On August 5, 2019, the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, through its Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals, issued the Acetic Acid (Quality Control) Order, 2019. This order is intended to enforce stringent quality standards for Acetic Acid, prioritizing consumer safety and product integrity. An amendment was later introduced, extending the compliance deadline to August 3, 2025. 

If your business is involved in the manufacturing, sale, or import of Acetic Acid, this regulation will directly impact your operational procedures. Enacted in consultation with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), the order is consistent with the provisions of the BIS Act, 2016, ensuring adherence to recognized safety and quality standards. 

Key Provisions of the Acetic Acid (Quality Control) Order, 2019

1. Title and Implementation Timeline

This regulation is officially known as the Acetic Acid (Quality Control) Order, 2019, and includes the following timeline for compliance:

• The order was initially scheduled to come into effect 181 days after its publication in the Official Gazette, on February 5, 2020.
• However, an amendment extended the implementation date to August 3, 2025. 

2. Adherence to Standards and Use of the BIS Standard Mark

Under this order, Acetic Acid must comply with Indian Standard IS 695:1986 and must display the BIS Standard Mark (ISI Mark) to verify conformity:

• Manufacturers are required to obtain a valid license from the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) under Scheme-I of Schedule-II of the BIS (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018, certifying that their products meet the specified quality standards.
• This regulation applies to Acetic Acid intended for domestic use. Products manufactured exclusively for export are exempt if they comply with the importing country's specifications. 

3. BIS as the Certifying and Enforcement Authority

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is the primary authority for certifying and enforcing conformity to the Standard Mark under this order. Additionally, the District Industries Centre in the Department of Industries of the State Government will serve as an enforcement body to ensure compliance. 

4. Penalties for Non-Compliance

Non-compliance with the Acetic Acid (Quality Control) Order, 2019 will attract penalties as specified under the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016. These penalties are designed to enforce strict adherence to quality standards, safeguarding consumer safety and preventing non-compliance.

This regulation is a key initiative to ensure the safety and quality of Acetic Acid used in various industries across India. By enforcing consistent standards, the order enhances consumer confidence and encourages manufacturers to maintain high-quality production practices.

BIS Certification for Acetic Acid IS 695: 2020