The Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB), on July 28, 2026, issued an Office Order regarding the implementation of the Regulation of Lead Contents in Household and Decorative Paints Rules, 2016, notified by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change under G.S.R. 1030(E) dated November 1, 2016. The Rules prohibit the manufacture, trade, import and export of household and decorative paints containing lead or lead compounds exceeding 90 ppm (0.009% by weight) of the total non-volatile content of the dried paint film.
For effective implementation, while granting or renewing consent to household and decorative paint manufacturers, the Board is required to incorporate conditions requiring manufacturers to ensure that lead content does not exceed 90 ppm (90 mg/kg). Manufacturers must also ensure that each package label clearly mentions the name and address of the manufacturer and date of manufacture. Further, manufacturers must obtain a certificate from a recognised laboratory or accredited agency confirming compliance with the prescribed lead limit.
A copy of the laboratory/accredited agency certificate must also be provided to retailers, dealers and shopkeepers dealing in the paints to facilitate compliance verification by regulatory authorities. The PPCB has directed all Regional and Zonal Offices to incorporate these special conditions in consents and renewals, wherever applicable, with the order taking immediate effect.
[Office Order No. 325]
