Macoya, Trinidad and Tobago – May 20^th, 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 20^th 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 8^th, 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.

From left: Mr. Rodney Ramnath, Manager Certification Division, Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards (TTBS); Mr. Jose Edwardo Trejo, Executive Director, Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards (TTBS); Mr. Phillip Robinson, Interim Chief Executive Officer, Tobago Tourism Agency Limited (TTAL); and Mr. Wendell Walker, Director Product Development and Destination Management, Tobago Tourism Agency Limited (TTAL)

Scarborough, Tobago – May 8th 2024 – In a significant step towards enhancing the quality and competitiveness of Trinidad and Tobago’s tourism industry, the Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards (TTBS) and the Tobago Tourism Agency Limited (TTAL) have entered into a three-year Service Level Agreement (SLA) to relaunch the Trinidad and Tobago Tourism Industry Certification (TTTIC) programme on the picturesque island of Tobago.

The signing ceremony, held at the Scarborough Office of TTAL in Tobago, signifies a renewed commitment to excellence in the tourism sector. Under the TTTIC Programme, tourism operators are assessed against national standards, ensuring conformity to regulations, infrastructure, equipment, competence, management, quality, and health and safety protocols.

From left (back): Ms. Yannicka Brown, Standards Officer II, Certification Division, Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards (TTBS); Mr. Rodney Ramnath, Manager Certification Division, Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards (TTBS); Mr. Wendell Walker, Director Product Development and Destination Management, Tobago Tourism Agency Limited (TTAL); and Ms. Kirsten Cowie-Irvine, Product Development Officer, Tobago Tourism Agency Limited (TTAL)
From left (front/seated): Mr. Jose Edwardo Trejo, Executive Director, Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards (TTBS); and Mr. Phillip Robinson, Interim Chief Executive Officer, Tobago Tourism Agency Limited (TTAL); and

Speaking at the event, Mr. Philip Robinson, Interim Chief Executive Officer of TTAL, underscored the importance of TTTIC for the island’s tourism sector, “The TTTIC programme sets the bar, for the minimum standards of quality tourism operators must achieve and maintain in their operations.”

Mr. Jose Trejo, Executive Director of TTBS, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the programme’s role in standardizing and elevating the quality of tourism offerings; “TTTIC serves as a beacon of assurance to visitors, guaranteeing that legal requirements and quality standards are meticulously upheld.”

The TTTIC Programme aims to achieve several objectives, including improving and standardizing the quality of tourism products and services, increasing visitor confidence, and enhancing the competitiveness of tourism operators in the international arena. Additionally, it provides a framework for sustainability and differentiation of Trinidad and Tobago’s tourism product.

Mr. Trejo emphasized the collaborative nature of the partnership, stating, “Today marks a significant milestone in the realm of tourism excellence as TTBS and TTAL commemorate a renewed partnership. Together, we join hands to build a culture of quality and propel our nation to even greater heights on the global tourism stage.”
With sixty-four certifications issued since 2018 in Tobago, primarily focusing on the accommodation sector, tourism operators are encouraged to embrace the TTTIC programme and strive for excellence in every facet of their operations.

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For further information about the Trinidad and Tobago Tourism Industry Certification programme, please visit the TTBS website at https://gottbs.com/tttic/ OR the TTAL website at https://tobagobeyond.com/corporate/trade-resources/tttic.

TTBS Media Contact
TTBS Certification Division:
TTBS Phone: +1(868) 463-0803, +1 (868) 662-8827 ext. 2221/2225, 2230
Email: tttic@ttbs.org.tt or certification@ttbs.org.tt

TTAL Media Contact
Marketing and Communications Department
Phone: +1(868) 612 8825 ext. 2002
Email: communications@tobagotourism.org

2024-04-18 – A significant step towards enhancing energy efficiency and consumer protection in Trinidad and Tobago’s lighting sector was undertaken as the Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards (TTBS) convened a pivotal National Stakeholder Consultation to address the compulsory standard addressing Energy Labelling of Compact Fluorescent Lamps and Light Emitting Diode Lamps (CFLs and LEDs). The event took place on Wednesday 17^th April in the TTBS Auditorium located at 1-2 Century Drive, Macoya. Stakeholders representing manufacturers, importers, distributors were invited to participate in this critical consultation.

