Bureau of Indian Standards: Quality and Certification Explained

Origin and Evolution

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is India's National Standards Body. It was established under the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 1986. This act came into force on December 23, 1986. BIS replaced the Indian Standards Institution (ISI), which was set up in 1947. The ISI mark, a well-known certification mark, was originally administered by the Indian Standards Institution. BIS continues to administer this mark. The transition from ISI to BIS aimed to strengthen the standardization and quality assurance framework in India. The primary objective was to provide a robust system for product certification, testing, and quality management. This ensures consumers receive safe and reliable products.

The journey began with the establishment of the Indian Standards Institution (ISI) on January 6, 1947. This was even before India gained independence. Its formation was a direct result of a resolution moved by the Department of Industries and Supplies. The need for national standards was recognized early to promote orderly industrial growth. Over the decades, ISI played a vital role in developing standards across various sectors. The 1986 Act provided BIS with more comprehensive powers and a broader mandate. This included the power to enforce standards and certify products, making it a more effective regulatory body.

Mandate and Functions

BIS operates under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution. Its main functions include formulating Indian Standards, operating product certification schemes, and managing quality systems certification. It also handles hallmarking of gold and silver jewellery, and laboratory services. BIS aims to provide safe, reliable, and quality goods. It minimizes health hazards to consumers and promotes exports and imports substitution. The organization also works to control proliferation of brands and varieties. This helps in standardizing products across the market.

BIS develops standards for various products, processes, and services. These standards are voluntary, but the government can make them mandatory for certain products for public health and safety reasons. For example, standards for LPG cylinders, cement, and packaged drinking water are mandatory. BIS also engages in international cooperation with bodies like the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). This ensures that Indian standards are aligned with global best practices. The organization also provides training and consultancy services related to standardization and quality assurance.

Certification Schemes

BIS offers several certification schemes. The most recognized is the Product Certification Scheme, which allows manufacturers to use the ISI mark. This mark signifies that the product conforms to the relevant Indian Standard. The scheme covers over 350 products, including electrical appliances, cement, food products, and automotive components. Manufacturers must obtain a license from BIS to use the ISI mark. This involves a rigorous process of factory inspection and product testing. Regular surveillance is also conducted to ensure continued compliance.

Another important scheme is the Hallmarking Scheme for gold and silver jewellery. This scheme provides third-party assurance to consumers about the purity of precious metals. The BIS hallmark on jewellery indicates the purity of gold (e.g., 22K, 18K) and silver. This scheme was made mandatory for gold jewellery in a phased manner, starting from June 16, 2021. BIS also operates a Management Systems Certification Scheme, covering ISO 9001 (Quality Management), ISO 14001 (Environmental Management), and others. These schemes help organizations improve their internal processes and meet international standards.

BIS Act 2016

The Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016, replaced the 1986 Act. It came into effect on October 12, 2017. This new Act significantly strengthened BIS's powers and expanded its scope. It allows the government to make standardization mandatory for any goods, articles, processes, or services. This is done to protect public health, safety, environment, and prevent deceptive practices. The 2016 Act also introduced provisions for recall of non-conforming goods. It also allows for imprisonment and higher penalties for violations.

The Act also enables multiple types of conformity assessment schemes. This includes self-declaration of conformity by manufacturers. This aims to simplify the process for certain categories of products while maintaining quality. It also promotes a culture of quality and standardization across various sectors of the economy. The 2016 Act also provides for the establishment of a 'Standard Mark' for goods and services. This mark signifies conformity to Indian Standards. The new Act is a significant step towards enhancing consumer protection and promoting ease of doing business in India.

Important Keywords Explained

Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS)organization

India's National Standards Body, responsible for standardization, marking, and quality certification of goods. It operates under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution, ensuring product quality and safety for consumers.

ISI Markconcept

A certification mark for industrial products in India. It indicates that a product conforms to a specific Indian Standard. The mark is mandatory for certain products in India, signifying quality and safety.

Hallmarking Schemescheme

A scheme operated by BIS to certify the purity of gold and silver jewellery. It provides consumers with an assurance of the fineness of precious metals, protecting them from adulteration and ensuring transparency in transactions.

BIS Act, 2016act

The legislation that governs the operations of the Bureau of Indian Standards. It replaced the 1986 Act, expanding BIS's powers, allowing mandatory standardization for more products, and introducing stricter penalties for non-compliance.

Additional Facts & Context

• BIS has more than 25,000 Indian Standards formulated across various sectors.
• Over 350 products are covered under the mandatory ISI certification scheme.
• BIS has five regional offices and 33 branch offices across India.
• The BIS laboratory network consists of 8 central laboratories and 4 regional laboratories.
• BIS is a founding member of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).