Bunk beds are space-saving furniture designed with two or more beds stacked one
above the other. They are commonly used in homes, hostels, dormitories, and guest
rooms where efficient use of space is important. Since bunk beds are used for sleeping
at height, proper design and safety features are essential to prevent falls and ensure
comfortable use.
To regulate this, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has introduced IS 17636:2022,
which sets requirements for bunk beds in India. This standard covers aspects like
structure, safety features, and performance checks. When applicable under a Quality
Control Order (QCO), manufacturers must obtain BIS certification before selling these
products in the market.
Who Needs BIS Certification for Bunk Beds?
- Manufacturers (India): Must get BIS certification if bunk beds are covered under
QCO
- Foreign Manufacturers: Need certification to export bunk beds to India
- Importers/Brand Owners: Must ensure products are BIS certified before selling
- Sellers/Distributors: Should only sell certified bunk beds
Certification is regulated by the Bureau of Indian Standards under IS 17636:2022.
What is IS 17636:2022?
This is an Indian Standard issued by the Bureau of Indian Standards that defines the
requirements for bunk beds. It provides guidelines on how these beds should be
designed, made, and tested before being sold in India.
This standard ensures that these beds:
- Have proper structure and stability
- Meet required strength for safe use
- Include safety features like guardrails and ladders
- Follow defined construction and performance rules
Testing and Inspection Requirements for Bunk Beds
To ensure safe use and proper performance of bunk beds, the standard specifies testing
and inspection requirements. These tests are carried out during manufacturing and
regular checks as per guidelines of the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).
What are R and S?
- R (Required): Test must be conducted as part of regular factory checks
- S (Subcontracting Allowed): Test can be conducted in a BIS-recognized or
accredited laboratory
Material & Surface Tests
- Surface Performance Test (S) – Checks resistance to heat, scratches, stains,
and liquids
- Fabric/Leather Tests (S) – Checks strength, tear resistance, and color fastness
(if applicable)
Design & Construction Checks
- Design and Workmanship (R) – Ensures proper assembly and construction
- Dimension Check (R) – Verifies size, height, and structure as per standard
Safety & Performance Tests
- Top Bed Safety Barrier Test (R) – Ensures guardrails provide protection
- Gap Test (R) – Checks spaces to avoid entrapment risks
- Bed Base Test (R) – Verifies support strength of the mattress base
- Ladder Test (R) – Checks safety and strength of ladder steps
- Frame Strength Test (R)—Measures strength of structure and fastenings
- Stability Test (R) – Ensures the bunk bed remains balanced during use
- Upper-Lower Bed Fixing Test (R) – Verifies proper attachment between beds
Durability Tests
- Durability of Bed Base (R) – Checks performance under repeated use
- Ladder Durability Test (R) – Ensures long-term strength of steps
- Frame Durability Test (R) – Verifies structural strength over time
BIS Certification Process for Bunk Beds
The BIS certification process ensures that these furniture products meet the
requirements of IS 17636:2022 for safe and proper use. This process is defined by the
Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and includes the following steps:
- Application Submission: The manufacturer submits an application to BIS along with the required fees, providing details about the product, manufacturing process, and quality control measures.
- Product Testing:Bunk Beds are tested in a BIS-recognized lab.
- Factory Inspection: BIS officials inspect the manufacturing facility, including raw materials, production processes, and quality control systems.
- Evaluation of Test Reports:BIS evaluates the lab test results. If the product meets the required standards, certification is approved.
- Grant of BIS License:Once all conditions are met, BIS grants the manufacturer a license to use the ISI mark on products.
- Marking and Labeling:The manufacturer ensures that certified products carry the ISI mark, license number, and other necessary details.
Documents Required For BIS Certification
The following documents are typically required for obtaining BIS certification:
| Basic Details | - GST Certificate
- Email ID & Contact Number
- Factory & Office Address
- Rent Agreement / Lease Deed (if applicable)
|
| Legal Documents | - Partnership Deed (if partnership firm)
|
| Manufacturing Details | - List of machinery
- Process flow chart
- Layout Plan of Factory
|
| 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
- Nature of Printing / Marking on Product
|
| Management Details | - Top Management Details
- Concerned Person for BIS Communication
|
| 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 manufacturers must additionally appoint an Authorized Indian Representative
(AIR) to coordinate with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and manage compliance
requirements in India.
Marking Requirements & License Validity
Marking Requirements
When a manufacturer obtains the BIS license, the ISI mark for furniture bunk beds must
be applied clearly and permanently on the product or its packaging. In addition to the ISI
Mark, other important details must also be provided on the product or packaging, as
specified in the table below. This ensures the product meets all quality and safety
standards.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|
| ISI Mark | Confirms BIS certification and standard compliance |
| Standard Number | IS 17636 |
| CML Number | Certification marks license number issued by BIS |
| Manufacturer Details | Name of manufacturer or registered trademark |
| Batch / Date | Manufacturing date or batch number for traceability |
Validity of BIS License for Furniture products
| Particulars | Details |
|---|
| Initial Validity | 1–2 years (as per BIS approval) |
| Renewal | Required before expiry with updated documents & fees |
| Surveillance | Includes factory inspections and sample testing |
| Compliance | Must follow BIS standards and applicable QCOs |
| Risk | Non-compliance may lead to suspension or cancellation |
cOST AND TIMELINE OF CERTIFICATION
Cost Breakdown
Indian Manufacturers
| No. | Major Charges | Particulars | Amount | Remark |
| 1 | BIS Fees | Application Fee | INR 1,000 | — |
|
| Audit / Inspection Fee | INR 7,000 | — |
|
| License Fee | INR 1,000 | — |
|
| Marking Fee | Depends on product | Discount as per MSME |
| 2. | Testing Charges | Sample Testing Fee | As Applicable | Payable to a BIS-approved laboratory. |
| 3. | EVTL India Service Fee | Consultancy & Support | As per actual | Depends on product type and factory location. |
Foreign Manufacturers
| No. | Major Charges | Particulars | Amount | Remark |
| 1. | BIS Fees | Application Fee | USD 15 | Payable via SWIFT to BIS. SAARC countries can pay INR with 18% GST. |
|
| Audit Charges | USD 3,200 – 5,900 | Depend on Country |
|
| License Fee | USD 15 | — |
|
| Marking Fee | Depends on product | — |
| 2. | Testing Charges | Sample Testing Fee | As Applicable | Payable to a BIS-approved laboratory. |
| 3. | EVTL India Service Fee | Consultancy & Support | As per actual
| Based on product and manufacturing location. |
conclusion
BIS certification for bunk beds as per IS 17636:2022 ensures that these beds meet the
required Indian standards for safety and proper use. It confirms that the bunk beds are
tested and designed to be safe, especially for daily use where height and structure
matter.
With the support of an experienced BIS consultant like EVTL India, manufacturers can
complete the certification process smoothly, avoid errors, and get timely approval for
their products.