About the Standard

TTCS 11:2021, Energy labelling – Compact fluorescent lamps and light-emitting diode lamps – Compulsory requirements, establishes requirements for energy labelling and safety for CFLs and LEDs. This compulsory standard underscores TTBS’ commitment to safeguarding public welfare and promoting sustainable energy practices in Trinidad and Tobago.

Mr José E. Trejo, Executive Director of TTBS, emphasized the importance of TTCS 11:2021 in enhancing consumer confidence and promoting environmental sustainability. “TTBS is dedicated to upholding standards that ensure the safety and quality of products in our nation,” stated Mr Trejo. “We encourage all stakeholders to actively participate in this consultation, provide valuable feedback, and collaborate with us as we continue to uphold our commitment to quality and excellence.”

Benefits of TTCS 11:2021

Safety and Efficiency – CFLs and LEDs offer significant energy savings compared to traditional incandescent bulbs, reducing electricity consumption and lowering utility bills for consumers. By enforcing TTCS 11:2021, TTBS aims to ensure that all CFLs and LEDs in the market meet stringent safety, energy performance and related labelling requirements, providing consumers with reliable and eco-friendly lighting options.

Transparency and Consumer Empowerment – The standard includes clear labelling requirements and guidelines for demonstrating compliance, enabling consumers to make informed purchasing decisions. By providing transparent information about product energy efficiency and performance, TTCS 11:2021 empowers consumers to choose products that align with their preferences and values.

Enforcement of the Compulsory Standard

TTBS is committed to rigorous enforcement of TTCS 11:2021 to eliminate sub-standard products from the market. Imported shipments of CFLs and LEDs will undergo thorough inspection, sampling, and testing to ensure compliance with the standard’s requirements.

For further information, please contact Mr Klenworth Jones at 662-8827 or 612-0279 or email klenworth.jones@ttbs.org.tt

Established in 1974, the Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards (TTBS) set out with a vision to become the leading provider of national quality solutions, fostering a standards-conscious society and a globally competitive nation.

Governed by the Standards Act No. 18 of 1997, TTBS has played a pivotal role in shaping Trinidad and Tobago’s Quality Infrastructure. As the National Standard Body and National Metrology Institute, TTBS is instrumental in developing and promoting standards that bolster trade, safeguard consumers, and enhance global competitiveness.

TTBS’ impact resonates across various stakeholders:

• Businesses – TTBS supports businesses in achieving international recognition, improving product quality and increasing competitiveness in domestic and global markets
• Consumers – Ensuring product safety and quality empowers consumers to make informed choices, protecting their interests.
• Government – Collaborating with government agencies, we aid in policy development that drives economic growth, public health, and sustainable development.
• Industries – TTBS facilities the growth of industries by providing technical support, standards development and information services, certification and infrastructure support.

Our comprehensive range of services includes:

• Standards Development – Facilitating the development of national and regional standards across various sectors to enhance trade and competitiveness, improve the quality of goods and services, and support sustainability development goals.
• Product Certification – Certifying goods and services to meet specific standards, instilling consumer confidence and facilitating trade.
• Metrology Services – Providing precise measurement and calibration services to ensure compliance with international standards.
• Testing – TTBS’ labs conduct rigorous tests to assess the safety, quality and performance of products, materials and equipment.
• Training – Offering programs to enhance knowledge and skills in standards, metrology, calibration, and quality management.
• Regulatory Compliance – Assisting businesses in understanding and adhering to regulatory requirements for market access and trade.
• Management System Certification – Assessing and certifying companies’ management systems against set standards through audits and evaluations.

