The Chief Controller of Explosives issued a cicular on 15th February, 2024 that addresses the reduction of compliance burden for ease of doing business, specifically in relation to the use of QR codes on LPG cylinders. The circular references a meeting with officials from Indian Oil Corporation Ltd (IOCL) and PESO, highlighting the permission granted for the use of QR codes on specific LPG cylinders for a trial run at IOCL’s Madanpur Khadar Bottling Plant.
This initiative aims to promote innovative ideas for national development. The circular also emphasizes the necessity of amending Gas Cylinders Rules, 2016 to include QR codes, bar codes, or RFID for high-pressure cylinders used for non-toxic, non-flammable gases and liquids. However, it notes that there is no provision for affixing QR codes on cylinders filled with flammable gases such as LPG, CNG, LNG, and Hydrogen, citing safety concerns and the need for necessary amendments in the Gas Cylinders Rules, 2016.
Furthermore, the circular highlights the existing rules and conditions, prohibiting the use of mobile phones in or near places where cylinders containing flammable gases are filled, stored, or handled. It mentions that OMCs are facing compliance burdens due to certain provisions of the rules administered by PESO and requests detailed submissions from OMCs regarding the rules that require amendment for ease of doing business and reduction in compliance burden.
The circular emphasizes that PESO is working under the guidance of DPIIT for ease of doing business and reduction in compliance burden. It also clarifies that PESO is not the competent authority for providing exemptions in the rules it administers and requests OMCs to submit proposals for amendments, which will be forwarded to the competent authority for examination and necessary action.
