Understanding UKAS Calibration for Weigh Pads: What You Need to Know

At MWS, we often get inquiries about UKAS calibration for weigh pads, particularly in light of updates to industry standards in 2024. The Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA) introduced new recommendations in 2024 that have significant implications for the calibration of weigh pads used in weighing new vans and lorries. These updates emphasise the importance of adhering to the UKAS ISO 17025 standard, marking a shift away from the previously accepted ISO 9001 standard. In this blog post, we’ll explain what this means for weigh pad calibrations and how MWS can help you meet these new requirements.

The Shift to UKAS ISO 17025: Why It Matters

The VCA’s update demonstrates the need for greater precision and traceability in vehicle weighing equipment. The move to ISO 17025, a more stringent standard compared to ISO 9001, reflects the industry’s commitment to ensuring that all measurements are accurate, reliable, and fully traceable to national or international standards. This shift is particularly important in the context of vehicle calibrations, where even minor discrepancies can have significant consequences for safety and regulatory compliance.

UKAS Calibration for Weigh Pads: What Is Allowed?

Here’s the issue – unless a company has a test rig large enough to accommodate weigh pads, UKAS calibration requires using physical test weights. For heavier loads, this becomes impractical due to the sheer weight needed for compliance. This is why for heavier loads, force calibration is the standard procedure for calibrating weigh pads.

Is Force Calibration UKAS Approved?

Force calibration, which uses force transducers or hydraulic systems to simulate loads, is now accepted by UKAS for weigh pads, but the calibration company must have gone through the correct certification procedures and received UKAS approval specifically for weigh pads.

High-Quality UKAS Approved Weigh Pads

If you require UKAS-approved weigh pads, you can buy them pre-approved and new out of the box. Keep in mind that they are only UKAS-approved for one year, and after that they will have to be calibrated annually to UKAS standards.

MWS supplies UKAS approved weigh pads from our trusted Italian supplier, Dini Argeo. These weigh pads are designed to meet the rigorous demands of modern vehicle weighing, offering exceptional precision and reliability. Whether you need new equipment or calibration services, MWS is here to support your operations with high quality products and expert guidance.

Conclusion

The recent shift towards the UKAS ISO 17025 standard marks a significant step forward in ensuring the accuracy and reliability of vehicle weighing equipment. At MWS, we are committed to helping our customers navigate these changes and maintain compliance with the latest standards.

If you have any questions about weigh pad calibration or our range of weigh pads, please don’t hesitate to contact us.