India’s toy industry has evolved rapidly over the last decade, with both domestic and international brands vying for consumer attention. However, with increasing demand comes the responsibility of ensuring that toys are safe, durable, and free from hazardous elements. This is where BIS for Toys plays a crucial role.

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), operating under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, is the national standards body of India. It is responsible for developing and enforcing product quality standards to safeguard consumers. For toys, BIS certification is mandatory under the Quality Control Order (QCO) to regulate manufacturing quality and safety.

Why BIS Certification for Toys is Mandatory

The Government of India, under the Toys (Quality Control) Order, has made BIS certification for toys mandatory to curb the sale of unsafe and low-quality products in the market. This requirement applies to both domestic manufacturers and foreign exporters selling toys in India.

The move ensures that toys are:

• Made with non-toxic materials

• Free from sharp edges or hazardous designs

• Mechanically and chemically safe for children

• Compliant with Indian Standards IS 9873 (Part 1, 2, 3, etc.) and IS 15644 for electric toys

Without BIS approval, manufacturing, importing, or selling toys in India is illegal, and violators can face penalties, including product seizure and fines.

Standards for BIS Certification of Toys

BIS has set specific Indian Standards for toy safety. These are divided into mechanical, physical, and chemical categories:

1. IS 9873 (Part 1): Safety Aspects Related to Mechanical and Physical Properties

This standard ensures that toys do not have sharp edges, dangerous points, or choking hazards.

2. IS 9873 (Part 2): Flammability

Specifies requirements for toys made of textiles and plastics to prevent fire hazards.

3. IS 9873 (Part 3): Migration of Certain Elements

Regulates permissible levels of toxic substances such as lead, mercury, cadmium, and arsenic in toys.

4. IS 15644: Electric Toys

Covers electrical safety requirements for battery-operated or electrically powered toys.

All toys must pass laboratory testing for these standards before being granted the ISI Mark for Toys.

ISI Mark for Toys – The Quality Seal

The ISI Mark is India’s official certification symbol, representing that a product meets BIS quality and safety requirements. For toys, the ISI mark is a guarantee to parents and retailers that the product is safe for children’s use.

A toy with the ISI mark assures:

• Compliance with Indian Standards

• Non-hazardous materials

• Tested for durability and safety

• Trusted by consumers

It is illegal to use the ISI mark without BIS authorization, and misuse can result in legal action.

Process of Obtaining BIS Certification for Toys

The BIS certification process for toys is thorough to ensure no unsafe product reaches the market. The steps include:

1. Application Submission

Manufacturers must apply through the BIS portal under the Scheme-I (ISI Mark Licensing) with all required documents, including factory details, manufacturing process, product specifications, and quality control measures.

2. Product Testing

Toys must be tested in a BIS-recognized laboratory according to the applicable Indian Standards. Testing includes mechanical, physical, and chemical safety checks.

3. Factory Inspection

BIS officials visit the manufacturing facility to verify production processes, raw material quality, and in-house testing facilities.

4. Grant of License

Once the factory inspection and testing reports comply with BIS standards, the BIS license is issued, allowing the manufacturer to use the ISI mark on toys.

Documents Required for BIS Certification of Toys

To obtain BIS certification, manufacturers need to provide:

• Company registration documents

• Factory license and layout

• Details of manufacturing machinery

• Test reports from BIS-approved labs

• Quality control plan and records

• Raw material details and safety compliance proofs

BIS Certification for Domestic vs. Foreign Manufacturers

Both Indian manufacturers and foreign toy exporters must comply with BIS requirements to sell toys in India, but the process differs slightly.

• Domestic Manufacturers: Apply under the ISI Mark Scheme directly with BIS.

• Foreign Manufacturers: Apply under the BIS Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS) and appoint an Indian Authorized Representative (AIR) to coordinate with BIS.

Validity and Renewal of BIS License for Toys

The BIS license is typically granted for one or two years and can be renewed by submitting updated compliance documents, production details, and applicable fees. Regular surveillance audits ensure ongoing compliance.

Benefits of BIS Certification for Toys

For manufacturers, BIS certification is not just a legal requirement—it offers significant business advantages:

1. Consumer Trust – Parents prefer buying toys with an ISI mark, knowing they meet safety standards.

2. Market Access – Enables legal sale of toys in India, including in e-commerce platforms like Amazon and Flipkart.

3. Brand Reputation – Demonstrates a manufacturer’s commitment to quality and safety.

4. Reduced Product Returns – Ensures products meet specifications, lowering defect-related returns.

5. Competitive Advantage – Certified products stand out in a crowded marketplace.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Selling toys without BIS certification is a violation of the BIS Act, 2016. Penalties include:

• Seizure of non-compliant toys

• Fines up to several lakhs

• Imprisonment in severe cases

• Damage to brand image and business trust

Role of a BIS Consultant in Toy Certification

The BIS certification process can be complex, especially for new manufacturers or foreign exporters. A BIS consultant for toys helps by:

• Identifying applicable standards for specific toy categories

• Coordinating product testing in BIS-approved labs

• Assisting in documentation and application submission

• Preparing for BIS factory inspections

• Managing license renewals and audits

With expert guidance, manufacturers can obtain certification faster and avoid costly compliance errors.

Conclusion

The Indian toy market is growing, but so is the need for stringent safety regulations. BIS certification for toys and the ISI Mark for Toys are essential for ensuring that children play with safe, high-quality products. Manufacturers—whether local or international—must strictly adhere to these guidelines to avoid penalties, safeguard their brand reputation, and win consumer trust.

With proper planning, documentation, and adherence to BIS standards, certification becomes a streamlined process, opening doors to greater business opportunities in India’s dynamic toy industry.