BIS Certification for Tungsten Filament General Service Electric Lamps (Up to 100 W) | IS 418 Qualitance India
BIS Certification for Tungsten Filament General Service Electric Lamps (Up to 100 W) – IS 418
Tungsten filament lamps, commonly known as incandescent bulbs, are electric lamps that produce light by passing electric current through a tungsten filament. The filament heats up and emits visible light. These lamps have traditionally been used in domestic and general lighting applications.
To ensure product quality, electrical safety and consistent performance, tungsten filament lamps covered under the applicable Indian Standard are subject to BIS certification requirements in India.
The relevant Indian Standard is
IS 418:2004 – Tungsten Filament Lamps for Domestic and Similar General Lighting Purpose (Fourth Revision). The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) includes
IS 418 – Tungsten Filament General Service Electric Lamps (up to 100 W) in its list of products under compulsory certification under Scheme-I.
Manufacturers intending to manufacture or sell products covered by this compulsory certification requirement must obtain the applicable BIS licence and comply with the relevant standard before using the ISI Standard Mark.
1. Applicable Indian Standard – IS 418:2004
The applicable product standard is:
| Particular |
Details |
| Indian Standard |
IS 418:2004 |
| Standard title |
Tungsten Filament Lamps for Domestic and Similar General Lighting Purpose |
| Revision |
Fourth Revision |
| BIS Product Manual |
PM/IS 418/2/April 2024 |
| Certification Scheme |
Scheme-I – ISI Mark Scheme |
| Product category |
Tungsten filament lamps |
| Applicable product-list description |
Tungsten filament general service electric lamps (up to 100 W) |
The BIS product manual issued in April 2024 provides the sampling, grouping, testing equipment, inspection and testing requirements for certification under IS 418:2004.
Important: IS 418:2004 covers tungsten filament lamps for domestic and similar general lighting purposes. The compulsory product-list description specifically refers to general service electric lamps up to 100 W. Manufacturers should confirm the exact product classification and proposed licence scope with BIS before applying.
2. Is BIS Certification Mandatory for Tungsten Filament Lamps?
Yes. BIS lists IS 418 under products covered by compulsory certification under Scheme-I.
Accordingly, manufacturers and other applicable parties must comply with the relevant compulsory certification provisions for products covered by this requirement. The product must conform to the applicable Indian Standard and be covered by a valid BIS licence before being marketed with the ISI Standard Mark.
The official BIS Scheme-I list identifies IS 418 as:
Tungsten Filament General Service Electric Lamps (up to 100 W).
Reference: BIS – Products under Compulsory Certification, Scheme-I.
3. Product Scope Covered Under IS 418
IS 418:2004 covers tungsten filament lamps intended for domestic and similar general lighting purposes.
The BIS product manual identifies the licence scope using the following product characteristics:
- Rated voltage
- Rated wattage
- Rated frequency
- Bulb designation
- Type of cap
- Finish
- Luminous flux
These details are important when defining the proposed product varieties and the scope of the BIS licence.
The manufacturer should prepare a complete product list before applying, covering the lamp ratings and variants intended to be manufactured under the licence.
4. Technical and Performance Requirements
IS 418:2004 specifies requirements relating to the construction, dimensions and performance of tungsten filament lamps.
The certification assessment includes relevant safety and performance requirements. The BIS product manual identifies the following major testing areas:
A. Lamp dimensions
The physical dimensions of the lamp are checked against the applicable requirements of IS 418:2004.
B. Wattage
The electrical power consumption of the lamp is evaluated to verify compliance with its declared rating.
C. Initial luminous flux
The initial luminous flux is measured to assess the light output of the lamp.
D. Lumen maintenance
The lamp's ability to maintain its light output during operation is assessed.
E. Life test
The lamp is evaluated for operating life in accordance with the applicable test methods.
F. Electrical and mechanical safety
The relevant safety requirements include:
- Protection against accidental contact
- Lamp cap temperature rise
- Resistance to torque
- Insulation resistance
- Protection against accidentally live parts
- Creepage distances
- Interchangeability
- Marking legibility and durability
The safety requirements are referenced to
IS 15518 (Part 1):2004, while the relevant lamp performance and dimensional requirements are covered by IS 418:2004.
The applicable test methods and acceptance criteria must be followed as prescribed in the standards and the current BIS product manual.
5. BIS Testing Requirements for IS 418
Testing is an important part of the BIS certification process. The manufacturer must demonstrate that the product meets the applicable safety and performance requirements.