As we approach our 50th anniversary on July 8th, 2024, we celebrate this significant milestone with renewed commitment. TTBS will embark on a special campaign honouring its legacy while setting the course for the future. Through events, initiatives, and engagements, we invite you to celebrate with us. Stay tuned for announcements on our campaign theme, activities, and opportunities for involvement.

As we look to the future, we remain committed to our core values of trustworthiness, commitment to people, quality consciousness, innovation, enterprise and teamwork. Together, let us continue to build a future where quality knows no compromise.

2024-03-06 – Today, Tobagonians witnessed a historic moment as the Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards (TTBS) unveiled its new Tobago Sub-Office, located at the D Colosseum Building II, corner of Airport Bypass and Milford Road, Crown Point, Tobago. This strategic initiative, launched on Wednesday, 6th March, 2024, marks a significant milestone in fostering a culture of standards and quality assurance in Tobago, while simultaneously propelling economic development on the island.

A Historic Milestone for Tobago

The establishment of the Tobago Sub-Office is a testament to TTBS’s unwavering commitment to advancing the National Quality Infrastructure (NQI) in our twin island nation. The Sub-Office, functions as a central hub for activities such as inspections, re-inspections, surveillances and stakeholder engagements. By bringing the Bureau’s services closer to Tobagonians, this move aims to enhance access to quality assurance tools and services, empowering local businesses and industries to meet international standards and compete effectively in the global market.

In her remarks at the inauguration ceremony, Minister of Trade and Industry, Senator the Honourable Paula Gopee-Scoon, emphasized the pivotal role of the new Sub-Office in supporting Tobago’s economic landscape. She stated, “The collaboration between the Government, the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI), and TTBS underscores a unified effort towards achieving national goals and in exemplary fashion it is a true reflection of the Government’s commitment to decentralization, ensuring that the benefits of standardization and quality assurance not only meets but satisfies the needs of our citizenry.”

Expanding Quality Assurance Services

The Legal Metrology Inspectorate (LMI) of the TTBS is responsible for ensuring that measurements used in trade adhere to established standards. Currently, the LMI has achieved 100% compliance for fuel dispensers, airport scales, and TTPOST scales in Tobago. However, there is a need for verifications in other areas of the business sector, such as markets, supermarkets, minimarts, and hardwares.  With staff permanently based in Tobago, the TTBS will ensure that these areas of the business sector are serviced.

Additionally, the TTBS Tobago Sub-Office will also offer access to the Certification Division, which verifies local goods and services meet standards through conformity assessment. This includes the Trinidad and Tobago Tourism Industry Certification (TTTIC), a tourism quality assurance program. Presently, about 25% of Tobago’s accommodation providers are TTTIC certified. The Sub-Office aims to increase this number, ensuring Tobagonian stakeholders benefit from TTTIC services.

Conclusion

TTBS remains committed to its mission of promoting a culture of excellence and quality in Trinidad and Tobago. The establishment of the Tobago Sub-Office is a testament to this commitment, and TTBS looks forward to working closely with Tobagonians to drive sustainable economic growth through quality assurance.

For more information about the Tobago Sub-Office and TTBS’s services, please visit www.gottbs.com or contact Ms. Natalie Dennie, Marketing Officer at 662-8827 ext. 2260 or email natlie.dennie@ttbs.org.tt

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2024-02-29 – The safety and quality of garments and textile products in Trinidad and Tobago has been given a boost. On Thursday, February 29th, 2024, TTBS hosted a National Stakeholder Consultation on Garments & Textiles at its headquarters located at 1-2 Century Drive Macoya. The purpose of the consultation was the Launch of the National Compulsory Standard: TTCS 10:2021 Garments and Textiles – Compulsory Requirements.

