Ensuring Quality Footwear: A Comprehensive Guide to BIS Certification
The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) recently implemented a new regulation in India that mandates BIS certification for all footwear manufacturers. Under this regulation, it is now mandatory for footwear produced in India to conform to the relevant Indian Standard and display the Standard Mark, also known as the ISI Mark. Manufacturers must obtain a license from the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) to affix the mark on their footwear products. Non-compliance with this requirement carries significant consequences, including the possibility of facing criminal charges, imprisonment, and substantial fines.
Types of Footwear That Require BIS
Certification
The DPIIT has issued three Quality Control
Orders (QCOs) pertaining to footwear made from different materials, as well as
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) footwear. These orders are as follows:
·
Quality Control Order, 2020 for
Footwear Made from all-Rubber and all Polymeric material and its components:
This order establishes quality control measures for footwear manufactured using
rubber or polymeric materials. It applies to both the footwear itself and its
components.
·
Quality Control Order, 2020 for Footwear
Made from Leather and other materials: This order sets quality control
standards for footwear made from leather as well as other materials. It
encompasses a range of materials beyond rubber or polymeric substances.
·
Quality Control Order, 2020 for Personal
Protective Equipment – Footwear: This order specifically focuses on Personal
Protective Equipment (PPE) footwear. It outlines quality control requirements
and standards for footwear intended for protective purposes.
These QCOs aim to ensure that footwear
products made from various materials, including rubber/polymeric material,
leather, and other materials, meet specified quality standards and comply with
relevant regulations.
How to Obtain BIS Certification for Footwear
The process of obtaining BIS certification for footwear encompasses several
stages outlined below:
1.
Determine the applicable Indian
Standard: Identify the specific Indian Standard that is relevant to the type of
footwear you intend to certify. The BIS website or relevant BIS publications
can provide guidance on the applicable standards.
2.
Prepare necessary documents: Gather all the
required documents, including factory registration documents, manufacturing
process details, product specifications, test reports, and other relevant information.
Ensure that the footwear meets the requirements specified in the applicable
Indian Standard.
3.
Submit application: Fill out the
application form for BIS certification, providing accurate information about
the footwear and the manufacturing facility along with the supporting documents.
4.
Factory inspection: BIS may conduct an
inspection of the manufacturing facility to verify compliance with the
prescribed quality standards. The inspection may involve assessing the
production process, quality control measures, and infrastructure.
5.
Sample testing: BIS may collect
samples of the footwear for testing in accredited laboratories. The samples
will undergo various tests to assess their compliance with the applicable
Indian Standard.
6.
Grant of certification: If the footwear
successfully meets all the requirements of the Indian Standard, BIS will issue
the BIS certification. The certification signifies that the footwear meets the
specified quality and safety standards.
7.
Annual surveillance: After obtaining the
BIS certification, regular surveillance audits and sample testing may be
conducted by BIS to ensure ongoing compliance with the relevant standards.
It's important to note that the specific details and requirements may
vary based on the type of footwear and the applicable Indian Standard.
Therefore, it is advisable to consult the BIS consultant for the most accurate
information and assistance regarding the certification process for footwear.
Conclusion:
BIS certification plays a vital role in the footwear industry by
ensuring quality, safety, and compliance. It benefits manufacturers by
establishing credibility, enhancing production processes, and instilling
consumer confidence through assurance of product quality and safety. Complying
with BIS standards empowers footwear manufacturers and the industry as a whole
to enhance their reputation and actively contribute to the overall growth and
development of the Indian market.
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