Overview of the BIS QCO

The Ministry of Steel has officially issued the Steel and Steel Products (Quality Control) Order, 2024, under the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) Act, 2016.

This new Order replaces the earlier QCO of 2020 and has come into effect from 5th February 2024, the date it was published in the Official Gazette. Any work already initiated under the old Order will continue to remain valid.

Key Requirements

This QCO specifically applies to Steel used for the manufacture of Volute and Helical Springs for Railway Rolling Stock, as per Indian Standard IS 3195:1992.

From the implementation date, every product covered under this category must:

• Comply with Indian Standard IS 3195:1992

• Carry the Standard Mark (ISI Mark) under a valid BIS license as per Scheme–I of Schedule–II of the BIS (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018

• Be accompanied by a Test Certificate issued by a BIS-certified manufacturer

Products manufactured solely for export are exempted from this requirement, provided they meet the specifications demanded by foreign buyers.

Implementation and Compliance

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has been designated as the certifying and enforcement authority to ensure compliance with this Order.

Any manufacturer, importer, or seller found non-compliant with this Order will face penalties under Section 29 of the BIS Act, 2016.

Additionally, any amendment or revision to the Indian Standard (IS 3195:1992) by BIS will automatically apply to this Order from the date of publication of such revision.