BIS Certification for Protective Helmet

BIS Certification for Protective Helmet for Two Wheeler Riders | IS 4151:2015 | ISI Mar

Introduction

Protective helmets are essential safety products for motorcycle and two-wheeler riders. Because a helmet is designed to provide protection against head injuries during road accidents, its material quality, construction, retention system and performance need to comply with prescribed safety requirements.

In India, IS 4151:2015 – Protective Helmet for Two Wheeler Riders is the applicable Indian Standard for this product. BIS has issued a dedicated Product Manual for certification under Scheme-I of the BIS Conformity Assessment Regulations, 2018.

The Helmet for Riders of Two Wheeler Motor Vehicles (Quality Control) Order, 2020 made conformity to IS 4151:2015 and the use of the BIS Standard Mark under a BIS licence compulsory for the specified product. The QCO came into force on 1 June 2021. It also states that the Order does not apply to goods meant for export.

For manufacturers selling helmets in the Indian market, obtaining the appropriate BIS licence and ISI Mark certification is therefore an important regulatory requirement.

This article explains the BIS certification process for protective helmets under IS 4151:2015, including testing requirements, sample requirements, factory inspection, documents, licence scope, certification for foreign manufacturers and the role of BIS certification consultants.

What is IS 4151:2015?

IS 4151:2015 is titled:

Protective Helmet for Two Wheeler Riders

BIS describes it as the fourth revision of the standard for protective helmets for motorcycle riders. The standard specifies requirements relating to materials, construction, performance and testing of helmets intended for everyday use by two-wheeler riders.

The standard addresses important helmet characteristics such as:

Material requirements
Helmet construction
Protective padding
Retention system
Peripheral vision
Workmanship and finish
Mass
Performance testing
Impact-related requirements
Retention-system performance
Marking requirements

The exact conformity requirements must be assessed against the current applicable edition, amendments and BIS certification documents.

Is BIS Certification Mandatory for Two-Wheeler Helmets?

Yes, the specified Helmet for Riders of Two Wheeler Motor Vehicles is covered under the Helmet for Riders of Two Wheeler Motor Vehicles (Quality Control) Order, 2020.

The QCO requires the product to conform to IS 4151:2015 and to bear the Standard Mark under a BIS licence in accordance with Scheme-I. The QCO came into force on 1 June 2021.

Therefore, manufacturers supplying covered two-wheeler helmets for the Indian market need to comply with the applicable BIS certification requirements.

The QCO specifically states that goods or articles meant for export are outside the scope of that Order.

What Does the BIS ISI Mark Mean on a Helmet?

The ISI Mark indicates that the product is covered by a valid BIS licence and conforms to the applicable Indian Standard within the approved licence scope.

For protective helmets, manufacturers cannot simply print an ISI-style logo on the product. The Standard Mark must be used in accordance with the conditions of the BIS licence.

A manufacturer should therefore ensure that:

The correct Indian Standard is identified.
The helmet model is covered by the licence.
Required testing has been completed.
Manufacturing and quality-control arrangements comply with BIS requirements.
Marking requirements are followed.
The ISI Mark is used only within the approved scope.

Product Scope Under IS 4151:2015

The BIS Product Manual identifies the scope of certification for protective helmets according to model/design, type and size. The latest Product Manual states that a helmet of each Model/Design, Type and Size shall be tested to cover that variety in the licence.

The licence scope can include:

Protective helmet for two-wheeler riders
Model/design
With or without lower face cover
With or without visor
Size

This makes product-range planning particularly important before testing.

If a manufacturer has multiple helmet models, shell designs, visor configurations or sizes, the proposed certification scope should be reviewed before samples are submitted.

Types of Helmets Covered

The BIS Product Manual identifies helmet types including:

With or without lower face cover

and

With or without visor.

Manufacturers should not assume that testing one helmet model automatically covers every design manufactured at the factory. BIS grouping requirements must be followed for the specific models, designs, types and sizes.

Materials Used in Protective Helmets

The material requirements are addressed under Clause 4 of IS 4151:2015.

The BIS Product Manual specifically identifies materials under Clause 4 as part of the raw-material requirements.

Depending on the helmet construction, manufacturers may have to control materials used for:

Outer shell
Protective padding
Comfort padding
Retention system
Chin strap
Buckle and other metal parts
Visor, where applicable
Other components incorporated into the helmet

Material specifications, supplier documentation and internal quality controls should be maintained as part of the manufacturer's quality system.

