Extension Order for Ethylene Dichloride, Polycarbonate, Vinyl Chloride Monomer, p-Xylene & Polyurethanes

Introduction to the QCO for Specified Products

The Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers regulates critical bulk chemicals as well as polymers through Quality Control Orders (QCOs) that were issued under the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016. These QCOs aim to ensure consistent quality, safety, as well as utmost standardization of industrial chemicals that serve as key raw materials for plastics, petrochemicals, construction, automotive, and even in the manufacturing sectors.

Ethylene Dichloride, Polycarbonate, Vinyl Chloride Monomer, p-Xylene, and Polyurethanes are covered under mandatory BIS certification due to their extensive industrial use and potential safety implications. However, in order to provide additional time for industry compliance, the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers has issued amendment orders extending the enforcement timelines of the respective QCOs.

Key Changes You Need to Know

For this recent notification, the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers has issued the following Quality Control Amendment Orders, 2024, through the Gazette Notification dated 06 March 2024:

1. Ethylene Dichloride (Quality Control) Amendment Order, 2024
2. Polycarbonate (Quality Control) Amendment Order, 2024
3. Vinyl Chloride Monomer (Quality Control) Amendment Order, 2024
4. p-Xylene (Quality Control) Amendment Order, 2024
5. Polyurethanes (Quality Control) Amendment Order, 2024

Key highlights of the extension Order

• Revised enforcement dates for the notified chemical products have been notified, and businesses have to conform to the same.
• Mandatory compliance with the applicable Indian Standards remains unchanged and is necessary to ensure legal compliance in the Indian market.
• BIS certification is mandated to be obtained under Scheme-I of Schedule II of the BIS (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018.
• The Bureau of Indian Standards continues as the certifying and enforcing authority for this Order.
• Penalties for non-compliance will apply under the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016, to anyone who contravenes this Order. 

What is the Date of Implementation?

The revised enforcement dates of implementation for these QCOs are as follows:

1. Ethylene Dichloride: 12 September 2024
2. Polycarbonate: 12 September 2024
3. Vinyl Chloride Monomer: 12 September 2024
4. p-Xylene: 19 September 2024
5. Polyurethanes: 19 September 2024

Now, What to Do?

Entities that deal in the notified chemicals should analyze their certification timelines again in line with the revised enforcement dates and prioritise product testing as well as BIS factory readiness. Early engagement with BIS requirements will help prevent operational disruptions closer to the deadline, and will also keep businesses market-ready in case certain different amendments come into place by the BIS.

With over 10 years of experience in BIS compliance, Brand Liaison provides expert consultancy, technical assistance, testing coordination, as well as complete factory audit support, helping businesses to easily navigate documentation and certification requirements in an efficient manner, while ensuring full regulatory alignment with the Indian market.