Safety Regulations for Machinery and Electrical Equipment

On August 28, 2024, the Ministry of Heavy Industries issued a significant regulation concerning the safety of machinery and electrical equipment in India. This new regulation, titled the Machinery and Electrical Equipment Safety (Omnibus Technical Regulation) Order, 2024, will take effect one year after its publication in the Official Gazette. Below is a comprehensive overview of its implications for manufacturers, stakeholders, and consumers.

Key Highlights of the Order

1. Scope and Applicability: The Order applies to a wide range of machines and electrical equipment specified in the First Schedule, but it excludes items already regulated under other orders established by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).

2. Definitions: The Order provides essential definitions related to safety standards, risk assessments, and conformity regulations, ensuring clarity and uniform understanding among all stakeholders.

3. Conformity to Standards: All listed machinery and electrical equipment must adhere to Indian Standards outlined in the Schedules:

   • Type A Standards: General safety principles for design and risk reduction, as outlined in IS 16819:2018/ISO 12100:2010.

   • Type B Standards: Generic safety standards addressing specific safety aspects applicable across various types of machinery.

   • Type C Standards: Detailed safety requirements for specific machines or groups.

    

4. Certification Requirements: All specified machinery and electrical equipment must display a standard mark issued by BIS or a certificate of conformity. Manufacturers are required to register with BIS before certification.

5. Enforcement Authority: The Bureau of Indian Standards will act as the certifying and enforcement authority, overseeing compliance and certification processes.

6. Market Surveillance: Regular market surveillance will be conducted according to guidelines from BIS to ensure ongoing compliance with safety standards.

7. Penalties: Non-compliance with this Order will result in penalties as stipulated under the Bureau of Indian Standards Act.

8. Amendments and Revisions: Any amendments to Indian Standards will automatically be applicable to this Order upon notification by the Bureau.

9. Exemptions: The Order does not apply to goods manufactured domestically for export or construction equipment regulated under the CMVR Rule 1989.

10. Exemptions: The Order does not apply to goods manufactured domestically for export or construction equipment regulated under the CMVR Rule 1989.

First Schedule: Machinery and Electrical Equipment Covered

The Order outlines a variety of equipment, including:

• Pumps, Compressors, and Machinery for Material Treatment

• Machinery for Construction, Earthmoving, and Mining

• Electrical Machines, Transformers, and Switchgear

A comprehensive list of machinery along with their corresponding HS codes is provided, ensuring clarity on the affected products.

Second and Third Schedules: Safety Standards

The Second Schedule specifies Type B Standards, focusing on generic safety aspects applicable across multiple machinery types. The Third Schedule will outline Type C Standards, focusing on specific safety requirements for particular machines or groups of machinery.

Key Highlights of the Notification

• Pumps: All types of pumps for handling liquids are classified under HS codes 841340, 841350, 841360, 841370, 841381, 841382, 841391, and 841392.

• Compressors: Covering all types of compressors, relevant HS codes include 841430, 841440, 841480, and more. Adherence to IS 17093:2019 and IS 12258:1987 is mandatory.

• Centrifuges and Filtering Machinery: All machinery for filtering or purifying liquids and gases falls under HS codes 842111 to 842199.

• Cranes: This category includes various cranes with HS codes from 842611 to 84269990. Compliance with IS 3177:2020 and IS 4573:2020 is mandated.

• Construction Machinery: Various construction machines are classified under HS codes starting from 8429 to 843149, with safety standards outlined in IS 17055 (Parts 7, 8, and 12): 2020.

• Textile Machinery: Weaving machines and embroidery machinery are covered under HS codes 8446 and 84479020, respectively, with safety requirements specified in IS 17361.

• Machine Tools: All types of metal cutting machines are categorized under HS codes 8456 to 846691, adhering to IS 17277 and related standards.

• Transformers and Generators: A wide range of transformers and diesel generators is specified under HS codes 8502 and 8503, complying with IS/IEC standards. Power Semiconductor Converters: All types of power semiconductor converters fall under HS code 850440, with requirements outlined in IS 16539-1-1.

Importance of Compliance

Adhering to these specifications is vital for ensuring safety, quality, and operational efficiency within the industry. The Ministry of Heavy Industries will continue to update this schedule to keep it current and relevant.

For more detailed information on specifications and requirements, stakeholders are advised to consult the Indian Standards referenced in the notification.

Stay tuned for further updates and ensure your operations align with these essential guidelines!