On November 14, 2024, the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, through its Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals, issued the H Acid (Quality Control) Order, 2024. This regulation is aimed at enforcing strict quality standards for H Acid, a key component in the dye industry, to ensure public safety and product reliability. Developed in consultation with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), the Order aligns with the requirements of the BIS Act, 2016, emphasizing consumer protection and adherence to national standards. 

Key Provisions of the H Acid (Quality Control) Order, 2024

1. Title and Implementation Timeline

This regulation is officially titled the H Acid (Quality Control) Order, 2024, The Order will become mandatory six months from its official publication date, requiring compliance starting from May 14, 2025. 

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

According to this Order, all H Acid must meet the specifications outlined in Indian Standard IS 8637:2020 and bear the BIS Standard Mark (ISI Mark) to confirm compliance:
• Manufacturers must obtain a valid license from the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) to use the ISI Mark, certifying that their products adhere to the required quality standards.
• This requirement applies to H Acid produced for domestic consumption, while products specifically intended for export are exempt from this regulation. 

3. BIS as the Certification Authority

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is designated as the certification and enforcement authority under this Order. It is tasked with ensuring that only certified and compliant H Acid products, marked with the BIS Standard Mark, are available for the Indian market. 

     4. Penalties for Non-Compliance

Non-compliance with the H Acid (Quality Control) Order, 2024, will result in penalties as detailed in the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016. These enforcement measures are designed to ensure adherence to the required safety and quality standards, deterring any attempts to bypass regulatory obligations. 

This regulation is a critical step towards safeguarding public health and ensuring consistent quality for H Acid used in various applications. By implementing uniform standards, the Order benefits end-users while promoting high production standards within the chemical manufacturing industry in India.

BIS Certification for H Acid IS 8637: 2020