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BIS Scheme X Certification for Metal Cutting Machine Tools (HS Codes 8456–8461)

The Indian manufacturing sector is undergoing a significant transformation, emphasizing safety, quality, and standardization. A pivotal development in this journey is the mandatory BIS Scheme X Certification for all types of metal cutting machine tools and their assemblies, sub-assemblies, and components falling under HS Codes 8456 to 8461. This move, initiated by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and enforced through the Machinery and Electrical Equipment Safety (Omnibus Technical Regulation) Order, 2024, aims to align India's industrial machinery standards with global benchmarks.

Scheme X Certification is a specialized conformity assessment framework introduced by BIS on March 16, 2022, under the BIS Conformity Assessment Regulations, 2018. It focuses on ensuring that machinery and electrical equipment meet stringent safety, quality, and performance standards. The certification process involves rigorous testing, factory inspections, and compliance with relevant Indian Standards.

Scope of Certification: HS Codes 8456 to 8461

The certification encompasses a wide range of metal cutting machine tools, including:

● HS Code 8456: Machine tools for working any material by removal of material, by laser or other light or photon beam, ultrasonic, electro-discharge, electro-chemical, electron beam, ionic-beam, or plasma arc processes.

● HS Code 8457: Machining centers, unit construction machines (single station), and multi-station transfer machines for working metal.

● HS Code 8458: Lathes (including turning centers) for removing metal.

●HS Code 8459: Machine tools (including way-type unit head machines) for drilling, boring, milling, threading, or tapping by removing metal.

● HS Code 8460: Machine tools for deburring, sharpening, grinding, honing, lapping, polishing, or otherwise finishing metal or cermets.

● HS Code 8461: Machine tools for planing, shaping, slotting, broaching, gear cutting, gear grinding, or gear finishing.

Additionally, the certification covers their assemblies, sub-assemblies, and components, ensuring comprehensive compliance across the manufacturing spectrum.

Regulatory Framework: Omnibus Technical Regulation Order, 2024

The Ministry of Heavy Industries issued the Omnibus Technical Regulation (OTR) Order, 2024, mandating BIS certification for specified machinery categories. Key highlights include:

● Implementation Date: The order was notified on August 28, 2024, and will come into effect on August 28, 2025, providing a one-year window for compliance.

Objective: To enhance the safety, reliability, and quality of machinery and electrical equipment manufactured or imported into India.

● Applicability: Covers all manufacturers—domestic and foreign—producing or importing machinery under the specified HS Codes.

Importance of BIS Certification for Metal Cutting Machine Tools

Safety Assurance: Ensures that machines meet safety standards, reducing risks associated with operation.

Quality Enhancement: Promotes consistency in manufacturing, leading to better product quality.

Market Access: Mandatory certification is essential for legal sale and distribution within India.

Global Competitiveness: Aligns Indian manufacturing with international standards, facilitating exports.

Consumer Confidence: Certified products are perceived as more reliable, enhancing brand reputation.

BIS Scheme X Certification Process

The process for obtaining BIS Scheme X Certification involves several steps:

Application Submission: Manufacturers submit detailed applications, including product specifications and technical documents.

Product Testing: Samples are tested in BIS-recognized laboratories to verify compliance with relevant standards.

Factory Inspection: BIS officials conduct on-site inspections to assess manufacturing processes and quality control systems.

Grant of License: Upon successful evaluation, BIS grants the certification, allowing the use of the BIS Standard Mark.

Surveillance: Periodic audits ensure ongoing compliance with certification requirements.

Conclusion

The mandatory BIS Scheme X Certification for metal cutting machine tools under HS Codes 8456 to 8461 marks a significant step towards standardizing machinery safety and quality in India. Manufacturers must proactively engage with the certification process to ensure compliance, enhance product reliability, and maintain competitiveness in both domestic and international markets.