BIS Certification for Furniture

When it comes to furniture, quality is everything. Whether it’s a sturdy table or a comfortable couch, ensuring durability, safety, and reliability is crucial. This is where BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) Certification plays a vital role. BIS Certification assures consumers that the furniture they purchase meets specific quality and safety standards set by the Government of India.

The Government of India, through the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade - DPIIT), has introduced a Quality Control Order (QCO) for Furniture, making BIS Certification mandatory for certain categories of furniture. Let’s explore the significance, process, and benefits of BIS Certification for furniture.

What is BIS Certification?

BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) Certification is an official mark of quality and safety provided by the Government of India. This certification is mandatory for various products to ensure their compliance with Indian Standards (IS).

For the furniture industry, BIS Certification ensures that all manufactured products meet the required safety, durability, and performance standards, thus enhancing consumer trust and eliminating substandard products from the market.

Quality Control Order (QCO) for Furniture

A Quality Control Order (QCO) is a regulatory measure implemented by the Government of India to enforce quality and safety standards across various industries.

The Furniture (Quality Control) Order, 2025, published by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (DPIIT), mandates that certain categories of furniture must comply with BIS standards and obtain a BIS license before manufacturing and selling in India.

Objective of QCO for Furniture:

●  To ensure standardized quality and safety for furniture products.

●  To restrict substandard and unsafe products from entering the market.

●  To promote consumer safety and confidence.

●To ensure internationally recognized quality standards for Indian furniture manufacturers.

Furniture Products Covered Under QCO

The Furniture (Quality Control) Order, 2025 covers a wide range of furniture products that require mandatory BIS Certification. Below is a list of products covered under the QCO:

Furniture Type	Indian Standard (IS Code)	Description
Work Chairs	IS 17631:2022	Office and workstation chairs
General-Purpose Chairs & Stools	IS 17632:2022	Common household and commercial chairs & stools
Tables & Desks	IS 17633:2022	Study tables, office desks, dining tables
Storage Units	IS 17634:2022	Wardrobes, cabinets, and shelves
Beds	IS 17635:2022	Household and commercial beds
Bunk Beds	IS 17636:2022	Bunk beds for homes, hostels, etc.

Advantages of BIS Certification for Furniture

1. Consumer Trust & Safety: BIS Certification ensures that furniture is free from defects and meets safety standards. Reduces risks of accidents caused by poor-quality furniture.

2. Compliance with Legal Requirements: The BIS Act, 2016 makes it mandatory for certain furniture products to have BIS Certification. Manufacturers failing to comply face penalties and restrictions.

3. Market Expansion: BIS Certification enhances a company’s reputation and allows them to compete in global markets. Certified products gain preference in government and institutional purchases.

4. Elimination of Substandard Products: Ensures that only high-quality products are available in the market. Protects consumers from fraudulent and low-quality furniture.

5. Boosts Indian Manufacturing: Helps Indian manufacturers meet international quality benchmarks. Encourages domestic and export opportunities.

Process for Obtaining BIS Certification for Furniture

Obtaining a BIS Certification for furniture involves several steps. The process ensures that the product meets the prescribed Indian Standards and is tested for quality, safety, and durability.

Step-by-Step Process for BIS Certification:

1. Identification of Relevant Standards: Identify the Indian Standard (IS Code) applicable to the furniture product.
2. Preparation of Documents: Essential documents such as factory details, test reports, product specifications, and business registration.
3. Submission of Application: Apply online through the BIS portal with all required documents.
4. Scrutiny of Documents: BIS officials verify the documents and eligibility of the application.
5. Sample Testing: The furniture product is tested in a BIS-approved laboratory for compliance with standards.
6. Manufacturing Site Audit: A BIS officer inspects the manufacturing facility to ensure proper quality control.
7. Grant of BIS License: If the product meets all requirements, BIS issues the certification license.

Mandatory Use of ISI Mark on Furniture

Once a BIS license is granted, manufacturers must affix the ISI (Indian Standards Institute) mark on their certified products. This standard mark serves as a symbol of quality assurance and compliance with Indian Standards.

After the implementation of the QCO, manufacturing and selling furniture without BIS Certification will be illegal. Any manufacturer or importer who violates this order will face penalties under the BIS Act, 2016.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Manufacturers or importers failing to comply with the Furniture (Quality Control) Order, 2025 may face legal actions, including:

●  Heavy fines

●  Product recall orders

●  Business restrictions

●  Seizure of non-compliant furniture

Thus, obtaining BIS Certification is crucial for all manufacturers and importers dealing with furniture in India.

Conclusion

BIS Certification for furniture is a crucial step in ensuring product reliability, safety, and compliance with Indian standards. By adhering to BIS guidelines, manufacturers can enhance their market reputation, expand globally, and gain customer trust.

For hassle-free certification, manufacturers can consult professional BIS certification experts like EVTL India to streamline the process.

Ensuring that your furniture is BIS-certified not only guarantees superior quality but also builds consumer confidence, making it a win-win situation for both manufacturers and buyers.

FAQs About BIS Certification for Furniture

1. Is BIS Certification mandatory for all furniture?

Yes, for specific furniture categories listed in the Furniture (Quality Control) Order, 2025, BIS Certification is mandatory.

2. How long does it take to get BIS Certification for furniture?

The process typically takes 4-6 weeks, depending on testing, inspection, and document verification.

3. Can imported furniture be sold in India without BIS Certification?

No, imported furniture falling under the QCO category must obtain BIS Certification before sale in India.

4. What is the validity period of a BIS license for furniture?

A BIS license is typically valid for one year and can be renewed annually.

5. What happens if a manufacturer does not comply with the QCO?

Non-compliance can result in penalties, fines, and a ban on manufacturing or selling non-certified furniture.

6. Where can manufacturers apply for BIS Certification?

Manufacturers can apply through the official BIS portal or seek assistance from BIS certification consultants like EVTL India.