- BIS for Contactors and Motor IS IEC 60947-4-12018 specifies safety and performance conditions for electromechanical contactors and motor starters.
- Compliance under this standard is obligatory for regulated low- voltage switchgear products in India.
- BIS instrument ensures product trustability, functional safety, and legal request access.
- Testing includes electrical abidance, thermal performance, dielectric strength, and mechanical continuity.
- Non-compliance can lead to import bans, penalties, product recalls, and reputational damage.
Introduction | BIS for Contactors and Motor Starters
To regulate quality and ensure electrical safety, India has adopted IS/IEC 60947-4-1:2018, which aligns with international IEC standards. This standard falls under the low-voltage switchgear and controlgear series and specifically governs electromechanical contactors and motor starters.
Manufacturers and importers dealing in such products must obtain BIS certification from the Bureau of Indian Standards before selling in the Indian market. This article explains everything you need to know—what the standard is, why it matters, its importance, benefits, challenges, and why choosing the right certification partner makes all the difference.
What Is BIS for Contactors and Motor Starters IS/IEC 60947-4-1:2018?
BIS for Contactors and Motor Starters IS IEC 60947-4-12018 is an Indian Standard that specifies conditions for electromechanical contactors and motor starters intended for use in power circuits with rated voltages up to 1000 V AC or 1500 V DC.
- Electromechanical contactors for switching motors and loads
- Motor starters, including direct- on- line( DOL) and reversing starters
- Rated functional voltages and currents
- Making and breaking capacity
- Electrical and mechanical abidance
- Thermal performance and temperature rise
- Short- circuit repel capability
- Dielectric parcels and sequestration conditions
- Marking, labeling, and attestation morals
Why BIS for Contactors and Motor Starters IS/IEC 60947-4-1:2018 Compliance Is Required
Compliance with this standard is n’t voluntary when products fall under the regulated order.
- Legal demand Products covered under this standard can not be manufactured, imported, or vended in India without a valid BIS instrument.
- Electrical Safety Assurance Ensures protection against short circuits, overloads,
- sequestration failure, and overheating.
- Market Access Without BIS blessing, products can be stopped at customs or removed from distribution channels.
- Consumer and Industrial Trust BIS- pronounced products are perceived as safe, durable, and dependable.
- Alignment with Global norms Harmonized with IEC morals, making compliance easier for exporters and transnational manufacturers.
Importance and Benefits of BIS Certification
| Importance | Benefits |
| Ensures electrical and mechanical safety | Reduces product failure and accident risks |
| Confirms conformity to Indian Standards | Builds customer and OEM confidence |
| Mandatory for regulated switchgear | Avoids legal penalties and import rejection |
| Validates performance under load conditions | Improves brand credibility |
| Protects end-users and infrastructure | Enables participation in tenders and projects |
| Supports regulatory enforcement | Smooth customs clearance |
| Promotes quality manufacturing | Competitive advantage in the market |
| Prevents substandard imports | Long-term cost savings |
| Encourages product consistency | Enhances export readiness |
| Aligns with international IEC norms | Simplifies cross-border acceptance |
Step-by-Step Process of BIS for Contactors and Motor Starters
Step1:Documentation
- Collect required technical documents
- Prepare product specifications
- Gather company registration details
- Ensure documents follow BIS format
Step2:Product Testing
- Send samples to a BIS-approved lab
- Conduct safety and quality tests
- Receive test reports
- Confirm compliance with BIS standards
Step3:Application Submission
- Fill out the BIS application form
- Upload all required documents
- Attach valid test reports
- Pay the necessary BIS fees
Step4:Scrutiny and Inspection
- BIS reviews submitted documents
- Authority verifies test results
- Factory/product inspection may occur
- Clarifications requested if needed
Step5:Grant of License
- BIS approves the application
- License number is issued
- Product can carry BIS mark
- Renewal required before expiry
Documents Required for BIS Certification
| Category | Documents Required |
| Business Documents | Business license/registration, ISO certificate, organizational details |
| Manufacturer Details | Factory layout, process flow chart, machinery list, production details |
| Product Documents | Product specifications, component list, user manual, model details |
| Testing Documents | Test report from BIS-recognized lab, sample details, test request form |
| Legal & Compliance | Authorization letter, brand ownership proof, trademark certificate (if any) |
| Import/Foreign Manufacturer (If applicable) | AIR (Authorized Indian Representative) details, contract agreement, overseas manufacturer documents |
Timelines, Costs, Validity & Renewal
- Timelines: Usually from 20 to 30 days, with only 7-15 days for the testing.
