BIS Quality Control Amendment Order 2024 for Nickel

Introduction to the BIS QCO for Nickel

The Ministry of Mines had earlier notified the Nickel (Quality Control) Order, 2023 under the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016, in order to regulate the quality of nickel products manufactured or sold in India. The 2023 Order mandated that notified nickel products conform to the relevant Indian Standards and bear the Standard Mark (ISI Mark) under a valid BIS licence issued as per Scheme-1 of Schedule-II of the BIS (Conformity Assessment) Regulations.

The earlier order was applicable to specified nickel goods, while exempting products meant exclusively for export. However, in order to revise the enforcement timeline and provide clarity on the effective date, the Central Government has now issued the Nickel (Quality Control) Amendment Order, 2024.

Key Changes You Need to Know

Through Gazette Notification dated 03 May 2024, the Nickel (Quality Control) Amendment Order, 2024, introduces the following key updates:

• The amendment revises the commencement date of the Nickel (Quality Control) Order, 2023.
• Nickel products must comply with the applicable Indian Standards in the Indian market.
• Mandatory use of the ISI Mark under a BIS licence issued as per Scheme-1 is mandatory for businesses in the Indian market.
• The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) remains the certifying and enforcing authority to ensure compliance for businesses dealing with nickel in the economy.
• Any violation of the Order will attract penalties under the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016.

What is the Date of Implementation?

As per the amended provision, the Nickel (Quality Control) Order shall now come into force with effect from 01 December 2024.

Manufacturers and importers dealing in notified nickel products must ensure full compliance with BIS certification and marking requirements on or before this date in order to avoid any hassles or penalties.

Now, What to Do?

Stakeholders should immediately review their product portfolio, identify applicable Indian Standards, and initiate the testing as well as BIS certification process well in advance of the deadline. Early preparation is all the more essential in order to manage timelines related to product testing, documentation, as well as complete factory audits.

With 10+ years of experience in BIS certification and Quality Control Orders, Brand Liaison provides expert consultancy, simplified documentation, technical assistance, testing support, and assistance for preparation and factory audits. Backed by in-depth industry knowledge as well as regulatory expertise, Brand Liaison offers complete end-to-end guidance in order to help businesses achieve smooth as well as timely compliance with the Nickel QCO requirements.