The Measurement Standards Division is involved in almost every consumer transaction that occurs in Oregon. When you purchase apples at the grocery store, you can be certain you are paying the right amount because ODA inspectors have tested the check stand scales and the price codes. Retailers can have confidence that they received the right amount of apples from their distribution center since warehouse scales are also licensed and tested by the division. Even the distribution center can be confident, since Measurement Standards Inspectors test the heavy capacity scales which weigh the delivery trucks. ODA also tests gas pump meters and motor fuel quality.
Inspectors routinely conduct fuel octane screenings.
They collect official samples, test for water in storage tanks, and investigate motor fuel complaints. ODA's packaging program checks net contents to ensure consumers get the full amount of product they pay for. From grocery stores to clothing and hardware stores, packaging inspectors test the accuracy of electronic checkout scanners. They make sure products are sold by the correct method of sale, and investigate consumer packaging complaints. Finally, the division has a metrology laboratory which calibrates all of the industry standards for measurement so that the tools used to check weighing and measuring devices for accuracy are themselves accurate.