Scheme X under BIS: Advanced Certification Pathways Introduced for High-Risk Products in India

ASC Group
2 hours ago
3 min read

India’s product safety regulations are evolving rapidly to keep pace with technological advancements and increasing safety expectations. In this regulatory shift, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has introduced Scheme X, a more rigorous certification framework designed specifically for high-risk products.

Unlike conventional BIS certification models, BIS Scheme X certification focuses on products that pose higher safety, performance, or operational risks. The introduction of Scheme X under BIS reflects India’s commitment to strengthening consumer protection, infrastructure safety, and industrial reliability.

This blog explains what Scheme X is, why it was introduced, how it differs from other BIS schemes, and how manufacturers can prepare for BIS Scheme X registration in India.

What Is Scheme X under BIS?

Scheme X is an advanced conformity assessment and certification scheme introduced by BIS for products considered critical or high-risk. These products typically require enhanced scrutiny due to their application, complexity, or potential impact on public safety and infrastructure.

Under BIS Scheme X certification, compliance is not limited to product testing alone. It includes:

Detailed technical evaluation
Factory assessment and quality control verification
Continuous compliance monitoring

Manufacturers must obtain a BIS Scheme X license before manufacturing, importing, or supplying covered products in India.

Why Scheme X Was Introduced

The traditional certification frameworks were effective for general consumer goods but were insufficient for high-risk industrial and safety-critical products. Scheme X was introduced to address this gap by:

Enhancing safety oversight for complex products
Reducing the risk of substandard or unsafe equipment
Aligning Indian certification with global best practices
Improving accountability across the supply chain

With Scheme X, BIS ensures that high-risk products meet not only minimum standards but also long-term performance and reliability requirements.

Products Likely to Fall under BIS Scheme X

While the scope of Scheme X may expand over time, it generally applies to products that:

Are used in critical infrastructure
Involve high mechanical, electrical, or operational risk
Have significant safety implications if they fail

These may include industrial equipment, safety-critical components, and specialized systems where failure can result in serious harm or disruption.

Key Features of BIS Scheme X Certification

1. Enhanced Evaluation Process

Unlike standard BIS certification, BIS Scheme X certification involves deeper technical scrutiny, including design review and system evaluation.

2. Mandatory Factory Assessment

Manufacturing facilities are assessed to verify quality control systems, process consistency, and traceability.

3. Ongoing Surveillance

Compliance does not end with certification. Scheme X requires continuous monitoring and periodic assessments to maintain the BIS Scheme X license.

4. Higher Documentation Standards

Technical documentation must be detailed, accurate, and aligned with Indian standards and Scheme X guidelines.

BIS Scheme X Registration Process

The BIS Scheme X registration process generally includes:

Product Applicability Assessment

Identifying whether the product falls under Scheme X requirements.
Technical Documentation Review

Submission of detailed product designs, specifications, and risk analysis.
Testing and Evaluation

Product testing at approved facilities, where applicable.
Factory Inspection

Verification of manufacturing processes and quality systems.
Grant of BIS Scheme X License

Approval is granted only after full compliance with Scheme X criteria.

Due to its complexity, Scheme X certification requires careful planning and execution.

Common Challenges in Scheme X Compliance

Manufacturers often face challenges such as:

Misclassification of products under Scheme X
Incomplete technical documentation
Delays during factory inspections
Lack of clarity on post-certification obligations

Without expert guidance, these challenges can significantly delay BIS Scheme X registration.

How ASC Group Supports Scheme X Compliance

Navigating BIS Scheme X certification requires both regulatory understanding and practical execution. ASC Group provides structured and end-to-end assistance to manufacturers and importers seeking compliance under Scheme X.

ASC Group’s Scheme X Support Includes

Product applicability analysis and risk assessment
End-to-end management of BIS Scheme X registration
Coordination for testing and factory assessment
Documentation preparation and compliance review
Ongoing advisory for maintaining the BIS Scheme X license

ASC Group’s balanced approach helps businesses achieve compliance efficiently while minimizing operational disruptions.

Why Scheme X Compliance Is a Strategic Investment

While Scheme X certification involves a higher level of scrutiny, it also delivers long-term value:

Increased trust from regulators and customers
Stronger market positioning for high-risk products
Reduced liability and compliance risks
Improved product reliability and brand credibility

For manufacturers operating in critical sectors, BIS Scheme X certification is not just a regulatory requirement—it is a strategic advantage.

Conclusion

The introduction of Scheme X under BIS marks a significant shift in India’s certification landscape for high-risk products. With stricter evaluation, ongoing surveillance, and higher accountability, Scheme X raises the bar for safety and quality compliance.

Manufacturers must adopt a proactive compliance strategy to navigate BIS Scheme X registration successfully. With the right planning and expert support, businesses can meet Scheme X requirements while strengthening their long-term presence in the Indian market. Professional guidance from experienced consultants like ASC Group ensures that compliance becomes structured, manageable, and future-ready. Original Source