The weights and measures obtained by the state in conformity with them and certified by the National Bureau of Standards or its successor organization, the National Institute of Standards and Technology, are the state standards of weight and measure. The state standards shall be kept in a safe and suitable place in the office or laboratory of the Department of Transportation and Public Facilities. They may not be removed from the office or laboratory except for repairs or for certification. The state standards shall be used only in verifying the office standards and for scientific purposes.