BIS Guidelines for Implementing IS 16103 (Part 1)

The Bureau of Indian Standards has officially revised the IS 16103 (Part 1): 2012, with the updated IS 16103 (Part 1): 2025. The new guidelines are set for the International Safety Standard for LED modules. This change marks an important shift in how requirements for LED modules are defined and implemented in India.

Both the old and new standards will remain valid until 21st January 2026. After this, IS 16103 (Part 1): 2012 will be withdrawn, and only the revised version will be applicable for certification. In this article, we will highlight the changes introduced in the updated standard, as mentioned in the official guidelines.

Compliance Requirements for Existing BIS Licensees Under IS 16103 (Part 1)

Below, we have mentioned the BIS CRS Certification requirements for Existing Licensees: 

• All the current license holders must start using the revised standards IS 16103 (Part 1): 2025/IEC 62031: 2018 by 21st January 2026. After this, any license that does not follow the new standard will no longer be valid. 
• License holders must show that their products meet the new standard by submitting complete test reports from a BIS-recognized lab. These reports must be for all main product models that were previously tested in accordance with IS 16103 (Part 1): 2012. 
• License holders must submit a written declaration saying that the requirements of IS 16103 (Part 1): 2025 have been followed for other existing models covered under their license. 
• If license holders do not complete the required actions by January 21, 2026, their license may be cancelled, or the non-compliant models may be removed from the license.

Compliance Requirements for New Applicants 

Now, let’s go through the requirements of CRS BIS Certification for LED modules for New Applicants:

• If your sample has already been submitted to the lab or test report, the application can be processed using the old standard. 
• New applications received from now can be processed using either the old or the new standard. However, using the old standard will only be allowed until 21st January 2026. 
• In such cases, the applicant must give a written declaration that they will switch to the new standard by the last date of implementation. 
• After 21st January 2026, no license will be granted using the old standard.

Changes in the Scope of the BIS Licence

Let’s understand the changes in the scope of IS 16103 (Part 1): 2025 to obtain Certificate under BIS Compulsory Registration Scheme:

• For any change in the scope of the license, the same rules will be applied (mentioned under new applicants).
• Requests to change the scope using the old standard will only be allowed until the license switches to the new standard or until the last date of implementation. 
• These rules will take effect immediately.

Key Updates Mentioned Under IS 16103 (Part 1): 2025

The revised IS 16103 (Part 1): 2025 has introduced several important changes. Below are the key updates for manufacturers and license holders for Bureau of Indian Standards Registration: 

a) New definitions have been added for:

• Replaceable LED module
• Non-replaceable LED module
• Non-user replaceable LED module

b) The marking clause has been reorganized, and a table has been added to give a clear overview.

c) There are changes in the marking rules for built-in LED modules.

d) The marking rule for working voltage has been updated.

e) Annex B has been removed.

f) New information has been added for luminaire design, especially related to working voltage and water contact.

g) A new test has been added: the abnormal temperature test.

h) A new test has been added: the photobiological safety test.

Conclusion

The updates of IS 16103 (Part 1): 2025 are significant progress toward improving alignment with worldwide safety practices regarding LED modules. Manufacturers, licensees, and applicants can comply with the updated requirements before the obligation date of 21st January 2026 while becoming more knowledgeable and compliant in the process. The ongoing improvements will not only allow them to stay within the compliance of their BIS certification but also improve product safety and quality, ultimately, patient trust in the growing demand of market lighting.