ISI Certification in India – Process, Requirements & Benefits

ISI Certification

BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) ISI (Indian Standards Institute) certification is a mark of quality that ensures that products meet the specified standards set by the Bureau of Indian Standards. The ISI certification is one of the most recognized and respected quality marks in India. Here’s an overview of what BIS ISI certification is, how it works, and why it’s important:

Overview

1. About BIS
1. The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is the national Standards Body of India working under the aegis of Ministry of consumer affairs, food & public distribution, Government of India.
2. Established by the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 1986 which came into effect on 23 December 1986.

2. Importance of ISI mark
1. BIS Certification (for ISI Marking) has been made mandatory for certain items/products, which are considered necessary from the point of view of health, safety, environment, prevention of deceptive practices, consumer security, etc.
2. More than 20,000 Indian standards are published by BIS in interest of consumer security, prevention of deceptive practices.
3. ISI Marking can also be granted on other items/products on voluntary basis.

How To Get BIS Licence (ISI Mark)

Step:1

• Preparation of application form.
• Initial review by Thinktrek Technology Services Expert.
• Sample testing in BIS approved lab.
• Submission of test report to BIS.

Step:2

• Submission of application to BIS.
• Scrutiny of BIS application.
• Closure of queries raised by BIS officer.

Step:3

• Factory Audit by BIS officer.
• Sampling.
• Sample pick up.

Step:5

• Grant of License to Manufacturer

Time Line BIS For Indian Manufacturer

Total Estimated Time: 45-60 Days

Surveillance Under ISI Mark

Once a BIS licence is granted to a Indian manufacturer under ISI, the certification doesn’t end there. BIS monitors licensees regularly to ensure continued compliance with the relevant Indian Standards and licensing conditions. This ongoing monitoring is called Surveillance.

Renewal BIS (ISI Mark) Licence

A BIS certified manufacturer's license remains valid for a period of one year. After this duration, it can be renewed for another year by submitting a renewal application along with the required fee. The payment details must be certified by a Chartered Accountant as part of the renewal process.

Documentation

1. Business License
2. Application Form V
3. Plant Layout
4. Production Flow Chart
5. List of Testing Equipment as per IS standards
6. Calibration Report of testing Equipment
7. In House Test report as per IS standards
8. Details of Raw Materials
9. Trademark Certificate
10. Undertaking
11. Authorized Signatory letter

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the ISI mark?

The ISI mark is a certification mark provided by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). It indicates that a product conforms to the Indian Standards specified by BIS and is safe, reliable, and of good quality.

2. What does ISI stand for?

ISI stands for Indian Standards Institution, the former name of BIS (now Bureau of Indian Standards).

3. Is the ISI mark mandatory?

Yes, for certain products like electrical appliances, gas cylinders, cement, helmets, etc., the ISI mark is mandatory by law. For other products, it’s voluntary but encouraged.

4. Who gives the ISI certification?

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) issues the ISI certification after inspecting the product, testing samples in BIS-approved labs, and auditing the manufacturing process.

5. How can I check if an ISI mark is genuine?

Every genuine ISI-marked product will have:
• The ISI logo
• A seven or ten-digit license number (like CM/L-xxxxxxx)
• The standard number (e.g., IS 302 for electric irons)
You can verify the license on the official BIS website.

6. What happens if a product uses a fake ISI mark?

Using a fake ISI mark is illegal. Manufacturers can be fined or prosecuted under the BIS Act. Consumers can file complaints with BIS if they suspect fraud.

7. Which products require mandatory ISI certification?

Some key examples:
• Electric irons, heaters, cables
• Gas cylinders & regulators
• Cement
• Pressure cookers
• Helmets
• Toys (as per latest BIS norms)

8. What’s the difference between ISI and BIS?

BIS is the organization that sets Indian Standards and gives certifications. ISI is the mark that shows a product meets those standards.

9. Can a foreign company get ISI certification?

Yes, through the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS) by BIS.

10. How long is ISI certification valid?

Usually valid for 1 or 2 years, depending on the product and renewal terms. It must be renewed periodically by the manufacturer.