Fair Trading Minister Virginia Judge and Bathurst MP Gerard Martin will join Fair Trading officers in Bathurst this morning to test the accuracy of Simplot’s weighbridge.

Ms Judge said Fair Trading tests more than 600 weighbridges every year using a mobile test unit called the Big Rig.

“Trade measurement plays a vital role in consumer protection,” Ms Judge said.

“The Big Rig is not hard to miss – it’s made up of a prime mover, semi-trailer, a set of one tonne weights and a forklift.

“Every year it travels more than 60,000 kilometres around the state testing weighbridges and other heavy weighing equipment, including belt weighers for the mining and grain industries.

“The Big Rig ensures that all rural producers receive a fair price for their goods.

“It helps the transport industry calculate accurate freight measures so they are charging their customers fairly.

“It is also used to test Roads and Traffic Authority weighbridges to ensure that heavy vehicles do not overload, endangering road users and themselves.”

Mr Martin said every year more than $100 billion dollars worth of trade is conducted by measurement.

“This is big business and it is important that consumers know they are getting what they pay for,” he said.

“Whether it’s fuel pumps, liquor dispensers or weighbridges, all trade measurements must be accurate.

“During 2009, dedicated Fair Trading staff conducted more than 5,200 trade measurement checks throughout the state as part of an inspection program that focuses on education as well as enforcement.

“Traders should always remember if they are caught breaking the law they face infringement notices up to $550 or prosecution, with penalties up to $100,000.”

Further information on weights and measures can be viewed at this website.

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