Checks by regulators (8)
I believe the answer is:
controls
This clue could be a double definition.
'checks' is the first definition.
('control' can be a synonym of 'check')
'regulators' is the second definition.
The answer and definition can be both man-made objects as well as being plural nouns.
Perhaps there's an association between them I don't understand?
'by' is the link.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for controls that I've seen before include "Exercises power over" , "Runs" , "Regulates" , "Manages the regulatory mechanisms" , "Directs, governs" .)