The Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, through its Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals, issued the Phthalic Anhydride (Quality Control) Order, 2020. This regulation is designed to uphold rigorous quality standards for Phthalic Anhydride, ensuring product consistency and safety. The initial compliance deadline was extended from February 5, 2021, to June 22, 2023, following several amendments. 

Businesses involved in the manufacturing, sale, or import of Phthalic Anhydride will be significantly impacted by this order. Created in consultation with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), the regulation aligns with the BIS Act, 2016, emphasizing consumer safety and quality assurance. 

Key Provisions of the Phthalic Anhydride (Quality Control) Order, 2020

1. Title, Application, and Timeline

This regulation is formally titled the Phthalic Anhydride (Quality Control) Order, 2020, and includes the following specifics:

• The order was initially set to come into effect 180 days after its publication in the Official Gazette.
• Due to several amendments, the implementation date was extended to June 22, 2023.
• This regulation applies to all Phthalic Anhydride goods or articles, except those intended exclusively for export. 

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

Under this order, Phthalic Anhydride must adhere to Indian Standard IS 5158:1987 and carry the BIS Standard Mark (ISI Mark) to confirm compliance:

• Manufacturers must secure a valid license from the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) under Scheme-I of Schedule-II of the BIS (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018, to certify that their products meet the designated standards.
• This requirement applies to Phthalic Anhydride intended for the domestic market, while products manufactured specifically for export are exempt if they meet the importing country’s requirements. 

3. Certification and Enforcement Authority

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is the authorized certifying and enforcement body under this order, responsible for verifying that Phthalic Anhydride products comply with the set standards. The BIS will enforce the quality guidelines, ensuring only compliant goods are accessible in the domestic market. 

4. Penalties for Non-Compliance

Any violation of the Phthalic Anhydride (Quality Control) Order, 2020 will result in penalties as specified under the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016. These penalties are intended to ensure adherence to quality standards, prioritizing consumer safety and regulatory compliance. 

This regulation is a crucial step to ensure the quality and reliability of Phthalic Anhydride utilized in various industries across India. By implementing stringent quality standards, the order not only benefits consumers but also fosters a culture of high-quality production among manufacturers.

BIS Certification for Phthalic Anhydride, Technical– IS 5158: 1987