In the current business and logistics landscape, legal compliance certifications are essential for product launches, mainly in India. This is even more important for electrical, wireless, or industrial equipment.
Recently, two certificates called WPC and BIS certifications have gained importance. Each is required for dealing with distinct product types. However, individuals either miss the distinct regulatory roles that each must play or confuse the two.
So, what distinguishes BIS vs WPC certification? In simple terms, it helps you quickly determine the certification requirements for your product and why they exist. If you are still unclear, this complete guide compares the two for you. Continue reading!
Table of Contents
Understanding The Basics: What is BIS Certification in India?
The BIS certification in India demands that products that are manufactured, imported, or sold have undergone testing in India and meet established safety and performance criteria. The products can be anything like toys, cement, electronics, or kitchenware.
Without completing the BIS certification process, manufacturers and importers risk delays, regulatory penalties, and even market bans.
BIS Certification Can Be of Two Types: Mandatory vs Voluntary
Mandatory BIS Certification: For goods covered by the Compulsory Registration Scheme or CRS.
Voluntary BIS Certification: This is for brands that want to vouch for their quality promises when their product is not covered by CRS.
The BIS essentially ensures that the product meets quality and safety standards for use in India.
What is WPC ETA Certification in India and What Does It Cover?
The Indian Communications Ministry's Wireless Planning and Coordination Wing is also called WPC. The WPC ETA approval process is largely documentation-driven and requires RF test reports, product datasheets, and formal submissions to the Wireless Planning & Coordination Wing.
In order to guarantee that the item is not interfering with any other communication channel, your product must obtain a WPC Certification if it employs any kind of wireless technology, such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, RF modules, etc.
The Major Wireless Products That Need WPC Certification Are:
- Mobile phones
- Wireless headphones
- Routers
- Smartwatches
- IoT Devices
- RFID Equipment
Through this streamlined WPC ETA approval process, wireless-enabled products get legal clearance to operate on India's permitted frequency bands.
Key Differences Between WPC and BIS Certification
Despite being required for some items, both certifications have completely distinct scopes and certification processes.
If you compare BIS vs WPC certification, know that BIS certification is focused on safety and quality, and WPC handles frequency compliance. This means that even if a wireless product has a great design and is safe (according to BIS), WPC must approve it for the spectrum it uses.
For instance, BIS certification requires smart TVs to meet safety and quality standards. It goes without saying that any Bluetooth or Wi-Fi modules installed on them must receive WPC approval. As a result of new technologies, many contemporary devices need dual certification from both BIS and WPC before they can be sold or used legally in India.
Another significant distinction is that WPC often only needs documentation, such as RF test reports from international labs, in certain situations.
The BIS certification process involves mandatory in-country testing of product samples in BIS-approved labs, ensuring compliance with quality and safety standards before they reach Indian consumers.
Which Products Require Mandatory BIS Certification?
Let's understand this with greater clarity. Among the products needing mandatory BIS certification are:
- Mobile phones and tablets
- LED lights and bulbs
- Laptop and computer peripherals
- Power banks
- Air conditioners and refrigerators
- Washing machines
- Microwave ovens
- Pressure cookers and helmets
- Electric irons, electric kettles, and many more
Therefore, mandatory BIS registration for electronics must be obtained before any items specified under the CRS are sold to the Indian market, regardless of whether they are manufactured or imported.
Which Wireless Products Require WPC Approval?
All wireless products involving the sending or receiving of radio signals must obtain a WPC license online application. This includes:
- Wireless Speakers
- Bluetooth Devices
- Wi-Fi Routers
- Smart watches
- GPS Trackers
- Cordless Phones
- RFID Readers
- Wireless Medical Devices
- Devices with RF Modules
According to regulatory requirements, WPC approval for wireless products must be obtained for every device that has wireless capabilities, including Bluetooth and Wi-Fi modules.
Do You Need Both BIS and WPC Certification?
Nowadays, very few products include only wireless components or are entirely electronic. A smartphone needs to obtain BIS registration for electronics for the phone, battery, and adapter. But it also requires separate WPC approval for mobile frequency bands, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi.
In summary, a single product may require multiple certifications, depending on its features and parts. Experts who specialize in BIS and WPC certification requirements are a good choice as they understand which certifications your products need. They can manage all the compliance documentation and permissions without issues.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
- Customs are preventing uncertified gadgets from being imported
- Indian retail sellers are not listing or selling your gadgets
- Legal actions or fines imposed by regulatory agencies
- Product recalls and losses
So, it is always critical to invest time and effort in securing the appropriate BIS and WPC certifications before product sales to the Indian market.
BIS vs WPC Certification: Process & Documentation Comparison
BIS Certification Process Steps Include:
- Testing device samples in an Indian lab recognized by BIS
- The submission of papers such as test report files, factory licenses, and the KYC of the business
- Factory inspection
- Procuring the last stage BIS registration
WPC Certification Process Steps Include:
- RF Test report papers of the wireless module (normally from NABL-approved or international labs)
- Product datasheet and technical papers
- Authorisation papers and undertakings
- ETA submission to the WPC
As a result, BIS certification in India normally takes more time when there is a full certification setup. But WPC approval for wireless products can be quicker if all the required documentation is in place.
Final Thoughts: BIS vs WPC Certification for Market Success
Lastly, if any manufacturer or importer wants to succeed in the Indian market, they must understand the distinct differences between BIS and WPC certification requirements. Both are equally important for regulatory compliance, and neglecting either could postpone market access or result in legal penalties. By obtaining the required BIS and WPC certifications proactively, you ensure smooth market entry and trouble-free business operations.
