Introduction

To foster a robust quality ecosystem benefiting both industry and consumers, developing standards is crucial. As India's National Standard Body, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) plays a key role in the harmonized development of standardization, marking, and quality certification of goods. BIS is authorized to conduct conformity assessments for goods, articles, services, systems, and processes in line with the relevant schemes specified in the BIS (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018.

BIS operates a conformity assessment scheme that issues certificates of conformity for goods and articles, ensuring they meet Indian standards. These schemes instill confidence in consumers regarding the quality, safety, and reliability of products while promoting consumer protection. BIS certification is mandatory for all products that fall under compulsory BIS certification.

Let’s explore the BIS Certificate of Conformity further.

Certificate of Conformity (Scheme IV)

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has initiated the issuance of Certificates of Conformity under Scheme IV of Schedule II of the BIS (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018. A Certificate of Conformity (CoC) can be issued for goods and articles (products) manufactured in compliance with the specifications outlined in the relevant Indian Standards.

For manufacturers of products covered by a CoC, obtaining a Certificate of Conformity from BIS is essential. Each product under mandatory CoC must display the CoC Number and be manufactured using materials that carry the BIS Standard Mark (ISI Mark). To ensure national security, public interest, and the prevention of unfair trade practices, the government has mandated compliance with Indian Standards for various products through Quality Control Orders.

Certificate of Conformity (CoC) Process

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) awards the Certificate of Conformity (CoC) only after a thorough evaluation of the manufacturer’s production infrastructure, processes, quality control, and testing capabilities through an on-site assessment of their manufacturing facilities. To obtain a CoC for a product, manufacturers must identify the specific requirements outlined in the relevant standard, part of the standard, or essential requirements applicable to the product. BIS may grant conformity to goods or articles produced at a facility that meets the specified standards and requirements.

Process to Obtain a BIS Certificate of Conformity

Here are the steps to acquire a BIS Certificate of Conformity (CoC):

1. Documentation: The applicant must gather and compile all necessary information and documents in accordance with BIS requirements before filling out the application.

2. Filing the Application: The applicant must complete the Application Form through the BIS portal to initiate the CoC process.

3. Submission of Required Documents: The applicant should submit the application form along with all required documents and applicable fees. This includes a compliance Test Report issued by an accredited third-party testing laboratory for the product sample.

4. Application Review: Once the application is submitted, BIS will review all provided documents and information.

5. Factory Audit: Following a complete application, a factory audit will be conducted to assess the manufacturing and testing infrastructure, production processes, and quality control measures.

6. Grant of Certificate of Conformity (CoC): The CoC will be granted based on satisfactory compliance, following a successful factory inspection report and the finalization of the Inspection and Testing Plan.

After receiving the CoC, manufacturers must comply with the terms and conditions outlined in the certificate, as well as the agreed Inspection and Testing Plan. BIS will also conduct ongoing market and factory surveillance activities post-issuance of the CoC.

Validity of Certificate of Conformity

The Certificate of Conformity is issued for a minimum period of one year and can extend up to two years. It is eligible for renewal for a duration of one year to a maximum of five years. To ensure a smooth renewal process, applicants must submit their renewal application to the Bureau at least three months before the existing Certificate of Conformity expires.

Conclusion

Manufacturers of products covered under the Certificate of Conformity (CoC) must obtain a valid CoC from BIS before selling their products. It is essential for manufacturers to ensure that all materials used are ISI Marked and sourced under a valid BIS license. The Bureau grants BIS certification, enabling manufacturers to display the standard ISI mark on their compliant products. The presence of the BIS Standard Mark signifies that a product meets the relevant Indian Standard Specifications. Non-compliance with the provisions of the Quality Control Order (QCO) may result in penalties under the BIS Act, 2016.

If you require BIS Registration services, please contact Absolute Veritas. As a leading BIS Registration Consultant, Absolute Veritas assists manufacturers and importers in obtaining timely BIS registration for their products by offering valuable insights and assistance throughout the BIS Registration Process.

For any questions regarding the most recent update on BIS registration licenses, please reach out to us via email at cs@absoluteveritas.com