Article 10(1)A person involved in the measurement of the quantity of the state of physical phenomena using statutory measurement units when conducting transactions or certifications must endeavor to perform accurate measurements.

(2)If a prefectural governor, or the head of a municipality or special ward prescribed by Cabinet Order (hereinafter referred to as a "specified municipality") finds that a person referred to in the preceding paragraph is not complying with the provisions of the same paragraph, causing a considerable impediment to appropriate measurements, the governor or head may recommend the person to take necessary measures; provided, however, that this does not apply if the governor or head may issue a recommendation pursuant to the provisions of Article 15, paragraph (1).

(3)If a prefectural governor or the head of a specified municipality has issued a recommendation pursuant to the provisions of the preceding paragraph and the person who received the recommendation fails to follow the recommendation, the governor or head may publicly announce that fact.

Article 11A person engaged in the business of selling commodities suitable for sale on the basis of their measured length, mass, or volume must endeavor to clearly indicate their length, mass, or volume in statutory measurement units when selling them.

Article 12(1)When a person engaged in the business of selling commodities prescribed by Cabinet Order (hereinafter referred to as "specified commodities") sells the specified commodities indicating their specified physical phenomena quantity (meaning the quantity of the state of physical phenomena prescribed by Cabinet Order for each commodity; the same applies hereinafter) in statutory measurement units, the person must measure the specified physical phenomena quantity of the commodities so as not to exceed the measurement error level prescribed by Cabinet Order (hereinafter referred to as "quantity tolerance").

(2)When a person engaged in the business of sale of specified commodities prescribed by Cabinet Order sells the specified commodities in a container, the person must indicate the quantity of the specified physical phenomena in statutory measurement units on each container pursuant to the provisions of Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

(3)The preceding two paragraphs do not apply to quantities of the state of the physical phenomena indicated pursuant to paragraph(1) or (2) of the following Article, or Article 14, paragraph (1) or (2); provided, however, that this does not apply if a container or package, or a seal affixed thereto is broken.

Article 13(1)When a person engaged in the business of sale of specified commodities prescribed by Cabinet Order performs the sealing (meaning an act to make it impossible to increase or decrease the quantity of the state of the physical phenomena of a commodity without breaking the container or package for the commodity, or a seal affixed thereto; the same applies hereinafter) of the specified commodities with regard to the quantity of the specified physical phenomena, the person must measure the quantity of the specified physical phenomena of their commodities without causing a measurement error exceeding the quantity tolerance and affix an indication of the measurement on the container or package pursuant to the provisions of Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

(2)When a person engaged in the business of sale of specified commodities other than those prescribed by Cabinet Order set forth in the preceding paragraph performs the sealing of the specified commodities with regard to the quantity of the physical phenomena and indicates the quantity in statutory measurement units on the container or package, the person must measure the quantity of the specified physical phenomena of the commodities without causing measurement errors exceeding the quantity tolerance, and the indication must be made pursuant to the provisions of Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry set forth in the same paragraph.

(3)The indication pursuant to the provisions of the two preceding paragraphs must include the name or title as well as the address of the person who affixes the indication.

Article 14(1)When a person engaged in the business of the import of specified commodities prescribed by Cabinet Order set forth in paragraph (1) of the preceding Article imports and sells specified commodities that have been sealed with regard to the quantity of the specified physical phenomena, the person must sell the specified commodities in a container or package bearing an indication of the quantity of the specified physical phenomena that have been measured without exceeding the quantity tolerance, pursuant to the provisions of Order of the Ministry of Economy set forth in the same paragraph.

(2)The provisions of the preceding paragraph apply mutatis mutandis when a person engaged in the business of the import of specified commodities other than those prescribed by Cabinet Order set forth in paragraph (1) of the preceding Article imports and sells specified commodities that have been sealed regarding the quantity of the specified physical phenomena by putting them into a container or a package bearing an indication of the quantity of the specified physical phenomena represented in statutory measurement units.

(3)The provisions of paragraph (3) of the preceding Article apply mutatis mutandis to an indication pursuant to the provisions of the two preceding paragraphs.In this case, the "person who affixes the indication" in paragraph (3) of the same Article is deemed to be replaced with the "person engaged in the business of import."

Article 15(1)When a prefectural governor or the head of a specified municipality finds that there is a risk of harm to the interests of persons who purchase specified commodities due to non-compliance with the provisions of Article 12, paragraph (1) or (2) by a person prescribed in those provisions, non-compliance with the provisions of Article 13, paragraph (1) or (2) by a person prescribed in those provisions, or non-compliance with the provisions of paragraph (1) or (2) of the preceding Article by a person prescribed in the provisions, then the governor or head may recommend the person to take certain necessary measures.

(2)In the case where a prefectural governor or the head of a specified municipality has issued a recommendation pursuant to the provisions of the preceding paragraph and the person who received the recommendation fails to comply with the recommendation, the governor or head may publicly announce that fact.

(3)When a person who has received a recommendation pursuant to the provisions of paragraph (1) due to non-compliance with Article 12, paragraph (1) or (2) or Article 13, paragraph (1) or (2) fails to take necessary measures pertaining to the recommendation without justifiable grounds, the prefectural governor or the head of the specified municipality may order the person to take necessary measures pertaining to the recommendation.

Article 16(1)Any of the following items (excluding ships the draft of which is used for measuring the mass of loaded goods and other measuring instruments prescribed by Cabinet Order) must not be used or possessed for use for the purpose of measurements (including measurements of the quantity of the state of physical phenomena listed in Article 2, paragraph (1), item (ii) and prescribed by Cabinet Order using measurement units prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry set forth in Article 6; the same applies in Article 18, Article 19, paragraph (1) and Article 151, paragraph (1)) in statutory measurement units when conducting transactions or certifications:

(2)An electric meter (meaning a measuring instrument prescribed by Cabinet Order and used for measurements in statutory measurement units in relation to transactions or certifications of electricity; the same applies hereinafter) must not be used or possessed for use, together with a current transformer, for the purpose of measurements in statutory measurement units with regard to transactions or certifications, unless the electric meter and transformer bear a matching number set forth in Article 74, paragraph (2) or (3) (hereinafter referred to simply as a "matching number" in this paragraph) certifying the passing of an inspection by the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, Japan Electric Meters Inspection Corporation, or a designated verification organization covering electric meters to be used together with current transformers (hereinafter referred to as an "inspection of electric meter fitted with a current transformer").

(3)A specified measuring instrument fitted to vehicles or other machinery and prescribed by Cabinet Order (hereinafter referred to as a "measuring instrument for fitting to vehicles, etc.") must not be used or possessed for use for the purpose of measuring in statutory measurement units with regard to transactions or certifications, unless that specified measuring instrument bears a fitting inspection mark (limited to those the valid period of which has not expired) set forth in Article 75, paragraph (2) certifying the passing of an inspection by the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, the prefectural governor, or the designated verification organization by which specified measuring instruments are inspected after being fitted to machinery (hereinafter referred to as a "fitting inspection").

Article 17(1)The provisions of paragraph (1) of the preceding Article do not apply to a special container belonging to any of the types prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (meaning a transparent or semi-transparent container prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry; the same applies hereinafter) that was manufactured by a person designated by the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry and bears the indication set forth in Article 63, paragraph (1) (including when applied pursuant to Article 69, paragraph (1); the same applies in the following paragraph) if that special container is filled with a commodity prescribed by Cabinet Order to the height designated by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry to indicate its volume in statutory measurement units when sold.

(2)If a special container bearing the indication set forth in Article 63, paragraph (1) is filled with a commodity but not to the height prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry set forth in the preceding paragraph, that commodity must not be sold; provided, however, that this does not apply to when there is an explicit indication that that commodity is sold not by the volume indicated pursuant to the provisions of paragraph (2) of the same Article (including when applied mutatis mutandis pursuant to Article 69, paragraph (1)).

Article 18Measuring instruments prescribed by Cabinet Order by which an accurate measurement cannot be made unless they are used in accordance with a specific method, or for measuring a specific item, or within a certain range of measurement must not be used for measurements in statutory measurement units in conducting transactions or certifications, except in the case where they are used pursuant to the provisions of Cabinet Order.

Article 19(1)A person who, for measurements in statutory measurement units in conducting transactions or certifications, uses a specified measuring instrument prescribed by Cabinet Order (excluding those prescribed by Cabinet Order set forth in Article 16, paragraph (1) or Article 72, paragraph (2)) which is deemed to be appropriate to be inspected on a regular basis pertaining to its performance and instrumental error in consideration of its structure, conditions for use, status of use status, etc. must place the specified measuring instrument under a periodic inspection conducted by the prefectural governor (the head of the specified municipality if the person's place of business is located in a specified municipality) having jurisdiction over the location of the person's place of business (the person's domicile if the person has no place of business; hereinafter the same applies in this Section); provided, however, that this does not apply to the following specified measuring instruments:

(2)A person who received a designation set forth in Article 127, paragraph (1) must have a certified measurer prescribed in Article 128, paragraph (1) inspect once during the period prescribed by Cabinet Order set forth in Article 21, paragraph (1) as to whether the person's measuring instruments (excluding those listed in the preceding paragraph, item (i)) prescribed by Cabinet Order set forth in the preceding paragraph that are used in the designated place of business conform with each of the items of Article 23, paragraph (1) in accordance with procedures prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry set forth Article 23, paragraph (2) and (3).

Article 20(1)A prefectural governor or the head of a specified municipality may designate a person (hereinafter referred to as a "designated periodic inspection organization ") to perform periodic inspections.

(2)When a prefectural governor or the head of a specified municipality has a designated periodic inspection organization perform the service of periodic inspections (hereinafter referred to as "inspection service" in this Chapter) in whole or in part pursuant to the provisions of the preceding paragraph, the governor or head is to refrain from executing the inspection service in whole or in part.

Article 21(1)Periodic inspections are conducted once during a period of one year or longer prescribed by Cabinet Order for each measuring instrument and each area.

(2)The prefectural governor or the head of the specified municipality is to issue a public notice concerning the area to be covered, the specified measuring instruments to be inspected, the time and place of each inspection, and, if the periodic inspections are performed by a designated periodic inspection organization, the name of the designated periodic inspection organization not later than one month prior to each periodic inspection.

