Does Air Filters for General Ventilation Need BIS Certificate in India?

Air filters for general ventilation systems play a critical role in maintaining indoor air quality and ensuring the health and comfort of occupants. These filters serve as the first line of defense against airborne contaminants, including dust, pollen, mould spores, and other particulate matter, which can adversely affect respiratory health and overall well-being.

General ventilation systems are integral to various settings, including residential buildings, commercial establishments, healthcare facilities, and industrial environments, where they facilitate the circulation of fresh air while removing pollutants and odours. Within these systems, air filters act as essential components, trapping harmful particles and preventing them from circulating back into the indoor environment.

The effectiveness of air filters is determined by their technical specifications and classification system, which are based on criteria such as particulate matter efficiency (ePM). Air filters for general ventilation are subject to specific technical standards and requirements outlined in IS 17570 (Part 1):2021 ISO 16890-2:2016 established by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).

These standards provide guidelines for the performance and efficiency of air filters and establish a classification system based on particulate matter efficiency, enabling users to make informed decisions regarding filter selection and application. However, recent developments in the regulatory process have sparked discussions regarding the necessity of BIS Certification for these air filters in India.

What is Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) Certification?

The Bureau of Indian Standards is the national standards body of India, operating under the aegis of the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food, and Public Distribution. Established in 1986, BIS is responsible for the formulation and implementation of standards across various sectors to ensure the quality, safety, and reliability of products and services.

One of the hallmark programs introduced by BIS is the Indian Standard Institute (ISI) Certification scheme. ISI certification, also known as the ISI mark, is a conformity assessment scheme that signifies compliance with Indian standards set by BIS.

Products bearing the ISI mark undergo rigorous testing and evaluation to ensure that they meet the specified quality and safety requirements. The ISI mark serves as a hallmark of quality and reliability, instilling confidence in consumers regarding the performance and safety of certified products.

It covers a wide range of products, including consumer goods, industrial equipment, electrical appliances, and construction materials, among others. Through the ISI certification scheme, BIS plays a pivotal role in safeguarding consumer interests and promoting quality consciousness in the Indian market.

Is BIS Certificate Mandatory for Air Filters?

Yes, the Bureau of Indian Standards has recently mandated BIS certification for air filters used in general ventilation systems under IS 17570 (Part 1):2021 ISO 16890-2:2016 to be legally sold in India. The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India, has released a draft Quality Control Order as "Air filters (Quality Control) Order, 2023."

This draft proposes to make it obligatory for all air filters intended for general ventilation in India, regardless of whether they are domestically manufactured or imported from abroad, to undergo compulsory BIS certification. These filters would need to display the ISI Mark of the Bureau of Indian Standards, affirming their compliance with prescribed quality standards, and must be accompanied by a valid BIS license.

• The mandate ensures that air filters meet prescribed quality and performance criteria, ensuring their effectiveness in removing contaminants from indoor air.
• It promotes compliance with established standards and specifications, mitigating potential risks associated with substandard or counterfeit products.
• BIS certificate instils trust and confidence in consumers regarding the reliability and efficacy of certified air filters, facilitating informed purchasing decisions.
• The mandate contributes to the overall improvement of indoor air quality standards in India, addressing a critical aspect of public health and well-being.
• Compliance with BIS certification requirements is essential for manufacturers and suppliers to legally market and sell air filters for general ventilation systems in the Indian market.

What are the Benefits of BIS Certificate for Air Filters?

Obtaining a BIS certificate for air filters offers several benefits, ensuring quality, performance, and reliability for both manufacturers and consumers, such as:

• BIS certificate guarantees that air filters meet stringent quality standards, ensuring that they effectively remove contaminants from indoor air and contribute to maintaining healthy indoor environments.
• This certificate demonstrates adherence to regulatory requirements, allowing manufacturers to legally market and sell air filters in India while mitigating potential legal or regulatory issues.
• BIS-certified air filters instil trust and confidence in consumers regarding their performance and reliability. The certification serves as a hallmark of quality, facilitating informed purchasing decisions and promoting consumer satisfaction.
• Certified air filters gain a competitive edge in the market, as they are perceived as superior products offering enhanced performance and reliability. This competitive advantage enables manufacturers to attract discerning customers and strengthen their market presence.

