Abstract: A scale incorporating an abuse detection and recordal system has a scale for weighing an article placed thereon, the scale defining a surface adapted to support the article thereon and a component damageable by an excessive force downwardly directed on the support surface. A frangible layer is disposed on the support surface and frangible by a downwardly directed force less than the excessive force required to damage the component, whereby the frangible layer acts as an abuse detection and recordal system to detect and record the use of such force.