Introduction: In a recent development, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) conducted a raid for the second time in three months on a factory in Navi Mumbai involved in the manufacturing and sale of illegal ‘safety glass’ without BIS authorization. The authorities raided Future Safety Glass Industries in Rabale suburb, uncovering a blatant violation of BIS regulations. The case underscores the significance of BIS certification in ensuring the safety and quality of glass products.
Repeat Offense: During the raid, the BIS officials discovered that Future Safety Glass Industries was once again engaged in the production and distribution of toughened glass, a type of safety glass commonly used in architectural and building applications. However, the company was doing so without the necessary BIS certification, flouting the requirements set forth by the Safety Glass Order 2022.
BIS Certification: A Mandatory Requirement: Under the Safety Glass Order 2022, all safety glass products must possess BIS certification in accordance with IS 2553. This certification ensures that the glass meets the necessary safety standards. The absence of a valid BIS standard mark with a license number on the glass found during the raid confirmed the violation of existing laws by the company.
Consequences and Legal Action: The seized quantity of non-BIS certified toughened glass clearly indicates a persistent violation of the BIS Act provisions. Such violations can attract severe penalties, including a potential two-year jail term and/or a fine of Rs 2 lakh, or both, according to Sanjay Vij, the BIS Head Mumbai-II and scientist.
Taking Action: The BIS has now brought the matter before the court, emphasizing the seriousness of the offense. In the meantime, the BIS is appealing to the public to remain vigilant and verify the official list of BIS-certified products. By using only certified products, consumers can ensure their safety and contribute to the eradication of unlawful practices in the market. The BIS also encourages individuals to report any violations they come across, assisting in the effort to maintain quality standards and protect consumers.
Upholding Safety and Quality Standards: The repeated discovery of illegal safety glass manufacturing highlights the importance of adhering to BIS regulations and obtaining the necessary certifications. BIS certification is crucial not only for ensuring the safety of end-users but also for maintaining the reputation of Indian industries in the global market. It is essential for manufacturers and sellers to prioritize compliance and uphold the highest safety and quality standards mandated by the BIS.
Conclusion: The recent raids on Future Safety Glass Industries serve as a stark reminder of the significance of BIS certification for safety glass products. The manufacturing and sale of non-certified safety glass not only violates existing laws but also poses potential risks to consumers. By cracking down on such illegal practices, the BIS aims to protect consumers, promote transparency, and maintain the integrity of the Indian market. It is imperative for all stakeholders to cooperate in upholding safety and quality standards and report any violations to ensure a safer and more reliable marketplace.