Important Testing Requirements for IS 4151:2015

Testing is a central part of BIS certification for motorcycle helmets.

The BIS Product Manual identifies several tests that may be conducted, while the current BIS LIMS records show laboratories offering testing facilities for IS 4151:2015.

1. Size

The helmet must conform to the applicable size requirements specified in the standard.

Correct sizing is important because the helmet must properly fit the intended headform and maintain the required protective performance.

2. Constructional Requirements

The helmet's construction is evaluated against the applicable requirements of IS 4151:2015.

This can involve assessment of the shell, protective padding, retention system and other construction-related characteristics.

3. Peripheral Vision

The standard includes requirements relating to the wearer's field of vision.

The current BIS Product Manual specifically lists Peripheral Vision – Clause 6.7 among the possible tests in a day.

4. Workmanship and Finish

The helmet should have acceptable workmanship and finish in accordance with the applicable standard requirements.

Surface defects, finishing problems or construction issues may affect conformity.

5. Mass

Helmet mass is an identified requirement under the standard.

The Product Manual lists mass among the possible tests.

6. Retention System Testing

The retention system is a critical component because it helps keep the helmet securely positioned on the rider's head.

The Product Manual specifically identifies the Dynamic Test of Retention System under Clause 7.5 among the possible tests.

7. Impact and Performance Tests

The standard includes performance requirements intended to assess the helmet's protective characteristics.

BIS's technical material on IS 4151:2015 describes impact absorption testing, impact points, kerb-stone anvil testing, impact velocity and head-injury criteria. It also discusses retention-system testing and other performance requirements.

8. Chin Strap and Retention Components

The retention system includes important components such as the chin strap and associated fastening arrangements.

BIS technical information identifies requirements and testing related to the retention system, including micro-slip and abrasion-related checks.

9. Visor and Other Components

Where applicable, helmets may incorporate a visor and other components.

The manufacturer must ensure that these components conform to the applicable requirements of the standard and approved certification scope.

BIS Helmet Testing Charges

Testing costs depend on the laboratory, test scope, product configuration and applicable requirements.

The current BIS LIMS database lists multiple laboratories for IS 4151:2015. For example, one current listing shows a testing charge of approximately ₹14,000 excluding taxes, while another listing shows approximately ₹37,350 excluding taxes for the specified scope. Other laboratory listings show different charges.

These should be treated as laboratory-specific examples rather than a fixed BIS testing fee.

The actual testing budget should be determined after reviewing:

Number of helmet models
Sizes
Helmet types
Visor configuration
Lower-face-cover configuration
Applicable test scope
Laboratory selection
Additional testing requirements

Sample Requirement for BIS Certification

The latest BIS Product Manual available for IS 4151:2015 specifies:

8 helmets – for all tests.

The same Product Manual also specifies that each model/design, type and size is to be tested for inclusion of that variety in the licence scope.

Because sample requirements and certification documents can be updated, manufacturers should always confirm the latest applicable BIS requirements before submitting samples.

BIS Grouping Guidelines for Helmet Models

Unlike products where broad grouping may be possible, the IS 4151 Product Manual specifically requires consideration of Model/Design, Type and Size.

The current Product Manual states:

Helmet of each Model/Design, Type and Size shall be tested to cover that variety in the licence.

This means a manufacturer with multiple helmet designs should prepare the complete model list before deciding the testing plan.

For example, a manufacturer may have:

Full-face designs
Open-face designs
Different shell designs
Different sizes
Different visor configurations
Different lower-face-cover arrangements

The applicable BIS scope should be planned according to the current Product Manual rather than assuming that one sample covers every variation.

BIS Factory Inspection for Helmet Manufacturers

BIS product certification under Scheme-I involves assessment of the manufacturing facility and the manufacturer's capability to consistently produce conforming products.

BIS states that licence grant is based on assessment of manufacturing infrastructure, process controls, quality control and testing capabilities, along with establishing product conformity through laboratory testing at the manufacturing premises, third-party laboratory testing, or a combination as applicable.

During factory assessment, manufacturers should be prepared for evaluation of areas such as:

Manufacturing machinery
Raw-material control
Production process
Helmet assembly
Testing facilities
Calibration arrangements
Quality-control procedures
Finished-product inspection
Internal test records
Personnel competency
Product identification and traceability
Scheme of Inspection and Testing

Testing Equipment and Factory Laboratory

Manufacturers applying for BIS certification should have appropriate testing arrangements required for their product and certification scope.

