The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) plays an important role in ensuring the quality, safety, and reliability of products available in the Indian market. One of the key certifications provided by BIS is the Indian Standards Institute (ISI) mark, which signifies that a product conforms to the established Indian standards. For household refrigerating appliances, obtaining the BIS ISI certification is not only a mark of quality but also a mandatory requirement as per the Refrigerating Appliances (Quality Control) Order, 2020. In this article, we will discuss more about BIS ISI certification for refrigerators, covering its significance, the certification process, required documentation, benefits, and more.
What is the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS)?
Established on January 26, 1987, under the BIS Act, 1986, the Bureau of Indian Standards serves as the National Standards Body of India. Operating under the aegis of the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution, BIS is entrusted with the formulation and enforcement of standards to ensure the quality and safety of products across various sectors. The primary objectives of BIS include:
• Standardization: Developing and publishing Indian Standards for products and services to ensure consistency and quality.
• Quality Assurance: Implementing conformity assessment schemes to certify that products meet the prescribed standards.
• Consumer Protection: Safeguarding consumer interests by ensuring the availability of quality goods and services.
• Research and Development: Promoting research in the field of standardization to keep pace with technological advancements.
• Information Dissemination: Educating stakeholders about standards through workshops, publications, and seminars.
Through these functions, BIS aims to enhance product quality, promote industrial growth, and protect consumer interests in India.
Importance of BIS ISI Certification for Refrigerators
Refrigerators have become an indispensable part of modern households, preserving food and beverages by maintaining low temperatures that inhibit bacterial growth and spoilage. Given their widespread use and critical function, ensuring their quality and safety is utmost. This is where the BIS ISI certification comes into play.
The Refrigerating Appliances (Quality Control) Order, 2020, mandates that all household refrigerating appliances must conform to the Indian Standard IS 17550 (Part 1): 2021. This standard specifies the safety and energy performance requirements for household refrigerators and freezers, encompassing aspects such as cooling efficiency, energy consumption, storage capacity, and operational safety. Compliance with this standard ensures that appliances are energy-efficient, environmentally friendly, and safe for consumer use.
Manufacturers are required to obtain BIS certification to use the ISI mark on their products, signifying adherence to these stringent standards. This certification is not merely a regulatory requirement but also a testament to the product's quality and reliability, fostering consumer trust and satisfaction.
Key Indian Standards for Refrigerators
The primary Indian Standard governing household refrigerating appliances is IS 17550 (Part 1): 2021, titled "Household Refrigerating Appliances – Characteristics and Test Methods Part 1: General Requirements." This standard outlines the essential characteristics and testing methods for household refrigerators and freezers, ensuring they meet specified performance and safety criteria.
Compliance with this standard is mandatory for manufacturers, as stipulated by the Refrigerating Appliances (Quality Control) Order, 2020. Adherence to IS 17550 (Part 1): 2021 ensures that the appliances are suitable for use in ambient temperatures ranging from +18?C to +43?C, aligning with India's climatic conditions.
Required Test
Ensuring the quality and safety of refrigerators and freezers involves adherence to specific testing protocols and certification standards. These protocols are categorized into various test types and certification requirements as outlined below.
Classification of Tests
Testing of refrigeration appliances is systematically divided into three primary groups to ensure comprehensive evaluation:
1. Type Tests: Conducted to validate the design and performance of a prototype or initial model. These include:
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Door seal test
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Mechanical strength test of shelves and similar components
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Doors and fittings tests
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No-load pull-down test
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Energy consumption test
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Ice-making test (if applicable)
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Thermal insulation test
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High voltage test
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Insulation resistance test
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Internal frost accumulation and defrost test
2. Acceptance Tests: Performed on samples from a production lot to determine acceptance of the lot.
3. Production Routine Tests: Regular tests carried out on each unit during production to ensure consistent quality. These include:
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Thermostat test
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Insulation resistance test
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Door seal test
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High voltage test
Each refrigerator must be permanently and legibly marked with information as prescribed by the relevant standard. The Standard Mark (ISI Mark) may also be applied, indicating compliance with Indian Standards. Manufacturers must obtain a BIS license from the Bureau of Indian Standards to use the ISI Mark. This license is granted following a successful assessment of the manufacturing infrastructure, quality control, testing capabilities, and production processes during an inspection of the manufacturing premises.
BIS Certification for Freezers (IS 7872:2020)
Freezers are governed by IS 7872:2020, which specifies constructional and performance requirements. This standard applies to freezers with storage volumes ranging from 50 to 1000 litres Compliance ensures that freezers can maintain a mean internal cabinet air temperature of -18 degrees Celsius or less at an ambient temperature of 43 degrees Celsius. Manufacturers must obtain BIS certification to produce and sell freezers under this standard
Additional Requirements for ECO Mark
The ECO Mark is awarded to products meeting specific environmental criteria. For refrigerators seeking this mark, they must conform to the quality, safety, and performance requirements outlined in the relevant standard. Manufacturers must provide BIS with consent clearances as required by the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974; the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981; and authorization under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. Additionally, the refrigerator must comply with noise level standards specified in the Environment (Protection) Act of 1986, as updated periodically.