(3)If a person is unable to receive a periodic inspection on a designated execution date due to illness, travel or other unavoidable reasons, and has notified the prefectural governor or the head of the specified municipality thereof in advance, the periodic inspection of the specified measuring instruments pertaining to the notification is conducted within a period not exceeding one month from the day of the notification on a date and at a place designated by the governor or head.

Article 22When the prefectural governor has issued a public notification concerning the implementation of a periodic inspection pursuant to the provisions of paragraph (2) of the preceding Article, the head of each municipality in the area to be covered by the periodic inspection must survey the number of specified measuring instruments subject to the periodic inspection and report the number to the prefectural governor pursuant to the provisions of Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

Article 23(1)A specified measuring instrument passes a periodic inspection if it conforms to each of the following items:

(2)The conformity to item (ii) of the preceding paragraph is to be determined by a method prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

(3)The conformity to paragraph (1), item (iii) is to be determined by a method prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry and by using a measuring instrument which has passed an inspection of legal standard reference instruments set forth in Article 102, paragraph (1) (the instrumental error of measuring instruments prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry set forth in Article 71, paragraph (3) is to be determined using reference material prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry set forth in the same paragraph).

Article 24(1)Each specified measuring instrument which has passed a periodic inspection is affixed with a periodic inspection mark pursuant to the provisions of Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

(2)A periodic inspection mark set forth in the preceding paragraph is to indicate the year and month of the periodic inspection.

(3)A verification mark, etc. affixed to a specified measuring instrument which has failed a periodic inspection is removed.

Article 25(1)When a specified measuring instrument that is required to undergo a periodic inspection pursuant to the provisions of Article 19, paragraph (1) has been inspected by a certified measurer prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry for that type of specified measuring instrument using a method prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry set forth in Article 23, paragraphs (2) and (3), within the period prescribed by Cabinet Order set forth in Article 19, paragraph (1), item (iii) prior to the day of the periodic inspection and bears an indication affixed by the certified measurer pursuant to the provisions of paragraph (3), if a person using the specified measuring instrument notifies, prior to the day of the periodic inspection, the prefectural governor or the head of the specified municipality having jurisdiction over the location of the person's place of business of that fact, the specified measuring instrument is not required to undergo a periodic inspection, notwithstanding the provisions of Article 19.

(2)The notification pursuant to the provisions of the preceding paragraph must be made together with a certification issued pursuant to the provisions of the following paragraph pursuant to the provisions of Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

(3)When a certified measurer has certified, through an inspection set forth in paragraph (1), that a specified measuring instrument conforms to each item of Article 23, paragraph (1), the measurer may issue, pursuant to the provisions of Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, a certificate stating the certification to a person using the specified measuring instrument and affix an indication and the year and the month of the inspection on the specified measuring instrument by a method prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

Article 26A designation set forth in Article 20, paragraph (1) is made upon an application from a person who intends to perform inspection services pursuant to the provisions of Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

Article 27A person who falls under any of the following items may not receive a designation set forth in Article 20, paragraph (1):

Article 28A prefectural governor or the head of a specified municipality must not make a designation unless the governor or head finds that the application for designation set forth in Article 20, paragraph (1) conforms to each of the following items:

Article 28-2(1)A designation set forth in Article 20, paragraph (1) ceases to be effective upon the expiration of a period of not less than three years prescribed by Cabinet Order unless it is renewed, upon the end of the period, for another the period.

(2)The preceding three Articles apply mutatis mutandis when a designation is renewed in accordance with the preceding paragraph.

Article 29When implementing a periodic inspection, a designated periodic inspection organization must use appliances, machines or equipment prescribed in Article 28, item (i) and have a person prescribed by item (ii) of the same Article perform the periodic inspection.

Article 30(1)A designated periodic inspection organization must establish rules concerning inspection services (hereinafter referred to as "service rules") and obtain approval therefor from the prefectural governor or the head of the specified municipality. The same applies when the inspection organization intends to amend the service rules.

(2)The matters to be provided for in service rules are prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

(3)If a prefectural governor or the head of a specified municipality finds that service rules approved under paragraph (1) have become inappropriate for the fair implementation of periodic inspections, the governor or head may order the alteration of the service rules.

Article 31A designated periodic inspection organization must prepare books, enter in the books the matters concerning periodic inspections prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, and keep the books, pursuant to the provisions of Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

Article 32When a designated periodic inspection organization intends to suspend or abolish its inspection services in whole or in part, it must notify the prefectural governor or the head of the specified municipality thereof in advance, pursuant to the provisions of Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

Article 33(1)Prior to the commencement of each business year, a designated periodic inspection organization must prepare and submit to the prefectural governor or the head of the specified municipality a business plan, and a revenue and expenditure budget for the business year. The same applies when a designated periodic inspection organization intends to amend them.

(2)Within three months from the end of each business year, a designated periodic inspection organization must prepare and submit to the prefectural governor or the head of the specified municipality a business report and financial statements for the business year.

Article 34Deleted

Article 35If a person prescribed in Article 28, item (ii) violates any provisions of this Act, of any order based on this Act or of service rules, the prefectural governor or the head of the specified municipality may order the designated periodic inspection organization to dismiss the person prescribed in the same item.

Article 36With regard to the application of the Criminal Code (Act No. 45 of 1907) and any other penal provisions, officers and employees of a designated periodic inspection organization engaged in inspection services are deemed to be employees engaged in public services as required by laws and regulations.

Article 37If a prefectural governor or the head of a specified municipality finds that a designated periodic inspection organization has become noncompliant with Article 28, items (i) through (v), the governor or head may order the designated periodic inspection organization to take necessary measures for compliance with those items.

Article 38If a designated periodic inspection organization falls under any of the following items, the prefectural governor or the head of the specified municipality may rescind its designation, or order the suspension of inspection services in whole or in part for a specified period:

Article 39(1)When the prefectural governor or the head of the specified municipality is notified by a designated periodic inspection organization of its suspension of its inspection services in whole or in part pursuant to the provisions of Article 32, the governor or head orders a designated periodic inspection organization to suspend its inspection services in whole or in part, pursuant to the provisions of the preceding paragraph, or it becomes difficult for a designated periodic inspection organization to perform its inspection services in whole or in part due to a natural disaster or other reasons, and the governor or head finds it necessary, the governor or head is to personally implement the inspection services in whole or in part.

(2)When a prefectural governor or the head of a specified municipality personally implements inspection services in whole or in part pursuant to the provisions of the preceding paragraph, is notified by a designated periodic inspection organization of the abolishment of its inspection services in whole or in part pursuant to the provisions of Article 32, or rescinds the designation of a designated periodic inspection organization pursuant to the provisions of the preceding Article, handover procedures concerning inspection services and other necessary matters are prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

Article 40(1)A person who intends to engage in the business of manufacturing specified measuring instruments (excluding those who engage in the business of manufacturing specified measuring instruments for their own use exclusively for purposes other than measurements in transactions and certifications) must notify the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry of the following matters in advance, in accordance with the relevant business classification prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (simply referred to as "business classification" in item (ii)):

(2)A notification pursuant to the provisions of the preceding paragraph pertaining to specified measuring instruments other than electric meters must be made through a prefectural governor pursuant to the provisions of Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

Article 41When a person who has made a notification pursuant to the provisions of paragraph (1) of the preceding Article (hereinafter referred to as a "notifying manufacturing business operator") transfers the entire business to which the notification pertains or when succession, merger or split (limited to successions of the entire business to which the notification pertains) has occurred with respect to a notifying manufacturing business operator, the person or heir (if there are two or more heirs, the heir who is selected by all heirs to succeed to the business; the same applies hereinafter) succeeding to the entire business, the corporation surviving after the merger, the corporation newly established through the merger, or the corporation succeeding to the entire business through the split, succeeds to the status of the notifying manufacturing business operator.

Article 42(1)A notifying manufacturing business operator must notify the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry of any change in the matters set forth in Article 40, paragraph (1), item (i), (iii) or (iv) without delay.

(2)In the case of the preceding paragraph, a person who has succeeded to the status of a notifying manufacturing business operator pursuant to the provisions of the preceding Article must submit a document certifying that fact.

(3)The provisions of Article 40, paragraph (2) applies mutatis mutandis to notification pursuant to the provisions of paragraph (1) of this Article.

Article 43When a notifying manufacturing business operator has manufactured specified measuring instruments, it must inspect them in accordance with criteria prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry; provided, however, that this does not apply if a person who has received a designation set forth in Article 16, paragraph (1), item (ii) (b) implements an inspection pursuant to the provisions of Article 95, paragraph (2).

Article 44If the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry finds that a notifying manufacturing business operator is not performing the inspection of specified measuring instruments in accordance with the criteria prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry set forth in the preceding Article and that it is necessary for ensuring the appropriate quality of the specified measuring instruments, the Minister may order the notifying manufacturing business operator to take necessary measures to improve inspection appliances, machines or equipment, or inspection methods for the specified measuring instruments; provided, however, that this does not apply to the case set forth in the proviso to the preceding Article.

Article 45(1)When a notifying manufacturing business operator abolishes the business pertaining to the notification, it must notify the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry of that fact without delay.

(2)The provisions of Article 40, paragraph (2) apply mutatis mutandis to notification pursuant to the provisions of the preceding paragraph.

Article 46(1)A person (excluding those who intend to engage in the business of repairing specified measuring instruments for their own use exclusively for purposes other than measurements in transactions and certifications) who intends to engage in the business of repairing specified measuring instruments (excluding minor repair work prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry; the same applies hereinafter except in Article 49, paragraph (3)) must provide notification in advance of the following items, in accordance with the relevant business classification specified by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (simply referred to as "business classification" in item (ii)), the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry in the case of business pertaining to the repairing of electric meters, or the prefectural governor having jurisdiction over the location of the person's place of business in which the person intends to repair specified measuring instruments in the case of business pertaining to repairing other specified measuring instruments; provided, however, that this does not apply if the notifying manufacturing business operator intends to engage in the business of repairing specified measuring instruments pertaining to the notification pursuant to the provisions of Article 40, paragraph (1):

(2)The provisions of Article 41, Article 42, paragraphs (1) and (2), and paragraph (1) of the preceding Article apply mutatis mutandis to a person who has made notification pursuant to the provisions of the preceding paragraph (hereinafter referred to as a "notifying repair business operator").In this case, the term "the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry" in Article 42, paragraph (1), and paragraph (1) of the preceding Article are deemed to be replaced with "the prefectural governor (the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, in the case of a notifying repair business operator engaged in the repairing of electric meters)."