The BIS Product Manual provides a dedicated list of test equipment through its annexures.

Depending on the applicable test requirements, a helmet manufacturing facility may need suitable equipment for checking parameters such as:

Dimensions
Mass
Material characteristics
Construction
Retention system
Peripheral vision
Workmanship
Other applicable product characteristics

Specialized performance testing may require suitable BIS-recognized laboratory facilities where permitted by the certification process.

Scheme of Inspection and Testing

The Scheme of Inspection and Testing (SIT) forms an important part of BIS product certification.

The Product Manual for IS 4151:2015 refers to a dedicated Scheme of Inspection and Testing in its annexure.

The manufacturer is expected to establish appropriate inspection and testing controls so that production continues to meet the requirements of IS 4151:2015.

This includes maintaining appropriate records of:

Raw-material inspection
In-process checks
Finished-product testing
Test results
Calibration
Non-conforming products
Corrective actions
Production batches
Quality-control activities

Documents Required for BIS ISI Mark Certification

A manufacturer applying for BIS certification for protective helmets may need documents such as:

Company registration details
Factory address and ownership/occupancy documents
Manufacturing process flow chart
Factory layout
List of machinery
List of testing equipment
Calibration certificates
Raw-material specifications
Supplier documents
Product specifications
Helmet model/design details
Size details
Internal test reports
Quality-control procedures
Testing laboratory reports
Technical personnel details
Quality-control personnel details
Trademark/brand documents, where applicable
BIS application documents
Undertakings and declarations required by BIS

The exact document list can vary according to the applicant's circumstances and current BIS application requirements.

BIS Certification Process for Protective Helmets

Step 1: Identify the Applicable Indian Standard

Confirm that the product falls under IS 4151:2015 – Protective Helmet for Two Wheeler Riders.

Step 2: Review the Helmet Range

Prepare a detailed list of all models, designs, sizes and types intended to be covered.

Step 3: Determine the Certification Scope

Review whether helmets have or do not have:

Lower face cover
Visor
Different designs
Different sizes

Step 4: Review Manufacturing Requirements

Evaluate the factory's machinery, production process, quality-control arrangements and testing facilities.

Step 5: Arrange Product Testing

Submit representative samples for the applicable testing requirements.

Step 6: Prepare BIS Application

Prepare and submit the required documentation and application through the applicable BIS process.

BIS currently accepts product certification applications through its online system.

Step 7: Factory Assessment

BIS assesses the manufacturing facility and relevant quality-control and testing arrangements.

Step 8: Corrective Action

If non-conformities are identified, the manufacturer must take appropriate corrective action and comply with the applicable BIS procedure.

Step 9: Grant of BIS Licence

After successful completion of the applicable certification requirements, BIS may grant the licence for the approved product scope.

Step 10: ISI Marking

Once licensed, the manufacturer can use the BIS Standard Mark according to the licence conditions and approved scope.

BIS Certification for Foreign Helmet Manufacturers

Foreign manufacturers producing motorcycle helmets for the Indian market can also seek BIS certification through the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS), subject to the applicable BIS requirements.

BIS states that FMCS allows a foreign manufacturer to obtain a BIS licence for products conforming to relevant Indian Standards.

This is particularly relevant for manufacturers located in countries such as:

China
Taiwan
Vietnam
Thailand
Indonesia
Japan
South Korea
Germany
Italy
Spain
France
United Kingdom
United States
Turkey
UAE
Other manufacturing countries

The manufacturer's factory must meet the applicable Indian Standard requirements and FMCS conditions.

BIS Licence for Overseas Helmet Manufacturers

Foreign manufacturers with factories outside India can apply under FMCS.

BIS specifies that foreign manufacturers applying under FMCS should have:

Conformity of products to the applicable Indian Standard
Required manufacturing machinery and facilities
Testing arrangements at the factory
Competent testing personnel
Acceptance of the Scheme of Testing & Inspection
Acceptance of BIS licence terms and conditions

A separate application is required for each product/Indian Standard and each manufacturing location, as specified by BIS.

Authorized Indian Representative for Foreign Manufacturers

Foreign manufacturers applying under FMCS are required to nominate an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) in accordance with BIS requirements.

The AIR acts as an important point of coordination between the foreign manufacturer and BIS in India.

