On December 8, 2023, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, through the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), issued the Hinges (Quality Control) Order, 2023. However, on July 26, 2024, the DPIIT released an updated version—the Hinges (Quality Control) Order, 2024—which supersedes the previous order and modifies its implementation schedule. This regulation mandates that Continuous (Piano) Hinges meet specific quality standards, aimed at enhancing product durability, safety, and adherence to Indian Standards. 

If you are involved in the manufacturing, importing, or selling of Continuous (Piano) Hinges, this order directly affects your business. Issued in consultation with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), this regulation is enacted in the public interest under the BIS Act, 2016. 

Key Provisions of the Hinges (Quality Control) Order, 2024 

1. Title and Implementation Timeline 

Officially titled the Hinges (Quality Control) Order, 2024, the revised order will come into effect as follows: 

·       For medium and large-scale industries, compliance is required starting January 1, 2025.

·       Small enterprises have a compliance window, making the order mandatory from April 1, 2025.

·       Micro enterprises have the longest grace period, with the order becoming effective July 1, 2025. 

2. Mandatory BIS Certification 

The core requirement of this order is the mandatory use of the BIS Standard Mark (ISI Mark) on Continuous (Piano) Hinges. All such hinges must comply with Indian Standard IS 3818:1992 to ensure quality and safety compliance. 

·   Manufacturers must obtain a BIS license to affix the ISI Mark, certifying that their products conform to the BIS quality standards.

·   This requirement applies exclusively to Continuous (Piano) Hinges manufactured for the domestic market, while products made solely for export purposes are exempt from this regulation. 

3. BIS as the Certifying Authority 

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has been appointed as the official certifying and enforcement body for this order. BIS will be responsible for ensuring compliance, so only BIS-certified Continuous (Piano) Hinges with the Standard Mark are manufactured, imported, or sold in India.

4. Penalties for Non-Compliance 

Non-compliance with the Hinges (Quality Control) Order, 2024, will result in penalties as specified under the BIS Act, 2016. This enforcement mechanism aims to deter non-compliance and safeguard product quality in the marketplace. 

This order represents a significant step in enhancing the quality and safety of Continuous (Piano) Hinges available to Indian consumers. By mandating adherence to Indian Standards, this regulation promotes consumer protection and industry responsibility. 

Stay compliant and prepare your business for these important regulatory changes to continue operating within the guidelines of the industry!

Implementation Dates: Date of implementation for General (Medium & Large-Scale Enterprises): 1st January 2025

- Date of implementation for Small Enterprises: 1st April 2025.

BIS Certification for Continuous (Piano) Hinges IS 3818: 1992