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Internal Market, Industry, Entrepreneurship and SMEs

Simplification of 8 legal metrology directives

Directive 2011/17/EU repeals 8 'old approach' directives on the topics listed below. It allows for a 10-year transitional period.

From 1 December 2015

  • Cold water meters for non-clean water
  • Alcohol meters and alcohol tables
  • Medium and above-medium accuracy weights
  • Tyre pressure gauges for motor vehicles
  • Standard mass of grain

From 1 July 2011

  • Calibration of ship tanks

Public consultation and impact assessment

A public consultation concluded there were no barriers to trade in the 6 areas concerned. This was confirmed by an impact assessment.

If needed, EU Member States can reference existing international standards as a basis for regulation in these areas, applying the principle of mutual recognition.

Legislation

The above mentioned old approach directives depend on Directive 2009/34/EC - Framework Directive on measuring instruments & metrological control methods (recast of Directive 71/316/EEC).