Therefore, overseas helmet manufacturers planning to obtain a BIS licence for selling motorcycle helmets in India should address AIR requirements during the initial application planning stage.

BIS also states that FMCS applications can now be submitted online through the Manakonline portal, and from 1 June 2026 only online applications are accepted under the updated FMCS application process.

BIS Certification for Imported Motorcycle Helmets

Importers and overseas manufacturers should distinguish between importing a product into India and importing a product that is already compliant with a compulsory BIS certification requirement.

For products covered by a Quality Control Order, BIS certification may be required before the product can be supplied in the Indian market.

The BIS FAQ explains that for products covered by compulsory certification, import into India is subject to the applicable BIS requirements and valid certification.

For two-wheeler helmets covered by the 2020 QCO, manufacturers and international suppliers should therefore ensure that the appropriate BIS certification route is completed before commercial supply into India.

BIS Certification for Helmet Manufacturers in India

Indian helmet manufacturers can apply for BIS product certification under the applicable Scheme-I process.

A manufacturer should be prepared with:

Suitable production machinery
Appropriate raw materials
Quality-control procedures
Testing facilities
Trained personnel
Product specifications
Complete model and size information
Required test reports
BIS documentation

BIS explains that licence grant depends on successful assessment of manufacturing infrastructure, process controls, quality-control and testing capabilities together with product conformity.

Common Reasons for Delay in Helmet BIS Certification

Some common issues that can create delays include:

Incomplete product information
Incorrect model grouping
Inadequate testing facilities
Missing calibration certificates
Incomplete raw-material documentation
Test sample not matching production design
Non-conforming test results
Missing quality-control records
Incorrect marking information
Incomplete BIS application
Unprepared factory inspection
Failure to implement the applicable SIT

A detailed pre-assessment before submitting the application can help identify these issues early.

Benefits of BIS Certification for Helmet Manufacturers

BIS certification can provide manufacturers with a structured system for demonstrating conformity to the applicable Indian Standard.

For manufacturers supplying the Indian market, BIS certification can support:

Compliance with applicable compulsory certification requirements
Permission to use the BIS Standard Mark within the approved scope
Market access for covered products
Demonstration of conformity to Indian requirements
Improved quality-control practices
Customer confidence
Better documentation and traceability
Easier preparation for applicable procurement requirements

For overseas manufacturers, BIS FMCS can provide a certification route for demonstrating conformity of products manufactured outside India to applicable Indian Standards.

Why Choose Qualitance India for BIS Helmet Certification?

Obtaining BIS certification for protective helmets requires coordination between product requirements, testing, documentation, manufacturing facilities and BIS procedures.

Qualitance India provides BIS certification consultancy support for Indian as well as eligible foreign manufacturers seeking BIS certification for products intended for the Indian market.

Our support can include:

BIS requirement assessment
IS 4151:2015 compliance guidance
Product scope and model assessment
Testing laboratory coordination
Sample testing support
BIS application documentation
Factory inspection preparation
Quality-control documentation
Scheme of Inspection and Testing guidance
Non-conformity support
BIS licence application assistance
Scope extension guidance
Foreign Manufacturer Certification Scheme support
Authorized Indian Representative coordination support
BIS certification support for overseas manufacturers exporting products to India

Whether you are an Indian helmet manufacturer, overseas helmet manufacturer, exporter, importer or international brand planning to enter the Indian market, the certification route should be planned according to the product, manufacturing location and applicable BIS requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the BIS standard for two-wheeler helmets?

The applicable standard is IS 4151:2015 – Protective Helmet for Two Wheeler Riders.

2. Is BIS certification mandatory for motorcycle helmets in India?

The Helmet for Riders of Two Wheeler Motor Vehicles covered by the 2020 QCO must conform to IS 4151:2015 and bear the Standard Mark under a BIS licence. The QCO came into force on 1 June 2021.

3. What is the BIS ISI Mark for helmets?

It is the BIS Standard Mark used under a valid BIS licence to indicate conformity with the applicable Indian Standard within the approved scope.

4. How many helmets are required for testing?

The latest BIS Product Manual available for IS 4151:2015 specifies 8 helmets for all tests.

5. Does each helmet model need testing?

The Product Manual states that each model/design, type and size shall be tested to cover that variety in the licence.

6. Can a helmet have a visor?

Yes. The BIS Product Manual identifies certification scope for helmets with or without a visor.

