraphs 21.1.3.1., and 21.1.3.7, NTEP will require an initial on-site audit of the manufacturer’s quality system and on-site random testing and/or review of a production device(s) (instrument(s)) by the Registrar to verify that all items listed below are currently implemented and functioning to verify compliance to the appropriate sections of NIST Handbook 44 .
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21.1.3.1.Devices that Must Meet this Requirement are Limited to the List Below:
Load Cell (T.N.8.) Indicating Elements (T.N.8.) Weighing/Load Receiving Elements 2000 lb capacity and less with non-NTEP Load Cells (T.N.8.) Complete Scales 2000 lb capacity and less (T.N.8.) Automatic Weighing Systems 2000 lb capacity and less (T.7.) Belt-Conveyor Scales (weigh-belt systems only) 2000 lb capacity and less (T.3) Automatic Bulk Weighing Systems 2000 lb capacity and less (T.7.) Multiple Dimension Measuring Devices (T.5.1.) Grain Test Scales (T.N.8) Water Meters The information provided is an abbreviated version of the actual proposal included in the NTEP Committee Agenda for the upcoming NCWM Annual Meeting in July and is intended to inform you of possible changes to the VCAP Policy. The NTEP Committee encourages you to download a copy of the NTEP Committee Agenda from the Meetings link at www.ncwm.com/publication 16. After reviewing the complete proposal, please submit any comments, thoughts, or concerns you have related to the proposal to the undersigned or during the NTEP Committee Open Hearings during the NCWM Annual Meeting.
Jeff Gibson NTEP Administrator Email: jeff.gibson@ncwm.com
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Lisa Corn and Kate Smetana
In the world of legal metrology, the NCWM Metrology Subcommittee, the Community for All Legal Metrologists (CALM), and NIST OWM all play critical roles in ensuring accuracy, precision, consistency, and effective communication. And while many of the players may be the same, the roles and focus areas are distinct. NCWM – Metrology Advocacy and NIST Handbooks The NCWM Metrology subcommittee focus is on technical standards and on the job training consistency among weights and measures programs, as well as practical application training. The goal is to enhance collaboration with NIST to address technical challenges in procedures. The subcommittee is dedicated to ensuring accuracy, fairness, and transparency in weights and measures and will provide ongoing support for the Professional Development Committee related to raising awareness about the importance of metrology in weight and
measures programs. Current Projects:
Documented Director training Creating a form to request changes/updates to
NIST Handbooks & SOPs Documented mentorship and on the job training program.
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CALM – Community & Collaboration CALM’s goal is to build a stronger metrology community by focusing on connection, collaboration and professional development for legal metrologists. Rather than being policy- driven, CALM is a networking and support community designed to bring Metrologists together to share knowledge, challenges, and best practices. CALM has created a platform for open discussion among metrologists at all levels, providing mentorship and resources for new metrologists. This group also provides learning outside of structured training programs.
Upcoming Meetings: April 2025 - Echelon I and Echelon II Lessons Learned
May 2025 - Expanding your Lab's Scope - How to & Common Pitfalls June 2025 - In person @ Combined RMAP, Spreadsheet Workshop
NIST – Technical Education NIST OWM is, as it always has been, dedicated to formal training and accrediting technical competency. They provide the technical education and skills necessary for Metrologists to perform their jobs effectively. NIST offers in person and online based fundamental and advanced training courses in legal metrology, calibration procedures and many topics applicable to ISO 17025 compliance. NIST OWM equips metrologists with the knowledge and skills they need to ensure traceability of their measurements in their laboratories. May 2025 - Internal Auditing Best Practices Webinar May 2025 - Info Hour: NIST OWM Role Within NCWM June 2025 – Combined Regional Measurement Assurance Program (CRMAP) Together, these three organizations help shape the future of legal metrology by ensuring metrologists have the standards, support and training needed to maintain traceability, integrity, and accuracy in measurements – The strong, sturdy fundamentals of equity in the marketplace. On the calendar: April 2025 – Fundamental of Metrology
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BASIC COMPETENCY EXAMS Measuring Weighing
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Jim Perry - President, Scale Ledger & Business Development Manager for Intelligent Weighing Technology - Precisa Gold Program
Lisa Corn
In the world of legal metrology, where accuracy, precision and traceability are nonnegotiable, strong collaboration between metrology laboratories and service companies is vital. The weights and measures industry is constantly evolving with technological advancements and changes in regulations. To stay ahead, metrology labs need to work closely with industry partners to maintain up-to-date knowledge and technical expertise. Service companies and technicians are at the front lines of testing and calibrating weighing and measuring devices in the field. Their collaboration with state legal metrology labs ensures that the equipment used in commerce complies with legal standards and specifications. In addition, service companies play a pivotal role in ensuring that technicians are well-trained in modern calibration techniques and national handbook standards. Labs that foster strong relationships with these companies can provide guidance on state-specific requirements, while service companies can, in turn, relay important feedback on the practicality of these methods in the field. This reciprocal exchange of information ensures that standards are not only met but are practical and effective in real-world applications. State legal metrology labs play a vital role in maintaining the accuracy and reliability of the weights and measures equipment used in commerce, ensuring traceability to the International System of Units. This calibrated equipment is critical for ensuring fair transactions across industries that rely on accurate measurements for selling products by weight and volume. However, the efficiency and integrity of these artifacts depend not only on the technical operations of these labs but also on their ability to collaborate with key stakeholders: the weights and measures industry, service companies, and regulatory authorities. Building strong relationships with these partners enhances the efficiency of metrology operations, improves compliance, and fosters trust among consumers and businesses. Below, we explore how collaboration between state legal metrology labs and these entities supports the broader goal of protecting the public interest.
