With the rapid growth of digital technology, electronic devices such as televisions, laptops, mobile accessories, networking devices, audio systems, and communication equipment have become an essential part of daily life. Ensuring the safety of these products is critical for protecting users from electrical hazards, fire risks, and mechanical injuries.
To address these concerns, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has adopted IS/IEC 62368-1:2023, which specifies safety requirements for Audio/Video, Information, and Communication Technology Equipment.
This standard plays an important role in regulating electronic and IT products sold in India and supports safer product manufacturing practices.
What is IS/IEC 62368-1:2023?
IS/IEC 62368-1:2023 is an Indian adoption of the international IEC 62368-1 standard. It establishes safety requirements for electronic equipment related to:
- Audio systems
- Video equipment
- Information technology products
- Communication devices
- Consumer electronics
- Networking and telecom equipment
The standard is based on a hazard-based safety engineering (HBSE) approach, replacing older standards such as:
- IS 13252 (Part 1)
- IEC 60065
- IEC 60950-1
The objective of this standard is to identify potential energy sources in electronic products and minimize the possibility of injury or damage to users.
Why IS/IEC 62368-1:2023 is Important
Modern electronic products are becoming more advanced and interconnected. Traditional safety standards focused mainly on product construction, whereas IS/IEC 62368-1:2023 focuses on identifying hazards and providing appropriate safeguards.
The standard helps manufacturers ensure:
- Electrical safety
- Fire protection
- Thermal safety
- Mechanical safety
- Radiation protection
- Safe operation under abnormal conditions
It also supports global harmonization, making it easier for manufacturers to comply with international safety regulations.
Products Covered Under IS/IEC 62368-1:2023
The standard applies to a wide range of electronic and IT equipment, including:
Audio and Video Equipment
- Televisions
- Speakers
- Sound systems
- Amplifiers
- Home theatre systems
- Projectors
Information Technology Equipment
- Laptops
- Desktop computers
- Printers
- Monitors
- Servers
- Data storage devices
Communication Technology Equipment
- Routers
- Modems
- Telecom devices
- Network switches
- Wireless communication products
Consumer Electronic Devices
- Smart devices
- Streaming devices
- Digital media players
- Gaming accessories
Key Safety Requirements Under IS/IEC 62368-1:2023
1. Protection Against Electrical Shock
The standard includes requirements for insulation, grounding, and protective barriers to reduce the risk of electric shock during normal use and fault conditions.
2. Fire Hazard Prevention
Products must be designed to minimize fire risks caused by overheating, short circuits, or component failure.
3. Thermal Safety
Electronic equipment should not generate excessive temperatures that may cause burns or ignition hazards.
4. Mechanical Safety
The standard addresses risks related to moving parts, sharp edges, instability, and mechanical strength.
5. Radiation Protection
Equipment emitting optical, acoustic, or other forms of radiation must remain within safe exposure limits.
6. Safeguards Under Abnormal Conditions
Products are tested under fault conditions to ensure user safety even during malfunction or component failure.
Hazard-Based Safety Engineering (HBSE)
One of the most important aspects of IS/IEC 62368-1:2023 is the Hazard-Based Safety Engineering approach.
Instead of prescribing only construction rules, the standard identifies:
- Potential energy sources
- Types of injuries possible
- Safety safeguards required
This modern approach allows manufacturers more flexibility in product design while maintaining high safety standards.
BIS Certification for IS/IEC 62368-1:2023
Many electronic and IT products covered under IS/IEC 62368-1:2023 require BIS registration under the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS).
Manufacturers and importers must ensure their products comply with applicable BIS requirements before selling them in the Indian market.
BIS CRS Certification Process
The certification process generally includes:
- Product testing in BIS-recognized laboratories
- Submission of application and documents
- Verification of test reports
- Registration approval by BIS
- Use of Standard Mark and registration number
Documents Required for BIS Registration
Commonly required documents include:
- Business registration certificate
- Manufacturing unit details
- Product technical specifications
- Test reports
- Trademark authorization (if applicable)
- Authorized Indian Representative details for foreign manufacturers
- Product labels and artwork
Benefits of Compliance with IS/IEC 62368-1:2023
Consumer Safety
Ensures protection against electrical, fire, and mechanical hazards.
Legal Market Access
Mandatory BIS compliance enables lawful sale of regulated products in India.
Improved Product Reliability
Products meeting the standard demonstrate better safety and quality performance.
International Alignment
The standard aligns with global IEC safety requirements, supporting export opportunities.
Brand Credibility
Certified products build greater trust among customers and distributors.
Industries Affected by IS/IEC 62368-1:2023
- Consumer electronics manufacturers
- IT hardware companies
- Telecom equipment manufacturers
- Smart device manufacturers
- Importers and distributors
- OEM and ODM manufacturers
Conclusion
IS/IEC 62368-1:2023 is a significant safety standard for audio/video, information technology, and communication equipment in India. The standard adopts a modern hazard-based approach to ensure product safety while supporting innovation in electronic product design.
Manufacturers and importers must comply with BIS requirements under this standard to ensure regulatory approval, consumer safety, and market acceptance. As technology continues to evolve, compliance with IS/IEC 62368-1:2023 will remain essential for maintaining product quality, safety, and trust in the electronics industry.
