Drums and Tins
Drums, Large Open Top
Strategic Recommendations for IS 13997:2014 (Drums, Large Open Top)
- Engage Early with BIS & Labs
Apply for BIS certification under IS 13997:2014 and complete mandatory product testing well before enforcement deadlines (17 Apr 2024 for large/medium, 17 Jul 2024 for small, and 17 Oct 2024 for micro enterprises). Ensure packaging design and markings comply with BIS requirements. - Partner with Compliance Experts
Work with the ERA Compliance Team to streamline BIS licence applications, manage laboratory coordination, and prepare documentation for exemption declarations (export-only goods and pre-filled imported drums). - Reach Out for Support
📧 cs@eraglobal.co.in | 📞 +91 9599296331 | 💬 WhatsApp
For guidance on QCO compliance, exemptions, and certification timelines. - Track Exemptions & Notifications
- Subscribe to ERA NEWSLETTER for Stay updated on amendments, especially regarding export exemptions and import exclusions.
- Ensure Proper Marking & Documentation
- All drums must carry the ISI mark before sale or distribution.
- Export-only and pre-filled imported drums must be properly declared for exemption.
| Section | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Drums, Large Open Top |
| Applicable Indian Standard (IS) No. | IS 13997:2014 |
| Title of Indian Standard | Drums, Large Open Top |
| Quality Control Order | Drums and Tins (Quality Control) Order, 2023 |
| Notification & Amendments | Notified via S.O. 4596(E), dated 17 October 2023 |
| Final Enforcement Date |
- Large & Medium Enterprises: 6 months from 17 Oct 2023 → 17 April 2024 - Small Enterprises: 9 months from 17 Oct 2023 → 17 July 2024 - Micro Enterprises: 12 months from 17 Oct 2023 → 17 October 2024 |
| Objective & Scope | To ensure quality, safety, and performance of metal drums used in packaging and transport by mandating BIS certification under IS 13997:2014. |
| Products Covered | Large open-top steel drums intended for use in transport/storage of chemicals, oils, bitumen, and other materials. |
| Exemptions |
- Goods manufactured exclusively for export. - Imported drums already filled with powder, semi-solid, or liquid contents. |
| Industries Impacted |
- Packaging & Logistics Industry - Chemical, Petroleum & Lubricant Industry - Bitumen & Construction Material Suppliers - Food-grade oil & fat storage manufacturers |
| Mandatory Compliance | All covered products must bear the ISI mark under license from BIS, as per Scheme-I of BIS (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018. |
| Next Steps for Stakeholders | Apply for BIS license, submit products for testing in BIS-approved labs, update packaging to include ISI mark, ensure declaration of exempted goods (if any). |
| Legal Framework Provision & Enforcement | Enforced under BIS Act, 2016 by the Bureau of Indian Standards as the certifying and enforcement authority. |
| Penalties for Non-Compliance | Punishable under BIS Act, 2016 – includes seizure of goods, fines, suspension/cancellation of license, and possible imprisonment. |
| Conclusion | Compliance with IS 13997:2014 is mandatory for manufacturers of large open-top drums. The QCO ensures safety and reliability in storage and transport, particularly for sensitive industrial and food-grade applications. |
| References / Annexures | QCO 2023: S.O. 4596(E) [17 Oct 2023] |
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Notification
Drums, including IS 13997:2014 (Drums, Large Open Top), have been brought under mandatory certification through the Drums and Tins (Quality Control) Order, 2023, issued via S.O. 4596(E) dated 17 October 2023 by the Ministry of Commerce & Industry under the BIS Act, 2016. The order mandates that all drums must comply with their respective Indian Standards and bear the ISI mark.
Enforcement Timeline
- Large & Medium Enterprises: 17 April 2024
- Small Enterprises: 17 July 2024
- Micro Enterprises: 17 October 2024
Overview
Large open-top drums are widely used for storage and transportation of industrial chemicals, petroleum derivatives, bitumen, food-grade oils, and other bulk materials. Given their critical role in logistics and safety, the standardization of such drums ensures strength, leakage resistance, and suitability for diverse applications.
Objective & Scope
IS 13997:2014 specifies requirements for design, material quality, welding, closures, coating, and performance of large open-top drums. The standard aims to ensure safety, reliability, and durability in packaging, thereby reducing risks in handling hazardous and food-grade materials.
Products Covered
Steel large open-top drums used for industrial, petroleum, chemical, bitumen, and edible oil storage and transportation.
Exemptions Provided
- Goods manufactured exclusively for export.
- Imported drums that are already filled with powder, semi-solid, or liquid contents.
Industries Impacted
- Packaging & Logistics Sector
- Chemical and Petroleum Industries
- Bitumen & Construction Sector
- Food & Edible Oil Packaging Units
Mandatory Compliance Requirements
All large open-top drums must carry the ISI mark under BIS certification, as per Scheme-I of BIS (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018. The certification process involves testing in BIS-approved laboratories, licensing, and marking compliance before sale or distribution.
Next Steps for Stakeholders​
Manufacturers must apply for BIS certification, conduct mandatory testing, and ensure ISI marking on all products before the enforcement deadlines. Export-only and pre-filled imported drums must be declared to avail exemptions.
Legal Provisions, Enforcement & Penalties
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is the certifying and enforcement authority under the BIS Act, 2016. Non-compliance may result in seizure of goods, fines, suspension or cancellation of licenses, and imprisonment up to two years.
Conclusion
From 17 April 2024 (large/medium enterprises), 17 July 2024 (small enterprises), and 17 October 2024 (micro enterprises), compliance with IS 13997:2014 is mandatory. The QCO establishes stringent standards for drum manufacturing, ensuring safety and reliability in industrial and food-related applications.
Ready to start your certification journey?
Let us help you navigate regulatory challenges and achieve certification with ease. Leave us your details, and we’ll get back to you—or request a free consultation today.