BIS Certification Guidelines for Weaving Machines (Looms)

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Guidelines for Metal Cutting Machines

On 10 October 2025, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) released the Machine Category Specific Guidelines (MCSG) for all types of weaving machines (looms), as per the Machinery and Electrical Equipment Safety (Omnibus Technical Regulations) Order, 2024. These guidelines are issued under Scheme-X of the BIS Conformity Assessment Regulations, 2018, and are designed to ensure that weaving machines meet the requisite safety and quality standards before entering the Indian market.

The document provides a comprehensive framework for manufacturers seeking BIS certification, detailing the necessary procedures for obtaining a Certificate of Conformity (CoC) or a BIS Licence. It also outlines the specific requirements for technical documentation, factory audits, sample testing, and labelling, ensuring transparency and consistency in the certification process.

Manufacturers are encouraged to familiarize themselves with these guidelines to ensure compliance and facilitate a smooth certification process. For detailed information, the full document is available here: .

Scope & Applicability

The BIS Machine Category Specific Guidelines for Weaving Machines (Looms, October 2025) provide clarity on which machines require certification, exemptions, and applicability for manufacturers and importers under Scheme-X of the Machinery and Electrical Equipment Safety (Omnibus Technical Regulations) Order, 2024 (OTR 2024).

All types of weaving machines listed in Sl. No. 8 of the Third Schedule of OTR 2024, including:
- Shuttle weaving machines
- Rapier, Gripper, and Water-jet weaving machines
- Face-to-face weaving machines
- Needle Type Narrow Fabric weaving machines
- Jacquard machines
Certification applies to both individual machines and their specific models, including series or family of models when grouped under a lead model.
Compliance with Type A, B, and C Indian Standards is mandatory depending on the machine type.

Also Read: BIS Scheme X Certification for Weaving Machines Looms

Applicability to Domestic Manufacturers vs Importers

Category	Requirements & Responsibilities
Domestic Manufacturers	- Must obtain a BIS Licence for continuous production or a Certificate of Conformity (CoC) for machines not manufactured continuously. - Required to submit a Technical File detailing design, safety measures, and risk assessments. - Must ensure factory audits and sample testing are completed according to BIS guidelines.
Importers	- Must ensure all imported weaving machines are BIS-certified before entering the Indian market. - Responsible for verifying the CoC and maintaining compliance documentation. - Non-compliance may lead to penalties or rejection at customs.

Key Highlights of the Guidelines

Key Area	Highlights
Scope of Application	Applies to all types of weaving machines listed in Sl. No. 8 of the Third Schedule of the Machinery and Electrical Equipment Safety (OTR 2024).
Certification Types	- BIS Licence: For continuous production. - Certificate of Conformity (CoC): For machines not intended for continuous production, limited to specific batch or serial numbers.
Technical Documentation	Manufacturers must submit a comprehensive technical file, including compliance reports, design details, and risk assessments.
Factory Audits & Sample Testing	BIS conducts on-site factory audits and sample testing to verify safety, operational performance, and compliance.
Labelling & Marking	Machines must bear appropriate labels and markings indicating BIS compliance and traceability.
Exemptions	Certain machines may be exempt, such as prototypes, research-use machines, or those not intended for commercial production.
Applicability to Manufacturers & Importers	Both domestic manufacturers and importers must obtain BIS certification for weaving machines before sale or use in India.

Average Certification Timelines

Desk Review: 1 - 2 weeks, depending on completeness of submitted technical documentation.
Factory Audit & Sample Testing: 3 - 6 weeks, subject to scheduling and availability of accredited labs.
Overall Certification: Typically ranges from 4 - 8 weeks for CoC and 6 - 10 weeks for a full BIS Licence for continuous production.
Delays may occur if additional testing, corrective actions, or scope changes are required.

Benefits of Outsourcing Certification Support

Working with a trusted third-party like Absolute Veritas offers several advantages:

Time-Saving: Focus on core manufacturing operations while we handle the certification process.
Reduced Errors: Minimize mistakes in technical files and applications, increasing the likelihood of approval.
Faster Approval: Streamlined documentation and pre-audit checks lead to quicker certification from BIS.

For any queries, you can contact us at cs@absoluteveritas.com or reach out to us by phone at +917303215033 for personalized assistance.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

What types of weaving machines require BIS certification?

All types of weaving machines specified in Sl. No. 8 of the Third Schedule of the "Machinery and Electrical Equipment Safety (Omnibus Technical Regulations) Order, 2024" require BIS certification. This includes various types of looms and their assemblies, sub-assemblies, and components.

What are the labelling and marking requirements for certified machines?

Certified weaving machines must display the BIS Standard Mark, along with serial or batch numbers and manufacturer details for traceability. The labelling ensures that all certified machines can be easily identified and tracked, providing transparency for both regulators and consumers while confirming compliance with Indian safety standards.

Are there any exemptions from BIS certification?

Certain machines, such as prototypes or those not intended for commercial production, may be exempt from certification. However, exemptions are limited, and manufacturers should verify eligibility before assuming non-compliance is allowed.

How can a manufacturer apply for BIS certification?

Manufacturers can apply for certification through the BIS online portal by submitting the necessary documents and fees as per the guidelines. Detailed instructions are available on the BIS website.