Article 47When a notifying manufacturing business operator or a notifying repair business operator repairs specified measuring instruments, the business operator must inspect them in accordance with the criteria prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

Article 48If the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry or a prefectural governor finds that a notifying manufacturing business operator or a notifying repair business operator is not performing the inspection of specified measuring instruments in accordance with the criteria prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry set forth in the preceding Article and that it is necessary for ensuring the appropriate quality of the specified measuring instruments, the Minister or governor may order the notifying manufacturing business operator or the notifying repair business operator to take necessary measures to improve inspection appliances, machines or equipment, or inspection methods for the specified measuring instruments.

Article 49(1)A person who has performed an alteration (limited to the kind of alterations prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry set forth in Article 2, paragraph (5); the same applies in the next paragraph) or repair of a specified measuring instrument affixed with a verification mark, etc., matching number set forth in Article 74, paragraph (2) or (3), or fitting inspection mark set forth in Article 75, paragraph (2) must remove the verification mark, etc., matching number, or fitting inspection mark; provided, however, that this does not apply if a notifying manufacturing business operator or notifying repair business operator has performed the repair prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry of the specified measuring instrument, or when a person who has obtained a designation set forth in Article 127, paragraph (1) has performed the repair prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry of a specified measuring instrument used at the person's designated place of business , and the performance of the repaired specified measuring instrument conforms to the technical standards prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry and the instrumental error of the repaired specified measuring instrument does not exceed the tolerance for use prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

(2)A person who has altered or repaired a specified measuring instrument affixed with an indication set forth in Article 84, paragraph (1) (including when applied mutatis mutandis pursuant to Article 84, paragraph (4)) must remove the indication; provided, however, that this does not apply if a notifying manufacturing business operator or notifying repair business operator has performed the repair specified by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry of the specified measuring instrument, or a person who has obtained a designation set forth in Article 127, paragraph (1) has performed the repair prescribed by the Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry of a specified measuring instrument used at the person's designated place of business.

(3)When a person engaged in the business of manufacturing or repairing current transformers has performed an alteration or repair (excluding minor repair work prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry) of a transformer affixed with a matching number set forth in Article 74, paragraph (2), the person must remove the matching number.

Article 50(1)When a notifying manufacturing business operator or a notifying repair business operator has performed repairs, in accordance with the criteria specified by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, a specified measuring instrument prescribed by Cabinet Order set forth in Article 72, paragraph (2) and prescribed by Cabinet Order as one requiring periodic repair at a certain intervals of time, the notifying manufacturing business operator or the notifying repair business operator may affix an indication of the repair to the specified measuring instrument, pursuant to the provisions of Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

(2)The indication set forth in the preceding paragraph is to include the year of the repair.

(3)No person may affix to a specified measuring instrument an indication set forth in paragraph (1) or an indication that is confusingly similar thereto, except in the case prescribed in the same paragraph.

Article 51(1)A person who intends to engage in the business of sale (excluding sales for export) of specified measuring instruments prescribed by Cabinet Order must notify in advance the prefectural governor having jurisdiction over the location of the person's place of business in which the person intends to sell the instruments of the following matters, in accordance with the business classification prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (simply referred to as "business classification" in item (ii)); provided, however, that this does not apply if a notifying manufacturing business operator or a notifying repair business operator intends to engage in the business of sale of specified measuring instruments pertaining to the notification pursuant to the provisions of Article 40, paragraph (1) or Article 46, paragraph (1) which were manufactured or repaired by the person:

(2)The provisions of Article 41, Article 42, paragraphs (1) and (2), and Article 45, paragraph (1) apply mutatis mutandis to a person who has made notification pursuant to the provisions of the preceding paragraph.In this case, the term "the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry" in Article 42, paragraph (1) and Article 45, paragraph (1) is deemed to be replaced with "the prefectural governor".

Article 52(1)The Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry may provide by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry for matters to be observed by a person engaged in the business of sale of specified measuring instruments prescribed by Cabinet Order set forth in paragraph (1) of the preceding Article (hereinafter referred to as a "sales business operator").

(2)If a prefectural governor finds that a sales business operator is not complying with the matters to be observed prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry set forth in the preceding Article, causing an impediment to the ensuring of appropriate measurements pertaining to the specified measuring instruments, the governor may recommend the sales business operator to comply with those matters.

(3)If the prefectural governor issues a recommendation pursuant to the provisions of the preceding paragraph and the person who receives the recommendation fails to follow it, the governor may publicly announce that fact.

(4)If a sales business operator receives a recommendation pursuant to the provisions of paragraph (2) due to non-compliance with the matters prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry set forth in paragraph (1) and fails to take necessary measures pertaining to the recommendation without justifiable grounds, and the prefectural governor finds it particularly necessary, the governor may order the sales business operator to take the necessary measures pertaining to the recommendation.

Article 53(1)A notifying manufacturing business operator producing specified measuring instruments specified by Cabinet Order that are primarily supplied for daily use by general consumers (excluding specified measuring instruments prescribed by Cabinet Order set forth in Article 57, paragraph (1)) must manufacture the specified measuring instruments so as to conform to technical standards prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry; provided, however, that this does not apply if the notifying manufacturing business operator manufactures the specified measuring instruments for the purpose of export and notifies the prefectural governor of that fact in advance, and when the notifying manufacturing business operator manufactures the specified measuring instruments on a pilot production basis.

(2)A person engaged in the business of importing specified measuring instruments prescribed by Cabinet Order set forth in the preceding paragraph must sell specified measuring instruments that conform to technical standards prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry set forth in the same paragraph; provided, however, this does not apply to when the person sells specified measuring instruments for the purpose of export and has notified the prefectural governor of that fact in advance.

Article 54(1)A notifying manufacturing business operator prescribed in paragraph (1) of the preceding Article or a person prescribed in paragraph (2) of the same Article must, affix an indication thereto pursuant to the provisions of Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, before the specified measuring instruments are sold.

(2)The provisions of the preceding paragraph does not apply to specified measuring instruments manufactured or sold pursuant to the provisions of the proviso to paragraph (1) or the proviso to paragraph (2) of the preceding Article, or to specified measuring instruments affixed with a verification mark, etc.

(3)No person may affix to the specified measuring instruments an indication set forth in paragraph (1) or an indication that is confusingly similar thereto, except in the case prescribed in the same paragraph.

Article 55A person engaged in the business of sale of specified measuring instruments prescribed by Cabinet Order set forth in Article 53, paragraph (1) (excluding the business of sale of specified measuring instruments manufactured by notifying manufacturing business operators prescribed in the same paragraph or of specified measuring instruments imported by persons prescribed in paragraph (2) of the same Article) must not sell or display for sale measuring instruments without an indication under paragraph (1) of the preceding Article or a verification mark, etc.; provided, however, that this does not apply if a person who intends to sell specified measuring instruments for the purpose of export notifies the prefectural governor of that fact in advance.

Article 56If the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry finds that a notifying manufacturing business operator prescribed in Article 53, paragraph (1) or a person prescribed in paragraph (2) of the same Article is violating the provisions of paragraph (1) or (2) of the same Article, the Minister may order the violating party to take necessary measures in order for specified measuring instruments manufactured or sold by the violating party to conform to technical standards prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry set forth in paragraph (1) of the same Article.

Article 57(1)A person engaged in the business of manufacture, repair or import of clinical thermometers and other specified measuring instruments prescribed by Cabinet Order must not transfer or lend the specified measuring instruments to anyone, or deliver them to a person to whom the repair thereof is entrusted, unless the specified measuring instruments are affixed with a verification mark, etc. (limited to specified measuring instruments the valid period of which has not expired, in the case of specified measuring instruments prescribed by Cabinet Order set forth in Article 72, paragraph (2); the same applies in the next paragraph); provided, however, that this does not apply if the specified measuring instruments are transferred, lent, or delivered for the purpose of export, and the prefectural governor is notified of that fact in advance.

(2)A person engaged in the business of sale of specified measuring instruments prescribed by Cabinet Order set forth in the preceding paragraph (excluding those prescribed in the same paragraph) must not transfer, lend, or possess for the purpose of transferring or lending the specified measuring instruments unless they are affixed with a verification mark, etc.; provided, however, that this does not apply if the specified measuring instruments are transferred or lent for the purpose of export, and the prefectural governor is notified of that fact in advance.

Article 58A designation set forth in Article 17, paragraph (1) is granted to each factory or workplace of a person engaged in the business of manufacturing special containers (hereinafter referred to as a "manufacturer" in this Section) or of a person who is based abroad and engaged in the business of manufacturing special containers to be exported to Japan (hereinafter referred to as a "foreign manufacturer" in this Section) upon application by the person.

Article 59A manufacturer who intends to receive a designation set forth in Article 17, paragraph (1) must submit an application stating the following matters to the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry:

Article 60(1)If a person's designation has been rescinded pursuant to the provisions of Article 67 and one year has not passed from the date of the rescission, the person is not eligible to receive a designation set forth in Article 17, paragraph (1).

(2)The Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry must not grant a designation unless the Minister finds that the application for designation set forth in Article 17, paragraph (1) conforms to each of the following items:

Article 61When a manufacturer who has received a designation set forth in Article 17, paragraph (1) (hereinafter referred to as a "designated manufacturer") transfers the manufacturer's business in whole pertaining to the designation, or when an inheritance, merger or split (limited to those by which the business pertaining to the designation is succeeded to in whole) involving a designated manufacturer occurs, the transferee of the designated manufacturer's business in whole, the heir, the corporation surviving after the merger, the corporation newly established after the merger, or the corporation which succeeds to the notifying manufacturer's business in whole after the split succeeds to the status of the notifying manufacturer; provided, however, that this does not apply if the transferee of the designated manufacturer's business in whole, the heir, the corporation surviving after merger, the corporation newly established after merger, or the corporation which succeeds to the notifying manufacturer's business in whole after the split falls under paragraph (1) of the preceding Article.

