Electricity enclosures and box accessories find extensive application in residential and
commercial fixed wiring systems to provide a safe residence and protect various electrical
switches, sockets, connections, and control systems. In addition, such enclosures are extremely
important for the prevention of electrical hazards, shorts, and other environmental damages that
make electrical installations safe. As such enclosures are safety-critical components,
manufacturers should adhere to BIS IS 14772:2020 standard for enclosures for accessories for
household and similar fixed electrical installations. Adherence to the BIS Quality Control Order
(QCO) for electrical boxes and enclosures is obligatory while manufacturing and selling such
products in India.
As per IS 14772:2020 standard, some technical features include mechanical strength, flame
resistance and heat resistance, dimensional stability, insulation, and environmental resistance.
BIS certification of electrical installation boxes provides assurance about conformity to Indian
safety requirements, increases the reliability of electrical installations and promotes better
market performance.
What is IS 14772: 2020 for Electrical Boxes and Enclosures?
IS 14772:2020 is the Indian Standard that specifies requirements for enclosures and boxes
used for accessories in household and similar fixed electrical installations. It ensures that
electrical enclosures used for switches, sockets, and wiring connections provide adequate
safety, durability, and protection in residential, commercial, and industrial environments. As per
the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), electrical enclosures are:
- Tested for mechanical strength and impact resistance
- Checked for fire and heat resistance performance
- Verified for dimensional accuracy and proper fitting
- Evaluated for protection against electric shock
Who needs BIS Certification for Electrical Boxes and
Enclosures?
BIS authorisation under IS 14772: 2020 is required for businesses involved in manufacturing,
importing, or supplying boxes and enclosures used for electrical accessories in India.
Applicable to:
- Manufacturers (India) - Must get BIS approval if the Electrical Mounting Boxes are
covered under QCO.
- Foreign Manufacturers - Need certification to export the product to India.
- Importers/Brand Owners - Must ensure that the Electrical Protective Boxes are
BIS-certified before sale.
- Sellers/Distributors - Should only sell certified PVC Electrical Enclosures.
Why BIS Certification for Electrical Boxes and Enclosures
under IS 14772:2020 is mandatory in India?
All electrical boxes and enclosures must be BIS certified under IS 14772 for safety, reliability
and for compliance with India’s electrical installations regulations. The products are used to
protect electrical connections from possible occurrences like shorts, fires, and damage to the
wiring in various ways.
- Electrical safety - Guarantee that the products prevent electrical faults and short circuits
- Fire safety - Ensure that the material used in the products is resistant to fire
- Structural integrity - Assures that the products are made of strong material
- Quality standardization - Guarantee that all products are manufactured according to IS
14772 requirements
- BIS QCO certification - Compulsory certification required before manufacture and
distribution in India
- ISI mark - Adds credibility to the product and assures that it meets India’s electrical
product standards
BIS Testing Requirements for Electrical Boxes and Enclosures as per IS 14772: 2020
To ensure safe usage and reliable protection in electrical systems, the Bureau of Indian Standards outlines the minimum requirements under IS 14772: 2020. This certification ensures that manufacturers meet the safety parameters as per the standard. It also ensures that the enclosure can withstand environmental exposure, electrical stress, and mechanical impact during operation.The BIS testing parameters and quality checks for the Fixed Electrical Installation Boxes & Enclosures are listed below:
| Test Group | What is Tested | Purpose |
| Protection Against Electric Shock Tests | Accessibility of live parts, insulation barriers, probe testing | Verifies protection against accidental contact with hazardous live components |
| Earthing Continuity Tests | Earthing terminals, bonding resistance, continuity of conductive parts | Ensures effective grounding and electrical safety |
| Mechanical Strength Tests | Impact resistance, fixing arrangements, cover retention, mounting stability | Confirms the enclosure can withstand mechanical stress and normal handling |
| Cover & Lid Retention Tests | Screw-type and non-screw-type fixing systems, removal force tests | Ensures covers and plates remain securely fixed during operation |
| Environmental Resistance Tests | Moisture protection, ingress protection (IP), drain hole verification | Ensures reliable performance in indoor and outdoor environmental conditions |
| Cable Entry & Anchorage Tests | Cable retention, anchorage strength, conduit entry compatibility | Verifies secure cable management and strain relief capability |
| Thermal Resistance Tests | Heat resistance, glow-wire test, ball pressure test | Ensures enclosure materials withstand elevated temperatures and fire hazards |
| Knock-out & Opening Tests | Knock-out removal, burr-free openings, fitting compatibility | Ensures safe and proper cable or conduit entry arrangements |
| Installation & Mounting Tests | Flush mounting, surface mounting, fixing provisions | Confirms suitability for different installation applications |
| Durability & Reliability Tests | Repeated opening/closing operations, fixing endurance | Evaluates long-term operational performance and structural reliability |
| IP Protection Tests | Resistance to dust, solid objects, and water ingress | Verifies enclosure protection level as per IP classification |
| Low Temperature & Climatic Tests | Performance at low ambient temperatures and environmental exposure | Ensures reliable operation under varying climatic conditions |
How to get BIS License for Electrical Boxes and Enclosures?
The BIS certification process ensures that electrical enclosures and boxes, as per IS 14772:2020, meet the required safety, mechanical and performance standards for use in household and similar fixed electrical installations. This process is defined by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and includes the following steps:
- Online Registration :- Manufacturers register on the BIS Manak portal by submitting company, factory, and product details. Foreign manufacturers must appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR).
- Testing at BIS-Approved Laboratory :- Product samples are tested in BIS-approved laboratories for safety, dimensional, mechanical, thermal and electrical performance requirements.
- Application Submission :- The application is submitted along with test reports, technical documents, and factory details. Foreign manufacturers must also submit AIR-related documents.
