Updated Implementation Guidelines for Household, Commercial, and Similar Electrical Appliances – IS 302 (Part 1) : 2024

The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has recently updated the Indian standard for the safety of household and similar electrical appliances. The previous standard, IS 302-1: 2008 (Safety of Household and Similar Electrical Appliances: Part 1 - General Requirements), has been replaced with the updated IS 302 (Part 1): 2024/IEC 60335-1: 2020 (Household and Similar Electrical Appliances – Safety: Part 1 - General Requirements), marking the Seventh Revision.

Concurrent Validity of IS 302 (Part 1): 2008 and IS 302 (Part 1): 2024/IEC 60335-1: 2020

Both the IS 302 (Part 1): 2008 and IS 302 (Part 1): 2024/IEC 60335-1: 2020 standards will remain valid and operate concurrently until 23rd February 2026. After this date, only IS 302 (Part 1): 2024 will be applicable.

Overview of the 2024 Quality Control Order (QCO)

The Quality Control Order (QCO) 2024 mandates that BIS certification is required for all electrical appliances used in households, commercial spaces, or similar environments. This applies to appliances with voltage ratings not exceeding 250V for single-phase alternating current (AC) and 415V for three-phase AC. Certain appliances already covered under other Quality Control Orders by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) are excluded from this mandate. A detailed list of excluded appliances can be found in Annexure-I.

Key Changes in the Revised IS 302 (Part 1) Standard

The updated IS 302 (Part 1) aligns with the international standard IEC 60335-1: 2020 and introduces several key revisions in areas such as:

• Licensing Scope

• Inspection and Testing Protocols

• Marking and Labeling Requirements

• Grouping Guidelines

Manufacturers must comply with these revised requirements for appliances that fall within the IS 302 (Part 1) scope.

What Manufacturers Need to Know

Manufacturers can apply for BIS certification under either the previous IS 302 (Part 1): 2008 or the updated IS 302 (Part 1): 2024 during the transition period. Specific compliance requirements will depend on the appliance’s classification within the IS 302 (Part 2) series.

• Products not covered under Part 2 standards will follow the IS 302 (Part 1) certification process.

• Existing license holders can transition their licenses to align with the 2024 standard or maintain separate licenses for both versions.

• Compliance with the revised standard is mandatory by the end of the concurrent period (23rd February 2026).

Steps to Ensure Compliance with IS 302 (Part 1): 2024

Manufacturers must submit updated test reports from BIS-recognized third-party labs for any additional requirements under the revised standard. Compliance will be verified during BIS inspections.

Product Manuals and Transition Guidelines

Updated product manuals for both the 2008 and 2024 standards are available on the BIS website. These manuals provide clear guidance on implementing the revised standards for a smooth transition.

Key Revisions in IS 302 (Part 1): 2024

The major revisions include:

• Adjustments to the licensing scope

• Changes in inspection and testing schemes

• Updated marking requirements

• Enhanced grouping guidelines

These updates bring the Indian standard closer to international safety norms, aligning it with IEC 60335-1: 2020.

Compliance Timeline

BIS officers will oversee the implementation of the revised standards. Manufacturers must ensure compliance before the end of the concurrent period (23rd February 2026). Any challenges faced during this time should be reported within 30 days.

For New Applications

• Applications submitted before sample testing may follow the IS 302 (Part 1): 2008 standard.

• After the concurrent period, all new submissions must comply with IS 302 (Part 1): 2024.

Manufacturers are encouraged to transition early to avoid disruptions.

Application Submission Process:

• Manufacturers can submit applications for BIS certification under either IS 302 (Part 1): 2008 or IS 302 (Part 1): 2024 until the end of the concurrent period.

• Post-transition, applications will only be accepted under IS 302 (Part 1): 2024.

Compliance with IS 302 (Part 2)

• If an application is based on IS 302 (Part 1): 2008 and a corresponding standard exists in IS 302 (Part 2), the license will be granted after compliance with both IS 302 (Part 1) and the relevant IS 302 (Part 2) standard.

• If the relevant Part 2 standard is unavailable, the license will be granted based on IS 302 (Part 1): 2008.

• Similarly, for IS 302 (Part 1): 2024, the license will be granted after compliance with both IS 302 (Part 1): 2024 and the relevant IS 302 (Part 2) or IEC standards.

For Existing Licensees:

• Manufacturers holding voluntary BIS licenses under the IS 302 (Part 2) series can switch their licenses to IS 302 (Part 1): 2008 or opt for separate licenses.

• The new license will cover the same scope as the existing license without the need for additional testing or inspections.

Importance of These Updates

These revisions aim to improve appliance safety, ensure alignment with international standards, and enhance consumer confidence in certified products. Manufacturers are urged to act promptly to meet the new requirements and ensure smooth compliance with the revised standards.

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