Introduction:
Quality Control Orders (QCOs) play a pivotal role in ensuring that products meet specific quality standards. In India, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is responsible for enforcing these orders, which are essential for safeguarding public health, the environment, and national security. This blog delves into frequently asked questions regarding QCOs for footwear products, shedding light on their significance and implications.
Q1: What is a Quality Control Order (QCO)?
Answer: A Quality Control Order is a directive issued by the Central Government of India under the authority granted by the BIS Act, 2016. These orders make it mandatory to adhere to specific Indian Standards for certain products, including footwear. The objective is to ensure public interest, protect health, safety, and the environment, prevent unfair trade practices, and bolster national security. Once a QCO is in effect, products covered by it must bear the Standard Mark, such as the ISI Mark, to certify their compliance.
Q2: Which Footwear Products are Covered by QCOs?
Answer: The Government of India, specifically the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), has issued three QCOs related to footwear products. These orders bring a total of 27 products under compulsory BIS certification. These QCOs came into effect on the following dates:
- Personal Protective Equipment – Footwear (QCO 03) – Implemented on January 1, 2022.
- Leather and Other Materials Footwear (QCO 11) – Implemented on July 1, 2023.
- All-Rubber and All-Polymeric Material Footwear (QCO 13) – Implemented on July 1, 2023.
For detailed lists of products and applicable Indian Standards, refer to the DPIIT website.
Q3: How Can I Access Indian Standards for Footwear Products?
Answer: Indian Standards for footwear products can be accessed through the BIS website at www.bis.gov.in under the “Standards” tab. By registering on the Standards BIS portal, you can download Indian Standards for free. However, international (ISO) standards adopted by BIS may require payment for download.
Q4: Do Micro and Small Scale Enterprises Have to Follow the Scheme of Inspection and Testing (SIT)?
Answer: For certain consumer footwear and footwear components, Micro and Small Scale Units are exempted from specific Scheme of Inspection and Testing (SIT) requirements. These exemptions relate to laboratory requirements, test records maintenance, and certain testing levels. However, all units, regardless of size, must ensure compliance with Indian Standards, including packing and marking requirements and the handling of rejections. Refer to the product manuals and BIS circulars for detailed information.
Q5: Is There a Grace Period for Compliance with Revised Standards?
Answer: Yes, for some recently revised standards, manufacturers producing goods in accordance with these specifications will be given an additional six months to comply. This extension applies to both domestic and foreign manufacturers and will be in effect until December 31, 2023. The updated standards include IS 15844:2010 (Sports Footwear), IS 10702:1992 (Rubber Hawai Chappal), IS 11544:1986 (Rubber Slipper), IS 6721:2023 (Sandal and Slipper), and IS 6721:1972 (PVC Sandal).
Q6: Does BIS Certification Apply to All Units of a Company?
Answer: BIS certification is granted to manufacturing premises, not to an entire company. Each manufacturing unit must obtain a separate BIS license for products falling under the scope of BIS certification.
Q7: Do I Need Separate Licenses for Different Footwear Products from the Same Unit?
Answer: BIS grants separate licenses for each product category based on applicable Indian Standards. If you manufacture multiple types of footwear products covered under different Indian Standards, you must obtain separate licenses for each. However, different varieties of the same product under the same Indian Standard can be covered under a single license. Detailed information can be found in the product manuals on the BIS website.
Q8: Do QCOs Apply to Footwear Components and Materials?
Answer: Yes, among the 27 products covered by the QCOs, certain footwear components and materials are also included. These components are subject to the same certification requirements as the finished footwear products. Refer to the relevant QCOs and product manuals for details.
Q9: Do Buyers, Importers, Retailers, Wholesalers, or Distributors Need BIS Certification?
Answer: No, BIS certification is only required for manufacturing units. However, it is the responsibility of buyers, importers, retailers, wholesalers, and distributors to ensure that the products they deal with are from manufacturing units holding valid BIS licenses.
Q10: Can Foreign Manufacturers Obtain BIS Certification?
Answer: Yes, foreign manufacturers can obtain BIS certification under the “Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS).” Details and application procedures for foreign manufacturers can be found on the BIS website under Conformity Assessment>FMCS.
Conclusion:
Understanding Quality Control Orders for footwear products in India is crucial for manufacturers, importers, and consumers alike. These orders ensure that footwear products meet specified quality standards, promoting safety and consumer confidence. Compliance with BIS standards and QCOs is essential to access the Indian market and deliver safe, high-quality products to consumers. For the most current information and detailed guidelines, it is recommended to refer to official documents and resources provided by the Bureau of Indian Standards.