Invited stakeholders included; manufacturers, importers and distributors (both wholesale and retail) of garments and textiles. Also in attendance were; Ms. Amanda Williams, Project Officer from Trinidad and Tobago Fashion Company Ltd (FashionTT), as well as Mrs Ava Bullard-Noel, Senior Consumer Advocate,  Ministry of Trade & Industry – Consumer Affairs Division.

About the Standard

TTCS 10:2021 sets forth essential guidelines for the labelling and chemical composition of garments and textiles, ensuring that consumers have access to safe, high-quality products.

The development and enforcement of this standard forms part of TTBS’ mandate under the Standards Act No. 18 of 1997 as the National Standards Body to protect public or industrial health, welfare, and safety.

Speaking at the consultation, Mr. Jose E. Trejo, Executive Director, TTBS stated, “TTBS is committed to promoting and enforcing standards that ensure the safety and quality of products in our nation. I encourage all stakeholders to actively participate in this consultation, provide valuable feedback, and collaborate with us to achieve our shared goals as we continue building a society that is guided by standards and quality.”

Benefits of TTCS 10:2021

Safety Assurance – The standard includes requirements for chemicals like formaldehydes and azo dyes, which can have adverse effects on health if present in high levels. Consumers will therefore have access to products that are in compliance to the standard, ensuring their protection and safety.

Quality Control & Consumer Empowerment – The standard also establishes guidelines for labelling and product classification. It includes labelling requirements and a point system to classify textiles as seconds, irregular, or slightly imperfect. By providing clear labelling and information, consumers can make informed decisions about the products they buy, ensuring they get the quality they deserve and value for money.

Enforcement of the Standard

Over the past year, TTBS’ Implementation Division conducted inspections on garment and textile products and out of 527 inspections, 81 non-conformities were identified, representing 15% of the total inspections. TTBS aims to decrease the percentage of non-complying products as we move forward in the enforcement of TTCS 10:202.

Imported shipments of garments and textiles are subject to inspection, sampling, and testing to determine conformance to the requirements of this standard. Locally manufactured items will be inspected during market surveillance activities. Once all results are satisfactory, goods will be released for sale or distribution.

For further information contact Mr Sterling Thompson at 662-8827 or 612-0279 ext. 2453 or email sterling.thompson@ttbs.org.tt

A Tapestry of Safety & Quality: Mr. Gerard Maxwell, Implementation Division Manager at TTBS, passionately addresses stakeholders during the National Stakeholder Consultation on Garments & Textiles

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2024-02-28 –Trinidad and Tobago has made a significant step forward in promoting energy efficiency solutions for its citizens through a regional project that was facilitated by the Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards (TTBS).

On Wednesday 28^th February, 2024, the Quality for Sustainable Energy in the Caribbean (QSEC) Project successfully concluded, marking a pivotal milestone in this country’s journey towards meeting the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals through sustainable energy solutions.

The QSEC Project was funded through partnerships with the Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB), the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), and the Ministry of Planning and Development’s Global Environment Fund (GEF) Project and The Public Sector Investment Programme (PSIP) in renewable energy initiatives.

Funding from these entities has been instrumental in the establishment of the TTBS’ Energy Efficiency Lighting Laboratory, which is the first of its kind in the region. This state-of-the-art facility which was launched in2022, positions Trinidad and Tobago as the first Regional Centre of Excellence for testing the energy efficiency of lighting products.

Since its inception, the Energy Efficiency Lab has conducted rigorous testing on Compact Fluorescent Lightbulbs (CFLs) and Light Emitting Diode Bulbs (LEDs) samples from both Trinidad and Tobago and two CARICOM Member state. The results of these tests have revealed deficiencies in both product quality and labelling practices. Notably, all LED samples tested failed to meet the standard for labelling, and 95% of LED samples failed to meet the performance requirements of the international standard. These findings underscore the critical importance of enforcing quality control measures and adherence to international standards in the lighting products industry.

To address these issues, TTBS will be presenting the data gathered from the Energy Efficiency Lab to key stakeholders via consultations later this year. Plans are also underway to mandatorily enforce the National Energy Efficiency Labelling Standard for LEDs and CFLs, with the Energy Efficiency Lighting Lab testing high risk models of bulbs on sale in the local market for conformance.