The BIS Product Manual PM/IS 418/2/April 2024 identifies the following tests under its sampling and acceptance procedure:
| Sr. No. |
Test |
Applicable reference |
| 1 |
Marking legibility and durability |
IS 15518 (Part 1):2004 |
| 2 |
Protection against accidental contact |
IS 15518 (Part 1):2004 |
| 3 |
Cap temperature rise |
IS 15518 (Part 1):2004 |
| 4 |
Resistance to torque – unused lamps |
IS 15518 (Part 1):2004 |
| 5 |
Resistance to torque – after heating |
IS 15518 (Part 1):2004 |
| 6 |
Insulation resistance |
IS 15518 (Part 1):2004 |
| 7 |
Accidentally live parts |
IS 15518 (Part 1):2004 |
| 8 |
Creepage distances |
IS 15518 (Part 1):2004 |
| 9 |
Interchangeability |
IS 15518 (Part 1):2004 |
| 10 |
Lamp dimensions |
IS 418:2004 |
| 11 |
Wattage |
IS 418:2004 |
| 12 |
Initial luminous flux |
IS 418:2004 |
| 13 |
Lumen maintenance and life test |
IS 418:2004 |
The actual test programme and acceptance procedure depend on the certification stage and the applicable sampling provisions.
6. BIS Sample Quantity for IS 418 Certification
Sample quantity is a major consideration for manufacturers planning BIS certification.
According to the BIS Product Manual PM/IS 418/2/April 2024:
For Grant of Licence (GoL) / Change in Scope of Licence (CSoL):
- 650 lamps are specified as the sample quantity.
For Factory Surveillance (FS) / Market Surveillance (MS):
- The sampling and acceptance procedure given in Annex-B is applicable.
For FS/MS, the manual specifies a total sample quantity of 60 lamps for each rating, with 10 additional samples permitted to accommodate accidental breakages, if any.
The Annex-B procedure allocates samples to different tests, including safety, dimensional, wattage, luminous flux and life-related tests.
Important: The 60-lamp procedure is specifically identified for FS/MS. It should not be treated as a substitute for the 650-lamp sample requirement specified for Grant of Licence or Change in Scope. The applicable batch-testing procedure for grant of licence and inclusion of new varieties must also be followed.
7. Product Grouping Guidelines Under IS 418
Product grouping is particularly important when a manufacturer intends to obtain BIS certification for multiple tungsten filament lamp ratings and varieties.
The BIS product manual provides specific grouping guidelines.
Key grouping provisions
- Lamps having the same rated wattage and belonging to the same lamp data sheet, whether normal or high luminous flux, can be considered as one group when their rated voltages fall within the same voltage range.
- Any one variety listed in the relevant individual lamp data sheet can be tested to cover the other varieties in that particular data sheet, subject to the prescribed grouping provisions.
- For rated voltages of 230 V, 240 V and 250 V, testing of one sample from any one of these rated voltages may cover all three voltage ratings.
- For lamps rated at 110 V, a separate sample is required.
- The manufacturer must declare all varieties intended to be covered under the BIS licence.
- The scope of the licence may be restricted based on the manufacturer's manufacturing and testing capabilities.
During licence operation, BIS may ensure that the varieties covered under the licence are tested in rotation, to the extent possible.
Practical implication: Manufacturers should prepare a product-wise grouping chart before submitting the application. Proper grouping can help avoid unnecessary duplication of testing, subject to BIS acceptance of the proposed grouping.
8. Manufacturing Facility and In-House Laboratory Requirements
Manufacturers applying for BIS certification should have suitable manufacturing and quality-control arrangements.
The BIS product manual's Scheme of Inspection and Testing requires manufacturers to implement a Quality Assurance Plan (QAP) covering regular testing and in-process controls.
The manufacturer is expected to establish a suitably equipped and staffed in-house laboratory for routine tests and relevant in-process controls.
The April 2024 product manual also permits subcontracting of specified tests to a BIS-recognised/empanelled laboratory or another laboratory having valid NABL accreditation as per IS/ISO/IEC 17025, where subcontracting is permitted by the manual.
The laboratory and testing arrangements should be supported by:
- Suitable test equipment
- Calibration records
- Qualified testing personnel
- Test procedures and work instructions
- Internal test records
- Inspection and quality-control records
- A documented Quality Assurance Plan
The manufacturer should review the complete test equipment list and Scheme of Inspection and Testing in the applicable BIS product manual before finalising the laboratory.
9. Major Testing Equipment Required
The BIS product manual provides an indicative list of major equipment required for testing.
Some of the equipment identified includes:
| Sr. No. |
Equipment |
Purpose |
| 1 |
Smooth cloth and water |
Marking durability |
| 2 |
Gauge |
Protection against accidental contact |
| 3 |
Cap temperature rise test apparatus |
Temperature rise testing |
| 4 |
Oven |
Heating-related tests |
| 5 |
Torque test holder |
Torque testing |
| 6 |
Torque tester |
Resistance to torque |
| 7 |
Megger |
Insulation resistance |
| 8 |
Vernier caliper |
Dimensional checks |
| 9 |
GO/NO-GO gauge |
Interchangeability |
| 10 |
Spherical photometric integrator |
Wattage and initial luminous flux testing |
The equipment list is indicative and is not exhaustive. The manufacturer should refer to the current BIS product manual and applicable Indian Standards to establish the complete testing capability.
