BIS Certification for Electrical Kitchen Appliances

Introduction

In a significant move to boost product safety and quality, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, through the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) and the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), has introduced a Quality Control Order (QCO), making BIS certification mandatory for electrical kitchen appliances. This pivotal order, named the Electrical Appliances for Kitchen (Quality Control) Order, 2023, was officially published on 5th March 2024. The regulation is set to reshape manufacturing and import standards across India’s kitchen appliance sector.

Understanding BIS Certification

BIS Certification is a product certification scheme provided by the Bureau of Indian Standards. It ensures that a product complies with the relevant Indian Standard (IS) and assures quality, safety, and reliability for consumers. For electrical kitchen appliances, BIS certification is not just a badge of quality—it’s a critical marker that assures users that the device is safe for household use. Faulty appliances can lead to fires, shocks, or malfunctions, and the new mandate aims to prevent such hazards.

Electrical Appliances for Kitchen (Quality Control) Order, 2023

The order was issued by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (DPIIT), making BIS certification legally binding for a specific list of electrical appliances used in kitchens. The QCO was published on March 5, 2024, in the Official Gazette of India. The rules will come into effect 6 to 12 months after publication, depending on the manufacturer’s category. The QCO applies to a broad range of electrical kitchen appliances, aiming to ensure that all products sold in the Indian market meet uniform safety and performance standards. Different timelines are provided to support compliance based on the size of the enterprise:

This staggered timeline gives smaller businesses more time to align with the regulations.

Which Electrical Kitchen Appliances Need BIS Certification?

The QCO mandates certification for commonly used items such as:

● Toasters, Grills, Roasters, and Similar Appliances

● Range Hoods

Exemptions and Clarifications (If Any)

As of now, no major exemptions have been announced, but the BIS may issue clarifications for niche products or categories under separate notifications.

How to Get BIS Certification for Electrical Kitchen Appliances

Obtaining BIS certification for electrical kitchen appliances involves several steps, each designed to validate the product’s compliance with Indian standards:

1. Application Submission: Manufacturers must submit an application form along with required documentation to BIS.

2. Documentation Review: BIS reviews the submitted documents to ensure completeness and correctness.

3. Factory Inspection: BIS officials conduct an on-site inspection of the manufacturing facility to assess the production process and quality control measures.

4. Sample Testing: Product samples are taken and tested in BIS-approved laboratories to verify compliance with Indian standards.

5. Certification Grant: Upon successful completion of the inspection and testing, BIS grants certification, allowing the manufacturer to use the BIS mark on their products.

Documents Required for BIS Certification

To apply for BIS certification, manufacturers need to submit the following documents:

● Application form

● Manufacturing process details

● Quality control plan

● Test reports from BIS-approved laboratories

● Factory layout and equipment details

● Proof of business registration

● Product specifications and technical details

● Declaration of conformity to Indian standards

Additionally, manufacturers may be required to provide proof of compliance with environmental and safety regulations, depending on the specific type of product being certified.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Manufacturers or importers failing to comply with this QCO may face:

● Product seizures

● Bans on sales

● Financial penalties

● Legal action under BIS Act

Benefits of BIS Certification for Manufacturers and Consumers

●Building Consumer Trust: Certified appliances attract higher consumer confidence, assuring them of safety and durability.

● Market Access and Legal Compliance: BIS certification enables businesses to access larger markets, participate in government procurement, and avoid regulatory issues.

●Challenges Faced by Manufacturers: Manufacturers, especially MSMEs, may find it challenging to meet stringent testing standards and absorb certification costs. However, timely compliance ensures long-term business sustainability.

●Support from Government or BIS: The government and BIS often provide financial subsidies, training sessions, and technical assistance to support MSMEs during compliance.

Conclusion

The BIS certification for electrical kitchen appliances under the Quality Control Order, 2023, is a landmark step toward improving safety, quality, and consumer trust in India’s kitchen appliance industry. With staggered timelines and supportive measures, manufacturers are encouraged to embrace this change for better compliance and enhanced brand reputation.

EVTL India is a leading BIS consultant, assisting manufacturers in obtaining hassle-free BIS licenses with expert guidance and streamlined processes to ensure compliance with Indian quality standards. 

FAQs on BIS Certification for Kitchen Appliances

1. Is BIS certification now mandatory for all kitchen appliances?
 Yes, as per the QCO published on 5th March 2024, it’s mandatory.

2. What is the deadline for compliance?
 6 months for large enterprises, 9 months for small, and 12 months for micro enterprises.

3. How can foreign manufacturers comply?
 They must appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) and follow the same certification process.

4. What happens if a manufacturer doesn’t get certified?
 Non-compliant products can be banned, and legal penalties may apply.

5. Are old products already in the market exempted?
 No clear exemption has been issued yet, but transitional provisions may apply.

6. Where can I get more information?
 Visit the BIS official website or consult the official gazette notification for complete details.