Storage Units as per IS 17634, QCO on Furniture, and the Role of Omega QMS Pvt Ltd in BIS Certification

Introduction

The Indian furniture industry has been undergoing a major transformation with the implementation of stringent quality standards to ensure durability, safety, and compliance with both domestic and international benchmarks. The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has introduced IS 17634:2022, which sets forth the technical and performance requirements for storage units.

Additionally, the Furniture (Quality Control) Order, 2025 (QCO) has made it mandatory for manufacturers to obtain BIS certification for storage units and other furniture products. This regulatory change has prompted manufacturers both domestic and international—to seek expert guidance in navigating the certification process.

One of the key players assisting companies in achieving compliance is Omega QMS Pvt Ltd, which provides specialized services in BIS certification facilitation for storage units and other furniture categories.

IS 17634:2022 – Standards for Storage Units

The IS 17634:2022 standard governs the quality and performance criteria for storage units, ensuring they meet safety, durability, and stability benchmarks.

Key Highlights of IS 17634:2022

1. Scope:
   • Covers both fixed and movable storage units used in homes, offices, and institutions.
   • Applicable to pre-assembled and ready-to-assemble
2. Types of Storage Units Covered:
   • Steel shelving cabinets
   • Filing cabinets
   • Wooden wardrobes
   • Bookcases and lockers
   • Wall-mounted storage units
   • Glass-front cabinets
3. Key Requirements:
   • Strength & Durability: Load-bearing capacity for prolonged use.
   • Safety Tests: Ensuring stability and protection from toppling.
   • Surface Finish: Resistance to mechanical damage, moisture, and heat.
   • Functional Performance: Testing hinges, locks, and moving parts for efficiency.
4. Testing Methods:
   • Load-bearing capacity: Shelves and compartments must withstand set loads.
   • Impact & Drop Tests: Simulating real-world stress conditions.
   • Stability Tests: Ensuring storage units do not tip over during use.

By implementing IS 17634:2022, India aligns with global quality standards, making compliance crucial for manufacturers looking to expand internationally.

QCO on Furniture (Quality Control Order, 2025)

To enforce quality assurance in the furniture sector, the Government of India has introduced a Quality Control Order (QCO) for furniture, which mandates that certain furniture products—including storage units—must comply with BIS standards.

Key Provisions of QCO on Furniture

1. Mandatory BIS Certification:
   • All storage units must bear the ISI mark, obtained through BIS certification.
   • Ensures that only quality-assured furniture is sold in the Indian market.
2. Products Covered:
   • Work chairs (IS 17631:2022)
   • General-purpose chairs & stools (IS 17632:2022)
   • Tables and desks (IS 17633:2022)
   • Storage units (IS 17634:2022)
   • Beds (IS 17635:2022)
   • Bunk beds (IS 17636:2022)
3. Implementation Timeline:
   • Large manufacturers: 12 months from notification.
   • MSMEs: 18 months grace period.
4. Exemptions:
   • Exported furniture is not subject to the QCO.
   • Micro & Small Enterprises (MSEs)with investment under ₹25 lakh and turnover under ₹2 crore get temporary exemption.
5. Enforcement & Penalty:
   • BIS is the enforcement authority.
   • Non-compliance leads to penalties under the BIS Act, 2016.

This regulatory push ensures better consumer protection and enhances India’s manufacturing standards, promoting exports.

Role of Omega QMS Pvt Ltd in Facilitating BIS Certification for Storage Units

With the increased regulatory scrutiny on furniture manufacturers, obtaining BIS certification has become a crucial yet complex process. This is where Omega QMS Pvt Ltd steps in as a trusted BIS certification consultant, assisting domestic and foreign manufacturers in securing BIS licenses for their storage units.

How Omega QMS Helps Manufacturers with BIS Certification

1. End-to-End Certification Assistance:
   • Provides a step-by-step guide for applying for BIS certification.
   • Ensures accurate documentation submission, avoiding unnecessary delays.
2. Product Testing & Compliance Management:
   • Helps identify BIS-approved laboratories for product testing.
   • Ensures that storage units meet IS 17634:2022through pre-certification testing.
   • Assists in resolving non-conformance issues if the product fails BIS testing.
3. Factory Audits & Quality Control Checks:
   • Conducts pre-certification audits to ensure manufacturing processes align with BIS requirements.
   • Provides guidance on corrective actions to achieve compliance.
4. Regulatory & Legal Advisory:
   • Keeps manufacturers updated on QCO mandates and BIS amendments.
   • Offers legal assistance for handling BIS inspections and enforcement issues.
5. Support for International Manufacturers:
   • Helps foreign manufacturers obtain BIS certification, making it easier to enter the Indian market.
   • Assists in custom clearance and regulatory compliance for imported storage units.
6. Reducing Time-to-Market:
   • With expertise in BIS certification, Omega QMS accelerates the approval process, helping manufacturers launch products faster.

Why Choose Omega QMS Pvt Ltd?

• Expertise in BIS Certification: Years of experience in handling furniture compliance.
• Strong Industry Network: Close ties with BIS authorities and testing labs.
• Comprehensive Support: From documentation to factory audits, everything is covered.
• Cost & Time Efficiency: Helps minimize costs and expedite certification.

For manufacturers looking to sell storage units in India, partnering with Omega QMS Pvt Ltd ensures hassle-free BIS compliance and business growth.

Conclusion

The implementation of IS 17634:2022 and the Furniture QCO, 2025, marks a transformative shift for the Indian furniture industry. Mandatory BIS certification ensures that storage units meet stringent performance, durability, and safety benchmarks.

Manufacturers—both domestic and international—must align their products with BIS standards to remain compliant and competitive. Omega QMS Pvt Ltd plays a crucial role in facilitating this certification process, ensuring that manufacturers navigate regulations efficiently.

With the right expertise and guidance, businesses can seamlessly obtain BIS certification, ensuring their storage units meet Indian and global quality standards.

OMEGA QMS PVT. LTD.

908-909, Hemkunt House, Rajendra Place, New Delhi-110008, India

Phone: 011-41413939(100 lines), Email: info@globalomega.com,

sales@globalomega.com, mktg@globalomega.com