Toys are an inseparable part of childhood, shaping creativity, learning, and entertainment. But while toys bring joy, they can also pose risks if they fail to meet safety standards. In India, toy safety is taken very seriously, and the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) plays a key role in ensuring that every toy reaching the market is safe for children. Through BIS certification for toys and the ISI mark for toys, the government ensures that parents, schools, and retailers can trust the quality of toys available in India.
This blog provides a complete understanding of BIS for toys, ISI certification requirements, and how a BIS consultant for toys can simplify the compliance journey for manufacturers and importers.
BIS for Toys: Why It Matters
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is the national standards body of India. It sets benchmarks for product safety and quality, including toys. With children being highly vulnerable to unsafe materials, small detachable parts, or harmful chemicals, BIS certification ensures that only tested and safe toys are sold in the Indian market.
The government of India made BIS certification for toys mandatory from January 2021, under the Toys (Quality Control) Order, 2020. This move was aimed at protecting children from unsafe toys, particularly cheap, low-quality imports that could be hazardous.
BIS Certification for Toys: The Process
For manufacturers and importers, obtaining BIS certification for toys is not optional—it’s a legal requirement. Here’s how the process typically works:
Application Submission:
Manufacturers or importers must apply to BIS under the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS).Product Testing:
Toys are tested in BIS-recognized laboratories against Indian Standards like IS 9873 (Safety of Toys) and IS 15644 (for electric toys).Factory Audit (for manufacturers):
BIS officials may inspect the production facility to verify compliance with quality and safety norms.Grant of License:
Once tests are passed, BIS issues certification, allowing the manufacturer or importer to affix the ISI mark for toys on their products.Ongoing Compliance:
Regular surveillance, testing, and audits are conducted to ensure continued compliance.
ISI Mark for Toys: A Sign of Trust
The ISI mark is India’s most trusted quality certification symbol. When a toy carries the ISI mark for toys, it assures parents and retailers that the product meets strict safety standards.
Key points about ISI Certification for toys:
Mandatory Requirement: No toy can be sold in India without ISI marking.
Applicable to All: Both Indian manufacturers and foreign importers must comply.
Covers All Toys: Mechanical toys, battery-operated toys, plush toys, educational toys, and electronic toys all require certification.
For consumers, the ISI mark provides peace of mind. For manufacturers, it opens doors to a wider and more trusted marketplace.
Challenges in Toy Certification
While the benefits of BIS certification for toys are clear, many businesses—especially small toy makers—face challenges, such as:
Understanding detailed BIS guidelines.
Preparing proper documentation for certification.
Testing delays in accredited laboratories.
Handling audits and compliance checks.
This is where a BIS consultant for toys becomes invaluable.
Role of a BIS Consultant for Toys
A BIS consultant for toys helps manufacturers and importers navigate the complexities of certification. Their services include:
Guidance on Standards: Explaining applicable BIS standards and safety norms for toys.
Documentation Support: Preparing and filing accurate applications.
Testing Coordination: Liaising with BIS-recognized labs for smooth toy testing.
Audit Preparation: Helping manufacturers get their facilities ready for inspections.
Time & Cost Savings: Preventing errors that can delay certification.
With expert support, manufacturers can focus on production and innovation while ensuring compliance with BIS.
Benefits of BIS and ISI Certification for Toys
Certification is more than just a legal formality—it has significant advantages:
Child Safety First: Ensures toys are non-toxic, durable, and safe for all age groups.
Market Access: Certified toys can be sold across India without restrictions.
Consumer Trust: Parents prefer toys with an ISI mark over uncertified products.
Brand Reputation: Certified manufacturers are seen as credible and reliable.
Global Trade Opportunities: BIS certification enhances export opportunities by demonstrating compliance with recognized standards.
Conclusion
EVTL India is one of the leading BIS Consultant in India, helping manufacturers obtain their BIS licences hassle-free. Toys are not just playthings—they shape learning, imagination, and development. Ensuring their safety is a responsibility that cannot be ignored. Through BIS for toys, BIS certification for toys, and the ISI mark for toys, India has created a robust system that protects children and reassures parents.
For manufacturers and importers, compliance may seem challenging, but with the support of a BIS consultant for toys, the process becomes manageable and efficient. Ultimately, certification not only meets legal requirements but also builds trust, strengthens business reputation, and safeguards the most precious members of society—our children.