Article 62(1)A designated manufacturer must notify the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry of any change in the matters set forth in each item of Article 59 without delay.

(2)In the case of the preceding paragraph, a person who succeeds to the status of the designated manufacturer pursuant to the provisions of the preceding Article must submit a document certifying that fact.

Article 63(1)A designated manufacturer may affix an indication to special containers manufactured at its designated factory or workplace, pursuant to the provisions of Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, if those special containers conform to each of the following items:

(2)When a designated manufacturer affixes the indication set forth in the preceding paragraph, it must, indicate on the special container the symbol which is described on the application pursuant to the provisions of Article 59, item (iv) and the volume of the type of the special container prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry set forth in Article 17, paragraph (1), by a method prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

(3)No person may affix to a special container an indication set forth in paragraph (1) or an indication that is confusingly similar thereto, except in the case prescribed in the same paragraph (including when applied mutatis mutandis pursuant to Article 69, paragraph (1)).

Article 64If the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry finds that a designated manufacturer has become noncompliant with the provisions of each item of Article 60, paragraph (2), the Minister may order the designated manufacturer to take necessary measures for compliance with those provisions.

Article 65When a designated manufacturer has abolished the designated business, the designated manufacturer must notify the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry of that fact without delay.

Article 66If a designated manufacturer abolishes its designated business, the designation ceases to be effective.

Article 67If a designated manufacturer falls under any of the following items, the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry may rescind its designation:

Article 68When a person engaged in the business of the import of special containers (including when the special containers are imported with goods inside; hereinafter the same applies in this Article) (hereinafter referred to as a "special container importer") imports special containers affixed with an indication set forth in Article 63, paragraph (1) or an indication that is confusingly similar thereto, the person must remove the indication prior to the time of transfer or lending thereof, except if the indication has been so affixed pursuant to the provisions of Article 63, paragraph (1) (including when applied mutatis mutandis pursuant to paragraph (1) of the next Article).

Article 69(1)The provisions of Article 59 and Article 60 apply mutatis mutandis to a designation set forth in Article 17, paragraph (1) pertaining to foreign manufacturers, and the provisions of Articles 61 through 67 apply mutatis mutandis to foreign manufacturers who have obtained a designation set forth in the same paragraph (hereinafter referred to as a "designated foreign manufacturer").In this case, the term "Article 67" in Article 60, paragraph (1) is deemed to be replaced with "Article 67 or Article 69, paragraph (2), as applied mutatis mutandis pursuant to Article 69 paragraph (1)", the terms "no person" and "special container" in Article 63, paragraph (3) are deemed to be replaced with "no designated foreign manufacturer" and "special container to be exported to Japan", respectively, the term "order" in Article 64 is deemed to be replaced with "request", and the term "has violated an order" in Article 67, item (ii) is deemed to be replaced with "has not responded to a request".

(2)Beyond the case pursuant to the provisions of Article 67 as applied mutatis mutandis pursuant to the preceding paragraph, the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry may rescind a designation of a designated foreign manufacturer if the designated foreign manufacturer falls under any of the following items:

(3)The expenses necessary for the inspection pursuant to the provisions of item (ii) of the preceding paragraph (limited to those prescribed by Cabinet Order) are borne by the designated foreign manufacture to be inspected.

Article 70A person who intends to receive a verification test set forth in Article 16, paragraph (1), item (ii), (b) (hereinafter referred to simply as a "verification test") with respect to a specified measuring instrument must submit an application to the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, the prefectural governor, Japan Electric Meters Inspection Corporation, or a designated verification organization in accordance with the classification prescribed by Cabinet Order.

Article 71(1)A specified measuring instrument is deemed to have passed the verification test if it conforms to each of the following items:

(2)The conformity to item (i) of the preceding paragraph is to be determined by a method prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry; provided however, that the specified measuring instruments affixed with an indication set forth in Article 84, paragraph (1) (including when applied mutatis mutandis pursuant to Article 89, paragraph (4); hereinafter the same applies in this paragraph) (with regard to specified measuring instruments prescribed by Cabinet Order set forth in Article 50, paragraph (1) for which a period prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry for each specified measuring instrument has passed from the time the indication set forth in Article 84, paragraph (1) was affixed thereto, limited to those with an indication set forth in Article 50, paragraph (1) for which a period prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry has not passed from the time the indication set forth in the same paragraph was affixed thereto) are deemed, at the time of a verification test, to be conforming to technical standards (excluding those regarding performance prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry as those that are required to be separately provided for as to the conformity thereto on an individual basis) prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry set forth in the same paragraph.

(3)The conformity to paragraph (1), item (ii) is to be determined by a method prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry and by using a measuring instrument that has passed an inspection of legal standard reference instruments set forth in Article 102, paragraph (1) (with regard to the instrumental error of specified measuring instruments prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, by using reference material prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry).

Article 72(1)A specified measuring instrument which has passed a verification test is affixed with a verification mark pursuant to the provisions of Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

(2)The valid period of a verification mark affixed on a specified measuring instrument prescribed by Cabinet Order for which it is deemed to be appropriate to set a valid period of verification in light of the structure, conditions for use, status of use, etc. is to be the valid period prescribed by Cabinet Order, and the year and the month of expiration are to be indicated on the verification mark.

(3)A verification mark affixed to the measuring instruments prescribed by Cabinet Order set forth in Article 19, paragraph (1) or Article 106, paragraph (1) is to indicate the year and the month in which the verification test was conducted.

(4)If a measuring instrument that has failed to pass a verification test bears a verification mark, etc., that verification mark, etc., is removed.

(5)If an electric meter for which a verification test has been conducted bears a matching number set forth in Article 74, paragraph (2) or (3), the matching number is removed.

Article 73(1)A person who intends to receive an inspection of electric meter fitted with a current transformer with regard to an electric meter must submit an application to the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, Japan Electric Meters Inspection Corporation or a designated verification organization in accordance with the classification prescribed by Cabinet Order.

(2)An application pursuant to the provisions of the preceding paragraph must be submitted together with a current transformer to be used with the electric meter; provided, however, that this does not apply if an inspection for an electric meter fitted with a current transformer is conducted with regard to an electric meter to be used together with a current transformer bearing a matching number set forth in paragraph (2) of the following Article for which a period prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry has not elapsed from the date indicated thereon and the applicant has submitted a document stating the matters concerning the current transformer prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

Article 74(1)The Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, Japan Electric Meters Inspection Corporation or a designated verification organization conducts the inspections of an electric meter fitted with a current transformer by a method prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, and pass the electric meter and the current transformer used therewith if they conform to each of the following items (or item (ii) only, in the case of a current transformer that is not attached pursuant to the provisions of the proviso to paragraph (2) of the preceding Article):

(2)Except in the case prescribed by the proviso to paragraph (2) of the preceding Article, an electric meter which has passed an inspection of the electric meter fitted with a current transformer and the current transformer used therewith are affixed with a matching number pursuant to the provisions of Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.In this case, the matching number to be attached to the transformer is to indicate the date on which the inspection of the electric meter fitted with the transformer was conducted.

(3)In the case prescribed in the proviso to paragraph (2) of the preceding Article, an electric meter which has passed an inspection of electric meter fixed with a current transformer is affixed with the same matching number as the one affixed to the transformer to be used therewith pursuant to the provisions of Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

(4)If an electric meter that fails an inspection of electric meter fitted with a current transformer or a transformer used therewith bears a matching number set forth in the preceding two paragraphs, the matching number is removed.

Article 75(1)A person who intends to receive a fitting inspection with regard to a measuring instrument for fittings for vehicles, etc. must submit an application to the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, Japan Electric Meters Inspection Corporation or a designated verification organization in accordance with the classification prescribed by Cabinet Order.

(2)The Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, the prefectural governor or the designated verification organization conduct fitting inspections by a method specified by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, pass the fittings for vehicles, etc. if they conform to the technical standards prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, and affix a fitting inspection mark there pursuant to the provisions of Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

(3)The valid period of a fitting inspection mark is to be the period prescribed by Cabinet Order for each measuring instrument for fittings for vehicles, etc., and each fitting inspection mark is to indicate the year and the month of its expiration.

(4)If a measuring instrument for fittings for vehicles, etc. that fails the fitting inspection bears a fitting inspection mark, the fitting inspection mark is removed.

Article 76(1)A notifying manufacturing business operator may obtain approval for the type of specified measuring instruments from the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry or Japan Electric Meters Inspection Corporation in accordance with the classification prescribed by Cabinet Order.

(2)A person who intends to obtain the approval set forth in the preceding paragraph must submit an application stating the following matters to the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry or Japan Electric Meters Inspection Corporation:

(3)A specified measuring instrument for testing, construction drawings and other relevant documents must be attached to an application set forth in the preceding paragraph, pursuant to provisions of Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry,; provided, however, that this does not apply if the applicant who intends to obtain approval set forth in paragraph (1) with regard to a type of specified measuring instrument which has passed the test set forth in Article 78, paragraph (1) has attached a document certifying that the specified measuring instrument has passed the test.

Article 77(1)If a person's designation has been rescinded pursuant to the provisions of Article 88 (including when applied mutatis mutandis pursuant to Article 89, paragraph (4)) or Article 89, paragraph (5) and one year has not passed from the day of the rescission, the person may not obtain the approval set forth in paragraph (1) of the preceding Article.

(2)The Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry or Japan Electric Meters Inspection Corporation must approve an application set forth in paragraph (1) of the preceding Article if the structure of the specified measuring instrument pertaining to the application conforms to the technical standards prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry set forth in Article 71, paragraph (1), item (i).

Article 78(1)With respect to a specified measuring instrument of a type for which approval set forth in Article 76, paragraph (1) is sought, a notifying manufacturing business operator may take a test implemented by the designated verification organization who conducts the verification test for the specified measuring instrument.

(2)A notifying manufacturing business operator who intends to take the test set forth in the preceding paragraph must submit the specified measuring instrument for testing, construction drawings and other relevant documents to the designated verification organization, pursuant to the provisions of Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

(3)A specified measuring instrument passes the test set forth in paragraph (1) if its structure conforms to the technical standards prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry set forth in Article 71, paragraph (1), item (i).

