What is a PESO Certificate?
The full form of PESO is Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organization.
It is the regulatory authority in India responsible for ensuring the safe manufacture, storage, transport, and handling of hazardous materials, such as petroleum products, industrial gases, and explosives.
PESO operates under the Ministry of Commerce \& Industry and derives its authority from key legislation like the Explosives Act, 1884, and the Petroleum Act, 1934.
The organization was earlier known as the Chief Controller of Explosives (CCOE).
Both terms, PESO and CCOE (old name), refer to the same regulatory body.
Explosives Act and Petroleum Act PESO derives its authority from two primary legislative acts: The Explosives Act, 1884, which governs the manufacture, possession, use, sale, and transport of explosives.
The Petroleum Act, 1934, regulates the import, transport, storage, and production of petroleum and other flammable substances.
These acts make sure everyone plays by the rules when dealing with risky materials.
Why is PESO Certification Mandatory?
For any business handling flammable or explosive materials, like petroleum, industrial gases, or chemicals, PESO certification is a mandatory legal requirement, not just a formality.
It protects people, property, and the environment from serious risks.
Take the Vizag gas leak incident in 2020, for example.
A chemical plant storing toxic gas without proper safety checks led to a deadly leak.
It killed 12 people and forced thousands to evacuate.
Incidents like this highlight why strict safety controls, such as those enforced by PESO, are essential.
Here’s why a PESO certificate is critical: Legal Compliance: It's the law!
Operating without a PESO certificate is illegal.
You could face big fines or even have your business closed.
Market Access: Want to sell your product or offer your service in India?
Many industries, especially those dealing with chemicals or heavy machinery, require PESO approval.
Without it, your products might not even be allowed into the country.
Safety of Public, Property, and the Environment: PESO ensures safe handling and storage of hazardous materials, helping prevent: Explosions or fire accidents Damage to factories, warehouses, or surrounding areas Spills that can contaminate soil, water, and air Additionally, compliance with Indian Standards (BIS/IS codes) is often required alongside PESO certification to ensure product safety.
Requirements for Factory Licenses and NOCs: PESO certification is mandatory for setting up LPG bottling plants, fuel stations, gas cylinder storage units, and similar high-risk installations.
Without it, your business cannot obtain essential No Objection Certificates (NOCs) or factory licenses.
Business Credibility: Having a PESO certificate shows you're serious about safety.
It tells customers, partners, and even investors that you follow the rules.
This builds trust and makes your business look professional and reliable.
A wide range of businesses directly or indirectly involved with dangerous goods require a PESO certificate.
Manufacturers of Hazardous and Explosion-Proof Equipment If you make explosive substances or equipment for use in explosive environments, PESO approval is a must.
Examples: A company manufacturing industrial explosives for mining A factory producing flameproof motors or control panels for oil rigs Firms making pressure vessels, compressors, or safety valves for gas plants.
Importers and Foreign Companies Entering the Indian Market Are you a foreign company wanting to sell your products in India?
If your products fall under PESO's list, you'll need this certificate.
It ensures that even imported goods meet India's strict safety standards.
This applies to a wide range of items, from gas cylinders to certain types of industrial machinery.
Examples: A German company exporting LPG regulators or gas valves A Chinese firm importing acetylene cylinders A US-based equipment maker shipping explosion-proof lighting to Indian refineries Storage Facilities, Transporters, and Handlers of Hazardous Substances Even if you don’t manufacture but store, refill, or move dangerous goods, PESO rules apply: Examples: A logistics company transporting petroleum in tankers A warehouse storing diesel drums or flammable solvents A small LPG cylinder refilling station in a rural area Anyone interacting with these materials at any stage needs to be PESO-compliant.
General Eligibility Criteria The Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organization looks at different things based on who is applying.
1.
For Individuals: If you're an individual, you need to show you're capable.
This means: You must be an Indian citizen.
You should be at least 18 years old.
You need to have the right knowledge and experience.
This is especially true for handling dangerous items.
You must not have any criminal record related to safety.
2.
For Companies and Firms: The company must be properly registered in India.
This means it's a legal entity such as LLP, Pvt Ltd, or a Sole Proprietorship.