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Creating and maintaining strong working relationships between our lab and industry isn’t just beneficial, it’s essential to ensuring both parties meet their responsibilities, perform high quality measurements in the lab and in the field, and ultimately serve the public with confidence. Traceability is the cornerstone of legal metrology. It connects every measurement we make back to the International System of Units (SI), ensuring that the results are trustworthy and legally compliant. For this process to work smoothly, however, service companies need to provide stable artifacts for calibration that meet specifications. This may sound simple, but maintaining the traceable chain of calibrations requires attention to detail and consistency. When service companies submit weights or volumetric artifacts for calibration, we depend on them to follow proper procedures. For example, a required legible serial number on an artifact ensures that it can be traced back to its calibration history. Clean equipment free of debris or contamination ensures that our lab can deliver precise and repeatable calibration results. This is why open communication is so important—it’s not just about sending equipment to the lab and receiving a certificate. It’s about maintaining the integrity of the entire measurement process, from the field to the calibration laboratory and back again. The relationship between a metrology lab and your service company should feel like a partnership. When both parties are working together with a shared goal—ensuring the highest possible standard of measurements—everyone benefits. This close collaboration streamlines the calibration process, minimizes potential errors, and fosters trust. Service companies know they can rely on the lab to provide quick, accurate calibrations, and the lab relies on them to submit equipment that meets the necessary standards for calibration. Strong relationships also enable both parties to be more proactive. For instance, if a service company notices an issue with equipment in the field, they can quickly notify the lab, allowing the metrologists to troubleshoot and resolve the issue before it leads to bigger problems. Likewise, labs can offer advice on how to properly maintain equipment between calibrations, ensuring that the service company’s operations continue to run smoothly and reducing the likelihood of a metrology lab rejecting the artifact during the calibration process. Ultimately, the success of both metrology labs and private industry hinges on a strong working relationship. Collaboration allows programs to maintain high standards of accuracy, precision, ensuring traceability, while also making the calibration process more efficient and responsive.
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By fostering open communication and mutual respect, it can ensure that every measurement meets the rigorous demands of legal metrology, benefiting not only the companies we serve but also the industries and consumers who depend on accurate measurements every day. And when we work together, everyone wins. In private industry, reliable and precise measurements are not just beneficial—they are essential for maintaining high standards in production, quality control, and regulatory compliance. Whether in manufacturing, energy, agriculture, or any other sector reliant on accurate measurement, errors in calibration can lead to significant financial losses, safety risks, and even legal consequences. Maintaining a consistent calibration schedule, understanding the complexities of metrology standards, and minimizing costly downtime are critical challenges faced by industries daily, particularly in the realm of legal metrology. The stakes are high when it comes to legal metrology, where measurements have legal significance in areas such as trade, health, and safety. Industry players need to ensure that their systems meet stringent regulatory standards, which can be complex and difficult to navigate. Failure to comply can result in fines, product recalls, and a loss of consumer trust. However, the cost of frequent downtime for calibrations, combined with the challenge of keeping equipment in peak condition, can be overwhelming without the right support. This is where collaboration with state regulatory officials and metrologists becomes vital. These experts bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to ensure that measurement systems are accurate, compliant, and efficient. By working closely with regulatory bodies and metrology labs, industries can streamline their operations, ensuring that their equipment remains fully compliant while minimizing operational disruptions. Not only do industries benefit from these collaborations, but state regulators and metrologists also gain valuable practical knowledge. When they work closely with industry, they develop a broader understanding of how measurement devices are applied in real-world environments, outside of a laboratory or purely regulatory context. This hands-on exposure deepens their insight into the challenges industries face and the specific conditions in which these devices are used. As regulators and metrologists learn how equipment functions in the field, they are better equipped to tailor their guidance and expand the scope of their expertise. This broader perspective enriches their ability to ensure compliance while fostering more innovative, real- world solutions that benefit both the industry and regulatory framework.
