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Proper Packing and Sealing of Samples for BIS Market Surveillance

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) mandates specific procedures for packing and sealing samples drawn during market surveillance to ensure the integrity and authenticity of the jewellery. Proper sample handling is crucial for maintaining compliance with hallmarking regulations and ensuring accurate testing results.

Packing and Sealing Methods

BIS representatives follow stringent packing and sealing methods for both gold and silver jewellery samples:

Gold Jewellery/Artefacts:

• Sample Size: Approximately 1 gram
• Packing Material: Durable and tamper-proof

Silver Jewellery/Artefacts:

• Sample Size: Approximately 10 grams
• Packing Material: Durable and tamper-proof

Steps for Packing and Sealing Samples

The process for packing and sealing samples involves several critical steps:

Packing Samples:

• Place the sample in durable and tamper-proof packing material.
• Ensure that the packing material can withstand handling and transportation without compromising the sample's integrity.

Coding, Signing, and Sealing:

• Code the sample for identification purposes.
• All openable edges of the packing material should be signed by BIS staff, the Hallmarking Agent (HMA), and the representative of the registered jeweller.
• Seal the packed sample with transparent cello tape and apply the official BIS seal to prevent tampering.

Handling Counter Samples

The remaining part of the sample, containing the hallmark, must be packed and sealed similarly to the primary sample:

Packing and Sealing the Counter Sample:

• Place the remaining part of the sample in durable and tamper-proof packing material.
• Code, sign, and seal the counter sample as per the same procedures used for the primary sample.

Labeling the Counter Sample:

• Label the counter sample clearly to differentiate it from the primary sample.
• Ensure that the hallmark on the counter sample is preserved and visible.

Guidelines for Jewellers and BIS Representatives

To ensure compliance with BIS regulations, both jewellers and BIS representatives should follow these guidelines:

Ensuring Compliance:

• Adhere to the packing and sealing requirements to maintain the integrity of the samples.
• Ensure that all openable edges are signed and sealed properly.

Best Practices:

• Use high-quality packing materials to prevent tampering and damage.
• Maintain clear records of all packed and sealed samples for tracking and verification.

Benefits of Proper Sample Handling

Proper handling of samples during market surveillance offers several benefits:

Ensuring Accurate Testing Results:

• Proper packing and sealing prevent contamination and tampering, ensuring reliable testing results.

Maintaining High Standards of Quality and Authenticity:

• Adhering to BIS regulations helps maintain the integrity of hallmarked jewellery and builds customer trust.

Common Questions and Answers

What are the packing requirements for gold and silver jewellery samples? Gold samples should be approximately 1 gram, and silver samples should be approximately 10 grams, packed in durable and tamper-proof material.

How should samples be sealed to ensure tamper-proof integrity? Samples should be sealed with transparent cello tape and signed by BIS staff, the HMA, and the jeweller's representative at all openable edges, followed by the application of the official BIS seal.

What is the purpose of the counter sample in market surveillance? The counter sample, containing the hallmark, is preserved as a reference to ensure the authenticity and integrity of the original sample.