10. Documents Required for BIS Certification
The following documents are generally required to prepare a BIS Scheme-I application for tungsten filament lamps.
A. Company and legal documents
- Company registration certificate or proprietorship proof
- GST registration certificate, where applicable
- PAN card of the company/proprietor
- Authorised signatory details
- Identity and address proof of the authorised signatory
- Factory address proof
- Factory ownership document or rent/lease agreement
B. Manufacturing facility documents
- Manufacturing process flow chart
- Factory layout plan
- List of manufacturing machinery
- List of testing equipment
- Manufacturing capacity details
- Organisation chart
- Details of production and quality-control personnel
C. Product-related documents
- Product specification and technical details
- Product drawings, where applicable
- Product catalogue or datasheet
- Rated voltage and wattage details
- Bulb designation
- Cap type and finish details
- Luminous flux details
- Proposed product varieties and grouping chart
- Product marking and label details
D. Quality-control and testing documents
- Quality Assurance Plan
- In-house laboratory details
- Equipment calibration certificates
- Testing procedures
- Internal test reports
- Quality-control records
- Details of any subcontracted testing arrangements
The exact documentation requirement may vary depending on the manufacturing setup, company constitution and BIS application assessment.
11. BIS Certification Process for Tungsten Filament Lamps
The BIS certification process generally involves the following stages:
Step 1 – Product and standard identification
Confirm that the proposed tungsten filament lamp falls within the scope of IS 418:2004 and the applicable compulsory certification requirement.
Step 2 – Product grouping
Prepare a list of lamp ratings, voltage ranges, bulb designations, cap types, finishes and luminous flux values. Determine the applicable grouping in accordance with the BIS product manual.
Step 3 – Factory and laboratory assessment
Review the manufacturing facility, production process, testing arrangements, laboratory equipment, personnel and quality-control system.
Step 4 – Preparation of application documents
Compile the company, factory, manufacturing, product and quality-control documents required for the BIS application.
Step 5 – Online application submission
Submit the application through the applicable BIS portal under Scheme-I and pay the applicable government fees.
Step 6 – Factory inspection
BIS may conduct a factory inspection to assess manufacturing capability, quality-control arrangements and conformity with the relevant requirements.
Step 7 – Sample drawal and testing
Samples are drawn in accordance with the applicable procedure and tested against IS 418:2004 and the referenced safety requirements.
Step 8 – Compliance and grant of licence
After satisfactory completion of the applicable assessment, testing and other BIS requirements, BIS may grant the licence to use the ISI Standard Mark.
Step 9 – Post-certification compliance
After obtaining the licence, the manufacturer must maintain product conformity, conduct routine testing, maintain records, comply with the Scheme of Inspection and Testing and meet BIS surveillance requirements.
12. BIS Certification Fees and Testing Costs
The overall cost of BIS certification depends on the product scope, number of varieties, testing requirements, factory location and applicable government charges.
The cost generally consists of:
| Cost component |
Details |
| BIS application fee |
Applicable application charges |
| BIS inspection charges |
Applicable factory inspection and related charges |
| Sample testing charges |
Laboratory testing as applicable |
| Licence fee |
Applicable BIS licence charges |
| Annual marking fee |
Based on the applicable BIS fee schedule |
| Consultancy charges |
Professional assistance for documentation, grouping, laboratory preparation and application coordination |
The BIS marking-fee schedule published in January 2026 lists IS 418 and identifies a unit of 100 pieces for the marking-fee calculation. The applicable amount should be checked against the current official fee schedule and the manufacturer's applicable category before preparing a quotation.
Testing charges are not necessarily uniform across laboratories. BIS LIMS listings show different testing charges and test-wise breakups for IS 418, depending on the laboratory and test scope.
Therefore, a final project quotation should be prepared after reviewing the proposed lamp ratings, grouping, sample requirements and testing plan.
13. Timeline for BIS Certification
The overall certification timeline depends on:
- Completeness of the application documents
- Readiness of the manufacturing facility
- Availability and calibration status of test equipment
- Number of product varieties
- Sample availability
- Laboratory testing duration
- Factory inspection scheduling
- Closure of any non-conformities
Manufacturers should avoid committing to a fixed completion date before the product scope and testing requirements have been reviewed.
A properly prepared application and an adequately equipped factory laboratory can help reduce avoidable delays.
14. Common Challenges Faced by Manufacturers
Manufacturers may face several practical challenges while applying for BIS certification under IS 418.
