The testing regime for ensuring that gaming machines comply with the technical standards required under the Gambling Act 2005 has not been fully finalised. The Gambling Commission is working closely with the industry to discuss the testing regime and the timetable for those tests, including any necessary transitional arrangements to cover machines already in the market. The aim is for the overall testing strategy to be finalised in good time before the provisions of the Act become effective from 1 September 2007.
The Gambling Commission has invited test houses to apply for approval to carry out tests required to ensure that gaming machines and remote gambling systems comply with the technical standards required under the Gambling Act. All prospective test houses will be required to undergo a Commission assessment on the suitability, integrity and independence of their business. They will also need to demonstrate accreditation to BS/EN ISO 17025, plus any additional features (skills, capabilities, capacity) that may be required to test to the Commission’s technical standards. All test houses which meet the requirements will be granted approval, and operators will be able to choose which approved test house to use. The Commission has received three applications to date.