Documentation Required for BIS ISI Certification Refrigerators
Manufacturers seeking BIS ISI certification for refrigerators must provide a complete set of documents to facilitate the certification process. The essential documents include:
1. Company Details:
- Name and Address:
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Registered office location
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Factory premises location
2. Legal Establishment Proof:
- Documents evidencing the establishment of the manufacturing unit, such as:
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Registration Certificate
3. Industry Certification (if applicable):
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Small Scale Industries (SSI) certificate
4. Manufacturing Process Documentation:
- A comprehensive flowchart detailing all stages of the manufacturing process, from raw materials to finished products.
5. Machinery Inventory:
- A detailed list of manufacturing machinery, including specifications and relevant information.
6. Outsourcing Information (if applicable):
- Details regarding any outsourced manufacturing operations, specifying the nature and extent of such arrangements.
7. Testing Facilities:
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An inventory of in-house testing facilities and equipment.
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Copies of valid calibration certificates for all testing equipment.
8. Test Reports:
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Third-party laboratory test reports conforming to relevant Indian Standards (if applicable).
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In-house or independent test reports (if available).
9. Factory Layout:
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A layout plan of the factory premises.
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A location map indicating the factory's geographical position.
10. Authorization Documentation:
- If the application is signed by an authorized signatory, an authorization letter from the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) appointing the signatory.
11. For International Applicants:
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Nomination details of the Indian agent.
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Completed nomination form.
BIS ISI Certification Process for Refrigerators
Obtaining BIS ISI certification for refrigerators involves a systematic process designed to ensure that products meet the requisite Indian standards. The key steps in this process include:
1. Product Testing: The manufacturer must have the refrigerator tested in a BIS-recognized laboratory to verify compliance with IS 17550 (Part 1): 2021. The laboratory conducts comprehensive tests to assess parameters such as energy efficiency, cooling performance, and safety features.
2. Application Submission: Upon obtaining favorable test results, the manufacturer submits an application to BIS, including the test reports and other requisite documents.
3. Documentation Review: BIS reviews the submitted documents to ensure completeness and accuracy. Any discrepancies or missing information are addressed during this stage.
4. Factory Inspection: BIS officials conduct an on-site inspection of the manufacturing facility to evaluate the production processes, quality control measures, and testing capabilities. This assessment ensures that the manufacturer can consistently produce appliances that meet the prescribed standards.
5. Sample Testing: During the factory inspection, BIS officials may select random samples from the production line for further testing to verify compliance with the standards.
6. Certification Grant: If the factory inspection and sample testing are satisfactory, BIS grants the ISI certification, authorizing the manufacturer to use the ISI mark on their refrigerators.
This thorough process ensures that only high-quality, safe, and energy-efficient refrigerators are available to consumers in the Indian market.
If you need any support in obtaining ISI Mark Certification, then you can connect with the Compliance Calendar experts through mail info@ccoffice.in or Call/Whatsapp at +91 9988424211.
FAQs
Q1. What is BIS ISI Certification for refrigerators?
Ans. BIS ISI Certification for refrigerators is a mandatory quality assurance mark issued by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) under the ISI Scheme. It ensures that refrigerators conform to the standards set in IS 1476 (Part 1):2015, which covers safety, performance, and energy efficiency requirements.
Q2. Is BIS ISI Certification mandatory for selling refrigerators in India?
Ans. Yes, as per the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS) of the BIS, refrigerators must be certified with an ISI mark before being sold, imported, or distributed in the Indian market. Non-compliance can lead to penalties, product recalls, or bans.
Q3. Which Indian Standard applies to refrigerator BIS certification?
Ans. The applicable Indian Standard is IS 1476 (Part 1):2015, which outlines specifications for household frost-free and direct cool refrigerators. It covers safety features, performance tests, energy consumption, and construction details.
Q4. What are the key requirements to obtain BIS ISI Certification for refrigerators?
Ans. To obtain the certification, manufacturers must:
• Register under BIS
• Set up an in-house testing facility as per the standard
• Submit a sample for testing in a BIS-approved lab
• Undergo a factory inspection
• Comply with IS 1476 standards and labeling guidelines
Q5. How long does it take to get BIS ISI Certification for refrigerators?
Ans. The BIS ISI certification process usually takes 4 to 6 weeks, depending on the readiness of the factory, test results, and completeness of documents. Fast-track processing may be possible in some cases.
Q6. Can foreign manufacturers apply for BIS ISI Certification for refrigerators?
Ans. Yes, foreign manufacturers can apply under the Foreign Manufacturer Certification Scheme (FMCS) of BIS. They must appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) and ensure their products meet all Indian standards before import or sale.
Q7. What are the penalties for selling refrigerators without BIS ISI Certification in India?
Ans. Selling refrigerators without BIS certification is a legal offense in India. It may lead to:
• Seizure of products
• Monetary fines
• Cancellation of import licenses
• Imprisonment under the BIS Act, 2016
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