In a recent move to ensure high-quality standards and consumer safety, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry has issued a Quality Control Order for Air Coolers and Air Filters. Announced on March 5, 2024, this order mandates strict adherence to specified Indian Standards for these products, which will significantly impact manufacturers, suppliers, and consumers.

Key Highlights of the Order:

1. Official Title and Commencement: The order is officially named the Air Cooler and Air Filters (Quality Control) Order, 2023. It is set to come into effect six months from the date of its publication in the Official Gazette.

2. Conformity to Standards: All Evaporative Air Coolers (Desert Coolers) must comply with Indian Standard IS 3315:2019. These products must also bear the Standard Mark (ISI Mark) under a license from the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), as outlined in Scheme-1 of Schedule-II to the BIS (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018.

3. Exceptions:

• Products manufactured for export are exempt from this order.
• Micro enterprises, as defined in the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Act, 2006, have a grace period of twelve months from the publication date.
• Small enterprises, defined similarly, have a nine-month exemption.
• Enterprises registered under the 'Udyam portal' of the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, with specific investment and turnover limits, are also exempted.

4. Certification and Enforcement: The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) will act as the certifying and enforcing authority to ensure compliance with this order.

5. Penalties: Any violation of the provisions of this order will result in penalties as per the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016.

Why This Matters:

This Quality Control Order aims to enhance the reliability and quality of air coolers and air filters available in the market, ensuring that consumers receive safe and efficient products. Manufacturers and suppliers are encouraged to comply with these new regulations to avoid legal repercussions and contribute to maintaining high standards in the industry.

Stay informed and make sure your products align with these new quality standards to support consumer safety and trust. For more information and assistance on compliance, you can refer to the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) guidelines.

Implementation Dates:  Date of implementation for General (other than Micro and Small Enterprises): 5th September 2024

- Date of implementation for Small Enterprises: 5th December 2024.

BIS Certification for Evaporative Air Coolers (Desert Coolers) IS 3315: 2019