In the world of goods, services, processes, systems, and practices, quality and conformity to standards are paramount. The process of obtaining certification or license to use the Ghana Standards Authority’s STANDARD MARK is crucial for ensuring adherence to specified criteria.
The Standard Mark can be acquired for products and services which conform to specified standards. This could be through Product Certification or Management Systems Certification.
When seeking to use GSA’s Standard Mark, individuals must apply to the Authority following the prescribed procedure. If goods or services align with the standard specifications, the Authority may grant certification to use the Standard Mark after necessary conformity assessment activities.
Certification is not a onetime activity. The validity period is determined by the GSA based on applicable standards. In most cases, the validity of certification is for a one-year period. The renewal process is equally as important as gaining it the first time. Scrutiny of your procedures, process and product would be conducted again before giving the approval to use the Standard Mark for another year.
However, the GSA reserves the right to refuse to grant or renew a certification, based on verifiable results from your documentation and testing of your product, service or system.
It is essential to note that certifications granted to products, systems, and services under the GSA Act 2022 (Act 1078), are non-transferable. Any attempt to transfer such certification constitutes an offense, punishable by fines or imprisonment.
In cases where products, schemes, or services do not conform to set standards, the GSA holds the power to suspend or revoke the certification of the product, system, or service. Suspension allows for rectification of non-conformities within a specified period, while revocation occurs when corrections are not made promptly.
Adherence to standards through the certification process not only upholds quality but also promotes accountability within various industries. The process in obtaining and maintaining these certifications ensures that goods and services provided to consumers meet the expected benchmarks, fostering trust and reliability in the marketplace.
The Crucial Role of Weights and Measures: Safeguarding Trade, Industry, and Public Welfare
In the important area of commerce and daily life, there exists an often overlooked yet indispensable aspect: weights and measures. These seemingly everyday tools play a pivotal role in ensuring fairness, accuracy, and safety across various sectors, ranging from trade and industry to health, safety, and the environment. Underpinning their significance is the framework outlined in statutes like the GSA Act 2022 (ACT 1078), which sets forth stringent regulations to uphold standards and prevent malpractices.
Regulatory Framework
The GSA Act 2022 outlines clear mandates regarding the usage and possession of weights, measures, and instruments. It stipulates that for activities pertaining to trade, industry, health, safety, or the environment, only approved units of measurement specified in the First Schedule may be employed. Furthermore, adherence to specified linear, square, or cubic measures, as outlined in the Second Schedule, is obligatory. This meticulous attention to detail ensures uniformity and prevents discrepancies that could potentially lead to exploitation or harm.
Combatting Non-Conforming Goods
A pivotal provision within the Act concerns the handling of non-conforming goods. In instances where weights, measures, or instruments fail to meet prescribed standards or lack Pattern Approval, swift and decisive action is taken.
Seizure of such items is authorised, and if the owner cannot be identified within a specified period, forfeiture to the Republic is mandated. Subsequently, the disposal of forfeited items is meticulously overseen to prevent their re-entry into circulation, safeguarding the integrity of markets and public trust.
Accountability and Deterrence
The Act also imposes accountability measures to deter non-compliance. It holds bodies of persons, whether corporate entities or partnerships, responsible for offences committed under their purview.
Directors, officers, and partners are deemed culpable, emphasising the principle of collective responsibility. However, the Act also acknowledges the importance of due diligence, providing safeguards for individuals who can demonstrate that they took reasonable steps to prevent infractions within their sphere of influence.
The Role of Compounding Offences
Recognising the potential for resolution outside the confines of traditional legal proceedings, the Act includes provisions for compounding offences. This mechanism allows for the expedient resolution of infractions through the payment of fines, provided the offender acknowledges wrongdoing and consents to this alternative course of action. Such a pragmatic approach not only streamlines enforcement but also encourages cooperation and swift remediation.
Conclusion
In essence, the GSA Act 2022 embodies a commitment to transparency, fairness, and public welfare. By establishing robust regulations governing weights and measures, it safeguards the integrity of trade, fosters trust among stakeholders, and upholds standards essential for the well-being of society.
As custodians of this framework, it is incumbent upon all stakeholders to uphold its principles diligently, ensuring that the fabric of commerce remains strong and resilient, anchored in the bedrock of accuracy and integrity.
Written by Kofi Yeboah Debrah, APR, Acting Head of Public Relations, Ghana Standards Authority.