Work Chairs as per IS 17631, BIS Certification, and the Role of Omega QMS Pvt. Ltd.

Introduction

Work chairs play a crucial role in ensuring ergonomic comfort and safety in offices and workplaces. To maintain quality, durability, and safety standards, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has established IS 17631:2022, which specifies the requirements for work chairs. Additionally, the Furniture (Quality Control) Order, 2025 (QCO) mandates BIS certification for work chairs under IS 17631:2022. This article delves into the standard, the BIS certification process, and how Omega QMS Pvt. Ltd. assists manufacturers—both domestic and international—in achieving BIS certification for their work chairs.

IS 17631:2022 – Indian Standard for Work Chairs

The IS 17631:2022 standard specifies the safety, performance, and durability requirements of work chairs. It applies to both completely manufactured and ready-to-assemble units. The key aspects covered under this standard include:

1. Design and Workmanship

• The chair design should ensure safety, durability, and ergonomic comfort.
• Exposed edges and sharp corners must be chamfered or rounded.
• Materials used (metal, plastic, or wood) should comply with the required quality and safety standards.

2. Performance & Strength Tests

• Stability Tests– To prevent tipping and overturning accidents.
• Strength Tests– Static and impact tests to ensure durability under stress.
• Surface Finish Tests– Checking for resistance to scratches, heat, and chemical damage.
• Fabric & Leather Tests– Evaluation of color fastness, abrasion resistance, and durability.

3. Dimensions and Ergonomics

• Chairs must meet IS 3663specifications for proper height, width, and depth to provide ergonomic support.
• Adjustability options like height adjustment, armrests, and reclining mechanisms must function smoothly.

4. Safety & Marking Requirements

• Chairs should be designed to withstand loads of up to 110 kg for a minimum of 40 hours per week
• Every BIS-certified chair must bear manufacturer details, batch number, and BIS certification mark.

BIS Certification for Work Chairs

To legally manufacture, import, or sell work chairs in India, BIS certification is mandatory under the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016. The certification process ensures that the products comply with IS 17631:2022. The process includes:

1. Application Submission

Manufacturers must submit an application along with product details, test reports, and factory documentation to BIS.

2. Factory Inspection

BIS officials conduct an on-site inspection to verify the manufacturing process, raw materials, and quality control measures.

3. Sample Testing

Samples of the work chair are tested in BIS-recognized laboratories for compliance with IS 17631:2022.

4. Certification Grant

If the product meets all criteria, BIS issues a license, and the manufacturer is permitted to use the BIS Standard Mark.

5. Surveillance and Renewal

Periodic audits and sample testing are conducted to ensure continued compliance with BIS standards.

Reference to Furniture (Quality Control) Order, 2025 (QCO)

The Furniture (Quality Control) Order, 2025 (QCO) mandates BIS certification for various types of furniture, including work chairs under IS 17631:2022. According to the QCO:

• Work chairs must bear the BIS Standard Mark and conform to IS 17631:2022.
• The QCO becomes effective 12 months after publication.
• Micro and small enterprises (MSEs)have an 18-month exemption from compliance.
• Exports are exempt, but domestic sales must comply with the order.
• BIS will act as the certifying and enforcement authority.

Any manufacturer who fails to comply with the Furniture QCO will be subject to penalties under the BIS Act, 2016.

How Omega QMS Pvt. Ltd. Assists in BIS Certification

Omega QMS Pvt. Ltd. is a leading quality management and compliance consulting firm that specializes in assisting domestic and foreign manufacturers in obtaining BIS certification for their products, including work chairs.

Key Services Offered by Omega QMS Pvt. Ltd.:

1. Documentation Support:

• Guidance on preparing necessary documents such as technical specifications, test reports, and compliance paperwork.
• Assistance in application submission to BIS.

2. Pre-Compliance Testing & Factory Audit Preparation:

• Conducting preliminary factory inspections and audits to identify potential gaps.
• Ensuring the factory’s production process aligns with BIS guidelines.

3. Sample Testing Coordination:

• Helping manufacturer’s select BIS-approved laboratories for sample testing.
• Monitoring the testing process to ensure compliance with IS 17631.

4. BIS Liaison and Certification Process Management:

• Coordinating with BIS officials to expedite the certification process.
• Resolving queries and non-compliance issues, if any.

5. Post-Certification Compliance & Renewal:

• Assistance in BIS surveillance audits.
• Guidance on renewal procedures and continued compliance.

Conclusion

Ensuring compliance with IS 17631:2022 is essential for manufacturers to produce safe, durable, and high-quality work chairs. BIS certification is a mandatory requirement for legal market entry in India, reinforced by the Furniture (Quality Control) Order, 2025. The certification process can be complex for new manufacturers, but Omega QMS Pvt. Ltd. offers expert assistance in navigating the requirements efficiently. By ensuring compliance, businesses can enhance consumer trust and expand their market reach in the growing Indian office furniture industry.

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