Ensuring Safety Through Standards: Protective Textiles (Quality Control) Order, 2022 and the Role of Omega QMS Pvt. Ltd. in BIS Certification
Introduction
India’s regulatory landscape is rapidly evolving to enforce quality and safety across critical industries. One notable step in this direction is the issuance of the Protective Textiles (Quality Control) Order, 2022 by the Ministry of Textiles, under the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) Act, 2016. This order mandates BIS certification for several categories of protective textiles to ensure public safety and uniform product quality.
As compliance becomes a legal necessity, the role of specialized consultancy firms such as Omega QMS Pvt. Ltd. has become vital in helping manufacturers navigate the BIS certification process with ease and accuracy.
Overview of the Protective Textiles (Quality Control) Order, 2022
Issued on April 10, 2023, and effective from October 7, 2023, the Protective Textiles QCO mandates BIS certification for a range of safety-critical textile products. These items must:
- Conform to the relevant Indian Standards (IS)
- Bear the BIS Standard Mark
- Be licensed under Scheme-I of Schedule-IIof the BIS (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018
List of Covered Items and Corresponding Indian Standards
| Sl. No. | Product Description | Indian Standard (IS) | Standard Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Curtains and Drapes | IS 15741:2007 | Textiles – Resistance to Ignition of Curtains and Drapes – Specification |
| 2 | Upholstered Composites for Non-Domestic Furniture | IS 15768:2008 | Textiles – Resistance to Ignition of Upholstered Composites for Non-Domestic Furniture – Specification |
| 3 | Protective Clothing for Firefighters | IS 16890:2018 | Textiles – Protective Clothing for Firefighters – Specification |
| 4 | Protective Gloves for Firefighters | IS 16874:2018 | Textiles – Protective Gloves for Firefighters – Specification |
| 5 | Protective Clothing for Industrial Workers Exposed to Heat | IS 15748:2022 | Textiles – Protective Clothing for Industrial Workers Exposed to Heat (excluding firefighters and welders) |
| 6 | Clothing from Limited Flame Spread Materials for Protection Against Heat and Flame | IS 15742:2007 | Textiles – Requirements for Clothing from Limited Flame Spread Materials – Specification |
| 7 | High-Visibility Warning Clothing | IS 15809:2017 | High Visibility Warning Clothes – Specification (First Revision) |
| 8 | Protective Clothing for Welding and Allied Processes | IS 16655:2017 | Textiles – Protective Clothing for Use in Welding and Allied Processes |
| 9 | Tactical 3-Point Sling | IS 16725:2018 | Textiles – Tactical 3-Point Sling Universal – Specification |
| 10 | Pouches for Ammunition and Grenades (Nylon-66) | IS 16726:2018 | Textiles – Pouch for Ammunition and Grenades Made of Disruptive Pattern Nylon 66 – Specification |
| 11 | Bullet Resistant Jackets | IS 17051:2018 | Textiles – Bullet Resistant Jackets – Performance Requirements |
| 12 | Water-proof Multipurpose Rain Poncho | IS 17286:2019 | Textiles – Water-proof Multipurpose Rain Poncho with Convertibility as Bivouac – Specification |
Note: The latest versions of the above standards, as amended and published by BIS from time to time, will be applicable from their date of publication.
Role of Omega QMS Pvt. Ltd. in Facilitating BIS Certification
With BIS certification being compulsory under the QCO, manufacturers often face challenges related to technical understanding, documentation, and process execution. This is where Omega QMS Pvt. Ltd. plays an indispensable role as a trusted BIS certification consultancy partner.
- End-to-End BIS Certification Management
Omega QMS offers a comprehensive service package to streamline the entire certification lifecycle. This includes:
- Preparing application documents
- Liaising with BIS authorities
- Managing testing processes and factory audits
- Ensuring timely certification
- Interpretation of Technical Standards
For many textile manufacturers, especially MSMEs, understanding and complying with IS specifications is challenging. Omega QMS:
- Interprets applicable standards
- Advises on product and process modifications
- Helps implement necessary quality management systems
- Coordination with Testing Laboratories
Most BIS certifications require testing from BIS-recognized labs. Omega QMS:
- Selects suitable testing laboratories
- Coordinates sample submission
- Ensures test results meet the specified IS standards
- Audit Preparation and Compliance Assurance
The BIS process includes a factory audit, where adherence to quality norms is evaluated. Omega QMS:
- Conducts pre-audit assessments
- Rectifies compliance gaps
- Prepares teams for successful audit outcomes
- Speed and Efficiency
Time is critical—especially with mandatory orders like the Protective Textiles QCO. Omega QMS:
- Minimizes delays in document handling and communication
- Accelerates test report generation and application approval
- Helps clients meet strict regulatory timelines
- Post-Certification Services
BIS licenses require regular renewal and audits. Omega QMS provides:
- Assistance in license renewals
- Adding new product categories
- Regular compliance checks
- Support for Foreign and Export-Oriented Units
Omega QMS also assists foreign manufacturers under the FMCS (Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme) and supports Indian exporters in aligning with both BIS and global standards.
Conclusion
The Protective Textiles (Quality Control) Order, 2022 is a strong regulatory initiative aimed at reinforcing safety and quality benchmarks in the Indian textile industry. However, navigating the technical, procedural, and statutory requirements can be overwhelming. With its deep expertise and hands-on support model, Omega QMS Pvt. Ltd. plays a crucial role in helping manufacturers achieve BIS certification with efficiency and confidence.
For any enterprise engaged in the manufacture or supply of protective textiles, Omega QMS is an essential ally in meeting compliance requirements and enhancing product credibility in both domestic and global
OMEGA QMS PVT. LTD.
908-909, Hemkunt House, Rajendra Place, New Delhi-110008, India
Email:info@globalomega.com, Phone:011-41413939(100 lines)
sales@globalomega.com, mktg@globalomega.com