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In an increasingly complex regulatory landscape, the benefits of building stronger ties with legal metrology experts are clear: enhanced operational efficiency, reduced errors, and a more informed approach to compliance that helps all parties involved. Through collaboration, industry and regulators can bridge the gap between theoretical standards and practical application, ensuring smooth operations and more robust measurement systems. The collaboration between metrology labs, private industry, and state regulatory officials offers numerous tangible benefits that go far beyond ensuring compliance with legal metrology standards. At its core, this partnership enhances accuracy and reliability across measurement systems, which are crucial in any industry that relies on precise measurements for production, quality control, or commerce. However, the benefits of such collaboration extend well beyond measurement accuracy. 1- I mproved Accuracy and Traceability: Collaborative efforts help maintain the highest standards of accuracy and traceability in measurements. By working together, metrology labs and industry can ensure that every measurement is traceable to national and international standards, which is critical for ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory frameworks. This also builds trust between industries and their customers, knowing that the measurements they rely on are precise and verifiable. 2- Tailored Solutions for Industry Needs: When metrology labs and industries collaborate closely, they can develop customized calibration and measurement solutions that are tailored to the specific needs of the industry. This can lead to more efficient calibration processes, better equipment maintenance schedules, and fewer disruptions in operations. For example, industries may require specific calibration cycles or particular units of measurement, and a close working relationship allows metrology labs to deliver these customized services effectively. 3- Enhanced Innovation and Problem Solving: Collaborative relationships foster a two- way exchange of knowledge and expertise. Metrology labs benefit from insights into how devices are used in real-world applications, while industries gain from the technical expertise and precision that labs offer. This exchange drives innovation, leading to new solutions that improve both measurement accuracy and operational efficiency. Additionally, as new technologies and methods are developed, joint research and development efforts can accelerate their adoption and application in the field.
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4- Cost Savings and Efficiency: A key benefit of collaboration is the potential for cost savings. By optimizing calibration schedules, reducing equipment downtime, and improving the overall reliability of measurement systems, industries can reduce operational costs. Moreover, proactive communication between labs and industries allows for early detection of potential issues, preventing costly errors or equipment failures. This efficient calibration and maintenance process ultimately leads to fewer disruptions and more streamlined operations. 5- Broader Understanding of Practical Application: Regulatory officials and metrologists, through close collaboration with industry, gain valuable practical knowledge about how measurement devices are used outside of the laboratory setting. This deeper understanding allows them to better tailor regulations and guidelines to the realities of field operations. It also ensures that regulatory standards are not only stringent but also practical and aligned with the needs of industry, thereby reducing the potential for miscommunication or misalignment between legal metrology requirements and industrial practices. In conclusion, the relationship between metrology labs, private industry, and state regulatory officials plays a critical role in ensuring that measurement systems are both accurate and legally compliant. Strong, proactive collaboration helps to bridge the gap between theoretical measurement standards and their practical application in real-world environments. Both labs and industries benefit from these partnerships, as they lead to improved accuracy, efficiency, and operational trust. To meet the challenges of a rapidly advancing technological landscape, there is a growing need for industries and regulatory bodies to establish more formalized partnerships. Organizations like the National Conference on Weights and Measures (NCWM), the National Conference of Standards Laboratories International (NCSLI), and the International Society of Weighing and Measurement (ISWM) are key players in fostering these relationships and creating frameworks that support legal metrology at every level. Moving forward, we must encourage more proactive engagement and knowledge exchange between metrology labs, industry stakeholders, and state regulators to ensure that our systems not only meet current demands but are also prepared to adapt to future challenges.
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TIP OF THE MONTH Filling Up at the Pump: Check that the price at the pump matches the street sign. Verify the SALE and GALLONS displays start at zero before you open the nozzle. Touch something metal before grabbing the nozzle to avoid a static electricity fire. Always get a receipt. Contact your local Weights and Measures Authority with questions or concerns.
