BIS certification is essential for water meters and their accessories to ensure quality, safety, and reliability. By obtaining BIS certification manufacturers can show ISI Mark on their products which acts as a mark of conformity to Indian standards, providing assurance to both manufacturers and customers.
QCO for Water Meters and Accessories
A Quality Control Order (QCO) was issued by the MINISTRY OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY (Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade) through the Bureau of Indian Standards (Govt. of India) on 5th March 2024. The purpose of this QCO is to make BIS Certification mandatory for Water Meters and Accessories.
The Quality Control Order (QCO) for water meters and accessories mandates that these products must comply with specific Indian standards. This guarantees the accuracy, dependability, and compliance with safety standards of all water meters used in the market. The QCO is an effort by the Indian government to improve the quality and performance of water meters.
The Implementation Date of QCO for Cookware and Utensils
- This Order may be called the Water Meters and accessories (Quality Control) Order, 2023
- It shall come into force on the expiry of six months from the date of publication of this notification in the Official Gazette
The implementation date of this QCO for Water Meters and Accessories is different on the basis of company scale. Manufacturers can check their company scale in the Udyam registration of the company.
- For large manufacturers or foreign manufacturers, this QCO shall come into force on the expiry of 6 months from the date of publication.
- For small and medium enterprises it shall come into force on the expiry of 9 months from the date of publication of this QCO.
- From micro-enterprises, it shall come into force on the expiry of 12 months from the date of publication of this QCO in the official gazette.
Download QCO for the Water Meter and Accessories.
Advantages of BIS Certification on Water Meter and Accessories
- Quality Assurance: If water meters and accessories are BIS certified, it ensures that these products meet the highest quality standards.
- Consumer Trust: BIS Certified products build trust and confidence among consumers, knowing that the products they are going to use are reliable and safe for them.
- Market Access: If your products are BIS certified it helps to open a wide range of markets, especially for government and large-scale contracts.
- Competitive Edge: Certified products stand out in the market, giving manufacturers a competitive advantage.
Products covered in QCO for Smart Meters and Accessories
| Goods or articles | Indian Standard | Title of Indian Standard |
| (1) | (2) | (3) |
| Water Meter and Accessories | IS 2373:1981 | Water meters (bulk type) |
| IS 779: 1994 | Water meters (domestic type) | |
| IS 2692: 1989 | Ferrules for water services |
Process for BIS Certification for Water Meters and Accessories
There are multiple steps in the BIS Certification process, including testing, review, and application submission. For Water Meters and Accessories, there are differences in the BIS Certification procedure between domestic and foreign producers or importers. This is a broad synopsis of the BIS procedure:
- Identification of Standards for the product being certified
- Preparation of Documents
- Submission of Application to the BIS portal
- Scrutiny of Documents
- Sample Testing in the BIS-approved laboratory
- Audit by BIS Officer on manufacturing location
- Grant of License
Visit here to learn more about the BIS Certification process for water meters and accessories.
Compulsory Use of Standard Mark
Once the product is certified, it is compulsory for manufacturers to use the ISI Mark on their water meters and accessories as per specified standards by the Bureau of Indian Standards. This mark signifies compliance with Indian standards and must be prominently displayed on the product and packaging. The use of this mark is regulated to prevent misuse and ensure that only certified products bear this symbol of quality.
After the implementation date of this QCO, any person (manufacturer or importer) who contravenes the provisions of this Order shall be punishable under the provision of the BIS Act, 2016.
Conclusion
BIS certification for water meters and accessories is crucial for maintaining high standards of quality and safety. The certification process, while thorough, ensures that only the best products reach the market, fostering consumer trust and enhancing market competitiveness. Adhering to the QCO and obtaining BIS certification not only meets regulatory requirements but also promotes excellence in manufacturing and product reliability. Manufacturers should prioritize BIS certification to ensure their products are recognized for their quality and compliance.
