Top Industries That Must Have BIS Certification in India

In India, product safety and quality standards are regulated by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). BIS Certification is either voluntary or mandatory depending on the category of goods and the potential risks involved with their use. For many high-risk and consumer-facing industries, obtaining BIS Certification is not just a mark of quality—it is a legal requirement. This article highlights the top industries in India where BIS Certification is mandatory, along with the key product categories under each sector.

1. Electronics and Electrical Equipment

The electronics sector is one of the largest and most strictly regulated industries in terms of BIS Certification. Under the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS) introduced by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), a wide range of electronic and IT goods must be certified before sale in India.

Key products requiring BIS Certification include:

• LED lamps and lighting systems

• Mobile phones and their accessories

• Laptops, tablets, and desktops

• Power banks and adapters

• Smartwatches and wearable devices

• Televisions and display panels

As the demand for electronic devices continues to grow, so does the importance of quality control. BIS Certification ensures that products meet safety, performance, and electromagnetic compatibility standards before reaching the consumer.

2. Steel and Iron Products

Steel is a critical material used across construction, manufacturing, infrastructure, and transportation sectors. Given its importance and safety implications, BIS Certification is mandatory for various steel and iron products.

Products covered include:

• Hot-rolled steel plates and sheets

• Structural steel sections

• Steel wires and rods

• Stainless steel products

• TMT bars

BIS standards help regulate chemical composition, tensile strength, and durability, which are essential for infrastructure safety and longevity. Manufacturers and importers of these materials must ensure strict compliance to avoid rejection in public and private sector projects.

3. Toy Industry

The toy industry underwent significant regulatory changes in 2020, with the Indian government making BIS Certification compulsory for all toys meant for children under 14 years of age. This move was taken to protect children from exposure to hazardous materials, poor-quality designs, and choking risks.

The certification applies to:

• Non-electrical toys (e.g., soft toys, puzzles, action figures)

• Electrical toys (e.g., battery-operated toys, remote-controlled cars)

Toys must comply with IS 9873 and IS 15644 standards, depending on their type. Every certified toy must carry the ISI mark before being sold in the Indian market, whether manufactured locally or imported.

4. Cement Industry

Cement is another heavily regulated product due to its crucial role in construction. Poor-quality cement can compromise the strength of buildings and structures, posing risks to life and property.

Cement types that require BIS Certification include:

• Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC)

• Portland Pozzolana Cement (PPC)

• Rapid Hardening Cement

• White Cement

Manufacturers must test their products for fineness, compressive strength, setting time, and chemical composition as per Indian Standards before applying for certification.

5. Pressure Cookers and Kitchen Appliances

Pressure cookers and domestic appliances come in direct contact with consumers and can cause injury if not manufactured properly. As such, several kitchen appliances are listed under the mandatory BIS Certification scheme.

Covered products include:

• Pressure cookers (IS 2347)

• Gas stoves (IS 4246)

• Electric irons (IS 302 Part 2/3)

• Electric immersion heaters and water heaters

Manufacturers must adhere to safety standards that cover design specifications, pressure control, material safety, and leakage tests.

6. Automotive Components

The automotive industry includes many parts and materials that must comply with BIS standards to ensure vehicle safety and performance. Certain components are mandated to be BIS-certified before use in vehicle assembly.

Examples include:

• Automotive wheel rims

• Safety glass for windshields and windows

• Brake lining materials

• Tubular steel for structural parts

These components are certified under specific Indian Standards to ensure resistance to heat, stress, and mechanical failure.

7. Battery and Energy Storage Devices

With the rise in demand for renewable energy and electric vehicles, battery technology has gained prominence. BIS Certification is compulsory for several types of rechargeable and non-rechargeable batteries to prevent hazards such as leakage, fire, or explosion.

Examples include:

• Lithium-ion batteries (used in phones, laptops, EVs)

• Sealed lead-acid batteries

• Nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) batteries

Products are tested for parameters such as energy density, leakage resistance, charging behavior, and thermal stability.

8. Textiles and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Safety gear, workwear, and textiles used in industrial or health settings also fall under BIS surveillance. Post-COVID-19, there has been increased enforcement of standards for personal safety equipment.

Covered items include:

• Safety helmets (IS 2925)

• Protective footwear (IS 15298)

• High-visibility clothing

• Coveralls and gloves used in medical or chemical environments

These items are tested for strength, flame resistance, tear resistance, and ergonomics to ensure user safety.

Conclusion

BIS Certification is mandatory across a wide range of industries in India, particularly where product failure could lead to safety hazards or economic losses. From electronics and steel to toys and automotive components, the Bureau of Indian Standards plays a crucial role in regulating the quality and safety of goods sold in the country. For manufacturers, importers, and sellers, staying informed about BIS Certification requirements is essential not only for legal compliance but also for establishing credibility in the marketplace. As consumer awareness and regulatory enforcement continue to increase, BIS Certification will remain a key factor in product acceptance and market access.