On November 21, 2023, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, through consultation with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), introduced the Legal Metrology- Material Measures of Length (Quality Control) Order, 2023. This regulation is designed to ensure that all material measures of length, including woven metallic and glass fibre tape measures, meet rigorous quality standards, enhancing accuracy, reliability, and compliance with Indian standards. 

Businesses involved in the manufacturing, importing, or selling of these material measures of length are directly affected by this regulation. Implemented under the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016, the government aims to promote consumer protection and maintain measurement accuracy. 

Key Provisions of the Legal Metrology- Material Measures of Length (Quality Control) Order, 2023 

1. Title and Implementation Timeline 

 Officially titled the Legal Metrology- Material Measures of Length (Quality Control) Order, 2023, this regulation will become effective six months after its publication in the Official Gazette. The following compliance timelines apply: 

   • Medium and Large Enterprises must comply by May 21, 2024. 

   • Small Enterprises are required to comply by August 21, 2024. 

   • Micro Enterprises have until November 21, 2024 to adhere to the standards.  

2. Mandatory BIS Certification 

Under this order, all material measures of length, specifically woven metallic and glass fibre tape measures, must conform to Indian Standard IS 1269 (Part 1):1997 and carry the BIS Standard Mark (ISI Mark). 

• Manufacturers must obtain a BIS license to display the ISI Mark, ensuring that their products meet the quality and measurement standards mandated by the government. 

• This requirement applies only to products manufactured for domestic use; items produced exclusively for export are exempt.  

3. BIS as the Certifying Authority 

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is the designated certifying and enforcement authority for this regulation. BIS is responsible for ensuring that all products available in the Indian market meet the specified standards and bear the BIS Standard Mark, thus guaranteeing compliance and accuracy. 

4. Penalties for Non-Compliance 

Failure to comply with the Legal Metrology- Material Measures of Length (Quality Control) Order, 2023 will result in penalties under the provisions of the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016. These measures emphasize the government's commitment to enforcing quality and accuracy in measuring instruments. 

This order represents a significant step towards ensuring precise and reliable measuring tools in the Indian market, in alignment with the government’s objective to uphold quality standards and consumer trust. 

Prepare your business for these regulatory changes and ensure compliance to maintain adherence to industry standards! 

Implementation Dates: Date of implementation for Medium & Large Enterprises: 21st May 2024

- Date of implementation for Small Enterprises: 21st August 2024.

BIS Certification for Woven Metallic and Glass Fibre Tape Measures, IS 1269 (Part 1): 1997