{"id":3956,"date":"2026-10-01T10:29:42","date_gmt":"2026-10-01T10:29:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/qualitanceindia.com\/?p=3956"},"modified":"2026-10-01T10:29:42","modified_gmt":"2026-10-01T10:29:42","slug":"bis-certification-for-visor-for-scooter-helmets-is-99731981-isi-mark","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/qualitanceindia.com\/bis-certification-for-visor-for-scooter-helmets-is-99731981-isi-mark\/","title":{"rendered":"BIS Certification for Visor for Scooter Helmets | IS 9973:1981 | ISI Mark"},"content":{"rendered":"

Introduction<\/h2>\n

A visor is an important accessory fitted to a motorcycle or scooter helmet to help protect the rider’s eyes and face from wind, insects and other external obstacles while maintaining an adequate field of vision. Because the visor directly affects visibility and protective performance, its material, design, impact resistance, optical properties, finish and marking need to conform to applicable requirements.<\/p>\n

In India, the requirements for Visor for Scooter Helmets<\/strong> are specified in IS 9973:1981 \u2013 Specification for Visor for Scooter Helmets<\/strong>. BIS has issued a product manual for this product under Scheme-I of the BIS Conformity Assessment Regulations, 2018<\/strong>, making it suitable for manufacturers seeking a BIS licence to use the Standard Mark (ISI Mark)<\/strong>. The current BIS Product Manual records one amendment to the standard.<\/p>\n

The BIS standard defines the visor as a complete assembly consisting of a visor screen with suitable provision for attachment to the helmet.<\/p>\n

\n
\n<\/div>\n

What Is IS 9973:1981?<\/h1>\n

IS 9973:1981<\/strong> is the Indian Standard titled:<\/p>\n

\u201cSpecification for Visor for Scooter Helmets\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n

The standard covers requirements relating to:<\/p>\n

    \n
  • Material<\/li>\n
  • Construction<\/li>\n
  • Design<\/li>\n
  • Workmanship<\/li>\n
  • Impact resistance<\/li>\n
  • Penetration resistance<\/li>\n
  • Flammability<\/li>\n
  • Optical performance<\/li>\n
  • Field of vision<\/li>\n
  • Mass<\/li>\n
  • Instructions<\/li>\n
  • Marking<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

    The standard states that it covers visors used with motorcycle and scooter helmets and is an adjunct to the applicable helmet standard.<\/p>\n

    \n
    \n<\/div>\n

    What Is a Visor Under IS 9973?<\/h1>\n

    IS 9973 defines a visor<\/strong> as the complete assembly of the visor screen together with suitable provision for attachment to the helmet.<\/p>\n

    The visor screen<\/strong> is the curved transparent plastic material intended to provide protection to the rider’s eyes and face.<\/p>\n

    This means that certification consideration is not limited only to the transparent plastic sheet. The complete visor assembly, including its attachment arrangement, is relevant to conformity assessment.<\/p>\n

    \n
    \n<\/div>\n

    BIS Certification for Visor for Scooter Helmets<\/h1>\n

    BIS certification for this product is carried out under Scheme-I<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

    Under Scheme-I, BIS grants a licence to a manufacturer to use the Standard Mark \/ ISI Mark<\/strong> on products that conform to the relevant Indian Standard and whose manufacturing and testing capabilities have been assessed by BIS.<\/p>\n

    BIS explains that Scheme-I involves assessment of the manufacturer’s manufacturing infrastructure, process controls, quality-control and testing capabilities, together with conformity assessment of the product.<\/p>\n

    For IS 9973, the BIS Product Manual specifically confirms that the licence scope is:<\/p>\n

    Visor for scooter helmets as per IS 9973:1981.<\/strong><\/p>\n

    \n
    \n<\/div>\n

    Is BIS Certification Mandatory for IS 9973:1981?<\/h1>\n

    BIS certification under Scheme-I is generally voluntary unless the Government of India makes compliance compulsory through a Quality Control Order or another statutory requirement.<\/p>\n

