BIS QCO FOR THE COPPER PRODUCTS (COPPER RODS AND BARS FOR GENERAL ENGINEERING PURPOSES)

OVERVIEW

17^th OCTOBER 2023

The Indian government, particularly the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, has introduced a significant rule known as the "Copper Products (Quality Control) Order, 2023." This rule, set to become effective six months after being published in the Official Gazette, is made under the authority granted by the Bureau of Indian Standards Act IS 4171:1983, 2016.

The primary purpose of this order is to ensure that copper products, specifically copper rods and bars used for electrical purposes, meet certain quality standards. The order requires these products to bear a Standard Mark, indicating compliance with the relevant Indian Standards. This Mark is granted through a license from the Bureau of Indian Standards IS 4171:1983 (BIS) under Scheme-1 of Schedule-II of the Bureau of Indian Standards (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018.

It is important to note that this order named BIS QCO for the copper products (copper rods and bars for general engineering purposes) does not apply to goods produced within the country for export. There are also specific timelines for compliance, especially for micro and small enterprises, as defined in the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Act, 2006.

The Bureau of Indian Standards is designated as the authority responsible for certifying and enforcing compliance with this order. Violations of the provisions outlined in this order are subject to penalties under the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016. According to BIS QCO for the copper products (copper rods and bars for general engineering purposes) IS 4171:1983 this initiative aims to safeguard public interest by ensuring the quality and conformity of copper products in the market.                                                        

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QCO - Quality Control Order