BIS Guidelines for Low - Voltage switchgear and control gear assemblies

Table of Content

Guidelines for Metal Cutting Machines

The Guidelines released by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), provides comprehensive guidelines for securing BIS certification for Low-Voltage Switchgear and Control Gear Assemblies, Part 3 – Distribution Boards for Ordinary Users (DBOs). These guidelines fall under the Machinery and Electrical Equipment Safety (Omnibus Technical Regulations) Order, 2024, which enforces adherence to defined safety norms for electrical devices.

The guidelines were published in July 2025, offering a structured roadmap for manufacturers to achieve compliance. Manufacturers must ensure conformity with these standards by January 2026, guaranteeing that all DBOs meet the prescribed safety requirements.

This guideline acts as an essential reference for manufacturers, certification authorities, and industry stakeholders, helping ensure that DBOs are both safe for general use and fully aligned with Indian national safety standards.

Purpose and Scope of the Guidelines

The Guidelines aim to ensure that Low-Voltage Distribution Boards for ordinary users (DBOs) meet strict safety and performance standards. Issued by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), they provide a clear framework for manufacturers to design, produce, and certify DBOs that are safe and reliable for everyday use.

These guidelines cover distribution boards and switchgear assemblies operated by ordinary persons, including those used in homes, offices, and light industrial settings. They define technical requirements, labeling standards, and compliance procedures, allowing manufacturers to certify multiple product variants efficiently. Overall, the guidelines ensure that all DBOs in the market adhere to uniform safety standards, protecting users and promoting trust in certified products.

Also Read: BIS Scheme X Certification for Switchgear and Controlgear Equipment

Application Process for BIS Certification

To obtain BIS certification for Low-Voltage Distribution Boards (DBOs), manufacturers must follow a structured application process under Scheme-X of the Bureau of Indian Standards (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018. The process is outlined as follows:

Determine Scope of Certification : For continuous production, manufacturers should apply for a Grant of License (GoL).For continuous production, manufacturers should apply for a Grant of License (GoL).
Prepare Technical File : Manufacturers must compile a technical file that includes Compliance Reports , Product Details , Sample Information.
Submit Application : Submit the completed application along with the technical file to the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).
Evaluation and Inspection : BIS will evaluate the application and may conduct inspections or tests to verify compliance.
Certification Decision : Upon successful evaluation, BIS will grant the appropriate certification (GoL or CoC) for the DBOs.

Machine Category Specific Requirements

To obtain BIS certification for Low-Voltage Distribution Boards (DBOs), manufacturers must include specific information in the technical file submitted to the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). These requirements are in addition to the general guidelines for obtaining a BIS license and are outlined in the Machine Category Specific Guidelines for DBOs.

Manufacturers must demonstrate that the DBOs comply with the relevant Indian standards. This includes providing compliance reports that detail how the product meets the specified safety and performance criteria.
The technical file should include details about the product series or grouping. This information helps in determining the scope of the BIS license and ensures that all variants within a series meet the required standards.
Information about the samples submitted for testing should be included. This includes batch numbers or serial numbers, especially for products not intended for continuous production, to facilitate the issuance of a Certificate of Conformity (CoC).
Detailed technical specifications and design information must be provided. This includes electrical ratings, construction details, and any other relevant technical data that demonstrate the product's compliance with safety standards.
Details about the manufacturing process should be included to ensure that the production methods adhere to quality and safety standards.

Labelling and Marking Requirements for Certified DBOs

Requirement	Details
BIS Standard Mark	The BIS Standard Mark must be affixed on the DBO, indicating compliance with the relevant Indian Standard.
Manufacturer's Details	The label should include the manufacturer's name and address to ensure traceability.
Product Identification	Clear identification of the product model or type to distinguish it from other variants.
Electrical Ratings	Display of key electrical ratings such as voltage, current, and frequency to inform users of operational limits.
Safety Symbols	Use of standardized safety symbols to highlight potential hazards and ensure user safety.
Date of Manufacture	The date of manufacture should be marked to assist in inventory management and warranty claims.
Batch or Serial Number	Inclusion of a batch or serial number for traceability and quality control purposes.
Compliance Statements	Any additional compliance statements as required by the BIS or other regulatory bodies.

Conclusion

In summary, the guidelines issued by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) provide a comprehensive framework for the design, manufacturing, certification, and labeling of Low-Voltage Distribution Boards intended for use by ordinary persons. The guidelines cover critical aspects such as technical file requirements, compliance with Indian standards, machine category-specific details, series grouping, and proper labeling and marking to ensure consumer safety. Adhering to these guidelines is essential not only for regulatory compliance but also for guaranteeing the safety, reliability, and quality of DBOs in the market. Manufacturers who follow these standards can enhance user trust, streamline certification processes, and contribute to a safer electrical infrastructure across India.

For any queries, you can contact us at cs@absoluteveritas.com or reach out to us by phone at +917303215033 for personalized assistance.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Who should apply for BIS certification under these guidelines?

Manufacturers producing Low-Voltage Distribution Boards that are designed to be operated by ordinary persons should apply for BIS certification to ensure their products meet national safety standards.

What is the application process for obtaining BIS certification?

Manufacturers must submit a technical file to the Bureau of Indian Standards, including compliance reports, product specifications, and sample details. The application process is detailed under Scheme-X of the Bureau of Indian Standards (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018.

What are the labeling and marking requirements for certified DBOs?

Certified DBOs must display the BIS Standard Mark, the manufacturer's name and address, product identification, electrical ratings, safety symbols, date of manufacture, batch or serial number, and any additional compliance statements as required.

What is a Certificate of Conformity (CoC), and when is it required?

A Certificate of Conformity is issued for machines not intended to be manufactured on a continuous basis. It specifies the batch number or serial numbers and is limited to the specific type of DBOs covered.