The Centre has opened a public comment period until December 30, 2024, for proposed rules governing Clinical Electrical Thermometers, as announced by the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution on Sunday.
Department of Consumer Affairs has proposed amendments
The Department of Consumer Affairs has proposed amendments in line with the recommendations from the International Organization of Legal Metrology (OIML) under the Legal Metrology (General) Rules, 2011. The draft rules, developed by a committee formed by the Department, were published on the Department’s website on November 29, 2024, inviting feedback from stakeholders and the general public.
Once finalized, the rules aim to standardize the accuracy and reliability of Clinical Electrical Thermometers, ensuring that these devices meet prescribed standards through mandatory verification and stamping. This initiative is designed to protect the health and well-being of both humans and animals.
Clinical Electrical Thermometers are widely used in households, healthcare facilities, and various industries. The proposed regulations seek to enhance trust in their measurements, ensuring that diagnosis and treatment decisions are based on reliable data.
The Ministry emphasized that this initiative represents a significant step toward strengthening consumer safety and promoting uniformity in body temperature measurement. The Legal Metrology Department, under the Ministry, is responsible for ensuring the accuracy and reliability of weighing and measuring devices, thereby safeguarding consumer interests.
The proposed rules aim to revise existing regulations for Clinical Electrical Thermometers, which are crucial for diagnosing conditions such as fever and hypothermia. The Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution encourages all stakeholders to participate in the consultation process by submitting their comments and suggestions by the end of December.
