Introduction

Toys are more than just playthings—they influence a child's physical and mental development. However, unsafe toys can pose serious health risks. In India, ensuring the quality and safety of toys is a regulated matter under the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). Whether you're a manufacturer or importer, obtaining BIS for toys is not just a legal requirement—it is a commitment to safety and trust.

Why BIS Certification is Mandatory for Toys in India

The Indian toy market has experienced a rapid influx of low-quality and unsafe toys, especially from unregulated foreign sources. To counter this issue, the Indian government made BIS certification for toys mandatory from January 1, 2021, under the Toys (Quality Control) Order, 2020. As per this order, all toys must meet Indian safety standards and carry the ISI mark before being sold in the market.

This regulation applies to both domestic and imported toys, irrespective of the type—plastic, electronic, wooden, or fabric-based. The aim is clear: eliminate the circulation of substandard toys and protect children from potential hazards.

What is ISI Mark and Its Role in Toy Safety?

The ISI mark for toys is a symbol of conformity to Indian Standards established by BIS. It ensures that a toy has been tested for essential safety parameters such as:

• Mechanical and physical properties

• Flammability

• Toxic elements (like lead and mercury)

• Electrical safety (for electronic toys)

• Hygiene and cleanability

Every toy carrying the ISI mark must have passed these stringent safety checks. As a result, parents and guardians can trust that the product is safe for children to play with.

Standards Applicable to Toys Under BIS

Currently, toys must comply with the following Indian Standards to obtain the ISI certification for toys:

• IS 9873 (Part 1): 2019 – Mechanical and physical properties

• IS 9873 (Part 2): 2017 – Flammability

• IS 9873 (Part 3): 2017 – Migration of certain elements

• IS 15644: 2006 – Safety of electric toys

Each type of toy must be tested based on its specific category. For example, electric toys are subject to additional safety criteria compared to non-electrical ones.

Who Needs BIS Certification for Toys?

The requirement for BIS for toys applies to:

• Indian manufacturers producing toys for the domestic market

• Foreign manufacturers exporting toys to India

• Importers and brand owners who source toys from third-party manufacturers

Whether you're a startup brand or an international company, you cannot legally sell toys in India without BIS approval and the ISI mark.

Step-by-Step Process for BIS Certification for Toys

Here’s a simplified outline of how the BIS certification process works for toy manufacturers:

1. Choose the Right Certification Scheme

Toys fall under the Scheme-I (ISI Mark Scheme), where product testing and factory inspection are mandatory.

2. Product Testing in BIS Recognized Lab

Before anything else, the toy must be tested in a BIS-recognized laboratory. Testing is based on the applicable Indian Standards as mentioned above.

3. Online Application Submission

Manufacturers must submit an online application via the BIS portal. Required documents typically include:

• Factory layout

• Manufacturing process flowchart

• Details of quality control staff

• Product test reports

• Legal business documents

4. Factory Inspection by BIS Officer

A BIS officer visits the factory to evaluate the manufacturing process, quality control, and test facility. It’s a crucial step in ensuring ongoing compliance.

5. Grant of BIS License

If everything meets BIS standards, the manufacturer receives the license to use the ISI mark on their toy products.

6. Post-Certification Surveillance

Periodic inspections and sample testing continue even after certification to ensure continued compliance.

Benefits of Obtaining ISI Mark for Toys

There are several advantages to getting the ISI certification for toys, such as:

• Legal eligibility to sell toys in the Indian market

• Increased consumer trust and brand credibility

• Reduced risk of product recalls or legal penalties

• Enhanced access to both retail and e-commerce channels

• Improved product quality and manufacturing practices

With parents becoming more aware of product safety, ISI-marked toys are naturally more in demand than unregulated alternatives.

Common Challenges in the BIS Certification Process

Though mandatory, getting BIS approval can be complex and time-consuming. Here are some typical challenges faced by manufacturers:

• Limited awareness of applicable standards

• Insufficient in-house testing infrastructure

• Language or documentation barriers (especially for foreign brands)

• Inadequate knowledge of compliance procedures

This is where an experienced BIS consultant for toys proves valuable.

Role of a BIS Consultant in Toy Certification

Hiring a BIS consultant for toys can simplify the entire certification journey. A professional consultant offers:

• Guidance on standard selection and documentation

• Coordination with BIS-recognized labs for testing

• Support in preparing for factory inspection

• Troubleshooting during application review

• Compliance training for manufacturing teams

For foreign manufacturers especially, a consultant acts as a local representative to handle the technical and procedural aspects of BIS certification in India.

Importers’ Responsibility in BIS for Toys

Importers must ensure that toys brought into India are certified under BIS. The onus lies on the importer to:

• Source only from BIS-certified manufacturers

• Maintain product traceability and documentation

• Ensure each consignment is tested and labelled with the ISI mark

Failure to comply can lead to customs seizure, fines, and permanent bans on selling products in India.

Cost and Validity of BIS Certification for Toys

The cost of BIS certification varies based on factors like the number of products, factory location, and testing charges. However, investing in certification is cheaper in the long run compared to the cost of non-compliance.

BIS certification is typically valid for two years and can be renewed thereafter. Renewal requires proof of continued compliance and payment of renewal fees.

Conclusion

EVTL India is one of the leading BIS Consultant in India, helping manufacturers obtain their BIS licences hassle-free. In a market as sensitive as toys, safety is non-negotiable. The BIS certification for toys ensures that products meet India’s strict quality standards, thereby safeguarding the well-being of children. Whether you're a domestic manufacturer or a global toy brand, obtaining the ISI mark for toys is your license to compete responsibly in India’s growing toy industry.

Don’t let the paperwork and regulations overwhelm you—partnering with a reliable BIS consultant for toys can streamline your path to compliance and market success.