BIS Certification for Household Electrical Appliances | IS 302 (Part 1): 2024
In an era where consumer safety and product quality are paramount, compliance with electrical safety standards is not optional — it’s a must. The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has updated the key standard for household electrical appliances with IS 302 (Part 1): 2024, aligning India’s safety requirements with global practices. Let’s explore what this means for manufacturers, importers, and sellers of household electrical appliances in India.
What is IS 302 (Part 1): 2024?
IS 302 (Part 1): 2024 is the revised Indian Standard titled “Household and Similar Electrical Appliances — Safety Part 1: General Requirements.” It is harmonized with the international standard IEC 60335-1:2020, ensuring that the safety requirements in India match international benchmarks for electrical appliance safety.
This standard applies to electrical appliances used in households and similar environments and covers fundamental safety principles including electrical, mechanical, and thermal aspects of product design and construction
Scope of the Standard
IS 302 (Part 1): 2024 applies to a wide range of electrical appliances intended for household, commercial, or similar use, with rated voltage not exceeding:
- 250V for single-phase alternating current (AC), and
- 480V for other appliances, including direct current (DC) or battery-operated devices.
Examples include but are not limited to:
- Vacuum cleaners
- Electric irons and heaters
- Microwave ovens and toasters
- Spin extractors
- Massage appliances
- Electric shavers and hair clippers
- Cooking appliances such as ranges and hobs
- Electric coffee makers and hot plates
- These products must meet safety requirements outlined in IS 302 (Part 1): 2024 before they can be sold or used in the Indian market.
Why IS 302 (Part 1): 2024 Matters
The standard focuses on consumer safety by establishing detailed requirements for:
- Electrical safety — Protection against shock, short circuits, and current leakage.
- Mechanical safety — Safe design to prevent moving parts causing injuries.
- Thermal safety — Controls against overheating and fire hazards.
- Moisture resistance — Safe operation in humid conditions.
- User protection — Preventing access to live parts and ensuring secure controls.
- Durability and reliability — Guaranteed long-term safe performance.
- Labeling & instructions — Clear information for safe use and warnings.
Additionally, the updated standard aligns India with international best practices (IEC 60335-1:2020), which enhances global market access for Indian manufacturers and reassures consumers about product quality and reliability.
BIS Certification & Mandatory Compliance
Under the Safety of Household, Commercial and Similar Electrical Appliances (Quality Control) Order, BIS certification is mandatory for all covered electrical appliances sold in India.
Key points for BIS compliance:
✔ Certification is required whether the product is manufactured in India or imported.
✔ Imported products must meet the same standard before sale.
✔ Every appliance must carry the ISI mark — the symbol of conformity to BIS standards under Scheme-I of BIS Conformity Assessment Regulations.
✔ Manufacturers must submit product samples to BIS-approved labs for testing.
✔ A Factory Audit may be conducted for Scheme-I BIS certification.
The BIS Quality Control Order specifies phased compliance deadlines (depending on enterprise size):
- Large & Medium Enterprises: 19 March 2026
- Small Enterprises: 19 June 2026
- Micro Enterprises: 19 September 2026
- (These dates apply unless later amended by the BIS / Government of India.)
These timelines provide businesses with a transition period to obtain BIS certification under the updated standard.
Benefits of BIS Certification
Obtaining BIS certification under IS 302 (Part 1): 2024 offers several advantages:
- Legal Compliance: Sells products legally in the Indian market.
- Consumer Trust: ISI mark inspires confidence in product safety and quality.
- Reduced Risks: Lower risk of product recalls and safety incidents.
- Market Access: Complies with mandatory regulatory requirements for both domestic and imported goods.
- Global Alignment: Conformance with IEC standards supports export potential.
Who Needs BIS Certification?
You need BIS certification if you are:
- A Manufacturer of electrical appliances covered under the standard.
- An Importer bringing such appliances into India.
- A Seller/Retailer distributing covered electrical appliances.
Products sold without BIS certification can face legal action, including seizures, penalties, and prohibition of sales.
Final Thoughts
The revised IS 302 (Part 1): 2024 standard marks a significant step toward strengthening electrical safety norms in India. Whether you’re designing, manufacturing, importing, or selling household electrical appliances, staying compliant with BIS certification not only ensures consumer safety but also enhances brand reputation and market reach.
Embrace compliance early — not just to meet regulatory requirements, but to build trust and credibility in a competitive marketplace.