In an effort to improve the safety, fire-resistance, and quality standards of upholstery materials used in commercial furniture, the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, has brought in the Protective Textiles Quality Control (Upholstered Composites used for Non-Domestic Furniture) Order, 2024.
As per this QCO, manufacturers, importers, suppliers, and traders of upholstered composites for non-domestic furniture must ensure that their products meet the requirements of IS 15768:2008 and have BIS-ISI Certification before they can manufacture, sell or import these products in India.
At UMS Product Compliance Services (UMSPCS), we offer businesses the complete end-to-end support that they require to meet this new regulation; thus, the certification process becomes more rapid, effortless, and devoid of errors.
What UMSPCS Helps You Understand About This QCO
The primary objective of this QCO is to elevate fire safety and quality standards in commercial furniture environments, where it would typically be applied in:
- Hotels, resorts & luxury properties
- Multiplexes, theatres & auditoriums
- Corporate offices & co-working spaces
- Hospitals, clinics & medical centres
- Schools, colleges & hostels
- Airports, lounges & transport hubs
- Restaurants, cafes & public seating areas
- The demand for upholstery in these areas is very high.
Their materials have to be not only flame-retardant but also long-lasting and compliant with strict safety regulations. The newly introduced QCO imposes BIS certification as a must, thus ensuring a consistent level of fire safety in commercial furniture across India.
UMSPCS is like a roadmap for the manufacturers as it takes them through each step of certification so that they can quickly respond to these requirements without their production or import being held up.
Applicability – Who Must Follow This QCO?
This Quality Control Order is binding on:
Upholstered composites in non-domestic (commercial) furniture, comprising:
- Upholstery fabrics
- Cushions and padded composites
- Foam-fabric laminated materials
- Textile composites used in seating and public-use furniture
Such materials cannot be sold, imported, or used unless they hold a BIS certification.
Exemptions:
- Products solely made for export
- Upholstered materials for domestic/home furniture, on the condition that the manufacturer issues a Self-Declaration as per IS 15768
Temporary exemption up to 31 March 2025:
The furniture industry that assembles non-domestic furniture is free from the QCO obligation until 31 March 2025. Compliance will be required from that date onwards.
UMSPCS assists enterprises in determining if their products are subject to this QCO and offers correct classification to prevent compliance errors.
Mandatory Standard Under the QCO – IS 15768:2008
The QCO indicates that the Indian Standard should be mandatory:
IS 15768:2008 – Textiles: Resistance to Ignition of Upholstered Composites Used for Non-Domestic Furniture
This standard specifies:
- Ignition resistance
- Flammability testing
- Fire-performance classification
- Accepted materials & performance criteria
- Testing procedures
UMSPCS provides the following services to their clients: preparation for the testing, documentation, and coordination with laboratories approved by BIS for the quick completion of the test
BIS Certification Requirements Explained by UMSPCS
In this regard:
Manufacturers and Importers Must:
- Submit an application for a BIS Licence (ISI Mark)
- Undergo mandatory testing as per IS 15768
- Put the ISI Mark only after getting approval from BIS
- Adhere to Scheme-I of BIS Conformity Assessment Regulations, 2018
Enforcement Authority:
Certification, inspection, and enforcement of compliance will be done by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).
If there is no compliance, the concerned authorities may take actions such as:
- Imposition of fines
- Confiscation of the goods
- Prohibition of manufacture or import
- Imposition of legal liabilities
By having UMSPCS in charge of documentation, lab coordination, and application processing, companies gain the advantage of not being rejected, delayed, or committing technical
Domestic vs Non-Domestic Furniture Compliance
The QCO distinctly differentiates two types of products:
Non-Domestic (Commercial) Furniture
→ BIS Certification is a Must
Domestic/Home Furniture
→ BIS certification is not necessary; however, a Self-Declaration should be provided specifying:
“Products are intended for domestic requirements only.”
UMSPCS makes ready and correct declarations and compliance documents to uphold the interpretation of zero-risk during audits.
