BIS Issues Implementation Guidelines for Revised Standard IS 9873 (Part 1):2025 on Toy Safety

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has officially issued Implementation Guidelines for the revised Indian Standard IS 9873 (Part 1):2025 – Safety of Toys: Mechanical and Physical Properties. This revision marks a significant milestone in India's toy safety regulatory framework and directly impacts all toy manufacturers, importers, and BIS license holders.

The updated standard strengthens child safety norms, aligns Indian regulations with international benchmarks (ISO 8124-1), and provides clear transition guidance under the Toys (Quality Control) Order, 2020.

For businesses operating in the toy sector, understanding this update—and knowing how to obtain or modify BIS for toys is now critical to maintain uninterrupted market access in India.

Under the Toys (Quality Control) Order, 2020, BIS certification with ISI marking is mandatory for all toys meant for children up to 14 years of age, whether manufactured in India or imported.

IS 9873 (Part 1) is the core safety standard addressing mechanical and physical hazards such as:

• Choking risks from small parts and components

• Sharp edges and points causing injuries

• Structural instability and collapse hazards

• Folding mechanisms and trapping risks

• Unsafe ride-on toy speeds

• Sound level hazards for hearing safety

The earlier version, IS 9873 (Part 1):2019, has now been revised and replaced by IS 9873 (Part 1):2025 to reflect evolving toy designs, manufacturing technologies, and global safety expectations.

BIS has provided simplified compliance procedures for manufacturers holding existing BIS toy licenses under IS 9873 (Part 1):2019.

Manufacturers applying for new BIS for toy certification have specific guidelines to follow during the transition period:

For manufacturers seeking scope changes or additions to existing BIS toy licenses:

• Scope change applications follow the same transition rules as new applicants

• Processing under the old standard (2019) is permitted only within the transition timeline

• Applications submitted after 22 March 2027 must comply with IS 9873 (Part 1):2025 requirements

BIS certification for toys is granted under Scheme-I (ISI Mark Scheme) with specific requirements for mechanical and electrical toys.

Step 1: Online Application Submission

Apply through the official BIS portal with complete manufacturer details, product categories, age groups, factory information, and technical specifications.

Step 2: Document Submission & Verification

Submit key documents including manufacturing process flow, machinery details, quality control systems, raw material information, and BIS-recognized laboratory test reports.

Step 3: Factory Inspection by BIS

A BIS officer conducts comprehensive on-site inspection to verify manufacturing capabilities, quality control implementation, in-house testing arrangements, and overall compliance readiness.

Step 4: Product Sample Testing

Samples are drawn and tested as per applicable standards:

• Non-electric toys: IS 9873 series (Parts 1-7) for mechanical and physical properties

• Electric toys: IS 15644 for electrical safety requirements

Step 5: Grant of BIS Licence & ISI Mark Authorization

Upon successful compliance verification, BIS issues the licence authorizing the manufacturer to use the ISI Mark on certified toy products.

The issuance of implementation guidelines for IS 9873 (Part 1):2025 reflects BIS's ongoing commitment to enhancing child safety, providing regulatory clarity, and aligning Indian standards with global benchmarks.

For toy manufacturers and importers, this revision represents more than just a compliance update—it is a strategic opportunity to strengthen product quality, build consumer trust, and secure long-term market access in India's growing toy industry.

By acting early, understanding the new requirements, and partnering with experienced compliance consultants like Standphill India, businesses can ensure smooth BIS certification, timely transition to updated standards, and zero regulatory disruptions in their operations.