On September 20, 2024, the Government of Canada registered the “Regulations Amending the Weights and Measures Regulations” under the Weights and Measures Act (SOR/2024-183). This amendment, endorsed by the Governor General in Council upon the recommendation of the Minister of Industry, aims to modernize regulatory requirements in response to advancements in measuring technologies, specifically for Timber Dimension Measuring Devices (TDMDs). The Weights and Measures Act governs the accuracy of weighing and measuring devices used in trade to ensure fair business practices, while the Weights and Measures Regulations outline the specifications these devices must meet for approval. These specifications are critical for ensuring accurate measurements in trade-related transactions.

Timber Dimension Measuring Devices (TDMDs) are specialized tools designed to accurately measure the dimensions of logs and timber, including characteristics such as diameter, length, and volume. These devices are crucial in the forestry industry, where precise measurements are necessary for determining the amount of wood that can be harvested and the associated costs, such as stumpage fees, which are payments made for timber harvested from Crown land.

Prior to the adoption of TDMDs, the scaling method dominated, relying on manual measurements that were labor-intensive, time-consuming, and less accurate. The regulatory amendments serve multiple purposes: they exempt TDMDs from outdated provisions that are no longer applicable, improve compliance by clarifying the requirements for manufacturers and users, and establish a pathway for the permanent approval of TDMDs, which had previously received only temporary approvals under existing terms and conditions.

Key amendments to the Weights and Measures Regulations include modifications to marking requirements, where TDMDs are excluded from certain marking obligations that apply to other measuring devices. Additionally, the sealing specifications have been updated to remove TDMDs from their scope, allowing these devices to be marked with seals that comply with their specific ministerial specifications. The definition of “machine” has also been revised to clarify that it pertains specifically to weighing and measuring machines used in trade, aligning more closely with the regulatory focus on contemporary devices.

These amendments are part of a broader initiative by Measurement Canada to adapt to emerging technologies in measurement. Ongoing collaboration with industry stakeholders ensures that the specifications reflect current practices and technological capabilities. The proactive development of specifications aims to mitigate potential conflicts with existing regulations and improve the accuracy and reliability of measurement devices used in trade.

This regulatory update is essential for maintaining fair trade practices and ensuring the accurate measurement of products and services, ultimately benefiting both consumers and industry stakeholders.

Canada (SOR/2024-183) October 16, 2024