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State to ensure on-going weights, measures inspections in Spokane

OLYMPIA — The Department of Agriculture (WSDA) has begun regulating weights and measures in the City of Spokane, inspecting everything from gas station pumps to truck scales, after the city cut its own program earlier this month as a cost-saving measure.

WSDA’s Weights and Measures Program protects consumers and ensures businesses compete fairly by inspecting weighing and measuring devices, testing motor fuel and investigating consumer complaints. Thirteen inspectors work across the state, with a target of inspecting 80 percent of commercial devices every 36 months.

WSDA worked with city officials in Spokane to prepare for the transition, program manager Jerry Buendel said.

“Our goal is to ensure a seamless transition for consumers and businesses in Spokane,” Buendel said. “We have had an inspector responsible for Spokane County and five neighboring counties for some time and he has already begun work within the city limits.”

WSDA’s inspectors test grocery store scales, fuel dispensers, truck scales, taxi meters, LPG meters and other devices. Inspectors also test motor fuel for contamination and compliance with national standards.

Inspectors previously evaluated price scanners and ensured the net weight listed on packaged goods was accurate, but those activities were suspended in 2011 due to budget constraints.

The program also investigates consumer complaints and in 2011, responded to 446 consumer complaints. Inspectors have received 323 as of Nov. 1, 2012.

In the coming year, WSDA will inspect taxi meters in the City of Spokane on a fee for service basis. The agency will work with cab owners and the city on performing these inspections. With the closure of Spokane’s program, Seattle is the only remaining city with its own weights and measures program.

For questions or to file a complaint, contact the Weights and Measures Program at (360) 902-1857 or wtsmeasures@agr.wa.gov. Visit www.AGR.wa.gov/Inspection/WeightsMeasures/ for more information.

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