It should have a clear organizational structure.
Everyone needs to know their role.
The company must show it has the financial stability.
This ensures they can follow all safety rules.
They need to have qualified staff.
These are people who understand the risks and how to manage them.
3.
For Foreign Manufacturers: Are you a company from another country?
You can still get a PESO license!
You will need an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR).
This representative, who can be an individual or a registered Indian entity, is legally responsible for managing the application and liaising with PESO on your behalf.
Your products must meet Indian safety standards.
These might be different from your home country's rules.
You must provide all necessary documentation.
This proves your product is safe.
Note: PESO also issues individual licenses, but these are mainly for explosive handlers, licensed contractors, safety officers, or people working in the field, not for foreign companies or large-scale product approvals.
Site and Operational Eligibility Getting a PESO license isn’t just about who’s applying; it’s also about where and how you plan to operate.
Your location must follow safety rules: The site should be away from homes and public areas.
It must follow safety distance rules as defined under the Petroleum Rules, Explosives Rules, or Static and Mobile Pressure Vessels (Unfired) Rules, depending on what your business does.
The facility must be safety-ready: Your plant or storage area should have working fire extinguishers, gas leak detectors, emergency alarms, and proper exit routes in case of danger.
Safe storage is non-negotiable: If you’re storing hazardous goods, they must be kept in approved containers or vessels.
These should be marked, tightly sealed, and built to prevent leaks or accidental spills.
Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs): You must have clear written procedures for everything, from receiving and storing materials to moving, using, or disposing of them safely.
This helps reduce human error and ensures emergency readiness.
List of Industries Requiring PESO Approval PESO certification is essential for a wide range of industries in India, especially those that deal with hazardous materials or high-pressure systems.
While it is most commonly associated with oil and gas, many other sectors must also comply with PESO regulations: Petroleum Refineries: Facilities involved in processing crude oil into fuels such as petrol, diesel, and kerosene must obtain PESO approval to ensure safe handling and storage.
Chemical Manufacturing Units: Companies engaged in producing or storing flammable or reactive chemicals are required to follow PESO safety standards.
Explosives and Fireworks Manufacturers: Any business involved in making explosives, such as firecrackers, industrial blasting agents, or detonators, needs a valid PESO license.
LPG and Industrial Gas Bottling Plants: Facilities that fill gas cylinders with liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), oxygen, nitrogen, or other compressed gases must be PESO-compliant.
Fertilizer Plants: Some fertilizers, such as ammonium nitrate, are classified as hazardous materials and fall under PESO’s regulatory framework.
Mining Companies: Operations using explosives for rock blasting or excavation are required to obtain PESO approval for both equipment and handling practices.
Automotive Sector: Manufacturers or retrofitting centers involved in installing CNG or LPG fuel kits in vehicles need to meet PESO safety norms.
Construction Industry: Companies using pressurized equipment or explosive materials at construction sites may also need PESO clearance, depending on the nature of the work.
Products Covered Under PESO Certification What specific products fall under PESO?
A wide range of items can be risky if not handled properly.
1.
Electrical and Flameproof Equipment Equipment intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres must be PESO-certified to prevent ignition sources.
This category includes: Switches and motors: These must be specially designed to prevent sparks.
Lighting fixtures: Lights in dangerous areas need to be enclosed.
Cables and wiring: They need special insulation to avoid short circuits.
This equipment is crucial in places like oil rigs or chemical plants.
2.
Pressure Vessels, Gas Cylinders, Valves, and Regulators These are items that hold gases or liquids under high pressure.
If they fail, they can be very dangerous.
LPG cylinders: The gas cylinders you use for cooking.
Industrial gas cylinders: Used in hospitals or welding shops.
Storage tanks: Large tanks holding petrol or chemicals.
Valves and regulators: These control the flow of gases and liquids.
They must be super reliable.
3.
Petroleum, Explosives, and Ammonium Nitrate These are the core items PESO was created to regulate.
Petroleum products: Petrol, diesel, kerosene, aviation fuel, and crude oil.
Explosives: Dynamite, detonators, and other blasting materials.
Ammonium Nitrate: This chemical is often used in fertilizers.
