The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has officially announced an extension for the implementation of the revised standards for Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS). This is a big step that will help the power electronics industry a lot.
The deadline for switching to the new safety rules was originally set for late 2025, but it has now been moved to November 19, 2026. This extension gives manufacturers, importers, and distributors a crucial chance to make sure their products meet the newest safety standards without causing problems in the supply chain.
In this detailed guide, we explain what this extension means, what technical changes the new standards will bring about, and what you need to do to make sure you follow them.
Core of the Update: IS 16242 (Part 1): 2025
The Bureau of Indian Standards has been trying to make Indian safety standards more like those used around the world. The main standard we’re looking at is IS 16242 (Part 1): 2025, which is in line with the international standard IEC 62040-1:2017.
This standard isn’t just a small change; it’s a combined Common Standard Version (CSV) that includes important changes, such as AMD 1:2021 and AMD 2:2022. These updates deal with new technologies in UPS systems, with a focus on:
- Enhanced electrical safety for users.
- More rigorous testing for fire and flammability.
- Improved mechanical stability and durability.
- Updated protocols for capacitor discharge and touch current.
Why Was the Deadline Extended?
The decision to move the implementation date from November 19, 2025, to November 19, 2026, was made after hearing from different people in the industry. Official circulars dated August 21, 2025, and October 10, 2025, made the extension official.
Several factors influenced this one-year reprieve:
- Technical Redesign: To meet the new safety standards, many manufacturers need to change the way their products are made or find new parts.
- Lab Availability: BIS-recognized labs need time to improve their testing facilities so they can follow the new rules in IS 16242 (Part 1): 2025.
- MSME Support: Smaller businesses often have a harder time with documentation and testing. The extra year helps keep things from getting stuck in “compliance bottlenecks.”
- Supply Chain Stability: Making sure that the market doesn’t run out of UPS systems while old stock is sold and new models are approved.
Key Technical Changes in the 2025 Standard
If you make or bring in goods, your technical team needs to know why the new standard is important. Here are the main things that need to be changed:
Improved Safety Tests
The new standard makes environmental tests, like Dry Heat and Damp Heat evaluations, harder to pass. There is also a new focus on Short Time Withstand Current to make sure the UPS can safely handle electrical surges.
Fire and Flammability
The 2025 version puts more emphasis on the materials used inside the UPS. Parts must now pass tougher fire-resistance tests, which greatly lowers the risk of dangerous failures in homes and businesses.
Mechanical & Structural Integrity
Updated rules cover the device’s physical structure, such as the strength of the handle, steady force tests, and how long the manual control will last.
Alignment with International Standards
Indian manufacturers can more easily sell their goods in other countries if they follow IEC 62040-1:2017. This is because the BIS certification will now match international safety standards.
Who Needs to Comply?
The extension applies across the board, but the requirements differ slightly based on your current status:
- Existing BIS Licensees: You must switch to the 2025 version of the BIS licence before the November 2026 deadline if you already have one under the old version (IS 16242:2014). This means sending in new test reports for your “Lead Models” and making a promise for your “Series Models.”
- New Applicants: You can still apply under the old standard for a short time, but it is highly recommended that you apply directly under IS 16242 (Part 1): 2025 to avoid the cost of “double testing” later.
- Importers: All UPS systems that are brought into India must follow the new rules. Foreign companies must hire an Authorised Indian Representative (AIR) to handle the BIS certification process.
Risk of Non-Compliance
Ignoring the November 19, 2026, deadline carries heavy consequences:
- License Suspension: BIS may cancel or suspend your registration.
- Market Bans: India will not allow the sale or import of products that do not meet standards.
- Financial Penalties: Selling goods with “expired” or out-of-date certifications can result in large fines.
- Reputational Damage: Retailers and government contracts need BIS certifications that are valid and up to date.
Roadmap to Compliance: Steps to Take Now
Don’t wait until the last quarter of 2026 to start your transition. Follow this roadmap to ensure a smooth process:
- Gap Analysis: Check to see if your current UPS models meet the standards set by IS 16242 (Part 1): 2025. Find out which parts need to be updated.
- Product Redesign: Make the necessary mechanical and electrical changes with the help of your R&D team.
- Sample Testing: Send your updated lead models to a BIS-approved lab to be tested with the new CSV version.
- Documentation Update: Make the technical files you need, like user manuals, circuit diagrams, and lists of parts, that follow the new rules.
- Submit to BIS: Upload the test reports and application for “Change in Standard” via the BIS portal.
Summary
The extension until November 19, 2026, gives the industry some “breathing room” to plan. The new UPS standards are very complicated, so the time should be used for active preparation instead of delay.
By following the most recent safety standards, your company not only stays within the law, but also shows that it cares about consumer safety and global quality standards.
