BIS Certification for Electric Iron | IS 302 (Part 2/Sec 3): 2024
Electric irons are one of the most ubiquitous household appliances used daily in every Indian home. From smoothing out wrinkles in clothes to preparing garments for professional wear, these appliances must be safe, reliable, and compliant with Indian electrical safety standards. To ensure this, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) mandates certification under IS 302 (Part 2/Sec 3): 2024 — the updated safety standard for electric irons.
What is IS 302 (Part 2/Sec 3): 2024?
IS 302 (Part 2/Sec 3): 2024 — titled “Household and Similar Electrical Appliances — Safety Part 2 Particular Requirements Section 3 Electric Irons” — is the second revision of the electric iron safety standard, harmonized with IEC 60335-2-3: 2022.
This standard defines specific safety requirements for electric irons, supplementing the general safety requirements in IS 302 (Part 1): 2024. Together, these standards govern design, construction, performance, and safety testing of electric irons intended for household and similar use.
The revised 2024 version has replaced the older 2007 edition, and the transition period for compliance has been extended to 23 February 2026.
What the Standard Covers
IS 302 (Part 2/Sec 3): 2024 sets particular safety requirements tailored to electric irons, including but not limited to:
✔ Electrical safety tests — such as earth continuity, insulation resistance, and electric strength.
✔ Protection against access to live parts — preventing user contact with electrically live components.
✔ Functional tests — ensuring correct thermostat operation and temperature stability.
✔ Moisture resistance — performance under conditions of humidity typical of household use.
✔ Safe power input/output parameters and earthing provisions — to prevent shock or fire hazards.
Given these comprehensive safety checks, products that comply with the standard assure consumers of reliable performance and reduced risk of hazards.
Why BIS Certification Is Mandatory
Under the Electrical Wires, Cables, Appliances and Protection Devices and Accessories (Quality Control) Order, electric irons fall under the mandatory BIS certification list. This means:
- No electric iron can be manufactured, imported, sold, or distributed in India without a valid BIS licence and the ISI Standard Mark.
- The certification applies to all types of electric irons — including dry irons, steam irons (corded and cordless), and other variants falling under the scope of IS 302 (Part 2/Sec 3).
Non-compliance can invite penalties, product seizures, and prohibition orders, making it essential for businesses to conform.
How BIS Certification Works for Electric Irons
Obtaining BIS certification involves a structured process designed to verify product safety and manufacturing consistency:
1. Submit Application
The manufacturer or importer submits an application on the BIS portal, providing product details, technical specifications, design drawings, and quality control documents.
2. Type Testing
Samples of the electric iron are tested in BIS-approved laboratories. Tests typically cover dielectric strength, leakage current, temperature rise, and other safety parameters relevant to the product.
3. Factory Inspection
BIS conducts a factory audit to ensure consistent production quality and that quality assurance systems are in place.
4. Grant of BIS Licence
Once tests and inspections are successfully completed, BIS issues the licence to use the Standard Mark (ISI) for the certified models.
Benefits of BIS Certification
Certifying electric irons under IS 302 (Part 2/Sec 3): 2024 offers several advantages:
✔ Legal compliance — Enables lawful sale and distribution across India.
✔ Consumer trust — The ISI mark is a symbol of verified safety and quality.
✔ Brand credibility — Helps build confidence among retailers and end customers.
✔ Market access — Essential for participation in large retail and export channels.
Final Thoughts
With the updated IS 302 (Part 2/Sec 3): 2024 standard now in effect and mandatory, ensuring compliance through BIS certification is both a regulatory requirement and a competitive advantage. Whether you’re a manufacturer or importer, aligning your electric iron products with the latest safety norms will protect consumers and enhance your product’s marketability across India.
Need help navigating the BIS certification process for electric irons? I can also provide a step-by-step compliance checklist if you want!