The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is a national certification body established under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution. It plays a crucial role in ensuring the quality, safety, and standardization of products sold in India. The BIS provides various types of certification schemes, including voluntary and mandatory certifications. Among its most recognized certifications is the BIS ISI Certification for Multipurpose Dry Batteries. This certification is represented by the ISI Mark Certification for Multipurpose Dry Batteries, which acts as proof that the product adheres to predefined safety and quality benchmarks.
What is BIS Certification for Multipurpose Dry Batteries?
BIS Certification for Multipurpose Dry Batteries is a mark of assurance that a battery has been tested against the Indian Standard IS 8144:2018 and meets all the criteria required for safe consumer use. It ensures that the dry batteries used in various portable devices meet high-quality parameters such as dimensional accuracy, leakage resistance, and longevity. Once certified, these products can carry the ISI mark, which signifies compliance with Indian safety and performance norms.
ISI Mark for Multipurpose Dry Batteries
The ISI Mark is a symbol that indicates conformity to Indian Standards. For multipurpose dry batteries, this mark shows that the product has undergone various quality checks and tests as prescribed by BIS. It also reflects that the product is manufactured in an environment that adheres to quality control practices, reducing the risk of consumer dissatisfaction or environmental harm. The presence of this mark boosts consumer confidence and strengthens brand value in a competitive market.
Applicable Standard for Multipurpose Dry Batteries: IS 8144:2018
The standard that governs BIS ISI Certification for Multipurpose Dry Batteries is IS 8144:2018. This standard applies to zinc-based dry batteries commonly used in devices such as flashlights, hearing aids, tape recorders, and radios. The standard divides batteries into High Power and Standard categories, with further classifications like R03, R6, R14, R16, and R20 depending on their size and use.
This standard outlines:
-
Battery dimensions
-
Performance requirements
-
Leakage resistance
-
Materials used in battery construction
-
Terminal configurations
Batteries must pass all the mentioned parameters to qualify for BIS certification.
Benefits of BIS ISI Certification for Multipurpose Dry Batteries
There are several advantages to obtaining BIS Certification for Multipurpose Dry Batteries:
-
Enhanced Safety: Batteries with the ISI mark are subjected to rigorous safety testing. This includes checks for leakage, short circuits, and durability. The testing process ensures that the battery does not pose risks such as overheating, chemical leakage, or explosion. For end-users, this provides peace of mind that the battery is safe to use in sensitive and personal electronic devices.
-
Environmental Compliance: BIS standards emphasize the use of eco-friendly materials and restrict the use of harmful substances like mercury or cadmium. This results in batteries that are less damaging to the environment during use and disposal. For companies, aligning with these standards supports sustainability goals and avoids regulatory penalties.
-
Market Credibility: A product with BIS certification gains a competitive edge in the marketplace. Retailers, wholesalers, and consumers recognize the ISI mark as a guarantee of quality. It helps manufacturers build a positive brand image and gain consumer trust, which can lead to better sales performance and customer loyalty.
-
Legal Compliance: For certain products, including multipurpose dry batteries, BIS certification is mandatory. Without it, companies may face legal actions such as product recalls, import bans, or penalties. Thus, obtaining BIS certification helps avoid legal hassles and ensures smooth market operations.
-
Marketing Edge: The ISI mark serves as a marketing asset. It can be prominently displayed on product packaging, advertisements, and marketing materials. This helps differentiate a certified product from non-certified ones, giving certified manufacturers an advantage in tenders, retail contracts, and online marketplaces where certifications are increasingly valued.
Required Tests for BIS ISI Certification
Manufacturers must ensure that their products pass several laboratory tests in BIS-recognized labs. The key tests include:
-
Leakage Test: Ensures that the battery does not leak hazardous chemicals.
-
Initial Life Test: Measures the battery's performance during initial usage.
-
Delayed Life Test: Evaluates the durability and longevity of the battery over time.
-
Dimensional Test: Checks that the battery's dimensions conform to IS 8144:2018.
-
Terminal Test: Verifies the strength and material of battery terminals for safe connectivity.
Documents Required for BIS ISI Certification for Multipurpose Dry Batteries
A comprehensive list of documents is necessary to apply for certification:
-
Applicant's identity proof and address proof
-
Factory address and registered office address
-
Proof of manufacturing unit establishment
-
MSME Certificate (if applicable)
-
Detailed flow chart of the entire manufacturing process
-
List of manufacturing machinery and equipment
-
Information on any outsourced manufacturing activities
-
List of testing equipment and calibration certificates
-
Internal and third-party test reports conforming to IS 8144:2018
-
Layout map of the factory premises
-
Authorization letter from the CEO or company head
-
Nomination form and affidavit if the applicant is a foreign manufacturer
Steps to Obtain BIS ISI Certification for Multipurpose Dry Batteries
Let us now walk through the detailed process of obtaining BIS ISI Certification for Multipurpose Dry Batteries.
Step 1: Nominate an All-India Representative (AIR)
If the manufacturer is a foreign entity, it must nominate a local importer or trader as the All-India Representative (AIR). The nomination must be made through a letter in the prescribed format (Form-IV). Indian manufacturers, however, act as their own AIR.