7. Can a helmet have a lower face cover?

Yes. The certification scope identifies helmets with or without a lower face cover.

8. What are the major tests for IS 4151:2015?

Testing can cover size, constructional requirements, peripheral vision, workmanship and finish, mass, retention-system performance and other applicable performance requirements.

9. Is factory inspection required for BIS certification?

BIS product certification under Scheme-I involves assessment of manufacturing infrastructure, process controls, quality control and testing capabilities.

10. How much does helmet BIS testing cost?

Testing charges vary by laboratory and scope. Current BIS LIMS listings show different charges, including examples around ₹14,000 and ₹37,350 excluding taxes.

11. Can foreign manufacturers obtain BIS certification?

Yes. Foreign manufacturers can apply under BIS's Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS) for applicable products.

12. Can an overseas helmet manufacturer get BIS certification for selling in India?

Yes, subject to the applicable BIS certification route and requirements. Foreign manufacturers can apply through FMCS, including nomination of an Authorized Indian Representative where required.

13. Is BIS certification required for imported motorcycle helmets?

Where the product is covered by a compulsory certification requirement, the applicable BIS certification requirements must be fulfilled before commercial supply into India. The helmet QCO specifically makes the Standard Mark requirement compulsory for covered helmets.

14. Does the helmet QCO apply to products meant for export?

The 2020 Helmet QCO states that it does not apply to goods or articles meant for export.

15. What is FMCS?

FMCS stands for Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme. BIS grants licences under this scheme to eligible foreign manufacturers whose products conform to relevant Indian Standards.

16. Does a foreign manufacturer need an Indian Representative?

Foreign manufacturers applying under FMCS are required to nominate an Authorized Indian Representative according to applicable BIS requirements.

17. Can one BIS licence cover different helmet designs?

The applicable Product Manual requires consideration of each model/design, type and size. The proposed licence scope should therefore be planned according to the current BIS grouping requirements.

18. What documents are needed for helmet BIS certification?

Documents can include company details, factory information, manufacturing process, machinery details, testing equipment, calibration records, product specifications, quality-control documents and other BIS application documents.

19. Can Qualitance India help foreign helmet manufacturers?

Yes. Qualitance India can provide consultancy support for eligible overseas manufacturers seeking BIS certification and FMCS-related assistance for supplying products to the Indian market.

20. Can Qualitance India assist with BIS testing and factory inspection preparation?

Yes. Consultancy support can include product-scope assessment, testing coordination, documentation, factory inspection preparation, quality-control guidance and BIS application assistance.

BIS Certification Support for Indian and Foreign Helmet Manufacturers

If you manufacture Protective Helmets for Two Wheeler Riders and need BIS Certification / ISI Mark Licence under IS 4151:2015, proper planning of product models, sizes, testing, documentation and factory compliance is essential.

Qualitance India supports manufacturers in India and eligible overseas manufacturers with BIS certification consultancy for products intended for the Indian market.

For international manufacturers, exporters and global helmet brands, we can also assist with understanding the BIS FMCS route, Authorized Indian Representative requirements, testing coordination and BIS application process.

Qualitance India – BIS Certification Consultancy

Phone: +91-9310-615-170 Email: info@qualitanceindia.com Website: qualitanceindia.com

Contact Qualitance India to discuss your helmet models, manufacturing location and requirements for BIS ISI Mark Certification under IS 4151:2015.

Conclusion

BIS Certification for Protective Helmet for Two Wheeler Riders under IS 4151:2015 is an important compliance requirement for manufacturers supplying covered helmets to the Indian market.

The current BIS Product Manual provides specific requirements relating to model/design, type, size, sampling, testing equipment, Scheme of Inspection and Testing and licence scope.

The 2020 Helmet Quality Control Order made the Standard Mark compulsory for covered two-wheeler helmets from 1 June 2021, while exempting goods meant for export.

For Indian manufacturers, the process involves appropriate manufacturing and testing capabilities, product testing, BIS application and factory assessment. For eligible overseas manufacturers, BIS's Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme provides the applicable route for obtaining a BIS licence for products manufactured outside India.

With proper product-scope planning, testing coordination, documentation and factory preparation, manufacturers can approach the BIS certification process in a more organized manner.

Qualitance India provides BIS certification consultancy support for Indian manufacturers, foreign manufacturers, exporters and international companies seeking BIS compliance for the Indian market.