- Factory Inspection :- BIS officials inspect the manufacturing units to verify the production process, safety measures, and quality control system.
- Grant of BIS License :- If all the above requirements are satisfactorily met, BIS grants the certification license under Scheme-I.
- Use of ISI Mark :- Once approved, the manufacturer can affix the ISI mark on the product with a CM/L number, confirming that the product meets BIS standards.
Documents List for IS 14772: 2020 Certification
| Document Category | Documents Required |
|---|
| Basic Details | GST Certificate, Email ID & Contact Number, Factory & Office Address, Rent Agreement / Lease Deed (if applicable),Partnership Deed (if applicable for partnership firms) |
| Manufacturing Details | List of Machinery, Process Flow Chart, Factory Layout Plan |
| Raw Material Details | List of Raw Materials, Supplier Details, Raw Material Invoices, Raw Material Test Certificates |
| Testing & Quality Control | List of Testing Equipment, Calibration Certificates, QC/Lab In-charge Appointment Letter & Qualification |
| Production Details | Annual Installed Capacity, Last Year Production Value |
| Product & Packaging Details | Quantity per Package, Nature of Packing, Product Printing / Marking Details |
| Management Details | Top Management Details, BIS Communication Contact Person |
| Brand & Certification Documents | Trademark / Brand Certificate, Consent Letter from BIS Recognized Laboratory |
| Additional Documents | Weekly Off Details, Hygiene Document (if applicable), Relaxation Letter (if applicable), Any Other Relevant Document |
| Foreign Manufacturer Requirement | Appointment of Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) for BIS coordination and compliance in India |
Foreign manufacturers need to appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) in India. This person is the local point of contact for the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and takes care of all rules and compliance work in India.
ISI Marking Requirements for Electrical Boxes and Enclosures under IS 14772: 2020
After obtaining BIS certification, the ISI Mark for Electrical Installation Boxes & Enclosure must be clearly and permanently marked on its packaging or on the product. Along with the ISI Mark, key details such as the manufacturer’s identification and licence number (CM/L) are required. This marking ensures the product meets all safety and quality standards. Additional marking details are mentioned below:
| Requirement | Details |
| ISI Mark | Indicates that the product is BIS certified and conforms to standards |
| Standard Number | IS 14772: 2020 |
| CML Number | Certification Marks Licence (CML) number issued by BIS |
| Manufacturer Details | Name of manufacturer or registered trademark |
| Batch / Date | Batch number, heat number, or manufacturing date for traceability |
Note: Marking is typically applied using durable stamping, tagging, or permanent printing to ensure clear identification during handling, storage, and transportation, as per BIS marking requirements.
BIS License Validity for Electrical Boxes & Enclosures
| Particulars | Details |
| Validity | Typically 1 to 2 years, depending on BIS approval conditions |
| Renewal | Must be renewed before expiry by submitting the application along with the prescribed fee and updated documents |
| Surveillance | Includes periodic factory inspections and market sample testing conducted by BIS |
| Compliance | Continuous following to standard and applicable Quality Control Orders (QCOs) is mandatory |
| Risk | Non-compliance or failed sample testing may lead to suspension or cancellation of the BIS license |
BIS License Cost for Electrical Boxes and Enclosures as per IS 14772: 2020
The cost of a BIS License for Electrical Protective Boxes and Enclosures includes charges for application, inspection, license, testing, and marking. These fees are paid to BIS as per Scheme I guidelines.
| Charge Type | Indian Manufacturers | Foreign Manufacturers |
| Application Fee | INR 1,000 | USD 15 |
| Audit Charges | INR 7,000 | USD 3,200 - 5,900 |
| License Fee | INR 1,000 | USD 15 |
| Marking Fee | As applicable | As applicable |
| Testing Charges | As applicable | As applicable |
| EVTL India Consultancy Fee | As per actual | As per actual |
Note:
- Application fee for foreign manufacturers is payable via SWIFT (SAARC countries may pay in INR with applicable GST).
- Audit charges for foreign manufacturers vary based on country/location.
- The marking fee is determined based on the product category and production volume (MSME benefits may apply).
- Testing charges are paid directly to BIS-recognised laboratories.
- Consultancy fees vary depending on product type and factory location.
Penalties for Non-Compliance with BIS Certification for Electrical Boxes and Enclosures under IS 14772: 2020
Not adhering to the conditions set for certifying the electrical enclosures as per IS 14772:2020 of the BIS would result in serious penalties levied against the producers. All products not adhering to the required standards of certification and products that use the ISI mark without proper authority shall be deemed violators of the quality standards mandated in India.
- Legal sanctions - Fines or prosecutions could be carried out as per BIS regulations
- Recall/Seizure of products - These products could either be recalled or seized from the market
- Cancellation of license - BIS certification could be canceled due to nonconformity
- Prohibition against sale - Sales could be restricted in India
- Loss of market reputation - Non-compliance with the IS 14772 can affect brand credibility and affect the market reputation
Conclusion
Electrical enclosures and accessory boxes make a significant contribution in modern day electrical installation systems, as they provide housing and safety for switches, sockets, connection points, and other control parts. Such components are necessary to ensure safety from electrical shocks, shorts, dust contamination, and external exposure. Being certified as per IS 14772:2020 helps manufacturers ensure quality as per the stringent requirements regarding mechanical strengths, fire resistance, dimensions, and electrical safety standards. BIS QCO certification for electrical enclosures becomes obligatory in the case of their manufacture and sale in India.
BIS Certification of electrical boxes & electrical enclosures assures that the products meet safety and performance criteria specified in India. Thus, manufacturers get ISI Mark certification, which helps to enhance the reliability and market presence of the product. Manufacturers can get hassle-free assistance with BIS certification for IS 14772:2020 from EVTL India.