- Costs: The cost of the government and the test varies depending on the product. There can be some additional charges though.
- Validity: The validity period is 2 years in most situations.
- Renewal: The renewal is done before the expiration; there should be updated documents/tests; the renewal
Challenges of Getting BIS Certification Without a Consultant
BIS for Contactors and Motor Starters instrument is essential, the process is complex and attestation-heavy, especially for specialized products like contactors and motor starters.
- Understanding the Standard IS/ IEC 60947-4-1 is largely specialized, making interpretation delicate without sphere moxie.
- Product Categorization crimes Incorrect brackets can affect in operation rejection or detainments.
- Testing Complications Testing parameters similar as abidance cycles, temperature rise, and dielectric strength must rigorously match the standard.
- Attestation Gaps Missing or incorrect documents( test reports, plant layouts, quality primers) beget repeated queries.
- Plant examination Readiness BIS checkups manufacturing installations for quality control systems, ministry, and testing structure.
- Communication Detainments Responding to BIS for Contactors and Motor Starters queries without procedural knowledge frequently leads to long blessing timelines.
- Expensive miscalculations Retesting,re-application, or rejection significantly increases compliance costs.
Why Choose Diligence Certification for BIS Approval?
BIS for Contactors and Motor Starters instruments becomes smooth and predictable when handled by experts like Diligence Certification
- End- to- End Support From product assessment to final BIS license allocation.
- Specialized Expertise Deep understanding of IS/ IEC 60947-4-1 testing and attestation conditions.
- Pre-Compliance Evaluation Identifies gaps before sanctioned testing, saving time and cost.
- Collaboration with BIS- Approved Labs Ensures accurate and briskly testing issues.
- Factory Audit Preparation Helps manufacturers prepare for BIS examinations with confidence.
- Transparent Process & Timelines Clear communication and realistic blessing schedules.
- Support for Indian & Foreign Manufacturers Specialized backing for importers and overseas manufacturers.
Conclusion
BIS for Contactors and Motor Starters IS IEC 60947-4-12018 plays a pivotal part in maintaining the safety, trustability, and performance of electromechanical contactors and motor starters used across artificial and marketable operations. BIS instrument under this standard is n’t simply a nonsupervisory formality, it is a commitment to quality, safety, and trust.
For manufacturers and importers, compliance ensures legal request access, functional credibility, and protection from nonsupervisory pitfalls. still, navigating the BIS for Contactors and Motor Starters instrument process without expert guidance can be time- consuming and expensive.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is IS/IEC 60947-4-1:2018?
It is an Indian Standard specifying safety and performance requirements for electromechanical contactors and motor starters.
Is BIS certification mandatory for contactors and motor starters?
Yes, BIS certification is mandatory for regulated low-voltage switchgear products in India.
Who issues BIS certification in India?
The certification is issued by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).
Which products fall under IS/IEC 60947-4-1?
Electromechanical contactors, motor starters, and related low-voltage control devices.
What tests are required for BIS certification?
Electrical endurance, mechanical endurance, temperature rise, dielectric strength, and short-circuit performance tests.
Can imported contactors be sold without BIS approval?
No, imported products must have BIS certification before entering the Indian market.
How long does BIS certification take?
Typically 3–6 months, depending on documentation, testing, and inspection readiness.
Is factory inspection mandatory?
Yes, BIS conducts factory audits to verify manufacturing and quality control systems.
What happens if a product is sold without BIS certification?
Penalties, seizure of goods, cancellation of imports, and legal action may apply.
Why hire a BIS consultant for IS/IEC 60947-4-1 certification?
A consultant ensures faster approval, accurate documentation, reduced risk, and full compliance.
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