Role of IS 17570 (Part 1):2021 ISO 16890-2:2016 for Air Filters

The IS 17570(Part 1):2021 ISO 16890-2:2016 plays a pivotal role for air filters in several ways, such as:

• The Indian Standard IS 17570(Part 1):2021 establishes an efficiency classification system for air filters used in general ventilation systems based on particulate matter (PM) efficiency.
• It outlines the test procedures and specifies general requirements for assessing and marking air filters, as well as documenting the test results.
• The standard applies to airflow rates ranging from 0.25 m3/s (900 m3/h, 530 ft3/min) to 1.5 m3/s (5 400 m3/h, 3 178 ft3/min), with reference to a test rig featuring a nominal face area of 610 mm × 610 mm (24 inches × 24 inches).
• Portable room-air cleaners' filter elements are excluded from the scope of this standard.
• Air filter elements must be constructed from materials capable of withstanding typical usage conditions, including exposure to temperatures, humidity, and corrosive environments.
• They should also be designed to withstand mechanical stresses encountered during normal use.
• The filter elements undergo testing at their nominal air flow rates, as specified by the manufacturer.
• The resistance to airflow (pressure differential) across the filter element is measured at the test air flow rate.
• The standard mandates the measurement of the initial fractional efficiency curve, Ei, of the unloaded and unconditioned filter element concerning particle size at the test air flow rate.

How can Manufacturers Apply for BIS Certification?

Manufacturers seeking BIS certificate for their products, including air filters for general ventilation, can follow these steps to initiate the certification process:

Step 1: Manufacturers should familiarize themselves with the relevant BIS standards applicable to their product category.

Step 2: Manufacturers can apply for BIS certification and fill out the application form accurately through the BIS online portal.

Step 3: Along with the application form, manufacturers are required to submit supporting documents.

Step 4: BIS may require samples of the product for testing to verify compliance with the relevant standards.

Step 5: BIS conducts inspections of manufacturing facilities to assess compliance with quality management systems and production processes.

Step 6: Manufacturers are required to pay the applicable fees for BIS certification, which vary depending on the product category and the scope of certification.

Step 7: Upon successful completion of testing, documentation review, and factory inspection, BIS will issue the BIS certificate if the product meets all requirements.

What Documents are Required to Get BIS License for Air Filters?

To obtain a BIS license for air filters, manufacturers need to submit several documents, including:

• A duly filled application form obtained from the BIS online portal or the nearest BIS office.
• Detailed specifications of the air filters, including technical parameters, dimensions, materials used, and intended applications.
• Test reports from BIS recognized laboratories, demonstrating compliance with relevant Indian standards such as IS 17570 (Part 1):2021.
• Information about the manufacturing process, including quality control measures, production facilities, and equipment used.
• Certification of compliance with quality management systems such as ISO 9001, demonstrating the manufacturer's commitment to quality assurance and control.
• Test reports for samples of the air filters, confirming compliance with prescribed standards and specifications.
• A report documenting the inspection of manufacturing facilities by BIS officials, verifying compliance with quality management systems and production processes.
• A declaration stating that the air filters meet all relevant Indian standards and specifications.
• If applicable, a letter of authorization from the manufacturer authorizing a representative to act on their behalf during the certification process.
• Proof of payment of the applicable fees for BIS certification.

Conclusion

The requirement for BIS certification for air filters used in general ventilation systems under IS 17570 (Part 1):2021 ISO 16890-2:2016 in India underscores the importance of ensuring product quality, performance, and safety. As the Bureau of Indian Standards mandates certification for these products, manufacturers must navigate the certification process efficiently to access the Indian market.

At Brand Liaison, we understand the complexities involved in obtaining BIS certification and offer comprehensive assistance and support to manufacturers. Our expertise and streamlined processes enable manufacturers to navigate the certification process seamlessly, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and facilitating market access.

By partnering with Brand Liaison, manufacturers can expedite the certification process, minimize delays, and accelerate their products' entry into the Indian market. With our assistance, manufacturers can confidently navigate the regulatory landscape, secure BIS certification for their air filters, and contribute to promoting healthier indoor environments across India.

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