Step 2: Create an Account on the BIS Portal
The applicant needs to create an official account on the MANAK portal. This account is used to upload the application form, test reports, and all the necessary documents.
Step 3: Submit the Product for Testing
Samples of the battery must be submitted to a BIS-recognized lab for testing as per IS 8144:2018. The lab conducts all required tests and issues a test report, which remains valid for 90 days. The request for testing can be initiated through the Manak online portal.
Step 4: Fill and Submit the Application
Once the test report is received, the next step is to fill out the BIS certification application on the BIS portal. All documents, including the test report, must be uploaded. The application must clearly state the applicable standard IS 8144:2018 and include payment of the application fee.
Step 5: Furnish Manufacturing Details
The applicant must submit detailed information about the manufacturing process, the raw materials used, and the quality control procedures followed. This ensures that BIS understands how the product is built and tested at the factory level.
Step 6: Application Scrutiny and Factory Inspection
BIS officials will review the submitted application and all accompanying documents. If any clarification is needed, the applicant will be contacted. After the initial scrutiny, BIS sends an inspector to visit the manufacturing site.
Step 7: Onsite Inspection and Verification
During the factory inspection, the BIS officer verifies the manufacturing process, raw material quality, and testing procedures. The officer also checks the physical copies of submitted documents and compares them with the uploaded versions.
Step 8: Issuance of BIS ISI Certificate
Once the BIS officer is satisfied with the inspection and documentation, the certificate is granted. The manufacturer is then authorized to affix the ISI mark on the multipurpose dry batteries. The certificate confirms that the product complies with IS 8144:2018.
Validity and Renewal of Certification
The BIS ISI Certificate is initially valid for two years. The certificate can be renewed for a period ranging from one to five years, depending on the applicant's preference. To renew the certificate, the product specifications must remain unchanged. Renewal applications must be filed before the certificate expires. Late renewal will attract additional fees, including licensing and surveillance charges.
Why Manufacturers Should Opt for BIS Certification?
Manufacturers and importers aiming to sell dry batteries in the Indian market should seriously consider obtaining BIS Certification for Multipurpose Dry Batteries. Not only does it help comply with regulatory requirements, but it also provides assurance to consumers about product quality. With the increasing focus on consumer safety and environmental compliance, the ISI Mark for Multipurpose Dry Batteries becomes a vital aspect of product credibility.
Products that meet BIS standards are more likely to be accepted by institutional buyers, government procurement bodies, and large retail chains. Therefore, obtaining this certification not only opens up more market avenues but also sets a high benchmark for quality and trust.
Conclusion
BIS ISI Certification for Multipurpose Dry Batteries is not just a legal requirement for some products but a strategic step towards brand credibility and market acceptance. The ISI mark ensures the battery is safe, eco-friendly, and built with consistent quality. For manufacturers and importers eyeing the Indian market, understanding and complying with the BIS process, including documentation, testing, and inspection, is crucial. By investing time and resources into obtaining the ISI mark, companies can unlock substantial long-term benefits, both in terms of compliance and consumer trust.
If you need any support or want to obtain BIS/ISI Mark Certification, then you can book a free consultation with BIS experts at Compliance Calendar LLP through email info@ccoffice.in or Call/Whatsapp at +91 9988424211.
FAQs
Q1. What types and sizes of dry batteries does the BIS IS 8144:2018 certification cover?
Ans. The BIS IS 8144:2018 certification specifically covers zinc-carbon batteries in the popular sizes of R03 (AAA), R6 (AA), R14 (C), and R20 (D). These are the common multipurpose dry batteries used in various everyday electronic devices.
Q2. Why is it mandatory for multipurpose dry batteries to obtain BIS certification under the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS) in India?
Ans. It is mandatory because, under India’s Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS), supported by the Electronics and IT Goods (Compulsory Registration) Order, certain products, including batteries under IS 8144:2018, must meet BIS standards before they can be legally sold in the Indian market. This ensures a baseline level of quality and safety for consumers.
Q3. What are some of the key aspects of safety and performance that are tested as part of the BIS IS 8144:2018 certification process for dry batteries?
Ans. The certification process includes tests for physical attributes like size and shape, terminal design, performance under standard use and after storage, and critical safety aspects such as leakage under stress and the strength of the terminals. Proper packaging and labeling, including the mandatory ISI mark, are also verified.
Q4. Can you briefly outline the steps a manufacturer needs to take to obtain BIS certification for their multipurpose dry batteries according to IS 8144:2018?
Ans. The process involves: (1) submitting an online application with product and manufacturing details, (2) sending battery samples to a BIS-approved lab for testing against IS 8144:2018 requirements, (3) undergoing a factory inspection by BIS officials to ensure quality control, (4) receiving approval and permission to use the ISI mark if all checks are successful, and (5) being subject to ongoing monitoring by BIS to ensure continued compliance.
Q5. What are the benefits for both consumers and manufacturers of having BIS certified multipurpose dry batteries in the Indian market?
Ans. For consumers, the ISI mark builds trust and confidence in the product's reliability and safety. For manufacturers, obtaining certification helps avoid legal issues, opens opportunities for government contracts and tenders, and can potentially boost export potential by aligning with international standards. Ultimately, it signifies a commitment to quality and can be a long-term business advantage.