Why Manufacturers & Importers Should Comply – UMSPCS Perspective
Legal Compliance – Mandatory to sell or import upholstery materials for commercial use
Fire Safety Assurance – Reduces fire hazards and enhances public safety
Improved Market Acceptance – BIS-certified products gain preference in major projects
Trust & Reliability – Institutional buyers prefer certified materials
Smooth Approvals for Tenders & Contracts
Avoids Penalties & Business Interruption
Required Documentation for BIS Certification
Below is the list of documents that are required for the application under the QCO:
- Business & Legal Documents
- Company registration certificate (Incorporation / GST / MSME)
- Local authorities issued factory license
- Factory location address proof
- Signatory authorisation letter
- Valid trade license (if applicable)
- Manufacturing Details
- Manufacturing process flowchart
- List of manufacturing machinery & equipment
- List of testing equipment available in the factory
- Details of raw materials used and supplier information
- Quality control parameters implemented by the manufacturer
- Internal test reports (if available)
- Product-Specific Documents
- Product drawings, design, specifications
- Bill of Materials (BOM)
- Upholstered composite samples for testing
- Safety & durability test data (optional but helpful)
- Label artwork showing the usage of the ISI Mark format
- Technical Personnel Details
- Qualification certificates of quality control staff
- Information of the responsible technical personnel (RTP)
- Foreign Manufacturers (FMCS Route)
- Authorised Indian Representative (AIR) appointment letter
- Factory ISO certificate (recommended)
- Declaration of conformity
- Additional documents as per BIS FMCSguidelines
Step-by-Step BIS Certification Process Under Protective Textiles QCO 2024
Step 1: Identify Applicable Standard.
BIS defines Indian Standards for upholstered composites of non-domestic furniture. Manufacturers should ensure that their samples meet the exact IS Standard mentioned in the 2024 QCO.
Step 2: Prepare Documentation & Factory Readiness.
Manufacturers are required to:
Arrange all documents
Ensure factory testing equipment is in good working condition
Get ready labels for the ISI Mark according to the BIS instructions
Implement quality control through proper measures
Step 3: BIS Online Application Submission.
Apply via the BIS Manak Online portal, completing sections with the following info:
Factory details
Product information
Quality management details
Attach the supporting documents
Make the payment for the application fee
Step 4: Product Testing in BIS-Recognized Lab
- A sample of upholstered composites is delivered to a BIS-sanctioned laboratory for analysis.
- The laboratory carries out the compulsory tests, such as:
- Flammability resistance
- Physical strength
- Cushioning & durability
- Material safety
- The lab directly submits the test report to BIS.
Step 5: BIS Officer Factory Inspection
BIS officials visit the factory for an on-site inspection to confirm:
- Production capacity
- Quality control systems
- Test records & raw material handling
- Uniformity of labelling and ISI mark usage
Moreover, they check:
- Calibration of tools
- Qualifications of the employees
- Batch identification system
Step 6: Grant of BIS License (ISI Mark Certification) Upon evaluating the:
- Test report
- Inspection findings
- Document review
BIS grants the ISI Mark License for the upholstery composite product.
Step 7: Marking Fee & Annual Renewal
Manufacturers are required to:
- Pay the marking fee corresponding to production quantity
- Uphold quality standards
- Periodically renew the BIS license or, as per the instructions, agree annually
BIS may also perform surprise checks to ensure continuous compliance.
Step-by-Step BIS (FMCS) Process — Protective Textiles QCO 2024
Step 1 — Identify the applicable Indian Standard (IS)
A foreign manufacturer should initially be able to identify the exact Indian Standard (IS) that is relevant to the composite upholstery used for furniture of non-domestic nature (the same IS that is referred to in the QCO). An FMCS license will only be given to products that are in compliance with the IS.
Step 2 — Appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) (mandatory)
A foreign manufacturer is required to designate an AIR (a resident of India or a local entity) who will be the BIS local contact, submit the application on the foreign factory’s behalf (if the factory doesn’t have a branch in India), get the communications, and be the person responsible for marking/recall actions in India. The nomination of AIR is a formal requisite and is submitted in the prescribed FMCS format.
Step 3 — Prepare documentation & factory readiness (overseas)
Gather the same types of documents as for local applicants — company registration, factory details, product specifications, production processes, QC procedures, list of testing/production equipment, raw material details, technical staff info, sample labels, etc. In FMCS, the documents should indicate the exact foreign factory location as the license is location-specific (each plant needs its own FMCS license).
Quick checklist (FMCS): company registration, factory address, product spec & BOM, QC manual, test equipment list, sample labels, AIR nomination form, sample(s) for testing.
