The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has implemented the Hand Tools (Quality Control) Order, 2024, effective from September 17, 2024. This order mandates that hand tools and wrenches sold in India must conform to specific Indian Standards and bear the BIS Standard Mark, ensuring product quality and consumer safety.
Key Provisions of the Order:
Applicability: The order applies to various hand tools and wrenches, including chain pipe wrenches, open-ended slugging wrenches, ring slugging wrenches, adjustable wrenches, open-jaw wrenches, ring wrenches, pipe wrenches (general purpose and heavy duty), and combination side-cutting pliers. It excludes products manufactured exclusively for export.
Standards Compliance: Manufacturers must ensure their products meet the relevant Indian Standards, such as IS 4123:1982 for chain pipe wrenches and IS 3650:1981 for combination side-cutting pliers. The latest versions of these standards, including any amendments, as notified by BIS, will apply.
Certification Requirement: Products must bear the BIS Standard Mark, obtained through a license from BIS. This certification process involves product testing and factory inspections to verify compliance with the specified standards.
Implementation Timeline: The order came into effect on September 17, 2024, with different implementation dates for various enterprises after publishing BIS QCO for hand tool:
Medium & Large Enterprises: By March 17, 2025 (6 months from publication).
Small Enterprises: By June 17, 2025 (9 months from September 17, 2024).
Micro Enterprises: By September 17, 2025 (12 months from September 17, 2024).
Importance of the Order:
Consumer Safety: Ensures that hand tools and wrenches meet safety and performance standards, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries.
Quality Assurance: Promotes the availability of reliable and durable tools in the market, enhancing consumer trust.
Market Access: Compliance with the order is necessary for manufacturers and importers to sell hand tools and wrenches in the Indian market.
Enforcement and Penalties:
BIS is responsible for certifying and enforcing the quality standards for hand tools and wrenches. Non-compliance with the order may result in penalties as outlined in the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016.
Manufacturers, importers, and distributors are advised to ensure their products comply with the specified standards and obtain the necessary BIS certification to continue operations within the Indian market. This initiative aims to enhance product quality, ensure consumer safety, and promote fair trade practices.