    Therefore, manufacturers should check the current applicable regulatory position for their product and market before treating the licence as a mandatory requirement.<\/p>\n

    Where a valid BIS licence is obtained, the manufacturer is authorized to use the applicable Standard Mark (ISI Mark)<\/strong> on conforming production in accordance with BIS licence conditions. BIS describes the Standard Mark as an indication that the certified product conforms to the applicable Indian Standard under the BIS conformity assessment system.<\/p>\n

    \n
    \n<\/div>\n

    Scope of IS 9973:1981<\/h1>\n

    The standard covers visors used for motorcycle and scooter helmets.<\/p>\n

    It addresses requirements for:<\/p>\n

    Material:<\/strong> The plastic visor-screen material must be selected so that it satisfies the specified performance requirements.<\/p>\n

    Fixing hardware:<\/strong> The bolt used for fixing the visor screen to the helmet shell is required to be corrosion resistant.<\/p>\n

    Design:<\/strong> The visor should be of adjustable\/detachable type for quick and easy attachment to and removal from the helmet.<\/p>\n

    Shape:<\/strong> The standard provides the typical shape and fixing arrangement.<\/p>\n

    Width:<\/strong> The width of the visor along the curvature is specified as not less than 30 cm<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

    \n
    \n<\/div>\n

    Material Requirements<\/h1>\n

    The plastic material selected for the visor screen must be capable of satisfying the performance requirements specified in Clause 5 of IS 9973.<\/p>\n

    The standard also requires the bolt used to fix the visor screen to the helmet shell to be corrosion resistant.<\/p>\n

    For manufacturers, this means that the raw material and fastening components should be selected with the required performance in mind rather than considering only appearance or transparency.<\/p>\n

    \n
    \n<\/div>\n

    Design Requirements<\/h1>\n

    The visor is required to be of adjustable\/detachable type design<\/strong> so that it can be attached to and removed from the safety helmet quickly and easily.<\/p>\n

    The standard provides a typical shape and fixing arrangement.<\/p>\n

    It also specifies that the visor width measured along its curvature should not be less than 30 cm<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

    Manufacturers should therefore ensure that:<\/p>\n

      \n
    • The mounting mechanism is secure.<\/li>\n
    • The visor can be attached properly to the helmet.<\/li>\n
    • The visor can be detached as intended.<\/li>\n
    • The finished shape is consistent with the applicable requirements.<\/li>\n
    • The complete visor assembly fits the intended helmet configuration.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
      \n
      \n<\/div>\n

      BIS Testing Requirements for Visor for Scooter Helmets<\/h1>\n

      IS 9973:1981 includes a series of performance and quality tests.<\/p>\n

      The principal tests are:<\/p>\n

        \n
      1. Impact Resistance<\/li>\n
      2. Penetration Resistance<\/li>\n
      3. Flammability<\/li>\n
      4. Distortion<\/li>\n
      5. Spherical and Cylindrical Error<\/li>\n
      6. Prismatic Error<\/li>\n
      7. Diffuse Transmittance<\/li>\n
      8. Light Transmission<\/li>\n
      9. Field of Vision<\/li>\n
      10. Workmanship and Finish<\/li>\n
      11. Mass<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

        These tests are identified in the BIS Product Manual and current BIS LIMS listings.<\/p>\n

        \n
        \n<\/div>\n

        1. Impact Resistance Test<\/h1>\n

        The visor is subjected to an impact using a 50 g steel spherical ball<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

        According to the standard, the ball is dropped from a height of 1 metre<\/strong> onto the specified location on the visor.<\/p>\n

        The visor should not fracture or become separated from its mounting arrangement during the test.<\/p>\n

        This test is important because the visor must withstand the type of impact represented by the prescribed test without breaking away from the helmet attachment.<\/p>\n