Article 79(1)A notifying manufacturing business operator who obtains the approval set forth in Article 76, paragraph (1) (hereinafter referred to as an "approved manufacturing business operator") must notify the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry or Japan Electric Meters Inspection Corporation of any change in the matters set forth in Article 76, paragraph (2), item (i) or (iii) without delay.

(2)The provisions of Article 61 and Article 62, paragraph (2) apply mutatis mutandis to approved manufacturing business operators.In this case, the term "paragraph (1) of the preceding Article" in Article 61 is deemed to be replaced with "Article 77, paragraph (1)", and the term "preceding paragraph" in the same paragraph is deemed to be replaced with "Article 79, paragraph (1)".

Article 80When an approved manufacturing business operator manufactures specified measuring instruments belonging to the approved type, it must manufacture the specified measuring instruments so as to conform to technical standards prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry set forth in Article 71, paragraph (1), item (i) (excluding those specified by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry set forth in paragraph (2) of the same Article; hereinafter referred to as "manufacturing technical standards"); provided, however, that this does not apply if the approved manufacturing business operator manufactures the specified measuring instruments for the purpose of export and has notified the prefectural governor thereof in advance, or the approved manufacturing business operator manufactures the specified measuring instruments on a pilot production basis.

Article 81(1)A person engaged in the business of importing specified measuring instruments (hereinafter referred to as an "import business operator") may obtain approval for the type of specified measuring instruments the person imports from the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry or Japan Electric Meters Inspection Corporation in accordance with the classification prescribed by Cabinet Order set forth in Article 76, paragraph (1).

(2)The provisions of Article 76, paragraph (2) (excluding items (ii) and (iv)) and paragraph (3), Articles 77 and 78 apply mutatis mutandis to the approval set forth in the preceding paragraph.In this case, the term "the name and location of the factory or workplace where the specified measuring instruments are manufactured" in Article 76, paragraph (2), item (iii) is deemed to be replaced with "the name and address of the manufacturer".

(3)The provisions of Article 61, Article 62, paragraph (2) and Article 79, paragraph (1) apply mutatis mutandis to an import business operator who has obtained the approval set forth in paragraph (1) (hereinafter referred to as an "approved import business operator").In this case, the term "paragraph (1) of the preceding Article" in Article 61 is deemed to be replaced with "Article 77, paragraph (1)", and the term "the preceding Article" in Article 62, paragraph (2) is deemed to be replaced with "Article 79, paragraph (1) as applied mutatis mutandis pursuant to Article 81, paragraph (3)."

Article 82When an approved import business operator sells a specified measuring instrument belonging to the approved type, the specified measuring instrument must conform to the manufacturing technical standards; provided, however, that this does not apply if the approved import business operator sells the specified measuring instruments for the purpose of export and has notified the prefectural governor of that fact in advance.

Article 83(1)An approval set forth in Article 76, paragraph (1) and Article 81, paragraph (1) ceases to be effective upon the expiration of a period prescribed by Cabinet Order, unless it is renewed, upon the end of the period, for another the period.

(2)Necessary procedural matters pertaining to the renewal set forth in the preceding paragraph are prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

Article 84(1)When an approved manufacturing business operator or an approved import business operator has manufactured or imported a specified measuring instrument belonging to the approved type (excluding those manufactured or sold pursuant to the provisions of the proviso to Article 80 or the proviso to Article 82), the approved manufacturing business operator or the approved import business operator may affix an indication thereto pursuant to the provisions of Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry,.

(2)An indication set forth in the preceding paragraph affixed to specified measuring instruments prescribed by Cabinet Order set forth in Article 50, paragraph (1) is to indicate the year in which the indication was affixed.

(3)No person may affix to specified measuring instruments an indication set forth in paragraph (1) or an indication that is confusingly similar thereto, except in the case prescribed in paragraph (1) (including when applied mutatis mutandis pursuant to Article 89, paragraph (4)).

Article 85If an import business operator imports specified measuring instruments affixed with the indication set forth in paragraph (1) of the preceding Article or an indication that is confusingly similar thereto, the import business operator must remove that indication prior to the time of transfer, lending or verification test of the specified measuring instruments, except when the indication has been affixed pursuant to the provisions of paragraph (1) of the preceding Article (including when is applied mutatis mutandis pursuant to Article 89, paragraph (4)).

Article 86If the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry finds that an approved manufacturing business operator or an approved import business operator is violating the provisions of Article 80 or Article 82, the Minister may order the violating party to take necessary measures in order for the specified measuring instruments manufactured or imported by the violating party to conform to the manufacturing technical standards.

Article 87If an approved manufacturing business operator abolishes the business of manufacturing specified measuring instruments pertaining to its notification or an approved import business operator has abolished the business of importing specified measuring instruments, the approval ceases to be effective.

Article 88If an approved manufacturing business operator or an approved import business operator falls under any of the following items, the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry may rescind its approval:

Article 89(1)A person engaged in the business of manufacturing specified measuring instruments to be exported to Japan in a foreign country (hereinafter referred to as a "foreign manufacturing business operator") may obtain approval for the type of the specified measuring instruments from the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry or Japan Electric Meters Inspection Corporation in accordance with the classification prescribed by Cabinet Order set forth in Article 76, paragraph (1).

(2)When a foreign manufacturing business operator who has obtained the approval set forth in the preceding paragraph (hereinafter referred to as an "approved foreign manufacturing business operator") manufactures a specified measuring instrument to be exported to Japan belonging to the approved type, the approved foreign manufacturing business operator must make the specified measuring instrument conform to the manufacturing technical standards.

(3)The provisions of Article 76, paragraph (2) (excluding items (ii) and (iv)) and paragraph (3), Article 77, Article 78 and Article 83 apply mutatis mutandis to approval set forth in paragraph (1) of this Article.

(4)The provisions of Article 61, Article 62, paragraph (2), Article 79, paragraph (1), Article 84, paragraphs (1) and (3), and the preceding three Articles apply mutatis mutandis to an approved foreign manufacturing business operator.In this case, the term "paragraph (1) of the preceding Article" in Article 61 is deemed to be replaced with "Article 77, paragraph (1) as applied mutatis mutandis pursuant to Article 89, paragraph (3)", and the term "the preceding paragraph" in Article 62, paragraph (2) is deemed to be replaced with "Article 79, paragraph (1) as applied mutatis mutandis pursuant to Article 89, paragraph (4)", the terms "No person" and "specified measuring instrument" in Article 84, paragraph (3) is deemed to be replaced with "No approved foreign manufacturing business operator" and "specified measuring instrument to be exported to Japan", respectively, the terms "Article 80 or Article 82" and "order" in Article 86 is deemed to be replaced with "Article 89, paragraph (2)" and "request", respectively, and the term "has violated an order" in item (ii) of the preceding Article is deemed to be replaced with "has failed to respond to a request."

(5)Beyond the case pursuant to the provisions of the preceding Article as applied mutatis mutandis pursuant to the preceding paragraph, the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry may rescind the approval of an approved foreign manufacturing business operator if the approved foreign manufacturing business operator falls under any of the following items:

(6)The State must compensate an approved foreign manufacturing business operator for any loss arising out of a request pursuant to the provisions of item (iii) of the preceding paragraph.In this case, the loss to be compensated is a loss which normally occurs in relation to the request pursuant to the provisions of the same item.

Article 90A designation set forth in Article 16, paragraph (1), item (ii), (b) is granted to each factory or workplace of a notifying manufacturing business operator or an approved foreign manufacturing business operator in accordance with the business classification prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry set forth in Article 40, paragraph (1) (simply referred to as the "business classification" in paragraph (1) of the following Article) upon an application from the notifying manufacturing business operator or the approved foreign manufacturing business operator.

Article 91(1)A notifying manufacturing business operator who intends to receive a designation set forth in Article 16, paragraph (1), item (ii), (b) must submit an application stating the following matters to the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry:

(2)A notifying manufacturing business operator who has submitted an application pursuant to the provisions of the preceding paragraph must receive an inspection implemented by the prefectural governor or Japan Electric Meters Corporation with respect to the method of quality control in its factory or workplace in accordance with the classification thereof prescribed by Cabinet Order; provided, however, that this does not apply if the notifying manufacturing business operator has submitted an application set forth in the preceding paragraph together with the document set forth in Article 93, paragraph (2).

(3)When the prefectural governor or Japan Electric Meters Inspection Corporation conducts an inspection pursuant to the provisions of the preceding paragraph, the governor or the corporation must report the results of the inspection to the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry.

Article 92(1)A notifying manufacturing business operator who falls under any of the following items may not receive a designation set forth in Article 16, paragraph (1), item (ii), (b):

(2)The Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry must not make a designation unless the Minister finds that the method of quality control in the factory or workplace pertaining to the application for the designation set forth in Article 16, paragraph (1), item (ii), (b) conforms to standards prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

Article 93(1)A notifying manufacturing business operator may receive an examination by a designated verification organization who conducts a verification test of specified measuring instruments with regard to the method of quality control in the notifying manufacturing business operator's factory or workplace pertaining to the application for designation set forth in Article 16, paragraph (1) item (ii), (b).

(2)When a designated verification organization finds that the method of quality control at the factory or workplace where the examination set forth in the preceding paragraph has been conducted conforms to the standards prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry set forth in paragraph (2) of the preceding Article, it is to issue a document certifying that fact.

Article 94(1)A notifying manufacturing business operator who has obtained a designation set forth in Article 16, paragraph (1), item (ii), (b) (hereinafter referred to as a "designated manufacturing business operator") must notify the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry of any change in the matters set forth in Article 91, paragraph (1), item (v) without delay.

(2)The provisions of Article 61 and Article 62, paragraph (2) apply mutatis mutandis to designated manufacturing business operators.In this case, the terms "paragraph (1) of the preceding Article" in Article 61 is deemed to be replaced with "Article 92, paragraph (1)", and the term "preceding paragraph" in the same paragraph is deemed to be replaced with "Article 94, paragraph (1)".

