To enhance product safety and quality in the Indian market, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry introduced the Hand Tools Quality Control Order in 2024. Effective September 17, 2024, this order highlights the importance of BIS certification for various Hand Tools and guarantees that Hand Tools in the Indian market meet essential safety and performance standards.

In this article, we’ll explore BIS certification, why it’s vital, and how it impacts manufacturers of tools like wrenches, pliers, and pipe tools. With this update, you can understand what this new order means for consumers and manufacturers, the types of tools it covers, and why it’s such an essential step for quality assurance.

What Is BIS QCO?

The BIS Quality Control Order (QCO) ensures certain products meet specific quality standards before being sold in the Indian market. This regulatory framework enhances consumer safety, promotes fair trade practices, and provides manufacturers with the following guidelines.

Key Provisions Of The Order

Here, we have mentioned the critical provisions of the BIS QCO for Hand Tools:

• Commencement: The order comes into effect six months after publication in the Official Gazette, with extended timelines for small and micro enterprises.
• Compulsory Standard Mark: The specified Hand Tools must bear the BIS Standard Mark, indicating compliance with the corresponding Indian Standards as detailed in the order.
• Certification Authority: The BIS will act as the certifying and enforcing authority for the products listed, ensuring adherence to quality benchmarks.
• Penalties for Non-Compliance: Manufacturers who fail to comply with the provisions of this order may face penalties under the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016.

Importance Of BIS QCO For Hand Tools

Here are the key reasons why the QCO is vital for hand tools

• Consumer Safety: Hand Tools are widely used in professional and DIY settings. Ensuring these tools meet BIS standards helps prevent accidents and injuries caused by substandard products.
• Quality Assurance: BIS certification signifies that Hand Tools have undergone rigorous testing and quality checks. This builds trust among consumers and manufacturers alike.
• Market Access: Compliance with BIS QCO is often required to enter the Indian market; therefore, as a manufacturer, you must obtain certification to avoid legal consequences.
• Promotion of Fair Competition: The QCO will help level the playing field by ensuring that all manufacturers comply with the same quality standards, thereby preventing unfair competition from inferior products.

Overview Of BIS QCO For Hand Tools

1. Date of Enforcement

This order was published on September 17, 2024, and has different implementation dates for various enterprises, as follows:

• 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).

2. Applicability

The order applies to Hand Tools and Wrenches. However, it does not apply to products manufactured domestically for export. To meet quality requirements, all Hand Tools and Wrenches must adhere to the following Indian Standards:

Title of Indian Standard	Indian Standard
Chain Pipe Wrenches	IS 4123:1982
Open Ended Slugging Wrenches (Spanners)	IS 4508:1992
Ring Slugging Wrenches (Spanners)	IS 4509:1992
Single-Ended Open-Jaw Adjustable Wrenches	IS 6149:1984
Open Jaw Wrenches (Spanners)	IS 2028:2004
Ring Wrenches (Spanners)	IS 2029:1998
Pipe Wrenches – General Purpose	IS 4003 (Part 1):1978
Pipe Wrenches – Heavy Duty	IS 4003 (Part 2):1986
Combination Side Cutting Pliers	IS 3650:1981

Note: The latest versions of these standards, including any amendments, as notified by the Bureau of Indian Standards, will apply.

3. Standards Compliance

Products listed above must display the Standard Mark, which can be obtained through a license from the Bureau of Indian Standards. As specified in Schedule-II, Scheme-I of the Bureau of Indian Standards (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018.

4. Certification and Enforcement

The Bureau of Indian Standards certifies and enforces quality standards for Hand Tools and Wrenches. Any violations of this order will result in penalties as outlined in the applicable Act. The BIS serves as the Implementation Authority for this QCO.

How BIS Works For Hand Tools And Wrenches?

BIS certification involves both licensing and surveillance processes. Here’s a brief overview of how it works:

Licensing Procedure:

1. The manufacturer applies for BIS certification.
2. A BIS officer conducts a preliminary inspection of the manufacturing facility.
3. Product samples are tested.
4. Based on the assessment, the BIS officer determines the outcome.
5. A follow-up inspection is carried out to evaluate the facility comprehensively.

Surveillance Process:

1. An inspection body visits the factory to verify test results.
2. Samples are sent to independent laboratories for analysis.
3. The test report includes a summary of the findings.
4. A performance review report is generated.

Once the evaluation is complete and satisfactory, the BIS license for Hand Tools and Wrenches is issued.