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Dated: 12.03.2025
Mandatory BIS Standards on Bolts, Nuts, and Fasteners
Introduction
The Bolts, Nuts, and Fasteners (Quality Control) Order, 2024, issued by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, marks a significant step toward standardizing the quality of bolts, nuts, and fasteners in the domestic market. Implemented under the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) Act, 2016, this order ensures that all such products meet mandatory quality norms and obtain BIS certification before being manufactured, imported, or sold in India.
Key Features of the Quality Control Order (QCO)
1. Mandatory BIS Certification
To enhance product quality and ensure safety, the Bolts, Nuts, and Fasteners (QCO) 2024 mandates:
- All bolts, nuts, and fasteners listed in the order must conform to relevant Indian Standards (IS).
- Manufacturers must obtain a BIS license to use the Standard Mark under Scheme-I of Schedule-II of the BIS Conformity Assessment Regulations, 2018.
2. Effective Date of Implementation
DPIIT Notified the QCO dtd 12th July 2024. The compliance timeline is:
- General Manufacturers: Within 6 months from the publication date.
- Small Enterprises: Within 9 months from the publication date.
- Micro Enterprises: Within 12 months from the publication date.
3. Exemptions from Compliance
Certain categories are exempt from the QCO to support trade and industry operations:
- Export-oriented products: Goods manufactured solely for export are not required to comply with BIS standards.
- Imported components: Bolts, nuts, and fasteners imported as part of finished goods, sub-assemblies, or components are exempt.
- Raw material imports for exporters: Domestic manufacturers importing such products for use in export production are exempt.
- Micro and small enterprises: Enterprises registered under the Udyam Portal, with investment below ₹25 lakh and turnover below ₹2 crore, are exempt.
- R&D Allowance for OEMs: Up to 200 kg per year can be imported by OEMs for research and development purposes. These products cannot be sold commercially and must be disposed of as scrap.
Certification and Compliance Requirements
1. Role of the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS)
The BIS will be responsible for:
- Certifying and enforcing compliance for all relevant products.
- Conducting quality inspections and audits to ensure adherence to Indian Standards.
- Issuing penalties and legal actions in case of violations.
2. Penalties for Non-Compliance
Non-compliance with the provisions of this order will attract penal actions under the BIS Act, 2016, including:
- Legal action against manufacturers/importers violating the standards.
- Seizure of non-compliant products from the market.
- Import and sales restrictions for uncertified bolts, nuts, and fasteners.
List of Covered Bolts, Nuts, and Fasteners
The QCO covers a wide range of bolts, nuts, and fasteners, each assigned an Indian Standard (IS). Below are some key types:
| Sl. No. | Product Name | Indian Standard (IS) |
| 1 | Hexagon Head Bolts (Grade C) | IS 1363 (Part 1): 2019 |
| 2 | Hexagon Head Screws (Grade C) | IS 1363 (Part 2): 2018 |
| 3 | Hexagon Nuts (Grade C) | IS 1363 (Part 3): 2018 |
| 4 | Hexagon Head Bolts (Grades A & B) | IS 1364 (Part 1): 2018 |
| 5 | Hexagon Head Screws (Grades A & B) | IS 1364 (Part 2): 2018 |
| 6 | Indicating Bolts for Public Facilities | IS 4621:1975 |
| 7 | Flush Bolts | IS 5187:1972 |
| 8 | Step Bolts for Steel Structures | IS 10238:2001 |
| 9 | Hexagon Head Transmission Tower Bolts | IS 12427:2001 |
| 10 | High Strength Structural Bolts | IS 3757:1985 |
| 11 | Tower Bolts (Non-Ferrous) | IS 204 (Part 2): 1992 |
| 12 | Tower Bolts (Ferrous) | IS 204 (Part 1): 1991 |
| 13 | Stainless Steel Sliding Door Bolts | IS 15834:2020 |
| 14 | Non-Ferrous Metal Sliding Door Bolts | IS 2681:1993 |
| 15 | Mild Steel Sliding Door Bolts | IS 281:2009 |
| 16 | Sliding Locking Bolts | IS 7534:1985 |
| 17 | Wrought Aluminium Alloy Bolts & Screws | IS 1284:1975 |
| 18 | Stainless Steel Tower Bolts | IS 15833:2009 |
| 19 | High Strength Structural Nuts | IS 6623:2004 |
Impact of the QCO on the Industry
1. Enhanced Quality Assurance
Mandatory BIS certification ensures that only high-quality bolts, nuts, and fasteners are available in the Indian market, reducing the risks associated with substandard products.
2. Regulation of Imports
With strict quality norms in place, low-quality imports will be restricted, benefiting domestic manufacturers and ensuring fair competition.
3. Growth Opportunities for Indian Manufacturers
Adherence to BIS standards will enhance the reputation of Indian fastener manufacturers, improving their competitiveness in both domestic and international markets.
4. Compliance Challenges
- Initial certification costs may impact smaller enterprises.
- Transition period challenges for businesses needing to upgrade manufacturing processes to meet the new standards.
Conclusion
The Bolts, Nuts, and Fasteners (Quality Control) Order, 2024 is a landmark initiative to regulate quality, ensure safety, and protect consumers from inferior products. While it poses compliance challenges for manufacturers, the long-term benefits of quality enhancement, industry growth, and reduced substandard imports far outweigh the short-term hurdles.
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