However, it can also be used to make explosives, so its use is strictly controlled.
In 2020, a huge explosion in Beirut was linked to ammonium nitrate.
This tragic event highlighted the need for strict regulations like those enforced by PESO.
How to Apply for a PESO Certificate?
Getting your PESO certificate involves a few clear steps: Step 1: Determine Your License Category and Requirements First, figure out what kind of certificate you need.
PESO handles many different things.
Know your product: What exactly are you dealing with?
Are you making explosives?
Storing gas cylinders?
Importing special electrical gear?
Check Applicable Regulations: PESO regulations vary based on the product or activity involved.
Refer to the relevant rules, such as the Explosives Rules, Static and Mobile Pressure Vessels (Unfired) Rules (SMPV), or Gas Cylinders Rules, to understand the exact standards and compliance requirements for your category.
Identify the Type of Approval Required: Depending on your business activity, you may need a PESO license, prior approval, or a No Objection Certificate (NOC).
Identifying the correct category at the beginning is essential, as it determines your documentation needs, fees, and the overall process to follow.
Step 2: Appointing an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) If your company is not based in India, you must have an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR).
Think of your AIR as your local helper.
They are your eyes and ears in India.
Who can be an AIR?
This can be an Indian citizen or a company registered in India.
Their job: The AIR handles all the paperwork and communication with PESO on your behalf.
They make sure everything runs smoothly and is compliant.
PESO wants a local contact.
This makes communication easier.
It also ensures someone is responsible in India.
Step 3: Preparing Your Application and Documentation At this stage, you need to organize and submit all necessary paperwork to support your application.
A complete and well-prepared file significantly improves your chances of timely approval.
Gather Essential Documents You’ll need to collect a set of documents that prove your business identity, product safety, and technical compliance.
Some examples include: Company incorporation certificate and PAN Product drawings, specifications, and test reports Safety manuals and layout plans Refer to the "Documents Required for PESO Certificate Application" section below for the full list.
Fill Out the Relevant PESO Forms PESO requires specific application forms based on the nature of your request: Form AE for equipment approval Form A for storage licenses Form VL for license variations Ensure you choose the correct form based on your activity and license type.
Double-Check and Validate Note: All documents must be submitted in English or accompanied by a certified translation.
PESO may require notarized or apostilled copies, especially for foreign applicants.
Incomplete or incorrect submissions can lead to delays or rejection.
Tip: Ensure consistency across documents; mismatched names or technical data can lead to queries from PESO.
Step 4: Submitting Your Application on the e-PESO Portal PESO has streamlined its licensing process through the e-PESO Portal , making it easier and faster to apply online.
Register on the Portal: Visit the e-PESO portal and create an account using your company credentials and email ID.
You’ll receive login credentials upon successful registration.
2.
Log in and Select Your Application Type: After logging in, select the appropriate category based on your requirement, such as equipment approval, storage license, or NOC.
3.
Fill Out the Application Form: Choose and complete the relevant form (e.g., Form AE, Form A).
Enter accurate details including company name, site address, equipment details, etc.
4.
Upload Documents: Attach all required documents in PDF format.
Make sure they are scanned, readable, and meet the file size limits.
5.
Pay the Application Fee: Use the integrated payment gateway to pay the applicable PESO fee.
Payment receipts are generated instantly for your records.
6.
Submit the Application: Once the form and documents are in place, click “Submit.” You’ll receive an acknowledgement along with a unique tracking ID.
7.
Track Status Online: Use your login credentials to check the real-time status of your application.
You’ll also receive notifications for any updates or queries raised by PESO officials.
Tip: Keep a digital and physical copy of the complete application for internal reference.
Step 5: Document Scrutiny and Technical Evaluation Once you submit your application, PESO's experts get to work.
They carefully check all your documents.
Document check: They make sure every paper is correct and complete.
Technical review: Engineers and safety experts look at your product designs and safety plans.
They check if they meet all the strict PESO standards.
Questions: They might ask you for more information or clarification.
Be ready to answer!
Step 6: Undergoing the Factory or Site Inspection For many types of PESO certificates, an inspection is required.