Step 4 — Submit online application via ManakOnline (FMCS module) & pay fees
The AIR (or the applicant through AIR) submits the FMCS application on the ManakOnline / BIS FMCS portal, choosing the right IS/product code, and uploading all the supporting documents along with the AIR nomination. Pay the non-refundable application fee according to the fee schedule.
Step 5 — Product testing (BIS-recognized labs)
Provide product samples for required tests at laboratories certified by BIS. For FMCS, samples can be tested either in India (BIS labs / BIS-recognised third-party labs) or at BIS-approved labs abroad (refer to the specific product guidance). The lab test reports should demonstrate conformity to the notified IS (flammability, strength, durability, material safety, etc., as applicable to upholstered composites). The lab report is submitted/uploaded to BIS.
Step 6 — Factory inspection/audit (overseas) by BIS or BIS-appointed auditor
BIS arranges a factory audit at the foreign production site (factory-specific). The audit team checks the production capability, QC procedures, calibration of test equipment, staff skills, product traceability/batch identification, and labelling. In case there are problems, BIS will provide a list of non-conformities that have to be resolved before the license is granted. Note: FMCS licences are specific to the audited factory location – different factories require different audits/licenses.
Step 7 — Review of test reports, inspection findings & grant of FMCS licence (ISI Mark)
Upon the availability of good test results and the audit report, BIS will take up the file for processing and issue the FMCS BIS licence Certification that allows the foreign factory to use the Standard Mark (ISI) for the specified product and factory location. Details of the license (license number, factory address, product scope) will be available on ManakOnline.
Step 8 — Marking, customs & import compliance
Only when the licence has been granted can the ISI/Standard Mark be used to signify the product. Importers/clearing agents should show the FMCS licence details to customs; customs will verify the QCO products ‘ compliance. Shipments of imports without a valid FMCS licence/ISI mark may be held or refused.
Step 9 — Marking fee, surveillance & renewal
Once the foreign manufacturer is given a license (through AIR), he is obliged to follow the marking fee regulations, keep up the quality of production, and be available for the surveillance activities. BIS undertakes surveillance on a regular basis, which may also comprise sample testing in India, periodic factory audits, and unannounced visits. Licences should be renewed in accordance with BIS regulations; renewal usually entails new samples and updated records.
Step 10 — Non-conformity, suspension & cancellation
If non-conformity is found in surveillance testing or audit, BIS may take actions under its regulations, such as suspension of the mark, halt of marking orders, require remedial actions or cancellation of the licence. The AIR and the manufacturer should work on the issues without delay to get the licence back.
Compliance for Importers
Importers are required to confirm the following:
- The foreign manufacturer is equipped with an already valid BIS license,
- If the products to be imported do not have the ISI mark, customs will not release them.
Importers are to:
- Make sure of thelicense
- Ensure labelling and packaging comply with BIS rules
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Under the BIS Act, penalties may include:
- Product seizure
- Heavy fines
- Ban on sale/import
- Legal prosecution
How UMSPCS Helps You Comply – Step-by-Step Support
UMSPCS gives a full compliance system to satisfy:
- Evaluation of the product and checking the QCO applicability
- Getting support for the alignment of the materials with IS 15768
- Preparing the technical documentation
- Coordination with the BIS-recognized laboratories
- Submission of samples and testing supervision
- Filing a BIS application under Scheme-I
- Liaison with BIS during the time of inspection and review
- Licence approval & ISI Mark usage assurance
- Assistance with ongoing compliance and surveillance
Our experts shorten the waiting time, minimize the documentation errors, and simplify the communication with the authorities, thus allowing you to get the certification quickly and have uninterrupted market access.
Summary Table of the QCO
| Requirement | Details |
| Mandatory Standard | IS 15768:2008 |
| Applies To | Upholstered composites for commercial furniture |
| Certification | BIS-ISI Mark under Scheme-I |
| Exemption | Assemblers till 31 March 2025 |
| Export Products | Fully exempt |
| Enforcement | Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What Is The QCO 2024 On Protective Textiles Quality Control?
It represents a government directive through which a certification by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and ISI marking becomes mandatory for the upholstered composites utilized in non-domestic furniture.
Q. Who Is Required To Follow This QCO?
All the manufacturers, importers, sellers, distributors, and brand owners who supply or sell upholstered composites for non-domestic furniture have to comply with this QCO.
