IS/IEC 62368-1

IS/IEC 62368-1 represents a fundamental shift from prescriptive rules to Hazard-Based Safety Engineering (HBSE). It unifies the safety requirements for ICT and Audio/Video equipment into a single, comprehensive framework.

• Unified Standard: Replaces IS 616:2017 and IS 13252 (Part 1):2010 for CRS products; the old standards can be used until 1 November 2028.
• Proactive Safety: Focuses on identifying energy hazards (thermal, electrical, mechanical) rather than just "box-checking."
• Future-Ready: Designed to cover evolving technologies like IoT, AI-integrated hardware, and high-density power systems.
• Global Harmony: Aligns Indian manufacturing with international IEC benchmarks.

The current governing standard is IS/IEC 62368-1:2023. This aligns with the international 4th Edition. While the previous 2018 version is still in circulation, the 2023 version is the definitive roadmap for manufacturers aiming for long-term compliance under the BIS Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS).

Under the amended Electronics and Information Technology Goods (Requirements for Compulsory Registration) Order, IS/IEC 62368-1:2023 replaces IS 13252 (Part 1):2010 and IS 616:2017 for every product that used them, and extended reality products (AR, VR, MR) were added at S.No. 65. The old standards can still be used until 1 November 2028 (1 May 2026 for extended reality products); after that they are withdrawn.

The scope is broad, covering virtually any device that processes data or media. Key categories include:

• Computing: Laptops, Desktops, Servers, and Tablets.
• Media & AV: Digital Cameras, Smart TVs, Sound Systems, and Amplifiers.
• Telecom: Mobile Phones, Modems, and Routers.
• Office Infrastructure: Printers, Scanners, and Multi-function Devices.
• Power Components: External Power Adapters and UPS systems.

Testing is exhaustive and focuses on how the device behaves under normal, abnormal, and single-fault conditions.

• Electric Shock Hazards: Insulation, clearance, and creepage distances.
• Fire Hazards: Material flammability and power limiting circuits.
• Mechanical Safety: Stability, sharp edges, and structural integrity.
• Thermal Safety: Temperature rise limits for internal components and external enclosures.
• Radiation: Protection against acoustic (audio) and laser hazards.

All testing must be conducted in BIS-Recognized Laboratories or NABL-Accredited facilities located in India. For international manufacturers, while the reports must be Indian-based, the standard’s alignment with IEC means that existing CB (Certification Body) test reports can often be used as supportive data to streamline the internal evaluation.

• Testing Phase: 10 to 15 working days (subject to sample performance).
• BIS Review & Processing: 15 to 20 working days.
• Total Turnaround: Approximately 4 to 6 weeks from the date of sample arrival and document submission.

Typically, 1 to 2 units of the final product are required.

• Main Unit: One fully functional sample for non-destructive and destructive testing.
• Critical Components: In some cases, additional components (like transformers or power cords) may be required if they do not carry independent BIS or IEC certifications.

Compliance costs are categorized into two segments:

1. Testing Fees: Start from ₹35,000, depending on the complexity and number of models (Series guidelines apply).
2. Statutory Fees: Official BIS application and processing fees, plus any applicable Brand/Model inclusion charges. For a customized quote based on your specific SKU count, please contact our advisory team.

To ensure a seamless filing, the following must be provided:

• Technical Specs: User manuals, block diagrams, and circuit schematics.
• CDF & CCL: Critical Component List and Component Data Form.
• Business Proof: Incorporation Certificate, Trademark Registration (Brand Authorization), and ID Proof of the Authorized Indian Representative (AIR).
• ISO Certificate: Valid ISO certification for the manufacturing unit.