What is an example of a scale condition that should prevent testing?

The presence of a tag indicating "Out of Order" on a scale is a definitive signal that the scale is not functioning properly and should not be used for testing. This tag signifies that the scale has been assessed and found to have faults that could lead to inaccurate measurements or safety issues. Using a scale that is tagged in this way could compromise the integrity of weight readings, which is critical in various applications where precision is essential.

In contrast, while a scale that shows zero when unloaded may be functioning correctly, and a negative balance indicates an error, they do not explicitly declare the scale to be unusable as long as they are addressed properly. A scale that is not leveled may produce inaccurate readings, but it can still be used with caution if adjustments are made. Therefore, the "Out of Order" tag clearly communicates an unequivocal issue that necessitates that the scale be removed from service until repaired and retested.