DCSTM HOSTS LEGAL METROLOGY ACT WORKSHOP TO STRENGTHEN TRAFFIC LAW ENFORCEMENT
Potchefstroom – The Department of Community Safety and Transport Management through its Road Traffic Management Directorate led by Director Mr Suebel Mmono successfully hosted a Traffic Officers Legal Metrology Act Workshop aimed at strengthening law enforcement capacity and enhancing consumer protection.
The workshop was convened to equip traffic officers with in-depth knowledge and a comprehensive understanding of the Legal Metrology Act (No. 9 of 2014) and its enforcement responsibilities. The initiative follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), the National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications (NRCS) and the National Metrology Institute of South Africa (NMISA). The agreement seeks to empower traffic officers through structured education, improved technical understanding and coordinated law enforcement efforts.
Addressing participants, Mr Mmono emphasised the importance of knowledge in effective service delivery. “Often we use certain tools and systems without fully understanding their purpose or legal framework. Educational workshops such as these enable us to serve the public in a more informed manner and ensure that we utilise resources wisely and responsibly,” he said.
Furthermore, he highlighted the broader impact of regulatory awareness on public trust and fair trade. “When traffic officers understand the Legal Metrology Act and its practical implications, they become stronger enforcers of the law. This not only protects the public from unfair practices but also promotes accountability and integrity within the marketplace. Every traffic officer should have the Acts printed out and have them as their bible to empower themselves and be able to act accordingly,” Mr Mmono added.
The Legal Metrology Act is designed to protect consumers against short measures, promote fair trade and regulate measuring instruments used in commerce. It applies to commercial measuring instruments such as weighbridges, retail scales and fuel pumps, requiring that such equipment be certified and regularly re-certified to ensure accuracy and compliance with prescribed standards.
In terms of enforcement, the NRCS is responsible for market surveillance, type approvals and monitoring compliance with technical regulations. Non-compliance with the Act, including the use of uncertified or inaccurate measuring equipment, constitutes an offence and may result in legal penalties.
The workshop brought together key stakeholders from RTMC, NRCS NMISA as well as traffic officers from Dr Kenneth Kaunda, JB Marks, Mamusa, Maquassi Hills and Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati Districts.