        \n
        \n<\/div>\n

        2. Penetration Resistance Test<\/h1>\n

        The penetration test uses a pointed projectile consisting of a sewing-machine needle fixed in a holder weighing 50 g<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

        The projectile is dropped from a height of 1 metre<\/strong> onto the specified area of the visor.<\/p>\n

        The visor must not fracture or be pierced through by the impact.<\/p>\n

        This test evaluates the visor’s resistance to penetration by a pointed object under the specified test conditions.<\/p>\n

        \n
        \n<\/div>\n

        3. Flammability Test<\/h1>\n

        The visor material is tested for resistance to burning using the method referred to in the standard.<\/p>\n

        The standard specifies that the rate of burning shall not be greater than 3 cm\/minute<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

        The BIS Product Manual identifies a burner, bare copper wire and other equipment for this evaluation.<\/p>\n

        \n
        \n<\/div>\n

        4. Optical Distortion Test<\/h1>\n

        Optical clarity is particularly important for a helmet visor.<\/p>\n

        The standard states that there should be no visually detectable distortion of objects seen through the visor by the unaided eye<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

        This ensures that the visor does not produce visible distortion that could interfere with normal viewing.<\/p>\n

        \n
        \n<\/div>\n

        5. Spherical and Cylindrical Error<\/h1>\n

        The spherical and cylindrical error must comply with the specified optical limit.<\/p>\n

        IS 9973 specifies a maximum spherical and cylindrical error of 0.25 dioptre<\/strong> when tested according to the prescribed method.<\/p>\n

        This is one of the important optical conformity requirements for the visor.<\/p>\n

        \n
        \n<\/div>\n

        6. Prismatic Error<\/h1>\n

        The standard also specifies limits for prismatic error.<\/p>\n

        The maximum prismatic error is:<\/p>\n

        0.5 dioptre<\/strong><\/p>\n

        The maximum difference between the prismatic power of the left and right side vision areas is also specified as:<\/p>\n

        0.5 dioptre<\/strong><\/p>\n

        These requirements help control optical displacement produced by the curved visor.<\/p>\n

        \n
        \n<\/div>\n

        7. Diffuse Transmittance<\/h1>\n

        Diffuse transmittance is another important optical characteristic.<\/p>\n

        The standard specifies that diffuse transmittance shall not exceed 5 percent<\/strong> under the prescribed test method.<\/p>\n

        A visor with excessive diffuse transmittance can produce undesirable scattering of light and reduce visual clarity.<\/p>\n

        \n
        \n<\/div>\n

        8. Light Transmission<\/h1>\n

        IS 9973 specifies a minimum light transmission of:<\/p>\n

        80 percent<\/strong><\/p>\n

        Adequate light transmission is necessary to maintain clear visibility through the visor.<\/p>\n

        Manufacturers should therefore pay particular attention to:<\/p>\n

          \n
        • Plastic material<\/li>\n
        • Thickness<\/li>\n
        • Surface finish<\/li>\n
        • Colour\/tint<\/li>\n
        • Processing conditions<\/li>\n
        • Optical quality<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
          \n
          \n<\/div>\n

          9. Field of Vision<\/h1>\n

          The visor must provide the field of vision specified in the applicable helmet standard referenced by IS 9973.<\/p>\n

          The BIS Product Manual identifies field-of-vision testing using head forms, helmets, a 50 N load and an angle-measuring arrangement<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

          The field-of-vision requirement is important because a visor should not unnecessarily restrict the rider’s visual area.<\/p>\n

          \n
          \n<\/div>\n

          10. Workmanship and Finish<\/h1>\n

          The visor screen should be optically clear and free from:<\/p>\n

            \n
          • Surface imperfections<\/li>\n
          • Scratches<\/li>\n
          • Bubbles<\/li>\n
          • Irregularities causing visual defects<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