A PESO officer will visit your factory or site.
What they check: They review your site’s safety systems in detail, which includes checking pressure testing units, fire protection arrangements, safety signage, emergency exits, and how hazardous materials are stored and handled.
The goal is to verify that your actual setup matches the documents submitted.
Safety demonstration: You might need to show them how your safety procedures work.
Be prepared: Make sure your site is clean, safe, and organized.
Step 7: Receiving PESO Approval and License If everything checks out, congratulations!
PESO will grant you the approval and issue your license.
Official certificate: You get an official document.
Now you're compliant!
You can legally operate your business with hazardous materials.
Keep it safe: This license is very important.
Documents Required for PESO Certificate Application Gathering the right documents is key.
Missing even one can cause delays.
Here's a clear list of what you'll generally need.
Business \& Legal Documents These documents prove who you are and that your business is legitimate.
Company registration: Proof that your company is legally registered in India.
Memorandum of Association (MoA) \& Articles of Association (AoA): The MoA and AoA are like the rulebooks for your company.
PAN Card: Your company's tax identification number.
GST registration: Goods and Services Tax ( GST ) details.
Director details: Information about the people running the company.
Technical Documentation This section is all about your product or equipment.
Product designs: Detailed blueprints of what you make.
Technical specifications: Information about materials used, size, weight, and how it works.
Safety reports and test certificates: Proof that your product has been tested and meets safety standards.
These tests might come from laboratories.
Quality control procedures: How you ensure your product is consistently safe.
Risk assessment reports: What are the potential dangers, and how do you plan to manage them?
Commercial Documentation These are documents related to money and trade.
Purchase orders or sales contracts: If you're importing or exporting.
Invoices: Records of transactions.
Bills of Lading (for imports): Shipping documents.
Documentation for AIR If you're a foreign manufacturer, your Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) needs special documents.
Appointment letter: A formal letter from your company appointing the AIR.
AIR's business registration: If AIR is a company.
AIR's identity proof: If the AIR is an individual.
Site-Specific Documents These are about the place where you'll be operating.
Site plan: A map of your facility showing different areas.
Layout plan: Detailed drawing of where the equipment is placed.
Proof of ownership or lease agreement: Showing you have legal rights to use the land.
No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the local fire department: Proving your site meets fire safety standards.
Environmental clearance (if required): Showing your operations won't harm the environment.
PESO Certification Cost in India The total cost for a PESO certificate can change.
It depends on what you need.
1.
Government Fees These are the fees you pay directly to PESO.
They are set by the government.
Application Fees: When you first apply, there's a fee.
For some approvals, this might be around ₹2,000.
Inspection Fees: If PESO needs to visit your factory, there might be a charge.
This covers their travel and time.
License Grant Fees: Once your application is approved, you pay to get the official license.
This fee can vary a lot.
It depends on the type of license and how much material you will handle.
Renewal Fees: When your certificate expires, you pay a fee to renew it.
This fee is often similar to the initial application fee, around ₹2,000 for some renewals.
Everyone pays the same government fees for the same service.
2.
Consultancy Fees Many businesses get help from experts.
These experts are called consultants.
They charge for their services.
They talk to PESO for you.
They guide you through every step.
How much: Consultancy fees can range from about ₹1,00,000 to ₹4,00,000 or more.
This depends on how difficult your case is.
It also depends on the consultant you choose.
Time saving: A good consultant can significantly speed up the application process, allowing your business to become operational sooner.
3.
Hidden Costs Sometimes, there are extra costs you might not expect.
Product Testing: Your product might need special tests.
These tests prove it is safe.
Lab tests can add to the cost.
Site Changes: Your factory or site might need updates.
You might need new safety equipment.
This could mean spending money on construction or new machines.
Training courses cost money.
Travel: You might need to travel for meetings or inspections.
Unexpected Delays: Sometimes, things take longer than planned.
This can lead to more costs.
PESO Certificate Validity and Renewal Process A PESO certificate is not forever valid.
It has an expiry date.
How long is it good for?
Most PESO licenses are valid for 3 to 5 years, depending on the license type.
For instance, certificates for static pressure vessels are typically valid for 3 years.
