IS (Indian Standard) 13252 (Part 1)

Navigating the regulatory landscape for Information Technology Equipment (ITE) is critical for market entry in India. IS 13252 (Part 1) has long been the safety standard for IT equipment in India. It has now been superseded by IS/IEC 62368-1:2023: both standards can be used until 1 November 2028, after which IS 13252 (Part 1) is withdrawn.

• Regulatory Mandate: Compulsory registration for all domestic and foreign manufacturers.
• Risk Mitigation: Specifically engineered to eliminate risks of electric shock, fire, and mechanical injury.
• Market Access: A prerequisite for clearing customs and legal retail distribution.
• Brand Integrity: Demonstrates a commitment to high-quality safety benchmarks.

The primary standard governing this sector is IS 13252 (Part 1): 2010, which is harmonized with the international IEC 60950-1. It has now been superseded by the hazard-based IS/IEC 62368-1:2023. Under the amended CRS order, IT equipment can still be registered under IS 13252 (Part 1): 2010 until 1 November 2028, after which it is withdrawn, so we recommend testing new models to IS/IEC 62368-1:2023.

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. Testing to IS/IEC 62368-1:2023 starts from ₹35,000.
• 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.