In addition to promoting energy efficiency and environmental sustainability, the QSEC Project also aims to drive cost savings for businesses and consumers. Through the implementation of the Testing and Labelling Programme for CFLs and LEDs lighting products, consumers can now benefit from accurate information to compare brands.

Businesses in Trinidad and Tobago and the region can also have their lighting products tested and verified locally, eliminating the need to send them outside the region for testing.

Speaking at the event, Minister of Trade and Industry, Senator the Honourable Paula Gopee-Scoon expressed gratitude to all involved in the QSEC project, especially CROSQ, INDOCAL, PTB, and the German Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development. She also extended continued support from the Ministry of Trade and Industry, collaborating with the Ministry of Planning and Development and the Ministry of Public Utilities to meet the objectives of QSEC.

For more information about the QSEC Project and the Energy Efficiency Lab, please email electrical-products.lab@ttbs.org.tt or contact 662-8827 Ext 2367, 2368, 2375

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October 14, 2023 – The Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards (TTBS) celebrates World Standards Day 2023 with a special workshop on Occupational Health and Safety Standards. The event will take place on October 19, 2023, from 9:00 am to 11:00 am at the Hilton Trinidad & Conference Centre.

The workshop’s main objectives include fostering discussions on critical topics such as psychological health and safety in the workplace, promoting a supportive work environment, and leveraging Occupational Health and Safety standards to enhance worker safety while addressing mental health concerns.

Distinguished attendees at this event will include Senator the Honourable Paula Gopee-Scoon, Minister of Trade and Industry, and distinguished international and national experts in the field of standardization. The workshop will facilitate insightful discussions and fruitful collaborations.

National Impact: Prioritizing Well-being for Prosperity
The event will highlight the critical interconnection between labour productivity, economic prosperity, and well-being. In a study conducted by RTI International for the Inter-American Development Bank (IADB), it has been revealed that the economic cost, encompassing healthcare expenses and productivity losses attributed to diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and cancer, totals approximately $8.7 billion TTD annually—equivalent to about 5% of the current GDP.

Thus, there is an urgent need to emphasize the psychological well-being of employees by leveraging the pivotal role of standards. This pivotal workshop aims to promote awareness about standards as catalysts for driving positive change while creating systems to safeguard the health and well-being of our citizens.

Background: World Standards Day
World Standards Day is a globally celebrated event that takes place on October 14th each year. This initiative, endorsed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), is designed to increase awareness of the significance of standardization in our modern world.

The focus for World Standards Day 2023 is the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3: “Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages.” TTBS, in alignment with the global standardization community, is passionately involved in this multi-year campaign that emphasizes the pivotal role of standards in realizing the UN SDGs.

TTBS has committed to aligning its efforts with the UN SDGs and Vision 2030: The National Development Strategy, giving paramount importance to SDG 3, which centres on ensuring healthy lives and promoting wellness for all. Under the theme “Shared Vision for a Better World,” TTBS aims to address these crucial matters during the workshop, aligning its actions with the government’s dedication to economic growth and sustainability as outlined in the National Quality Policy 2018-2030.

For additional information, please reach out to: Natalie Dennie, Marketing Officer, Email: natalie.dennie@ttbs.org.tt, Phone: (868) 662-8827 Ext: 2260.

Join TTBS in celebrating World Standards Day 2023 and in our collective efforts to build a brighter, healthier, and more sustainable future for all.

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Date:15^th May, 2023

The Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards remains committed to ensuring the accuracy of all measuring devices used in trade.

As part of TTBS’ mandate under the Metrology Act Chapter 82:06, our Legal Metrology Inspectorate (LMI) conducts regular verifications of measuring devices (market scales) at all Municipal markets. These verifications safeguard both the vendor and consumer by ensuring that the exact weight being sold is accurate. Verification also safeguards vendors by ensuring they are selling the exact weight of produce and not losing money per transaction.