            The edges should be smoothly finished and free from:<\/p>\n

              \n
            • Burrs<\/li>\n
            • Protrusions<\/li>\n
            • Sharp irregularities<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

              Good workmanship is therefore not only an aesthetic requirement; it is directly connected with the optical and safety performance of the visor.<\/p>\n

              \n
              \n<\/div>\n

              11. Mass Requirement<\/h1>\n

              The mass of the complete visor should not exceed 350 g<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

              Where the mass exceeds 350 g, the mass determined to the nearest 10 g must be shown on the label attached to the visor.<\/p>\n

              Manufacturers should therefore verify the complete finished assembly, rather than measuring only the transparent visor screen.<\/p>\n

              \n
              \n<\/div>\n

              Instructions Supplied with the Visor<\/h1>\n

              IS 9973 also specifies that each visor should be supplied with a printed card attached with a tag.<\/p>\n

              The instructions include guidance such as:<\/p>\n

                \n
              • Avoid formation of scratches and accumulation of dirt.<\/li>\n
              • Do not use organic solvents or materials containing organic solvents, such as metal polish, waxes or polishes, for cleaning the visor.<\/li>\n
              • Use a soft cloth for removing dust and dirt.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                Manufacturers should incorporate the required instructions into their packaging and product documentation.<\/p>\n

                \n
                \n<\/div>\n

                Marking Requirements Under IS 9973:1981<\/h1>\n

                Each visor is required to be marked with:<\/p>\n

                a) Manufacturer’s name or trade-mark<\/strong><\/p>\n

                b) Year of manufacture<\/strong><\/p>\n

                The standard also provides for the use of the ISI Certification Mark where the manufacturer is licensed under the applicable BIS provisions.<\/p>\n

                Once a BIS licence is granted, the manufacturer’s actual Standard Mark usage must comply with the licence conditions and current BIS marking requirements.<\/p>\n

                \n
                \n<\/div>\n

                BIS Product Manual Sampling Requirement<\/h1>\n

                One of the most important practical details for applicants is the sample requirement.<\/p>\n

                According to the BIS Product Manual for IS 9973:1981:<\/p>\n

                Sample Size: 5 Nos. of visors and 1 helmet for all tests.<\/strong><\/p>\n

                The same manual states:<\/p>\n

                Grouping Guidelines: Not Applicable.<\/strong><\/p>\n

                It also states that all tests can be completed in a day, subject to the applicable laboratory arrangements.<\/p>\n

                This makes sample planning relatively straightforward compared with products that require extensive model-grouping or multiple raw-material samples.<\/p>\n

                \n
                \n<\/div>\n

                Is Model Grouping Applicable?<\/h1>\n

                The BIS Product Manual specifically states:<\/p>\n

                Grouping Guidelines: Not Applicable.<\/strong><\/p>\n

                Therefore, manufacturers should not assume that different visor designs, sizes or variants can automatically be combined under one grouping arrangement.<\/p>\n

                The scope of the licence is simply specified as:<\/p>\n

                Visor for scooter helmets.<\/strong><\/p>\n

                \n
                \n<\/div>\n

                BIS Control Unit for Visor Manufacturing<\/h1>\n

                The BIS Scheme of Inspection and Testing in the product manual defines the control unit as:<\/p>\n

                The entire quantity of visors manufactured from the same material under similar conditions in a day.<\/strong><\/p>\n

                This control-unit concept is important for the manufacturer’s internal quality-control system.<\/p>\n

                \n
                \n<\/div>\n

                Factory Quality Control Requirements<\/h1>\n

                For BIS certification, manufacturers need to establish appropriate testing and quality-control arrangements.<\/p>\n

