IS (Indian Standard) 13252 (Part 1)

The primary standard governing this sector is IS 13252 (Part 1): 2010, which is harmonized with the international IEC 60950-1. While the industry is gradually pivoting toward the hazard-based IS 62368-1, IS 13252 remains the foundational pillar for ITE safety certification in India under the MeitY CRS program.

The scope of this standard is broad, encompassing most digital and office automation tools. Key products include:

• Personal Computing: Laptops, Tablets, and Desktop Workstations.
• Connectivity Devices: Routers, Modems, and Set-top Boxes.
• Output Hardware: Printers, Scanners, and Plotters.
• Infrastructure: Power Adapters and UPS systems for IT equipment.
• Consumer Tech: Smartphones and Smartwatches.

To ensure total user safety, the equipment undergoes rigorous stress testing, including:

• Protection from Electric Shock: Insulation resistance and dielectric strength checks.
• Thermal Endurance: Temperature rise tests under normal and fault conditions.
• Structural Integrity: Impact, drop, and stability testing.
• Abnormal Operation: Evaluation of internal components during short circuits or fan failures.
• Radiation Safety: Measurement of ionizing and laser radiation levels (if applicable).

Compliance reports are only valid if issued by a BIS-Recognized Laboratory. These labs must be accredited by the NABL (National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories) and must feature the specific IS 13252 standard within their approved scope of testing.

The registration process generally follows a 20 to 30-day window, divided into two phases:

1. Testing Phase: 10–15 working days (subject to sample performance).
2. Grant of License: 10–15 working days from the date of submission to the BIS portal.

For a standard evaluation, the manufacturer must typically provide:

• Main Units: 1 to 2 complete, functional samples.
• Critical Components: Samples of power cords, internal batteries, or external adapters.
• Support Gear: Specific software or peripherals required to operate the device during testing.

The cost of obtaining a BIS license is categorized into:

• Testing Fees: Varies based on the complexity of the product and number of models.
• Statutory BIS Fees: Government processing and application fees.
• Professional Consultancy: Fees for documentation, portal management, and AIR (Authorized Indian Representative) services for foreign entities.

A seamless application requires a comprehensive technical dossier, including:

• CDF (Construction Data Form): Detailing all critical safety components.
• CCL (Critical Component List): Highlighting UL/VDE/IEC certifications of internal parts.
• Business Credentials: Certificate of Incorporation and Trademark registration.
• Technical Manuals: User manuals, circuit diagrams, and PCB layouts.
• AIR Authorization: For foreign manufacturers, the appointment of an Authorized Indian Representative is mandatory.