The Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, through its Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals, issued the Methanol (Quality Control) Order, 2019. This regulation establishes strict quality standards for Methanol, ensuring product safety and quality. Several amendments have been made, extending the compliance deadline to August 3, 2025. 

If your business is involved in the manufacturing, sale, or import of Methanol, this regulation will significantly impact your operations. Developed in consultation with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), the order is in line with the BIS Act, 2016, reinforcing consumer safety and quality assurance. 

Key Provisions of the Methanol (Quality Control) Order, 2019

1. Title and Implementation Timeline

This regulation is formally titled the Methanol (Quality Control) Order, 2019, with the following implementation schedule:

• The order was initially set to be effective 181 days after its publication in the Official Gazette, on February 5, 2020.
• Due to several amendments, the implementation date has been extended to August 3, 2025. 

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

Under this order, Methanol must comply with Indian Standard IS 517:1986 and must carry the BIS Standard Mark (ISI Mark) to confirm compliance:

• Manufacturers are required to acquire a valid license from the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) under Scheme-I of Schedule-II of the BIS (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018, verifying that their products meet the designated standards.
• This requirement pertains to Methanol intended for domestic use. Products produced exclusively for export are exempt if they adhere to the importing country’s specifications. 

3. BIS as the Certifying and Enforcement Authority

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is the primary certifying and enforcement authority under this order, ensuring that Methanol products in the domestic market meet the specified standards. Additionally, the District Industries Centre in the Department of Industries of the State Government will function as an enforcement body to ensure adherence. 

4. Penalties for Non-Compliance

Non-compliance with the Methanol (Quality Control) Order, 2019 will attract penalties as outlined in the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016. These penalties aim to enforce adherence to quality standards, prioritizing consumer safety and regulatory compliance. 

This regulation is a significant move to guarantee the safety and consistency of Methanol used in various industries throughout India. By maintaining standardized requirements, the order enhances consumer trust and encourages manufacturers to uphold superior quality in production.

BIS Certification for Methanol– IS 517