Mike Peeler New Jersey State Weights and Measures
As spring arrives, many of us know that it’s time for RMFD inspections, which stand for Retail Motor Fuel Dispensers. These inspections can be quite a chore, especially if you have several stations or devices to check. It can feel tedious and sometimes even a bit dull. However, it’s important not to let your guard down and forget about safety concerns during this busy time. Safety should always come first, this includes checking that all equipment is working properly, ensuring there are no leaks, and confirming that emergency shut-off systems are easily accessible. Additionally, inspecting the area for any trip hazards or other safety issues is vital. Reviewing these areas can help prevent accidents and ensure a smooth inspection process. Let’s make sure we take the necessary steps to keep everything safe and in good working order this spring. Clothing: Cotton clothing is your best choice. Why, synthetic clothing, besides being a possible source for giving off a static charge, also in case of a fire, melts at high temps. Shoes or boots that have a rubber sole are great for providing traction. Also look for steel toed boots that are chemical and oil resistant for more protection. Don’t forget about eye protection, gloves, and a hard hat depending on where you are working. Equipment: First and foremost, a fire extinguisher, properly rated for this inspection is a must. (Class
B extinguishers are for flammable liquids and gasses.) First aid kit, making sure it has eye wash available.
Safety Vest, a Fuel Spill Kit consisting of stay dry (kitty litter is also good to keep on hand in case of emergencies) absorbent pads and socks, proper disposal bags.
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An Emergency Response Guidebook is always a good item to have available. Safety cones, warning signs, and even warning lights on your vehicle, all items to help block off and control traffic. Other considerations: Check for tripping, slipping, overhead, or spill hazards, especially if you are using a 5- gallon test measure and walking it to the UST to return the product. No smoking should be a given, and also any other possible sources of ignition. Remember proper lifting when moving your test measure, and make sure to avoid prolong exposure to the inhalation of gas vapors. Make sure to open both sides of the dispenser that you are testing. Besides checking for loos wires, broken parts, ad leaks, this also helps with the dissipation of vapors. Avoid “switch loading” which is the loading of a low vapor product such as diesel fuel, or kerosene into a test measure that contains a higher vapor product such as gasoline. It recommended to test diesel fuel first, then gasoline, but having a test measure for two different products is always a better idea. Make sure you are grounded. Use a metal funnel and test measure. Taking a few extra minutes to make sure you are doing you inspection safely and correctly can really make a big difference in your life. Accidents can happen quickly and being careful can save you and others from serious injury. When you take the time to do things properly, you help prevent accidents and keep yourself and other safe.
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Training for W&M Inspectors and Service Agents Please join us for NCWM’s first EVSE Training for Weights and Measures Inspectors and Service Agents in Denver, Colorado in August 5 - 8 , 2025. th th This will be a 3.5 day event including hands-on and classroom training. Please visit our event page to find out more!
NCWM WELCOMES NEW MEMBERS
AGI MARSHALL REBECCA SHORT
CHRISTADEL GTS LLC ADEDIRAN ADELEKE
AMERICAN SCALE COMPANY GLEN HUNT
CIRCLE T FARM AND RANCH EQUIPMENT CORNELIUS THIESSEN
AMMANN AMERICA INC CARLOS MACHADO
CITY OF QUINCY JONATHAN BRILLO
ARGONNE NATIONAL LABORATORY THEODORE BOHN
CITY OF SEATTLE: CONSUMER PROTECTION DIVISION DONALD BOLGIANO TOLLEY SUALOA CONNECTED CONSUMER FUEL, LLC STEVEN WILLIAMS
ARIZONA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE WEIGHTS AND MEASURES LUIS ROMERO
ASTEC INDUSTRIES DUSTY MCNABB
CORTLAND COUNTY CHRIS HOLL
BALANCE UNIVERSELLES INC BIANCA GREEN
COUNTY OF MONTEREY ABRAHAM RIOS
BITTERMAN SCALES TRAVIS MILLER JONATHAN BROWN
COUNTY OF SOLANO CODY ZACHARIA
CTRL SOLUTIONS CLAYTON HUNT
BLUE EARTH SEAFOOD TECHNOLOGIES EARL BENNETT
DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND CONSUMER PROTECTION ANTOINE HAWKINS
