Our lives have been made much easier due to electric appliances. This is seen as fans help keep us cool, heaters keep us warm, and microwaves help save a lot of time. But these appliances can also end up having dangerous consequences. They can cause electric shock, overheat and can catch fire.

Because of these risks, the Indian government has introduced a new safety rule called the Safety of Household, Commercial and Similar Electrical Appliances Quality Control Order, also known as a QCO. This rule makes sure that only safe and tested electrical appliances are sold or imported into India.

Why This QCO Was Introduced

Many low-quality electrical products were entering the market.

• Some were unsafe.
• Some failed easily.
• Some caused accidents.

The government introduced this QCO to:

• Protect consumers
• Improve product safety
• Stop unsafe imports
• Make manufacturers follow Indian safety standards

Under this rule, electrical appliances must meet Indian Standards and must be certified by BIS before they can be sold or imported.

Official Notification and Legal Background

The particular QCO first came under the name on 20 September 2024:

“Safety of Household, Commercial and Similar Electrical Appliances (Quality Control) Order, 2024.” On another day, on 19 May 2025, the government of India issued an update on the name changing it to:

“Safety of Household, Commercial & Similar Electrical Appliances (Quality Control) Order, 2025.” This update clarified:

• Which products are covered
• Voltage limits
• Implementation timelines

The order is legally published in the Government Gazette and is fully enforceable . Although it is called a 2024 order, actual enforcement starts in 2026.

Which Appliances Are Covered Under This QCO

This QCO applies to household, commercial, and similar electrical appliances used in homes, offices, shops, hotels, and similar places.

Voltage Limits Covered

• Single-phase appliances: Up to 250 volts
• Multi-phase / DC / battery-operated appliances: Up to 480 volts

Complete List of Applicable Products

The following small and medium electrical appliances are covered under this QCO, unless they are already covered by another QCO:

Which Safety Standard Must Products Follow

The appliances which are covered must be in compliance with the given safety standards of IS 302 (Part 1): 2024 / IEC 60335-1:2020. It gives the general standards for safety for household and electrical appliances. It checks the following:

• Electrical safety
• Insulation quality
• Overheating risk
• Mechanical strength
• Protection against shock and fire

To make the transition easier:

• Old standard IS 302-1:2008 can still be used
• This dual option is allowed until 23 February 2026

When Does This QCO Become Mandatory

The government has given businesses enough time to prepare.

Implementation Dates

• Large & Medium Businesses: 19 March 2026
• Small Businesses: 19 June 2026
• Micro Businesses: 19 September 2026

This approach will help small businesses to adjust over a longer period without any undue pressure implied.

What Manufacturers and Importers Must Do

To follow this QCO, businesses must meet these requirements:

1. BIS Certification Is Mandatory

All covered products must have a valid BIS license and must carry the Standard Mark (ISI mark).

2. Product Testing

Products must be tested as per IS 302 (Part 1):2024 in a BIS-recognized lab.

3. Proper Marking and Labeling

Each product must show:

• BIS Standard Mark
• Manufacturer details
• Model number
• Electrical rating

4. Factory Inspection & Surveillance

BIS officers can:

• Inspect factories
• Check quality systems
• Take market samples

 Anyone who doesn’t comply will face the consequences of fines, penalties, suspension or even the license could be cancelled.

What Happens If You Do Not Comply

If a product does not meet this QCO:

• It can be stopped at customs
• It can be removed from the market
• BIS can cancel the license
• Legal penalties can be imposed

This applies to both Indian manufacturers and importers.

How This QCO Helps the Market

For Consumers

• Safer appliances
• Less risk of fire or electric shock
• Better product reliability

For Indian Manufacturers

• Improved quality standards
• Stronger brand trust
• Better global acceptance

For Imports

• Blocks low-quality products
• Ensures only certified goods enter India

Challenges for Businesses

Some businesses may face:

• Testing costs
• Documentation effort
• Factory upgrades
• Time delays

These challenges are higher for small businesses, but the extended timelines help reduce pressure.

How Businesses Should Prepare

Here are simple preparation steps:

1. List all your electrical products
2. Check which ones fall under this QCO
3. Study IS 302 (Part 1):2024
4. Start testing early with BIS labs
5. Prepare factory documents
6. Apply for BIS license under Scheme-I
7. Update product labels
8. Keep records for inspections
9. Track government updates
10. Inform suppliers and distributors

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is this QCO about?

Ensures safety and BIS certification of household and similar electrical appliances, sold in India.

2. When does it apply?

From March 2026 to September 2026,  dates for large, small and micro enterprises have been decide.

3. What products are covered?

Fans, mixers, heaters, microwaves, kettles, and many other similar appliances within the voltage limits.  In addition to it, appliances such as fans, kettles, microwaves, heaters, and mixers have also been covered under this. Many products that come under the same voltage limits are included as well.

4. Are any products excluded?

Yes. Products already covered by other QCOs are excluded.

5. Which safety standard applies?

IS 302 (Part 1):2024 / IEC 60335-1:2020.

6. Can old standards still be used?

Yes, until 23 February 2026.

7. Is BIS certification compulsory?

Yes, for all covered products.

8. Does this apply to imports?

Yes. Imported appliances must also be BIS-certified.

9. Can more models be added later?

Yes, additional models can be added after testing.

10. Why is this QCO important?

It keeps unsafe electrical products out of the Indian market and protects users.

Conclusion

This QCO is a big step toward safer BIS Certification electrical appliances in India.

• It protects users.
• It improves product quality.
• It raises industry standards.

Although compliance takes effort, the government has provided enough time to prepare. The businesses that will benefit most are those taking early action. Those who delay may face penalties or market loss. Safety is no longer optional. It is mandatory.