Extension Granted for Revision of IS 3224:2002 to IS 3224:2021 for Valve Fittings for Compressed Gas Cylinders (Excluding LPG)

Introduction to the BIS Notification on IS 3224 Valve Fittings

The earlier QCO stated that IS 3224:2002, under the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), for valve fittings for compressed gas cylinders was mandatory; it was revised as IS 3224:2021 with implementation initially set for 22 Dec 2022, later extended, and the 2024 circular now extends compliance to 22 Dec 2024.

This announcement is an extension of the period during which the old and revised standards can be implemented concurrently to give the stakeholders more time to switch to the latest version.

Products Covered Under This Notification

The notification concerns valve fittings intended to be attached to compressed gas cylinders, other than LPG cylinders. The manufacturers and license holders of these products will have to conform their operations and product specifications to the new standard IS 3224: 2021 within the given period.

Key Provisions of the IS 3224 Implementation Extension

The IS 3224 Implementation Extension has the following key provisions:

• IS 3224: 2002 is revised and substituted with IS 3224: 2021.
• The earlier deadline for mandatory compliance has already been extended twice.
• Based on representations received from manufacturers, BIS has now granted a further extension for implementation.
• The revised standard IS 3224: 2021 must be fully implemented by 22 December 2024.
• All other implementation conditions issued earlier shall remain unchanged.

Mandatory BIS Certification Requirements

All the products that come within this notification should be certified by BIS. It is expected that the products meet the most recent version of the relevant Indian Standard, i.e., IS 3224: 2021.

• Certification must be obtained under Scheme-I of BIS.
• Only BIS-licensed products are permitted for sale in the domestic market.
• Products manufactured exclusively for export are not covered under this requirement.
• BIS will act as the certifying and enforcement authority.
• Any violation will attract penalties under the BIS Act, 2016.

What Does This Notification Mean to Businesses?

Through this extension, manufacturers and applicants have more time to upgrade their products, processes, and documentation according to the IS 3224: 2021. But the revised deadline makes the compliance mandatory. There has to be consistency in ensuring that the Indian market receives the correct product testing, factory inspection, and licensing of the valve fittings supplied by the businesses. It is also advisable that when buyers can only purchase BIS-certified products to be safe and within the confines of the regulations.

Effects of the Extension at the Industry Level

• Helps the process of moving to the revised standard.
• Enhances the quality of the products and the safety of the operations.
• Minimizes the availability of non-conforming fittings of valves.
• Increases consumer confidence and industrial confidence.
• Promotes standardisation of quality amongst manufacturers.

What is the Date of Implementation?

The implementation deadline of the IS 3224: 2021 is 22 December 2024. Each manufacturer, licensee, and applicant has to be fully compliant with the revised standard by this date. No further relaxation has been indicated beyond this timeline.

Now, What to Do?

The long deadline has been established, and therefore, companies handling valve fittings of compressed gas cylinders must be very keen to adhere to it. 

This includes:

• BIS licenses Application or renewal.
• Adapting the manufacturing practice in line with the IS 3224: 2021 requirements.
• Performing required testing and records of compliance.
• Importers should ensure that the foreign manufacturers are well-certified in BIS.

Brand Liaison also offers end-to-end support of BIS certification, such as application management, testing management, regulatory assistance, and compliance management. We are experts who will make businesses meet BIS requirements effectively and in a manner that they will be ready in the market.

Get in touch with the Brand Liaison to ensure timely compliance with IS 3224: 2021 and avoid regulatory risks.