BUTTE COUNTY KATHARINE QUIST
MICHAEL REYES TINIKA DICKENS NIKKIA GREENE
CAC INTERNATIONAL JOSUE JORGE CAPITAL DISPLAYS ALEX METS CCS VINCENT AMBROSIO
ECAMION INC. JEFFERSON CHUNG
EILERSEN ELECTRIC DIGITAL SYSTEMS A/S FREDERIK EILERSEN
ELECTRICAL SOLUTIONS LINTON PINNOCK
CHEVRON DOUGLAS ALLEGAR
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NCWM WELCOMES NEW MEMBERS
ERIE COUNTY WEIGHTS AND MEASURES JASON KOTTAS CHARLES GORDNER
KANSAS DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE RON WOODS
LALANNELANDTECH LLC ANDREW LALANNE LANIHIM COMPANY LLC OLANREWAJU IGE LIDDELL INDUSTRIES INC LUIS COLLAZO
FFE TRANSPORTATION NICK COOK
FILL-RITE COMPANY LYLE BARON
FIXNET NETWORK SOLUTIONS LLC ANTHONY ELDER
METER APP INC JONATHAN OSACKY
FMT FRANS FOUCHE
MICHIGAN DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE ROBERT BIROSCAK MICHIGAN WEIGHTS AND MEASUERES JOAMES OSWALD MISSOURI STATE HIGHWAY PATROL NICK KLOUZEK DYLAN BARTLE TT
GATLINX COMMUNICATIONS ROLAND GATAN
GOLD CUBE INNOVATIONS LLC DBA THEGOLDCUBE NAKIA GELLER
GROWTH ENERGY REID WAGNER
MR. TURTLE COLIN BROWN NAVUSOFT BRAD SOVICH
HONEYWELL ENRAF AMERICAS, INC. HEMANT SHARMA
ICAPIA, LLC RANJIT SARKER
ORCA WATER SOLUTIONS KERRY CHIN
INDIANA DEPARTMENT OF HEALH ORAN SIDDENS
OTML INC. OWEN MCCAUGHAN
INSTACART MARK RARANUT
PALADIN DATA PAUL BUTCHER
IRON CITY CONTRACTING LLC JOSEPH HARRISON
PENNSYLVANIA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE BUREAU OF WEIGHTS AND MEASURES TAMMY LUCKENBILL
JBS USA FOOD COMPANY RAHUL SHAH
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NCWM WELCOMES NEW MEMBERS
PLUMAS-SIERRA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE WEIGHTS AND MEASURES DAX ALBRECHT
UPS TIFFANY PIPKIN
UTAH DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE AND FOOD RONNIE TRUXAL VPG TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT LTD MARK LUNIANSKY
POWER SOLUTIONS CLIFF COULTER
RENEWABLE FUELS ASSOCIATION ROBERT WHITE
WALL BOX CHARGERS SLU EVA FELEZ
RICE LAKE WEIGHING SYSTEMS MARK RUEFENACHT
XPOLOGISTICS LANCE ARBOGAST STEVEN CHAPMAN
ROGERS GROUP INC DAWNA ROBERTS
SACRAMENTO COUNTY WEIGHTS AND MEASURES BREANNA MATSUURA
SARTORIUS CORPORATION ANDREW DINATALE
SICK NICHOLAS KELLY
SOLANO COUNTY AGRICULTURE DEPARTMENT PRISCILLA YEANEY
STATE OF MONTANA SCOTT GEDA MARK HAGENAU
STRATAGEN SYSTEMS INC. JOSE SANTOS
SWTCH JOSHUA COHEN TBJ I.T. SERVICES TED BARBER JR.
TEKUMO CHAD PARKER
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ARE YOU RETIRING Soon?
Do you want to stay in contact with NCWM without annual dues? Retirees can email Elisa to update membership status
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Delia Cioc Riverside County Agricultural Commissioner/Sealers Office
Breaking Barriers: Women in Riverside County Weights & Measures In a field traditionally dominated by men, women in Weights & Measures are making their mark, proving that expertise, precision, and commitment to fairness in the marketplace transcend gender. My name is Delia Jimenez Cioc and in February 2024, I became the first appointed female Sealer for Riverside County Agricultural Commissioner / Sealer’s Office. I was born and raised in Transylvania, Romania and began my career here in 2004, two years after graduating from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, in 2002. While working as a supervisor, I attended California Baptist University and received a Master of Public Administration, in 2014. I was able to achieve these goals, but it wasn't without its challenges. I had to learn a new language while also adapting to a different culture and way of life. I have held positions of responsibility in every program within the department including Environmental Protection, Consumer Protection, Pest Detection/Exclusion and Weights and Measures. In 2013, I was promoted to the Supervising Agricultural and Standards Investigator and supervised the Riverside District team. In 2017, I promoted to Deputy Agricultural Commissioner/Sealer before being appointed to the Assistant Agricultural Commissioner/Sealer, in 2019. I was successful in navigating various roles, each with increasing responsibility, overcoming both societal stereotypes and the challenges of being an immigrant. Through perseverance and dedication, I've not only proven my capabilities but also shattered barriers that often hold women and immigrants back, achieving excellence and growth in every step of my career.
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