What is BIS Certification for Power Banks?
BIS Certification for power banks is a mandatory requirement under the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS) of the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). All power banks imported or manufactured for sale in India must be registered with BIS and comply with the Indian Standard IS 13252 (Part 1):2010.
This certification ensures that the power banks are safe for use, minimizing risks of fire, explosion, and electrical hazards associated with lithium-ion batteries.
IS 13252 (Part 1):2010 Standard
The standard IS 13252 (Part 1):2010 covers "Information Technology Equipment – Safety – General Requirements". It specifies safety requirements for IT equipment, including portable power banks. Key testing parameters include:
- Electrical Safety: Protection against electric shock and energy hazards.
- Thermal Safety: Resistance to heat and fire.
- Mechanical Safety: Stability and mechanical strength.
- Battery Safety: Specific tests for the internal cells (often under IS 16046).
Benefits of BIS Certification
- Legal Compliance: Avoid penalties, confiscation, and legal action for selling uncertified products.
- Market Access: Mandatory for selling on e-commerce platforms like Amazon, Flipkart, and in retail stores.
- Consumer Trust: The BIS Standard Mark (R-Number) assures customers of product safety and quality.
- Brand Reputation: Enhances brand credibility and protects against counterfeit claims.
Documents Required
- Business Registration: Certificate of Incorporation, GST, or MSME certificate.
- Trademark Certificate: Copy of the brand registration.
- Authorization Letter: If the brand owner is different from the manufacturer.
- AIR Nomination: For foreign manufacturers, nomination of an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR).
- Technical Details: PCB layout, schematic diagrams, and user manual.
- Test Reports: Valid test reports from a BIS-recognized laboratory.
Registration Process
- Sample Submission: Submit power bank samples to a BIS-recognized lab for testing against IS 13252.
- Lab Testing: The lab conducts safety and performance tests and issues a test report (valid for 90 days).
- Online Application: Submit the application on the BIS CRS portal along with the test report and documents.
- Scrutiny: BIS officials verify the application and test results.
- Grant of License: Upon approval, BIS grants the Registration Number (R-Number).
- Marking: Affix the Standard Mark with the R-Number on the product and packaging.
Fees & Costs
The total cost includes:
- Testing Charges: Paid to the laboratory (varies by lab).
- Government Application Fee: ₹1,000.
- Processing Fee: Approx ₹50,000 - ₹60,000 (varies based on consultant and scope).
Validity and Renewal
Validity: The BIS CRS registration is valid for 2 years.
Renewal: It can be renewed for subsequent periods of 2 to 5 years. Renewal requires submission of an application and fees before the expiry date. No re-testing is usually required unless the standard has changed.