Q. Are There Any BIS Certifications That Are Not Mandatory For Upholstered Composite Products?
Yes, any composite that is used for commercial furniture has to achieve the BIS Standard and be marked with ISI.
Q. What Kind of Furniture is considered “non-domestic”?
Furniture used in hotels, offices, malls, and restaurants, like tables and chairs, as well as auditoriums, hospitals, institutions, airports, and other commercial spaces.
Q. Which BIS Standard Is The Most Relevant Under This QCO?
This QCO refers to the Indian Standard (IS) for the furniture industry that uses upholstery fabrics and composites. The manufacturers need to ensure that the IS standard notified by the BIS is exact and that they follow it.
Q. What Will Happen If I Don’t Have A License For Enabling Bis?
Manufacturing of the product will not be allowed, and the product cannot be imported, stored, sold, or distributed in India. Non-certified imported products will also be stopped at customs and will not be allowed to enter the country
Q. What Documents Is Essential To Have To Obtain BIS Certification?
Registration of the company, factory license, list of the machinery, list of the test equipment, details of the raw materials, product specifications, the flowchart of the process, internal QC records, and sample test reports.
Q. Are There Upholstered Composites That Are Fully Imported, But Still Need BIS Certification?
Yes, they still require a proper BIS license and should be marked with ISI.
Q. What is a BIS licence / Standard Mark licence?
A BIS licence is basically a permit that allows a manufacturer to use the “Standard Mark” (e.g. ISI mark) on a product, indicating that it meets the Indian Standard in question.
Q. Is BIS certification mandatory for all products?
Not at all — only those products which are covered under mandatory certification orders (Quality Control Orders / QCOs) or other statutory notifications are required to have a BIS licence. If your product is in a QCO list, then you must get certification before manufacturing or importing.
Q. What are the essential requirements for a manufacturer to apply for BIS certification?
The manufacturer should have a well-equipped production infrastructure, quality controls during the process, and testing facilities (or should be allowed to use labs recognised by BIS) and also ensure that the product complies with all the requirements of the relevant Indian Standard.
Q: If I have multiple factories, do I need separate BIS licences for each location?
It is a fact; if you have multiple factories, you cannot share a BIS licence between them. Even if you produce the same product following the same Standard at different sites, you have to apply for each location separately.
Q: Can foreign manufacturers certify their products under BIS?
Absolutely — through the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS), a foreign manufacturer can acquire a BIS licence that permits the product’s sale or import in India.
Q: What is the process under Scheme-X for products under mandatory certification?
Under Scheme-X, a panel can be selected for sample testing either at BIS or at labs authorized by BIS, or can carry out testing through their own in-house lab (if approved); however, the BIS officer has to witness the tests. The organization takes full advantage of this flexible system to both achieve a faster turnaround for certification and also to ensure that standards are met.
Q: Where can I find which products require BIS certification?
BIS publishes a list of all products that are subject to compulsory certification (QCOs) on its website under the title “Products under Compulsory Certification.” This list is updated regularly, so it is always a good idea to look it up before starting production or importing
Q: What types of labs are accepted for product testing under BIS certification?
The testing of products should be done either in laboratories recognized by BIS or those that are approved by BIS for conformity assessment. Reports from such labs are prerequisites for the grant of the licence.
Q: What if an uncertified product covered under a QCO is sold or imported?
The selling or importing of uncertified products, which are covered under mandatory BIS orders, is strictly prohibited. Failure to comply may cause the imposition of a penalty, seizure of the product or other law enforcement actions.
Conclusion by UMSPCS
The Protective Textiles Quality Control (Upholstered Composites used for Non-Domestic Furniture) Order, 2024, is an essential move in India toward increasing safety and giving more standardization in the commercial furniture sector. Manufacturers and importers shall guarantee the fulfillment of IS 15768 in all respects and secure BIS certification prior to admission into the Indian market.
At UMSPCS, we turn the whole BIS certification process into a walk in the park, a park in which you see clearly and without the usual inconveniences, through our professional coordination, speedy process handling and delivery of complete regulatory support. Regardless of whether you are the manufacturer or the importer of upholstery composites, our team will place you in a position to attain conformity with ease, thus securing your legal status, getting approvals at a quicker pace, and developing a lasting market reputation.