Check the date: Always look at your certificate.
Find its exact expiry date.
Avoid Lapses: Operating with an expired PESO license is illegal.
It can lead to substantial fines, legal penalties, or even business closure.
Renewal Process Renewing your certificate is very important.
It keeps your business legal and safe.
You do it before it expires.
Apply early: Begin the renewal process well in advance of the expiry date.
Delays can disrupt operations.
Possible re-inspection: Sometimes, PESO might want to inspect your site again.
This happens especially if there have been big changes.
This is because PESO already knows your business.
Keeping good records helps a lot.
Post-Compliances after Obtaining PESO License Obtaining a PESO license marks the beginning of ongoing compliance responsibilities.
1.
Regular Audits and Inspections PESO officers might visit your site under the Explosives Act, 1884, and relevant safety rules like SMPV (U) Rules, 2016.
These visits can be planned or a surprise.
Be ready: Always keep your site safe and organized.
Follow rules: Make sure you are always following all safety rules.
Do your own checks: Regularly check your own safety systems.
This helps you find problems early.
These checks help PESO ensure safety is always a top priority.
2.
Mandatory Record Keeping Maintain the following records as per PESO norms: Inventory logs for Class A/B petroleum, gases, and explosives.
Maintenance \& calibration records for all pressure equipment.
Incident reports for accidents or near-misses.
Training records with employee names and dates.
Audit reports for safety and environmental checks (if applicable).
All records must be updated, stored properly, and shown to PESO when asked.
3.
Change Management Protocol What if you change something big in your business?
Tell PESO: You must inform PESO about major changes.
This includes changes to your product design or your business location.
Get approval: Sometimes, you need new approval before making these changes.
This ensures the changes are also safe.
Not telling PESO about changes can lead to problems.
4.
Employee Training and Preparedness Your employees are key to safety.
Train often: Make sure all staff who handle dangerous materials are well-trained as per the PESO and Factories Act, 1948 norms.
Refresh skills: Safety rules can change.
Employees need regular updates.
Practice emergencies: Do drills for fires or spills.
This helps everyone know what to do.
Well-trained staff prevent accidents.
Companies with regular safety training have fewer workplace incidents.
5.
Timely License Renewal PESO licenses issued under the SMPV(U) Rules are valid for up to 3 years.
It’s important to renew your license before it expires.
Delays can lead to penalties or operational disruptions.
Always keep track of the validity and set reminders to ensure smooth and uninterrupted business compliance.
PESO License Certificate The PESO License Certificate is issued by the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organization (PESO) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India.
How to Download PESO License Certificate?
Once your application is approved, you can download the certificate digitally via the PESO portal: Visit the PESO Portal → Login Page: online.peso.gov.in/PesoOnline/ Login using your registered credentials.
Navigate to Portfolio → Enter your DocKey → Click Save.
Select the issued license from the list and click View.
Use the Print Online Application option to download or print the certificate.
Make sure your browser is compatible (Internet Explorer 9 or higher is recommended by PESO).
How to Check the Status of PESO License?
To track the status of your PESO license application: Go to the PESO Public Domain Status Page.
(peso.gov.in/web/en/search/node?keys=Application%20status) Enter your Application Number or DocKey.
View real-time updates on application progress, approvals, or discrepancies.
Alternatively, you can log in to the Portal and check under Application Status in your dashboard.
Difference Between ATEX and PESO Certification You might hear about ATEX certification somewhere near the PESO License.
What is it, and how is it different from PESO?
ATEX: This is a European safety rule.
It stands for "Atmosphères Explosibles." It applies to equipment.
This equipment is made to be used in places where explosions could happen.
It is required for export or operation in EU markets.
PESO, regulated by India's Chief Controller of Explosives (CCoE), governs both product certification and handling processes of hazardous materials within India..
PESO: This is an Indian safety rule.
It covers more than just equipment.
It also covers how dangerous materials are made, stored, and moved in India.
While PESO accepts equipment that is ATEX-certified, it also has its own rules for how that equipment is used and licensed in India Connect with Easyfilings and let our experts handle the legal hassle while you grow your business.
Contact Us
