On March 6, 2024, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, through the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), issued the Corrugated and Semi-Corrugated Asbestos Cement Sheets (Quality Control) Order, 2024. This regulation, implemented under the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) Act, 2016, mandates adherence to quality standards for asbestos or fiber cement-based products to enhance product safety, durability, and compliance with Indian Standards.

If you are engaged in the manufacturing, importing, or selling of these products, this order directly impacts your business. The regulation has been introduced in the public interest to ensure the availability of high-quality and safe products in the market.

Key Provisions of the Corrugated and Semi-Corrugated Asbestos Cement Sheets (Quality Control) Order, 2024

1. Title and Implementation Timeline

The order, officially titled Asbestos or Fibre Cement-Based Products (Corrugated and Semi-Corrugated Asbestos Cement Sheets) (Quality Control) Order, 2024, will be implemented in a phased manner:

• The order comes into force six months from its publication in the Official Gazette, i.e., effective September 6, 2024.
• Small enterprises, as defined under the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises Development Act, 2006, have a nine-month grace period, making compliance mandatory from December 6, 2024.
• Micro enterprises are provided with a twelve-month grace period, with the order becoming effective March 6, 2025.

2. Mandatory BIS Certification

This regulation requires compliance with the Indian Standard IS 459:1992, ensuring the quality and safety of corrugated and semi-corrugated asbestos cement sheets.

• All such products must bear the Standard Mark (ISI Mark), certifying conformity to Indian Standards under a BIS license as per Scheme-I of Schedule-II of the BIS (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018.
• Exemptions are provided for products manufactured exclusively for export.

3. Certification and Enforcement Authority

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is designated as the certifying and enforcement authority for this order. BIS will oversee the compliance process, ensuring that all products intended for the domestic market adhere to the specified standards.

4. Penalties for Non-Compliance

Non-compliance with the provisions of this order will result in penalties as prescribed under the BIS Act, 2016. This enforcement mechanism is aimed at deterring violations and maintaining product quality and safety in the marketplace.

This order represents a significant step in enhancing the quality and safety of Corrugated and Semi – Corrugated Asbestos Cement Sheets available to Indian consumers. By mandating adherence to Indian Standards, this regulation promotes consumer protection and industry responsibility. 

Stay compliant and prepare your business for these important regulatory changes to continue operating within the guidelines of the industry!

Implementation Dates: Date of implementation for General (Medium & Large-Scale Enterprises): 6th September  2024.

- Date of implementation for Small Enterprises: 6th December  2024.

BIS Certification for Corrugated and Semi– Corrugated Asbestos Cement Sheets IS 459: 1992