The switchgear and controlgear rated up to 1000V is a vital part of the electrical distribution and protection systems. These products are used for the safe control/switching of currents in residential, commercial and industrial applications ranging from small load circuits and heavy-duty applications.
Considering that the Switch Gear and Control Gear equipment are crucial for safety against electrical hazards such as risk of fire, short circuit and overloads, the Bureau of Indian Standard (BIS) has announced BIS Certification for the same under Scheme X Certification as a mandatory requirement. This scheme was implemented to ensure that no article is made, imported, or sold in India without the Indian Standard regarding human health and safety.
In this article, we explain the significance of BIS Scheme X Certification for Switchgear and Controlgear Equipment, details of the OTR mandate for 2024, and the step-by-step process for compliance.
Why BIS for Switchgear and Controlgear Equipment Matters
Switchgear and controlgear up to 1000 volts are essential in:
● Domestic and commercial electrical distribution installations
● Power management systems for industry
● Renewable energy facilities (solar/wind plants)
● Public infrastructure projects
● Safety-critical applications requiring circuit protection
Without proper certification, risks include:
● Risk of electric shock or fire
● Equipment breakdown and expensive downtime
● Violation of Indian safety norms
● Ban from tenders and projects that require certified equipment
The Scheme X certification for Switchgear and Controlgear Equipment ensures these products meet performance, safety, and durability standards.
What is BIS Scheme X Certification of Switchgear and Controlgear?
The BIS Scheme X Certification for Switchgear and Controlgear Equipment is part of the BIS Conformity Assessment Regulations, 2018. It enforces mandatory product testing, factory inspections, and compliance with applicable Indian Standards.
Key Features:
● Applicable to all Indian as well as foreign manufacturers
● Covers a variety of devices: circuit-breakers, disconnectors, disconnector switches, fuse-combination units and control devices up to 1000V.
● Requires laboratory testing in BIS-recognized facilities
● Includes production and quality system audits
● Entitles to use the Standard Mark on the product upon certification
BIS OTR for Switchgear and Controlgear Equipment
The Ministry of Heavy Industries has introduced the Omnibus Technical Regulation (OTR) for Switchgear and Controlgear Equipment in 2024.
Deadline for Compliance: Manufacturers and importers are required to obtain certification by 1st September 2026. Following this date such uncertified switchgear and controlgear equipment cannot be placed on the market, imported or manufactured in India.
Advantages of BIS Certification for Switchgear and Controlgear
● Electrical Safety: Guard against short-circuits, overloads, and potential fire hazards.
● Regulatory Compliance: Compulsory by the OTR for Switchgear and Controlgear Devices.
● Market Acceptance: Registered products are acceptable for all government and private projects.
● Customer Confidence: The BIS Standard Mark on the Switchgear and Controlgear provides the confidence of quality and safety to the customer.
● Competitive Edge: Improves brand reputation and opens doors for new businesses.
Process of BIS Certification of Switchgear and Controlgear
● Identify Applicable Indian Standards: Identify the IS codes related to switchgear and controlgear up to 1000 volts.
● Product Testing: Perform safety, performance, and endurance tests at BIS approved labs.
● Factory Audit: BIS inspectors verifies factories and quality control systems.
● Documentation Submission: All detailed specification, test report and compliance file support.
● Grant of BIS License: If accepted, BIS issues a license for the use of the Standard Mark.
● Ongoing Compliance: Audits to the standard and product testing at regular intervals ensure the certification remains valid.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Non compliance with BIS Certification for Switchgear and Controlgear Equipment under OTR scheme has following consequences:
● Banning the manufacture, import or sale of any product that is not certified
● Non-compliant equipment will be seized; and fine.
● Ineligibility in government tender
● Harm to business relations and the confidence in the market.
Conclusion
The BIS Scheme X Certification for Switchgear and Controlgear Equipment notified under the OTR for Switchgear and Controlgear Equipment (2024), is a key tool to guarantee safe, reliable and efficient management of power in India.
For manufacturers and importers, for whom the Scheme X of certification of Switchgear and Controlgear Equipment is not only a legal obligation it is also a strategic investment, ensuring access to market, credibility of brand and confidence of customers in general