Article 95(1)When a designated manufacturing business operator manufactures specified measuring instruments belonging to the type pertaining to an approval set forth in Article 76, paragraph (1) in its designated factory or workplace it must make the specified measuring instruments conform to technical standards prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry set forth in Article 71, paragraph (1), item (i) that fall under the technical standards prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry set forth in paragraph (2) of the same Article and must make their instrumental error not exceed the verification tolerance prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry set forth in paragraph (1), item (ii) of the same Article; provided, however, that this does not apply if the designated manufacturing business operator manufactures the specified measuring instruments for the purpose of export and has notified the prefectural governor thereof in advance, or manufactures the specified measuring instruments on a pilot production basis.

(2)A designated manufacturing business operator must conduct an inspection and prepare and keep the inspection record with regard to specified measuring instruments belonging to the type pertaining to the approval set forth in Article 76, paragraph (1) (excluding those manufactured pursuant to the provisions of the proviso to the preceding paragraph) that are manufactured in its designated factory or workplace, pursuant to the provisions of Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

Article 96(1)When a designated manufacturing business operator manufactures specified measuring instruments belonging to the type pertaining to the approval set forth in Article 76, paragraph (1) (excluding those manufactured pursuant to the provisions of the proviso to paragraph (1) of the preceding Article) in its designated factory or workplace, it may affix an indication to them pursuant to the provisions of Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

(2)The valid period of an indication set forth in the preceding paragraph to be affixed to the specified measuring instruments prescribed by Cabinet Order set forth in Article 72, paragraph (2) is the period prescribed by Cabinet Order set forth in the same paragraph, and the year and the month of expiration is to be indicated on the indication.

(3)An indication set forth in paragraph (1) affixed to the specified measuring instruments prescribed by Cabinet Order set forth in Article 19, paragraph (1) or Article 116, paragraph (1) is to indicate the year and the month in which it was affixed.

Article 97(1)No person may affix to a specified measuring instrument an indication set forth in paragraph (1) of the preceding Article or an indication that is confusingly similar thereto, except in the case prescribed in paragraph (1) of the preceding Article (including when applied mutatis mutandis pursuant to Article 101, paragraph (3)).

(2)When an import business operator imports a specified measuring instrument affixed with an indication set forth in paragraph (1) of the preceding Article or an indication that is confusingly similar thereto, the import business operator must remove the indication prior to the time of transfer or lending of the specified measuring instrument, except if the indication was affixed pursuant to the provisions of paragraph (1) of the preceding Article (including when applied mutatis mutandis pursuant to Article 101, paragraph (3)).

Article 98In the following cases, the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry may order a designated manufacturing business operator to improve appliances, machines, or equipment used to inspect the specified measuring instruments, as well as its quality control operations, and to take other necessary measures:

Article 99If a designated manufacturing business operator falls under any of the following items, the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry may rescind its designation:

Article 100The provisions of Article 40, paragraph (2) applies mutatis mutandis to the submission of an application pursuant to the provisions of Article 91, paragraph (1) and to a notification pursuant to the provisions of Article 94, paragraph (1), and the provisions of Article 66 applies mutatis mutandis to designated manufacturing business operators.

Article 101(1)A foreign manufacturing business operator who intends to receive a designation set forth in Article 16, paragraph (1), item (ii) (b) must submit an application stating the matters set forth in Article 91, paragraph (1), items (i) through (iii) and item (v) to the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry.

(2)When a foreign manufacturing business operator who has received a designation set forth in Article 16, paragraph (1), item (ii), (b) (hereinafter referred to as a "designated foreign manufacturing business operator") manufactures specified measuring instruments to be exported to Japan belonging to the type for which the approval set forth in Article 89, paragraph (1) was received, in its designated factory or workplace, the designated foreign manufacturing business operator must make the specified measuring instruments conform to technical standards prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry set forth in Article 71, paragraph (1), item (i) that fall under the technical standards prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry set forth in paragraph (2) of the same Article and must make their instrumental error not exceed the verification tolerance prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry set forth in paragraph (1), item (ii) of the Article.

(3)The provisions of Article 92 apply mutatis mutandis to a designation set forth in Article 16, paragraph (1), item (ii), (b) pertaining to the designation pursuant to the provisions of paragraph (1) of this Article, and the provisions of Article 61, Article 62, Article 65, Article 66, Article 89, paragraphs (5) and (6), Article 94, paragraph (1), Article 95, paragraph (2), Article 96, paragraph (1), Article 97, paragraph (1), Article 98, and Article 99 apply mutatis mutandis to designated foreign manufacturing business operators.In this case, the term "paragraph (1) of the preceding Article" in Article 61 is deemed to be replaced with "Article 92, paragraph (1) as applied mutatis mutandis pursuant to Article 101, paragraph (3)", the term "each item of Article 59" in Article 62, paragraph (1) is deemed to be replaced with "Article 91, paragraph (1), items (i) through (iii)", the term "the preceding Article as applied mutatis mutandis pursuant to the preceding paragraph" in Article 89, paragraph (5) is deemed to be replaced with "Article 99 as applied mutatis mutandis pursuant to Article 101, paragraph (3)", the term "specified measuring instruments belonging to the type pertaining to the approval set forth in Article 76, paragraph (1) (excluding those manufactured pursuant to the provisions of the proviso to the preceding paragraph)" in Article 95, paragraph (2) and the term "specified measuring instruments belonging to the type pertaining to the approval set forth in Article 76, paragraph (1) (excluding those manufactured pursuant to the provisions of the proviso to paragraph (1) of the preceding Article)" in Article 96, paragraph (1) are deemed to be replaced with "specified measuring instruments to be exported to Japan belonging to the type pertaining to the approval set forth in Article 89, paragraph (1)", the terms "No person" and "specified measuring instrument" in Article 97, paragraph (1) are deemed to be replaced with "No designated foreign manufacturing business operator" and "specified measuring instrument to be exported to Japan", respectively, the term "order" in Article 98 is deemed to be replaced with "request", the term "Article 95, paragraph (1)" in Article 98, item (ii) is deemed to be replaced with "Article 101, paragraph (2)", the term "Article 84, paragraph (3)" in Article 99, item (i) is deemed to be replaced with "Article 84, paragraph (3) as applied mutatis mutandis pursuant to Article 89, paragraph (4)", and the terms "Article 86" and "has violated an order" in Article 99, item (iii) are deemed to be replaced with "Article 86 as applied mutatis mutandis pursuant to Article 89, paragraph (4)" and "has failed to respond to a request", respectively.

Article 102(1)Inspections of measuring instruments used in verification tests, periodic inspections and other inspections of measuring instruments prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (hereinafter referred to as "inspection of legal standard reference instruments") are performed by the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, the prefectural governor, or Japan Electric Meters Inspection Corporation in accordance with the classification prescribed by Cabinet Order.

(2)The types of measuring instruments subject to the inspection of legal standard reference instruments and the persons eligible to receive the inspections are prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

Article 103(1)A measuring instrument passes an inspection of legal standard reference instruments when it conforms to each of the following items:

(2)Conformity to item (i) of the preceding paragraph is to be determined by a method prescribed by Order the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry

(3)Conformity to paragraph (1), item (ii) is to be determined through a calibration of the measuring instrument by a method prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry; provided, however, that if the measuring instrument bears a certificate issued by a registered operator set forth in Article 144, paragraph (1) pertaining to the calibration of the measuring instrument, the conformity may be determined based on the certificate.

Article 104(1)A measuring instrument which has passed an inspection of legal standard reference instruments (hereinafter referred to as a "legal standard reference instrument") is affixed with a legal standard reference instrument inspection mark pursuant to the provisions of Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

(2)The valid period of a legal standard reference instrument inspection mark is the period prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry for each type of measuring instrument.

(3)A legal standard reference instrument inspection mark affixed to a measuring instrument which has failed to pass an inspection of legal standard reference instruments is removed.

Article 105(1)When a measuring instrument has passed an inspection of legal standard reference instruments, a certificate of inspection of legal standard reference instruments stating the instrumental error, the methods used for correcting the instrumental error, and the valid period set forth in paragraph (2) of the preceding Article is issued to the applicant for the inspection.

(2)A certificate of inspection of legal standard reference instruments to be issued with regard to a legal standard reference instrument prescribed by Order the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry also states the intended use and the method of use of the instrument.

(3)If an applicant for an inspection of legal standard reference instruments has received a certificate of inspection of legal standard reference instruments pertaining to a measuring instrument which has failed to pass an inspection of legal standard reference instruments, a cancellation mark is applied to the certificate of inspection of legal standard reference instruments.

(4)Any transfer or lending of a legal standard reference instrument must be made together with the certificate of inspection of legal standard reference instrument thereof.

Article 106(1)A designation set forth in Article 16, paragraph (1), item (ii), (a) is made, in accordance with the classification prescribed by Cabinet Order, pursuant to the provisions of Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, upon an application submitted by a person who intends to perform a verification test (including an inspection of electric meters fitted with a current transformer, a fitting inspection, a test set forth in Article 78, paragraph (1) (including when applied mutatis mutandis pursuant to Article 81, paragraph (2) and Article 89, paragraph (3)) and an examination set forth in Article 93, paragraph (1); hereinafter the same applies in this Article).

(2)A designated verification organization must notify the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry of any change in the location of the place of business in which verification tests are conducted two weeks prior to the date of the intended change.

(3)The provisions of Articles 27 through 33 and Articles 35 through 38 apply mutatis mutandis to designated verification organizations and verification tests.In this case, the term "prefectural governor or the head of a specified municipality" in these provisions is deemed to be replaced with "the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry", and the term "Article 20, paragraph (1)" in Articles 27 through Article 28-2 and Article 38, item (v) is deemed to be replaced with "Article 16, paragraph (1), item (ii), (a)."

Article 107A person who intends to engage in a measurement certification business listed in the following items must obtain a registration for each of its places of business from the prefectural governors having jurisdiction over the places of business, in accordance with the business classification prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (simply referred to as the "business classification" in the following Article); provided, however, that this does not apply if a person engaged in the measurement certification business is the national government, a local government, or an incorporated administrative agency prescribed by Article 2, paragraph (1) of the Act on General Rules for Incorporated Administrative Agencies (Act No. 103 of 1999) who is prescribed by Cabinet Order as competent to appropriately perform the measurement certification business, or when the measurement certification business is performed by a person who has received a registration, designation or any other disposition to conduct that business based on the provisions of an Act prescribed by Cabinet Order:

Article 108A person who intends to obtain a registration set forth in the preceding Article must submit an application stating the following matters to the prefectural governor having jurisdiction over the person's place of business:

Article 109The prefectural governor must grant a registration when an application for registration set forth in Article 107 conforms to each of the following items:

Article 110(1)A person who has obtained a registration set forth in Article 107 (hereinafter referred to as a "measurement certification business operator") must prepare business rules stating matters prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry with regard to the method of implementation of the business to be registered, and notify the rules without delay to the prefectural governor after the registration. The same applies to any change thereof.

