OVERVIEW

21^st JULY 2023

On July 21, 2023, the Central Government in New Delhi issued an important rule called "The Bolts, Nuts and Fasteners (Quality Control) Order, 2023." This rule is designed to ensure that bolts, nuts, and fasteners meet specific quality standards for the benefit of the public. The BIS QCO for the bolts, nuts and fasteners indicating bolts for use in public baths and lavatories (4621:1975) becomes effective six months from its publication date, with different timelines for compliance depending on the size of businesses. Small Enterprises need to comply within nine months, while Micro Enterprises have twelve months. One crucial aspect of this BIS QCO for the bolts, nuts and fasteners indicating bolts for use in public baths and lavatories (4621:1975) is the mandatory use of a Standard Mark on goods or articles. This Mark signifies that these items meet the quality standards set by the Indian government. To use this Mark, businesses need a license from the Bureau of Indian Standards, following a specific scheme.

There are some exceptions to this BIS QCO for the bolts, nuts and fasteners indicating bolts for use in public baths and lavatories (4621:1975). It doesn't apply to goods made in India specifically for export. Also, goods or parts imported for making finished products for export or used by small businesses meeting specific criteria are exempt. This is to support local businesses while ensuring overall product quality.

To enforce these standards, the Bureau of Indian Standards is designated as the certifying and enforcing authority. They will check and ensure that businesses are following the quality standards outlined in the rule. Overall, the government's order aims to improve the quality of bolts, nuts, and fasteners, taking into account the needs of different businesses.

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QCO - Quality Control Order