Making sure National Lottery draws are fair
There are strict procedures to make sure all draws are fair, random and honest. Members of our compliance team attend many draws throughout the year.
National Lottery draw machines
Every draw is random and each ball has the same chance of being picked. Camelot must carry out tests of draw machines and ball sets to check for non-randomness.
The University of Hertfordshire also does independent testing on the randomness of balls drawn. The machine and ball set used in each draw are scheduled on an equal rotation basis.
Between draws, draw machines and ball sets are sealed and kept in secure storage. Access to these secure areas is strictly limited. The seals are checked before a set of balls is used.
Each set of balls is tested by the National Measurement Office and Camelot at regular intervals.
People involved in lottery draws
Camelot appoints a ‘draw manager’ who is responsible for making sure the draw runs properly.
Every draw is also overseen by an independent adjudicator. They are responsible for making sure draws are carried out in line with all procedures.
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Last updated: 13 December 2022
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