1. Incorrect product grouping:
Incorrect grouping of wattage, voltage or lamp varieties may result in additional testing or restrictions in the licence scope.
2. Inadequate sample planning:
The GoL/CSoL sample requirement is substantial. Manufacturers should plan production and sample availability in advance.
3. Incomplete testing facilities:
The manufacturer must establish suitable testing arrangements and maintain the required equipment, calibration and personnel records.
4. Inadequate safety compliance:
The relevant requirements of IS 15518 (Part 1):2004 must also be addressed as part of the applicable assessment.
5. Incomplete documentation:
Missing technical specifications, product details, factory records or quality-control documents can delay application processing.
6. Incorrect licence scope:
All intended product varieties should be declared and grouped correctly before submission.
15. How Qualitance India Can Help
Qualitance India provides professional assistance to manufacturers seeking BIS certification for electrical and other regulated products.
Our support for tungsten filament lamp certification under IS 418 may include:
- Applicability and product-scope assessment
- Review of IS 418:2004 requirements
- Product grouping and sample planning
- Documentation preparation
- Manufacturing process and factory readiness review
- In-house laboratory and testing equipment assessment
- Quality Assurance Plan preparation
- BIS application assistance
- Coordination for sample testing
- Support during BIS factory inspection
- Assistance with compliance observations and closure
- Post-certification compliance guidance
Our objective is to help manufacturers understand the applicable requirements and prepare their facilities and documentation for the BIS certification process.
16. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is BIS certification mandatory for tungsten filament general service electric lamps up to 100 W?
Yes. IS 418 is included in the BIS Scheme-I compulsory certification list for tungsten filament general service electric lamps up to 100 W.
Q2. Which Indian Standard applies to tungsten filament lamps?
IS 418:2004 – Tungsten Filament Lamps for Domestic and Similar General Lighting Purpose (Fourth Revision).
Q3. How many samples are required for BIS certification under IS 418?
The April 2024 BIS product manual specifies 650 lamps for Grant of Licence (GoL) and Change in Scope of Licence (CSoL). For Factory Surveillance and Market Surveillance, the Annex-B sampling procedure specifies 60 lamps for each rating, with 10 additional lamps permitted for accidental breakages.
Q4. Can multiple wattage ratings be covered under one BIS licence?
Product grouping is possible under the BIS product manual, subject to the specified grouping criteria. Lamps of the same rated wattage from the same lamp data sheet and within the same voltage range may be grouped as prescribed.
Q5. Can 230 V, 240 V and 250 V lamps be covered through one sample?
The BIS product manual states that one sample from any one of these rated voltages may be tested to cover 230 V, 240 V and 250 V, subject to the applicable grouping conditions.
Q6. Is a separate sample required for 110 V lamps?
Yes. The product manual specifies that a separate sample must be tested for lamps having a rated voltage of 110 V.
Q7. Is an in-house laboratory required?
The BIS product manual expects manufacturers to establish a suitably equipped and staffed in-house laboratory for routine testing and relevant in-process controls. Specified tests may be subcontracted where the manual permits it.
Q8. Which safety standard is referred to along with IS 418?
The BIS product manual refers to IS 15518 (Part 1):2004 for relevant incandescent lamp safety requirements.
Q9. Can an importer obtain BIS certification for imported tungsten filament lamps?
The applicable certification route depends on the manufacturer's location and the relevant BIS scheme. Foreign manufacturers should examine the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS) requirements, where applicable, and the current compulsory certification provisions.
Q10. Can Qualitance India assist with BIS certification under IS 418?
Yes. Qualitance India can assist with product applicability, grouping, sample planning, documentation, factory and laboratory readiness, application coordination and certification-related compliance support.
17. Contact Qualitance India for BIS Certification Assistance
Planning to manufacture or import tungsten filament general service electric lamps in India?
Ensure that your product, manufacturing facility, testing arrangements and documentation are aligned with the applicable BIS requirements under IS 418:2004.
Qualitance India – BIS Certification & Regulatory Compliance Consultancy
Improving Quality & Competence
Contact Qualitance India for professional assistance with BIS ISI Mark certification for tungsten filament lamps and other electrical products.
Official References
- Bureau of Indian Standards – Products under Compulsory Certification, Scheme-I
- BIS – Product Manual PM/IS 418/2/April 2024
- BIS – IS 418:2004 Product Manual, December 2019
- BIS – Marking Fee Schedule for Products under Scheme-I
- BIS – Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS)
Regulatory note: This article is prepared with reference to the BIS material identified above. Manufacturers should verify the latest amendments, applicable compulsory certification orders, fee schedule and BIS instructions before applying. The BIS product manual and relevant Indian Standards govern the actual certification and testing requirements.
