BIS Amends Standards for Thymol, Solar Heating Systems, and Ropeway Fire Safety

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has issued important amendments to three Indian Standards across sectors including chemicals, renewable energy, and transport safety.

These amendments aim to improve product performance, safety, and regulatory compliance, with a transition window until 22nd March 2026.

🔧 Standards Amended

Sl. No.Standard No. & TitleAmendment No.SectorDate of EffectValidity of Previous Version
1IS 3504:2006Thymol — SpecificationAmendment No. 1Chemicals23 Sep 2025Until 22 Mar 2026
2IS 16544:2016All Glass Evacuated Tubes Solar Water Heating SystemAmendment No. 3Renewable Energy23 Sep 2025Until 22 Mar 2026
3IS 17236:2019Prevention and Safety Against Fire in Ropeways — Code of PracticeAmendment No. 1Ropeway Safety23 Sep 2025Until 22 Mar 2026

🧪 What’s Changing?

While the full text of amendments was not included in the notification, the changes are likely to involve:

  • Updated chemical purity and testing parameters for Thymol, a widely used organic compound in pharmaceuticals and antiseptics.
  • Improved thermal performance, durability, or installation standards for solar water heating systems using all-glass evacuated tubes.
  • Enhanced fire safety protocols for passenger and material ropeways, critical for public safety in hilly and tourist regions.

🏭 Industry Impact

StakeholderImpact
Chemical manufacturersMust update specifications and QC for Thymol
Renewable energy sectorSolar product designs may require revision
Ropeway operatorsMust comply with updated fire safety norms

🗓️ Compliance Timeline

  • Amendments Effective: 23 September 2025
  • Old Versions Valid Until: 22 March 2026
  • Industries must transition within 6 months to ensure compliance and BIS certification.

📌 Conclusion

The BIS’s amendments reflect a continued effort to enhance technical standards, public safety, and product performance across sectors. Stakeholders are advised to obtain the amended versions from BIS and implement necessary changes before March 2026 to remain compliant.

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