                The IS 9973 Product Manual requires that:<\/p>\n

                  \n
                • A suitably equipped laboratory be maintained.<\/li>\n
                • The test equipment be appropriately calibrated.<\/li>\n
                • A calibration plan be prepared.<\/li>\n
                • Test records be maintained.<\/li>\n
                • Labelling and marking be carried out as per IS 9973.<\/li>\n
                • Production be controlled through defined control units.<\/li>\n
                • Non-conforming products be properly dealt with.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                  Sub-contracting of tests is permitted under the manual to a laboratory recognized by BIS or a Government laboratory empanelled by BIS.<\/p>\n

                  \n
                  \n<\/div>\n

                  Test Equipment Required<\/h1>\n

                  The BIS Product Manual identifies major equipment such as:<\/p>\n

                  For Material Requirements<\/h3>\n
                    \n
                  • Salt spray chamber<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                    For Design<\/h3>\n
                      \n
                    • Vernier caliper<\/li>\n
                    • Steel scale<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                      For Impact Resistance<\/h3>\n
                        \n
                      • Impact test apparatus<\/li>\n
                      • Air conditioner<\/li>\n
                      • Steel spherical ball<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                        For Penetration Resistance<\/h3>\n
                          \n
                        • Test apparatus<\/li>\n
                        • Pointed projectile with 50 g weight<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                          For Flammability<\/h3>\n
                            \n
                          • Burner<\/li>\n
                          • 0.71 mm bare copper wire<\/li>\n
                          • Protractor<\/li>\n
                          • Stopwatch<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                            For Optical Errors<\/h3>\n
                              \n
                            • Standard lenses<\/li>\n
                            • Telescope<\/li>\n
                            • Adjustable light source with condenser<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                              For Transmittance<\/h3>\n
                                \n
                              • Haze meter<\/li>\n
                              • Integrating sphere<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                                For Field of Vision<\/h3>\n
                                  \n
                                • Head forms<\/li>\n
                                • Helmets of various sizes<\/li>\n
                                • 50 N load<\/li>\n
                                • Angle protractor or gauge<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                                  For Mass<\/h3>\n
                                    \n
                                  • Weighing balance and weights<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                                    The Product Manual states that this equipment list is indicative and should not be treated as exhaustive.<\/p>\n

                                    \n
                                    \n<\/div>\n

                                    BIS Certification Process for Visor for Scooter Helmets<\/h1>\n

                                    Obtaining an ISI Mark licence involves assessment of the manufacturer’s capabilities and the product’s conformity.<\/p>\n

                                    Step 1 \u2013 Identify the Standard<\/h2>\n

                                    Confirm that the product falls within the scope of:<\/p>\n

                                    IS 9973:1981 \u2013 Visor for Scooter Helmets<\/strong><\/p>\n

                                    Step 2 \u2013 Study the Product Requirements<\/h2>\n

                                    Review material, design, dimensions, attachment system, optical properties, impact resistance, penetration resistance, flammability, workmanship and marking.<\/p>\n

                                    Step 3 \u2013 Prepare Manufacturing and Testing Facilities<\/h2>\n

                                    BIS requires the manufacturer to establish appropriate manufacturing infrastructure, process controls, quality controls and testing capabilities.<\/p>\n

                                    Step 4 \u2013 Prepare Samples<\/h2>\n

                                    As specified by the Product Manual:<\/p>\n

                                    5 visors + 1 helmet<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

                                    Step 5 \u2013 Product Testing<\/h2>\n

                                    The applicable testing is performed at an appropriate BIS-recognized laboratory or through the permissible testing arrangement under the certification process.<\/p>\n

                                    Step 6 \u2013 Application to BIS<\/h2>\n

                                    The application is submitted online through the BIS certification system. BIS’s current application information directs manufacturers to identify the standard, analyze the required manufacturing\/testing capability and submit applications through manakonline<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

                                    Step 7 \u2013 Factory Assessment<\/h2>\n

                                    BIS assesses the manufacturing premises, process controls and testing capabilities as applicable.<\/p>\n

