Saint Lucia joins the rest of the world in the observance of World Metrology Day 2009 on Wednesday 20th May. This year’s theme is “Measurement in Commerce.”    In a statement to mark the observance Director of the International Bureau of Weights and Measures (BIPM) Professor Andrew J. Wallard draws attention to the world economic downturn which he indicated had created a crisis of confidence in companies of all sorts. It is his view that metrology has been important to commerce and particularly at this time, it will remain central to supporting the integrity of the age old practice of buying and selling in a world where trade remains the primary engine of economic growth.

 

In Saint Lucia the focus is on advancing the island’s transition and conversion to the sole use of the Metric System of Measurement. This will ensure Saint Lucia can continue to engage in trade as the imperial system of measurement has become obsolete. Since the metrication exercise began a number of sectors have invested in new technologies which support the Metric System of Measurement. 

 

The progress so far in metrication highlights the recognition of the importance of metrology, or the science of measurement, to Saint Lucia’s economic development as accurate measurement is a key component in supporting fair trade,competitiveness in industry,occupational health and safetyand consumer protection.

 

The SLBS has made significant progress in the area of measurements in commerce to include gas pump verification, verification of platform scales in industry, weighbridges and hopper scales at quarries and large construction firms. 

 

More recently the SLBS has conducted investigation of disputes involving the metering of electricity and water. The SLBS has also assisted the Castries City Council with technical support for the purchase of a check-weighing scale which the Bureau has verified and is now available to customers of the new fish facility at the Castries Market. The scale is for the use of customers who purchase fish to undertake independent weighing of their purchase to ensure they have received value for money.  

 

Saint Lucia’s Metrology Act was passed in 2000 empowering the Saint Lucia Bureau of Standards with the verification and calibration of weighing and measuring equipment used in trade, health, safety, sports and the environment.