(2)When the prefectural governor finds it necessary for ensuring the proper implementation of measurement certifications, the governor may order a measurement certification business operator to change its business rules pertaining to the notification pursuant to the provisions of the preceding paragraph.

Article 110-2(1)When a measurement certification business operator has performed measurement certifications pertaining to its measurement certification business, the measurement certification business operator may issue a certificate stating the matters prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry and bearing a mark prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

(2)No person may affix to a certificate pertaining to measurement certifications a mark set forth in the preceding paragraph or a mark that is confusingly similar thereto, except in the case prescribed in the preceding paragraph.

(3)In addition to what is provided for in the preceding paragraph, a measurement certification business operator must not affix to an article other than certificates pertaining to measurement certifications a mark set forth in paragraph (1) or a mark that is confusingly similar thereto.

Article 111If a prefectural governor finds that a measurement certification business operator has become noncompliant with the provisions of each item of Article 109, the governor may order the measurement certification business operator to take necessary measures for compliance with those provisions.

Article 112If a measurement certification business operator abolishes its registered business or relocates its place of business to a location outside the jurisdiction of the prefectural governor who granted the registration, the registration ceases to be effective.

Article 113If a measurement certification business operator falls under any of the following items, the prefectural governor may rescind its registration, or order the suspension of its business for a specified period not exceeding one year:

Article 114The provisions of Article 92, paragraph (1) apply mutatis mutandis to a registration set forth in Article 107, and the provisions of Article 61, Article 62 and Article 65 apply mutatis mutandis to measurement certification business operators.In this case, the terms "two years" and "Article 99" in Article 92, paragraph (1), items (i) and (ii) are deemed to be replaced with "one year" and "Article 113", respectively, the term "paragraph (1) of the preceding Article" in Article 61 is deemed to be replaced with "Article 92, paragraph (1) as applied mutatis mutandis pursuant to Article 114", and the term "each item of Article 59" in Article 62, paragraph (1) is deemed to be replaced with "Article 108, item (i), and items (iii) through (v)."

Article 115Beyond what is provided for in Article 107 through the preceding Article, the issuance, revision, reissuance and return of registration certificates, the issuance of certified copies of a registry or inspections thereof, and other matters pertaining to registration of the business of measurement certifications are prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

Article 116(1)A measurement certification business operator must receive, pursuant to the provisions of Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, an inspection performed by the prefectural governor who granted registration to the measurement certification business operator (hereinafter referred to as a "measurement certifications inspection") with respect to specified measuring instruments prescribed by Cabinet Order and used for measurement certifications (excluding those prescribed by Cabinet Order set forth in Article 16, paragraph (1)) at intervals, prescribed by Cabinet Order for each specified measuring instrument, from the date of registration set forth in Article 107; provided, however, that this does not apply to the following specified measuring instruments:

(2)A measurement certification business operator who has received a designation set forth in Article 127, paragraph (1) must cause a certified measurer prescribed in Article 128, paragraph (1) to inspect, once during the period prescribed by Cabinet Order, excluding the period applied to each item of the preceding paragraph, whether a specified measuring instrument prescribed by Cabinet Order set forth in the same paragraph that is used in the designated place of business conforms to each item of Article 118, paragraph (1) using a method prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry set forth in paragraphs (2) and (3) of the same Article.

Article 117(1)The prefectural governor may designate a person (hereinafter referred to as a "designated measurement certification inspection organization") to perform a measurement certification inspection.

(2)When the prefectural governor has a designated measurement certification inspection organization perform the whole or part of service of a measurement certification inspection (hereinafter referred to as "inspection service" in this section) pursuant to the provisions of the preceding paragraph, the governor is to refrain from implementing the inspection service in whole or in part.

Article 118(1)A specified measuring instrument passes the measurement certification inspection if it conforms to each of the following items:

(2)Conformity to item (ii) of the preceding paragraph is to be determined by a method prescribed by Order the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry

(3)Conformity to paragraph (1), item (iii) is to be determined by a method prescribed by Order the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry by using a legal standard reference instrument (with regard to the instrumental error of a specified measuring instrument prescribed by Order the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry set forth in Article 71, paragraph (3), a reference material prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry set forth in the same paragraph).

Article 119(1)A specified measuring instrument which has passed a measurement certification inspection is affixed with a measurement certification inspection mark pursuant to the provisions of Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

(2)A measurement certification inspection mark set forth in the preceding paragraph is to indicate the year and the month in which the measurement certification inspection was conducted.

(3)If a specified measuring instrument that has not passed a measurement certification inspection bears a verification mark, etc., the verification mark, etc. is removed.

Article 120(1)With respect to a specified measuring instrument required to undergo a measurement certification inspection pursuant to the provisions of Article 116, paragraph (1), when a certified measurer prescribed according to the type of the specified measuring instrument by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry has performed an inspection thereof by a method prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry set forth in Article 118, paragraphs (2) and (3) within a period prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, and has affixed an indication pursuant to the provisions of Article 25, paragraph (3) as applied mutatis mutandis pursuant to the following paragraph, and the measurement certification business operator has notified the prefectural governor having jurisdiction over its place of business of that fact, the specified measuring instrument is not required to undergo a measurement certification inspection, notwithstanding the provisions of Article 116, paragraph (1).

(2)The provisions of Article 25, paragraphs (2) and (3) apply mutatis mutandis to the case of the preceding paragraph.In this case, the term "each item of Article 23, paragraph (1)" in Article 25, paragraph (3) is deemed to be replaced with "each item of Article 118, paragraph (1)".

Article 121(1)The designation set forth in Article 117, paragraph (1) is, made upon an application from a person who intends to perform an inspection service, pursuant to the provisions of Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

(2)The provisions of Articles 27 through 33, Articles 35 through 39, and Article 106, paragraph (2) apply mutatis mutandis to designated measurement certification inspection organizations and measurement certification inspections.In this case, the term "the prefectural governor or the head of a specified municipality" in these provisions and the term "the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry" in Article 106, paragraph (2) are deemed to be replaced with "the prefectural governor", and the term "Article 20, paragraph (1)" in Articles 27 through 28-2, and Article 38, item (v) is deemed to be replaced with "Article 117, paragraph (1)".

Article 121-2A person who intends to engage in the specified measurement certification business (meaning the business prescribed by Cabinet Order as requiring high levels of technology to certify measurements of very small quantities of the physical phenomena prescribed in Article 107, item (ii); hereinafter the same applies in this Article) may obtain an accreditation of the business's conformity to each of the following items, in accordance with the classification prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, by submitting an application to the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry or an entity designated thereby (hereinafter referred to as a "specified measurement certification accreditation organization"):

Article 121-3(1)When a person who has obtained an accreditation set forth in the preceding Article (hereinafter referred to as an "accredited specified measurement certification business operator") performs a measurement certification service pertaining to the classification of the business accredited pursuant to the same Article, the accredited specified measurement certification business operator may issue a certificate with a mark prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry affixed stating matters prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

(2)No person may affix to a certificate pertaining to measurement certifications a mark set forth in the preceding paragraph or a mark confusingly similar thereto, except in the case prescribed in the preceding paragraph.

(3)Beyond what is provided for in the preceding paragraph, an accredited specified measurement certification business operator must not affix to any item other than certificates pertaining to measurement certifications a mark set forth in paragraph (1) or a mark confusingly similar thereto.

Article 121-4(1)An accreditation set forth in Article 121-2 ceases to be effective upon the expiration of a period of not less than three years prescribed by Cabinet Order unless it is renewed, upon the end of the period, for another the period.

(2)The provisions of Article 121-2 and paragraph (1) of the preceding Article apply mutatis mutandis to the renewal of accreditation set forth in the preceding paragraph.

Article 121-5The Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry may rescind the accreditation of an accredited specified measurement certification business operator if it falls under any of the following items:

Article 121-6The provisions of Article 41, Article 65 and Article 66 apply mutatis mutandis to accredited specified measurement certification business operators.

Article 121-7A designation set forth in Article 121-2 is made for each classification prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry upon an application submitted pursuant to the provisions of Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry by a person who intends to perform accreditation set forth in the same Article.

Article 121-8The Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry must not make a designation unless the Minister finds that an application for the designation set forth in Article 121-2 conforms to each of the following criteria:

Article 121-9(1)When a specified measurement certification accreditation organization receives a request for accreditation, it must implement an examination for the accreditation without delay, unless there are justifiable grounds for refusing to do so.

(2)When a specified measurement certification accreditation organization conducts an accreditation, it must cause a person prescribed in item (i) of the preceding Article to perform the accreditation.

Article 121-10The provisions of Article 27, Article 28-2, Articles 30 through 32, Articles 35 through 38, and Article 106, paragraph (2) apply mutatis mutandis to specified measurement certification accreditation organizations and an accreditation set forth in Article 121-2.In this case, the term "the prefectural governor or the head of specified municipality" in these provisions is deemed to be replaced with "the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry", the term "Article 20, paragraph (1)" in Article 27, Article 28-2, paragraph (1), and Article 38, item (v) is deemed to be replaced with "Article 121-2", the term "The preceding three Articles" in Article 28-2, paragraph (2) is deemed to be replaced with "Article 27 as applied mutatis mutandis pursuant to Article 121-7, Article 121-8 and Article 121-10", the term "Article 28, item (ii)" in Article 35 is deemed to be replaced with "Article 121-8, item (i)", and the term " Article 28, items (i) through (v)" in Article 37 is deemed to be replaced with " Article 121-8, items (i) through (iv)".

Article 122(1)The Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry registers as certified measurers persons with knowledge and experience necessary to properly perform inspections of measuring instruments and other measurement control activities.