                                    Step 8 \u2013 Review of Product Conformity<\/h2>\n

                                    The conformity of the product is established through the prescribed testing and assessment mechanism.<\/p>\n

                                    Step 9 \u2013 Grant of Licence<\/h2>\n

                                    On successful completion of the assessment and applicable requirements, BIS grants the licence to use the Standard Mark.<\/p>\n

                                    \n
                                    \n<\/div>\n

                                    BIS Inspection for IS 9973 Certification<\/h1>\n

                                    Factory assessment is an important part of Scheme-I certification.<\/p>\n

                                    During the certification process, BIS may evaluate:<\/p>\n

                                      \n
                                    • Manufacturing facilities<\/li>\n
                                    • Raw-material controls<\/li>\n
                                    • Production process<\/li>\n
                                    • Product dimensions<\/li>\n
                                    • Quality-control arrangements<\/li>\n
                                    • In-house testing facilities<\/li>\n
                                    • Calibration records<\/li>\n
                                    • Test records<\/li>\n
                                    • Product marking<\/li>\n
                                    • Packing and instructions<\/li>\n
                                    • Handling of non-conforming products<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                                      BIS explains that Scheme-I certification involves assessment of manufacturing and testing capabilities and continued surveillance after grant of licence.<\/p>\n

                                      \n
                                      \n<\/div>\n

                                      Documents Required for BIS Certification<\/h1>\n

                                      The exact document checklist depends on the application and current BIS requirements, but manufacturers should generally prepare:<\/p>\n

                                        \n
                                      • Company\/firm registration documents<\/li>\n
                                      • Factory address documents<\/li>\n
                                      • Manufacturing process information<\/li>\n
                                      • Plant and machinery details<\/li>\n
                                      • Testing equipment details<\/li>\n
                                      • Calibration certificates<\/li>\n
                                      • Quality-control procedures<\/li>\n
                                      • Product drawings<\/li>\n
                                      • Technical specifications<\/li>\n
                                      • Raw-material details<\/li>\n
                                      • Internal test records<\/li>\n
                                      • Product photographs<\/li>\n
                                      • Product marking details<\/li>\n
                                      • Packing and instruction details<\/li>\n
                                      • Authorized signatory information<\/li>\n
                                      • Application forms and undertakings<\/li>\n
                                      • Test reports, where applicable<\/li>\n
                                      • Other documents prescribed by BIS during application<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                                        BIS’s current application guidance specifically advises manufacturers to document manufacturing infrastructure, process controls, quality control and testing capabilities before applying.<\/p>\n

                                        \n
                                        \n<\/div>\n

                                        BIS Testing Charges for IS 9973:1981<\/h1>\n

                                        Testing charges vary depending on the laboratory.<\/p>\n

                                        Current BIS LIMS listings show laboratory-specific examples for IS 9973:1981<\/strong>, including:<\/p>\n

                                          \n
                                        • \u20b97,000<\/strong><\/li>\n
                                        • \u20b915,000<\/strong><\/li>\n
                                        • \u20b918,000<\/strong><\/li>\n
                                        • \u20b918,800<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                                          These are laboratory testing charges and are shown exclusive of applicable taxes. The scope and validity of each laboratory listing should be checked before selecting the laboratory.<\/p>\n

                                          For example, the current BIS LIMS database shows one listing from Testtex India Laboratories, Noida at \u20b97,000<\/strong>, with individual charges for impact, penetration, flammability, distortion, optical errors, transmittance, field of vision and mass.<\/p>\n

                                          Another current LIMS listing shows a total testing charge of \u20b915,000<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

                                          Therefore, the actual testing budget should be finalized after obtaining a laboratory quotation for the exact application.<\/p>\n

                                          \n
                                          \n<\/div>\n

                                          BIS Marking Fee for IS 9973<\/h1>\n

                                          BIS’s current marking-fee schedule lists IS 9973<\/strong> with a marking-fee structure shown as:<\/p>\n