TTBS wishes to assure all vendors that the verification fees are based on careful market study and analysis with a recommendation for a fee that is reasonable to vendors. The fee for market scales was developed using the formula in the Metrology Regulations, 2015 Schedule 7. The fees derived from the formula are considerably less for measuring devices that are used by market vendors when compared to other measuring devices. Fees are not for profit and are part of TTBS’ cost recovery.

The following table provides a breakdown for measuring devices associated with market scales:

Additionally, the table below outlines the fees associated with other measuring devices:

After a market scale has been verified, it is affixed with a yellow “PASSED” verification label. A certificate of verification is issued to the owner of the scale and remains valid for one year, once the scale maintains its accuracy. To maintain quality control, random spot checks can be conducted on the market scales to ensure they continuously weigh accurately.

If a scale fails to weigh accurately a “NOT FOR USE IN TRADE” label is affixed on the device and the vendor will not be allowed to use the device for trade. If it is found that a vendor is using a scale that is labelled “NOT FOR USE IN TRADE”, the scale can be seized. However, seizures can only be done with a warrant.

The LMI will continue its verification exercises throughout all Municipal markets. As of now, the following Regional Markets have been visited: Tunapuna, Arima, Point Fortin, Chaguanas, Sangre Grande, San-Fernando, San-Juan, Penal and Couva being the most recent.

LMI is currently performing verifications at the Princes Town Market and have visits scheduled at the Siparia, Marabella and Port-of Spain markets.

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The serene waters of the Caroni River welcomed visitors from across the globe as the Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards (TTBS) hosted the 9^th International Organisation for Standardization/Technical Committee (ISO/TC) 309 Plenary Meeting for standards related to good governance.

On Friday 21^st April, Tourism Trinidad Limited (TTL) sponsored a tour through the Winston Nanan Caroni Bird Sanctuary where delegates from as far as Nigeria, China, Singapore, Germany, Sweden and the United Kingdom proudly displayed their “Destination TT” t-shirts as they glided through the wetland.

The group was thrilled to see a variety of indigenous wildlife which included; flocks of swallows and herons, a flamboyance of flamingos, a few tropical screech owls, various species of kingfishers and a consortium of blue crabs scuttling through the sprawling mangrove roots. As the sun descended into the quiet swamp waters, the visitors were delighted to spot our national bird, the Scarlet Ibis, as its fiery-red plumage lit up the dusk sky.

The ISO/TC 309 delegation arrived in Trinidad on Sunday 16^th April 2023 to work on and expand the ISO 37000 suite of governance-related standards; some of which have already been adopted in some of their respective countries.

At the national level, TTBS has adopted the following standards as Trinidad and Tobago Standards:

• Governance of organizations – Guidance (TTS/ISO 37000:2022)
• Anti-bribery management systems – Requirements with guidance for use (TTS/ISO 37001:2022)
• Whistleblowing management systems – Guidelines (TTS/ISO 37002:2022)
• Compliance management systems – Requirements with guidance for use (TTS/ISO 37301:2022)

Through these standards, organizations, no matter their size, are provided with critical guidance to improve their governance practices, as well as the technical requirements to build management systems to address whistleblowing, anti-bribery and corruption in a systematic way.

The ISO 37000 standards play a transformative role to our national socio-economic development and are cross cutting for public and private institutions.

TTBS is proud to collaborate with the TTL to showcase the natural beauty, flora and fauna of Trinidad and Tobago and our spectacular national bird, the Scarlet Ibis, as we promote Destination TT for further expansion of our tourism industry and improve the overall quality infrastructure in Trinidad and Tobago.

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All aboard: International ISO/TC 309 guests, along with local and regional guests are eager to embark on a journey through the swamp.

All smiles: International ISO/TC 309 Plenary delegates proudly display their “Destination TT” t-shirts.