OVERVIEW

1^st JANUARY 2023

The Laboratory Glassware (Quality Control) Order, 2023, issued by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, sets standards for the quality of laboratory glassware in India. This government order, effective from the 1st of January, 2024, aims to ensure that laboratory glassware meets specified standards for quality and safety. BIS QCO for the laboratory glassware (narrow-necked boiling flasks), mandates that goods or articles listed in the Table must adhere to the corresponding Indian Standard mentioned and display the Standard Mark. This mark, obtained through a license from the Bureau of Indian Standards, signifies compliance with quality standards outlined in Schedule-II of the Bureau of Indian Standards (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018. It is noteworthy that this order does not apply to goods manufactured domestically for export purposes.

For the effective implementation of BIS QCO for the laboratory glassware (narrow-necked boiling flasks), the Bureau of Indian Standards is designated as the certifying and enforcing authority. This implies that the Bureau will assess and ensure compliance with the specified standards for laboratory glassware.

The government has taken into account the concerns and needs of micro and small enterprises. The order provides specific timelines for compliance for these enterprises, recognizing their unique circumstances. Micro-enterprises, as defined in the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Act, 2006, have twelve months from the date of publication to comply. Similarly, small enterprises have a timeline of nine months. According to the BIS QCO for the laboratory glassware (narrow-necked boiling flasks), items classified as Laboratory Glassware must meet the standards outlined in Indian Standard 1381 (Part 1): 2003, specifically for Narrow-necked boiling flasks.

The penalties for contravening the provisions of this order are in accordance with the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016. Any individual found violating the stipulations may face legal consequences, emphasizing the government's commitment to maintaining high standards in the production and use of laboratory glassware.

(Narrow-necked boiling flasks are a type of laboratory glassware designed with a slender neck, commonly used for heating and boiling substances. They adhere to specific standards to ensure their quality and safety, such as the Indian Standard 1381 (Part 1): 2003.)                                        

TABLE

QCO - Quality Control Order