(2)A person who falls under any of the following items may become a certified measurer by obtaining a registration pursuant to the provisions of the preceding paragraph according to the classification of certified measurers prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (hereinafter referred to simply as "the classification of certified measurers") with regard to the person's name, date of birth and other necessary matters prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry:

(3)No person who falls under any of the following items may receive a registration pursuant to the provisions of paragraph (1):

Article 123If a certified measurer falls under any of the following items, the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry may rescind the measurer's registration, or order the suspension of the use of the title of "certified measurer" for a specified period not exceeding one year.

Article 124A person who is not a certified measurer must not use the title of "certified measurer".

Article 125The national certified measurer examination is implemented at least once a year by the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry in accordance with the classification of certified measurers in order to assess the knowledge and skills necessary for inspecting measuring instruments and for other measurement control activities.

Article 126Beyond what is provided for in Article 122 through the preceding Article, applications for registration, the issuance, revision, reissuance and return of registration certificates, the issuance of certified copies of a registry or inspections thereof, and other matters pertaining to the registration of certified measurers are prescribed by Cabinet Order, and the examination subjects, examination procedures and other details pertaining to the national certified measurer examination are prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

Article 127(1)The Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry designates as an appropriate measurement control business place places of business in which a specified measuring instrument is used and appropriate measurement control is performed.

(2)A person who intends to receive a designation set forth in the preceding paragraph must submit an application stating the following matters to the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry through the prefectural governor having jurisdiction over the person's place of business in which specified measuring instruments is used (if its place of business is located within the jurisdiction of a specified municipality, through the head of the specified municipality:

(3)A person who has submitted an application set forth in paragraph (1) must receive an inspection by the prefectural governor or the head of the specified municipality regarding the method of measurement control at the place of business without delay.

(4)When the prefectural governor or the head of the specified municipality implements an inspection pursuant to the provisions of the preceding paragraph, the governor or head must report to the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry the results of the inspection pursuant to the provisions of Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

Article 128If the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry finds that an application for designation set forth in paragraph (1) of the preceding Article conforms to each of the following items, the Minister must make the designation:

Article 129A person who has received a designation set forth in Article 127, paragraph (1) must prepare books, enter in the books the results of inspections performed by a certified measurer of specified measuring instruments used in the appropriate measurement control business place, and keep the books, pursuant to the provisions of the Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

Article 130(1)A person who has received a designation set forth in Article 127, paragraph (1) may display a sign in the form prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry at its appropriate measurement control business place.

(2)No person may display a sign set forth in the preceding paragraph or any sign confusingly similar thereto, except in the case prescribed in the preceding paragraph.

Article 131If the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry finds that a person who has received a designation set forth in Article 127, paragraph (1) has become noncompliant with each item of Article 128, the Minister may order the person to take necessary measures for compliance with those items.

Article 132If a person who has received a designation set forth in Article 127, paragraph (1) falls under any of the following items, the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry may rescind its designation:

Article 133The provisions of Article 92, paragraph (1) applies mutatis mutandis to a designation set forth in Article 127, paragraph (1), and the provisions of Article 61, Article 62, Article 65 and Article 66 apply mutatis mutandis to persons who have received a designation set forth in Article 127, paragraph (1).In this case, the terms "two years" and "Article 99" in Article 92, paragraph (1), items (i) and (ii) are deemed to be replaced with "one year" and "Article 132", respectively, the term "paragraph (1) of the preceding Article" in Article 61 is deemed to be replaced with "Article 92, paragraph (1) as applied mutatis mutandis pursuant to Article 133", and the term "each item of Article 59" in Article 62, paragraph (1) is deemed to be replaced with "each item of Article 127, paragraph (2)".

Article 134(1)The Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry is to designate a measuring instrument used as a standard for measuring instruments which represents the quantities of specified physical phenomena, or an appliance, machine or equipment for manufacturing a reference material which represents those quantities.

(2)If the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry designates a measuring instrument used as a standard for measuring instruments which represents the quantities of specified physical phenomena, pursuant to the provisions of the preceding paragraph, and finds it inappropriate to repeatedly use the measuring instrument pertaining to the designation (hereinafter referred to as a "specified standard instrument") for the purpose of calibrating measuring instruments, the Minister is to also designate a measuring instrument which has been calibrated by using the specified standard instrument and which the Minister finds appropriate to be used for calibrating measuring instruments in lieu of the specified standard instrument.

(3)If the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry finds that a specified standard instrument or a reference material manufactured by using appliances, machines or equipment pertaining to a designation pursuant to the provisions of paragraph (1) (hereinafter referred to as a "specified reference material") has become inappropriate to be used as a standard for measuring instruments which represents the quantities of the specified physical phenomena, the Minister may rescind its designation. In this case, when a designation pursuant to the provisions of the preceding paragraph has been made for the specified standard instrument pertaining to the rescission of the designation, that designation also is to be rescinded.

(4)If the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry finds that a measuring instrument pertaining to a designation pursuant to the provisions of paragraph (2) has become inappropriate to be used for calibrating measuring instruments in lieu of a specified standard instrument, the Minister may rescind its designation.

Article 135(1)The calibration of a measuring instrument or the valuing of a reference material using a specified standard instrument, a measuring instrument pertaining to a designation pursuant to the provisions of paragraph (2) of the preceding Article (hereinafter referred to as "specified standard instrument, etc."), or a specified reference material (hereinafter referred to as "calibration, etc. using specified standard instruments") is implemented by the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, Japan Electric Meters Inspection Corporation, or a person designated by the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry (hereinafter referred to as a "designated calibration organization").

(2)When the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, Japan Electric Meters Inspection Corporation, or a designated calibration organization implements calibration, etc. using specified standard instruments, pursuant to the provisions of the preceding paragraph, the Minister is to give public notice of the following matters:

(3)If it becomes impossible to perform calibration, etc. using specified standard instruments pertaining to a public notice pursuant to the provisions of the preceding paragraph, the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry is to give public notice of that fact.

Article 136(1)After implementing calibration, etc. using specified standard instruments, the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, Japan Electric Meters Inspection Corporation, or a designated calibration organization is to issue a certificate with a mark prescribed by Order of the Ministry Economy, Trade and Industry stating matters prescribed by Order of the Ministry Economy, Trade and Industry.

(2)No person may affix to a certificate pertaining to the calibration of measuring instruments or the valuing of reference materials (hereinafter referred to as "calibration, etc. of measuring instruments") a mark set forth in the preceding paragraph or a mark that is confusingly similar thereto, except in the case prescribed in the paragraph.

(3)Beyond what is provided for in the preceding paragraph, a designated calibration organization and a person who has obtained registration set forth in Article 143, paragraph (1) must not affix to any item other than certificates pertaining to calibration, etc. of measuring instruments, the mark set forth in paragraph (1) or a mark that is confusingly similar thereto.

Article 137When requested to implement calibration, etc. using specified standard instruments, the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, Japan Electric Meters Inspection Corporation, or a designated calibration organization must implement the calibration, etc. using specified standard instruments unless there are justifiable grounds for refusing to do so.

Article 138A designation set forth in Article 135, paragraph (1) is made upon an application from a person who intends to perform calibration, etc. using specified standard instruments, and determines the scope of permitted services, pursuant to the provisions of Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

Article 139A person who falls under any of the following items may not receive a designation set forth in Article 135, paragraph (1):

Article 140The Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry must not make a designation unless the Minister finds that an application for designation set forth in Article 135, paragraph (1) conforms to each of the following items:

Article 141If a designated calibration organization falls under any of the following items, the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry may rescind its designation, or order the suspension of the service of calibration, etc. using specified standard instruments in whole or in part for a specified period:

Article 142The provisions of Article 28-2, Articles 30 through 32, Article 36, Article 37, and Article 106, paragraph (2) apply mutatis mutandis to designated calibration organizations and calibration, etc. using specified standard instruments.In this case, the term "the prefectural governor or the head of a specified municipality" in these provisions is deemed to be replaced with "the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry", the term "Article 20, paragraph (1)" in Article 28-2 is deemed to be replaced with "Article 135, paragraph (1)", and the term "Article 28, items (i) through (v)" in Article 37 is deemed to be replaced with "Article 140, items (ii) through (iv)".

Article 143(1)A person engaged in the business of calibration, etc. of measuring instruments may receive a registration by submitting an application to the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry according to the quantity of physical phenomena represented by a measuring instrument to be calibrated or to the quantity of physical phenomena attached to a reference material to be valued.In this case, the necessary procedures pertaining to the registration are prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

(2)When an application for the registration set forth in the preceding paragraph conforms to all of the following requirements, the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry must grant the registration:

(3)A registration set forth in paragraph (1) is to be made by stating the matters listed in the following items on the registry:

Article 144(1)When a person who received a registration set forth in the preceding Article (hereinafter referred to as a "registered operator") has, as set forth in paragraph (2), item (i) of the same Article, performed calibration, etc. of measuring instruments by using a measuring instrument or a reference material which has been calibrated, etc. using specified standard instruments, or by using a measuring instrument or a reference material which has been calibrated, etc. in a gradual manner together with the initially mentioned measuring instrument or reference material, the person may issue a certificate stating matters prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry and affix a mark prescribed by Order of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

(2)When a registered operator performs calibration, etc. of measuring instruments, with regard to a measuring instrument or a reference material to be sold or lent by the registered operator itself, the registered operator may sell or lend the measuring instrument or reference material together with a certificate set forth in the preceding paragraph.

(3)No person may affix to a certificate pertaining to calibration, etc. of measuring instruments a mark set forth in paragraph (1) or a mark that is confusingly similar thereto, except in the case prescribed in the preceding two paragraphs.

(4)Beyond what is provided for in the preceding paragraph, a registered operator must not affix to any article other than certificates pertaining to calibration, etc. of measuring instruments, a mark set forth in paragraph (1) or a mark that is confusingly similar thereto.

Article 144-2(1)The registration set forth in Article 143, paragraph (1) ceases to be effective upon the expiration of a period of not less than three years prescribed by Cabinet Order unless it is renewed, upon the end of the period, for another the period.

(2)The provisions of Article 143 applies mutatis mutandis to the renewal of registration set forth in the preceding paragraph.

Article 145If a registered operator falls under any of the following items, the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry may rescind its registration:

Article 146The provisions of Article 41, Article 65 and Article 66 apply mutatis mutandis to registered operators.