Legal Metrology Repairer License: Objectives, Documents and Process

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A Legal Metrology Repairer License is a mandatory approval issued under the Legal Metrology Act, 2009, for any individual or firm engaged in the repair of weights and measures. This license ensures that the repair activities follow the legal norms set out by the Legal Metrology Department. The department functions under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, and plays a vital role in regulating weights and measures across India.

Repairers of weight and measure instruments must file an application to the Controller of the State Legal Metrology Department to acquire a Legal Metrology Repairer License. This article provides detailed information about the license, including the eligibility, process, documentation, legal obligations, penalties.

What is a Legal Metrology Repairer License?

A Legal Metrology Repairer License is an official permit granted to individuals or firms that are involved in repairing instruments and devices categorized under weights and measures. It is a legal obligation for businesses engaged in this line of work to have such a license, without which their activities will be deemed unlawful.

The application for this license must be submitted with necessary fees and documents. Once the application is approved, the license is granted for a period of one year. However, the validity can be extended to a maximum of five years, depending on the applicant's compliance and renewal request.

Definition of 'Repairer' Under the Legal Metrology Act, 2009

As per the Legal Metrology Act, 2009, a "repairer" refers to a person or entity involved in the maintenance of weights and measures. This includes the cleaning, lubricating, adjusting, and calibrating of instruments to ensure accuracy and compliance with statutory standards. This definition highlights that even activities such as calibration and preventive maintenance fall within the purview of the Legal Metrology framework. Thus, anyone engaged in these tasks must obtain a Legal Metrology Repairer License.

Objectives of the Legal Metrology Act, 2009

The Legal Metrology Act was enacted to establish legal standards for weights and measures and to regulate trade practices involving such equipment. The Act ensures transparency, accuracy, and fairness in trade and commerce.

The main objectives include: 

  • Legalizing the manufacturing, repairing, and trading of weights and measures to ensure standardization.

  • Ensuring the systematic and periodic calibration of equipment.

  • Safeguarding consumers by promoting the use of standard and accurate measuring devices.

  • Preventing the sale and usage of non-standard, tampered, or defective measuring equipment. 

Why a Repairer License is Mandatory?

Section 23 of the Legal Metrology Act, 2009, clearly prohibits the manufacture, repair, or sale of weights and measures without a valid license. It states that no person shall engage in these activities unless a license is issued by the Controller of Legal Metrology.

However, an exception exists for manufacturers. If a manufacturer is repairing their own weights and measures, they do not need to obtain a separate repairer license. This legal provision ensures that only qualified and licensed entities handle weight and measure instruments, reducing the risk of manipulation or fraud in commercial transactions.

Legal Penalties for Non-Compliance

According to Section 46 of the Legal Metrology Act, 2009, engaging in repair activities without a valid Legal Metrology Repairer License is a punishable offence. A first-time violation may result in a fine of up to Rs. 5,000. For repeated offences, the Act prescribes stricter penalties, including imprisonment for up to one year, or a combination of fine and imprisonment. These provisions reflect the seriousness of compliance in legal metrology.

List of Instruments Covered Under the Legal Metrology Act, 2009

The following are some examples of instruments and devices regulated under the Act: 

  • Volumetric flasks

  • Measuring cups and spoons

  • Syringes and pipettes

  • Burettes

  • Sphygmomanometers (used for measuring blood pressure)

  • Clinical thermometers

  • Taximeters

  • Fuel measurement systems for vehicles

  • Water meters

  • Bulk meters

  • Volumetric container filling machines

  • Folding scales

  • Steel tape measures

  • Standard weights

  • Carat weights

  • Surveying chains

  • Plastic tape measures 

Application Process for Legal Metrology Repairer License

To obtain a Legal Metrology Repairer License, an application must be filed in the prescribed Form LR-1 with the State Legal Metrology Department. The form requires several critical details to be furnished by the applicant, including: 

  • Name of the applicant

  • Workshop address

  • Tenancy proof for the premises

  • Establishment date of the repair facility

  • Information about directors or proprietors depending on the business structure

  • Shop or trade registration number

  • Details of weights and measures intended to be repaired

  • Area of operation

  • Experience in the field of repairs

  • List of employees with their qualifications

  • Type of machinery and tools available

  • Power supply details

  • Space allocated for weight storage

  • Previous licenses held, if any 

Documents Required for Legal Metrology Repairer License

Every application must be supported with essential documents. The following paperwork is generally required: 

  • Identity proof and recent photographs of the applicant

  • Business place registration certificates

  • No Objection Certificate (NOC) from competent authority

  • Lease agreement or ownership proof of business premises

  • Registration documents such as partnership deed, incorporation certificate, etc.

  • Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA) for companies

  • Proof of employment including appointment letters, experience certificates, and photos

  • List of tools and equipment with purchase invoices

  • Purchase bill for test weights if applying for new verification certificate

  • Goods and Services Tax (GST) registration certificate

  • Professional Tax registration

  • Labour license 

Validity and Renewal of the Repairer License

The initial validity of a Legal Metrology Repairer License is one year. However, applicants can request an extension for up to five years, depending on compliance and performance history. To avoid penalties, it is advisable to apply for renewal before the expiry date of the current license. Renewal applications may require an inspection and submission of updated documents.

Who Should Apply for a Legal Metrology Repairer License?

Any person, firm, or company that is involved in the repair of weights and measures must apply for this license. This includes entities that: 

  • Operate a repair facility for metrology instruments

  • Provide calibration or maintenance services for measuring devices

  • Handle equipment used in trade transactions involving weight or volume 

Manufacturers repairing their own equipment are exempted. However, for third-party repairs, a valid license is mandatory.

Why Choose Compliance Calendar LLP for Legal Metrology Licensing?

Compliance with the Legal Metrology Act can be complex due to procedural formalities and technical document requirements. At Compliance Calendar LLP, we offer comprehensive assistance to make the process seamless and error-free.

Our team ensures: 

  • Proper documentation

  • Timely application filing

  • End-to-end support from application to approval

  • Consultation on compliance and regulatory norms 

With our professional assistance, you can focus on your core business while we take care of the licensing formalities.

Conclusion

Obtaining a Legal Metrology Repairer License is not just a regulatory obligation but also a mark of credibility and trust in the industry. It assures clients and regulatory bodies that the repairer adheres to national standards and legal norms. The Legal Metrology Act, 2009, aims to uphold fairness in trade practices by regulating how weights and measures are repaired, maintained, and used. Non-compliance can result in strict penalties and even imprisonment, making it imperative for businesses to stay aligned with the law.

Whether you're an individual repairer or a company managing a fleet of measuring instruments, applying for a Legal Metrology Repairer License is the first step toward legal conformity and operational excellence. For a smooth experience, professional assistance from experts like Compliance Calendar LLP can make a significant difference.

Want to know more about the Legal Metrology Repairer License process? Contact Compliance Calendar LLP today. Get expert guidance and start your licensing journey with confidence.

Mail: info@ccoffice.in or Call/Whatsapp: +91 9988424211.

FAQs

Q1. Who needs to apply for a Legal Metrology Repairer License?

Ans. Any individual, firm, or company engaged in the repair, calibration, or maintenance of weights and measures governed under the Legal Metrology Act, 2009 must apply for this license. This includes businesses servicing instruments like weighing machines, fuel dispensers, water meters, etc.

Q2. Is a manufacturer required to obtain a repairer license for servicing their own equipment?

Ans. No, a manufacturer is exempt from obtaining a repairer license if the repairs are limited to their own manufactured weights and measures. However, if they repair third-party instruments, a license is mandatory.

Q3. What is the validity period of the Legal Metrology Repairer License?

Ans. The license is initially valid for one year. However, upon renewal and continued compliance, the license validity can be extended up to a maximum of five years as approved by the State Legal Metrology Controller.

Q4. What are the penalties for repairing weights and measures without a valid license?

Ans. As per Section 46 of the Legal Metrology Act, 2009, the penalty includes a fine of up to Rs. 5,000 for the first offence. Repeated violations may lead to imprisonment up to one year, or both fine and imprisonment.

Q5. What documents are required to apply for a Legal Metrology Repairer License?

Ans. Applicants must submit identity proof, business registration documents, tenancy or ownership documents, NOC from the authority, GST and professional tax registration, employee details, and tool purchase bills. A complete list is available from the State Legal Metrology office.

Q6. Can the application for the repairer license be filed online?

Ans. The mode of application may vary from state to state. Some states provide online application facilities, while others follow offline procedures. It is advisable to check with the concerned State Legal Metrology Department for exact instructions.

Q7. How long does it take to get a Legal Metrology Repairer License?

Ans. The timeline for approval varies on a case-by-case basis. Typically, it may take a few weeks from the date of application, depending on the accuracy of documentation and the time taken for inspection and verification by the Legal Metrology Officer.

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