BIS Quality Control Order for Switch-socket-outlets (non-interlock type)

On January 1, 2024, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, through the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), introduced the Electrical Accessories (Quality Control) Order, 2023. This order enforces stringent quality standards for specific electrical accessories, particularly Switch-socket-outlets (non-interlock type), aiming to improve product safety, performance, and compliance with Indian standards.

If you are involved in manufacturing, importing, or selling Switch-socket-outlets (non-interlock type), this regulation will directly impact your business. Issued after consultation with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), the order was established in the public interest under the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016.

Key Provisions of the Electrical Accessories (Quality Control) Order, 2023

1. Title and Implementation Timeline

Officially named the Electrical Accessories (Quality Control) Order, 2023, the regulation will come into effect as follows:

• Medium and Large Enterprises: Compliance is mandatory six months after publication in the Official Gazette, beginning July 1, 2024.

• Small Enterprises: Compliance is required nine months after publication, starting October 1, 2024.

• Micro Enterprises: Compliance becomes mandatory twelve months after publication, beginning January 1, 2025.

2. Mandatory BIS Certification

The core requirement of this order is that all specified Insulating Mats for Electrical Purposes bear the BIS Standard Mark (ISI Mark). Products must comply with Indian Standard IS 15652:2006 and carry the ISI certification.

• Manufacturers must obtain a BIS license to use the ISI Mark, ensuring their products meet essential quality and safety standards.

• This certification requirement applies solely to products for the domestic market; items manufactured exclusively for export are exempt from this order.

3. BIS as the Certifying Authority

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is designated as the sole certifying and enforcement authority for this order. BIS is responsible for ensuring that only certified electrical accessories meeting Indian standards are available in the market, thereby protecting consumers and upholding industry integrity.

4. Penalties for Non-Compliance

Non-compliance with the Electrical Accessories (Quality Control) Order, 2023 carries significant consequences. Any entity or individual found violating the provisions of this order will face penalties as outlined in the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016. This regulatory measure reflects the government’s commitment to upholding product standards and ensuring all electrical accessories meet essential quality benchmarks.

This order is a decisive step toward enhancing the quality standards of electrical accessories, focusing on safety, reliability, and compliance within the Indian market. It underscores consumer protection and industry accountability, in alignment with the government’s vision of elevating product standards across essential household electrical installations.

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): 1st July 2024

- Date of implementation for Small Enterprises: 1st October 2024.

- Date of implementation for Micro Enterprises: 1st January 2025.

Also Read

BIS Certification for Switch-socket-outlets (non-interlock type) IS 15787: 2008