Macoya, Trinidad and Tobago – May 20th, 2024
In a significant event that underscores the critical role of metrology in fostering a sustainable future, Trinidad and Tobago marked World Metrology Day 2024 with a comprehensive National Symposium. Held on 20th May, 2024 at the Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards (TTBS) Auditorium at 1-2 Century Drive, Macoya, the symposium featured panel discussions and speeches from key stakeholders, emphasizing this year’s theme: “We Measure Today for a Sustainable Tomorrow.”
World Metrology Day recognizes and celebrates the contribution of all the people that work in intergovernmental and national organizations throughout the year. The celebration coincides with UNESCO’s official recognition of May 20th as an International Day, further highlighting the importance of metrology globally.
Consumer Protection
Representing the Ministry of Trade and Industry, Deputy Permanent Secretary (Ag.), Ms. Ava Mahabir-Dass delivered the feature address on behalf of Trade Minister, Senator the Honourable Paula Gopee-Scoon. Ms. Mahabir-Dass highlighted the crucial work of the TTBS’ Legal Metrology Inspectorate (the LMI) in building consumer confidence through accurate measurements. She noted that the goal of the Government is to achieve 100% verification of all measuring devices used in trade
“The Bureau has been working assiduously to verify various measurement devices such as fuel dispensers at service stations, airport scales, as well as the scales at the Trinidad and Tobago Postal Corporation (TTPOST). You will be relieved to know that all these devices have consistently achieved 100% compliance.
With regard to market scale verification activities, the TTBS has made significant progress in this area. Last year, all markets under the National Agricultural Marketing and Development Corporation (NAMDEVCO) were included in the LMI cycle for verifications and a high compliance rate was achieved. In addition to continuous verification and monitoring across all municipal markets in Trinidad, the LMI is now utilising the new TTBS Tobago Sub-Office that was opened in March 2024 to bring these critical services to the sister-isle on a consistent basis.”
Celebrating TTBS’s 50th Anniversary
A significant highlight of the event was the celebration of TTBS’s upcoming 50th anniversary on July 8th, 2024. While delivering his remarks, the Executive Director of TTBS, Mr Jose E. Trejo reflected on the Bureau’s achievements over the past five decades, including advancements in the National Measurement System and the modernization of the Metrology and Standards Act. These reforms aim to enhance the technical capacities of the country, facilitate export competitiveness, and protect national health, safety, and the environment.
Mr Trejo further detailed TTBS’ ongoing efforts to enhance the National Quality Infrastructure (NQI) of Trinidad and Tobago. He outlined significant achievements, including the recognition by the Bureau of International Weights and Measures (BIPM) for the Calibration and Measurement Capability for Mass in 2021.
Looking Ahead
TTBS Chairman, Mr Lawford Dupres expressed optimism for the future, emphasizing the Bureau’s commitment to precision, excellence, and sustainability in metrology. “Let us remember that behind every measurement lies a story of evolution, of innovation, and of hope for a better tomorrow,” he remarked. The event concluded with a reaffirmation of TTBS’s dedication to advancing metrology for the benefit of Trinidad and Tobago and the global community.
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A Warm Welcome: Deputy Permanent Secretary (Ag.), Ms. Ava Mahabir-Dass, Ministry of Trade and Industry,is greeted by Ms. Erica Caruth, Manager Metrology Division, TTBS
1st Panel Discussion: Former TTBS Executive Director, Mr. Theodore Reddock (center) discusses “measurement impacting business strategy” with (L-R); Dr Terry Mohammed, Deputy Dean, Faculty of Science and Technology, UWI, Ms. Lydia Lee Chong, Process Manager, Phoenix Gas Processors Ltd, Mr. Rajiv Diptee, President, Supermarkets Association of T&T and Dr Ayana Sebro, Public Health Specialist.
2nd Panel Discussion: Current TTBS Executive Director, Mr. Jose Trejo (center) moderates a discussion on “measurement informing a sustainable future” with (L-R); Dr Darin Sukha, Research Fellow, Cocoa Research Center, Ms. Ayasha Nickie, Director, Downstream Petroleum Management Division (MEEI), Ms. Joy Francis, Team Lead, TTMA and Mr. Farz Khan, Director, Chemistry Food and Drugs Division.