Voluntary Machinery Safety Certification under BIS Scheme-X: New Guidelines Issued
Machinery safety is once again in focus in India and local and foreign manufacturers now have a new opportunity to demonstrate compliance through voluntary Machinery Safety Certification, under Scheme-X.
Following the rescission of the Machinery and Electrical Equipment Safety (Omnibus Technical Regulation) Order, 2024, the new guidelines provide manufacturers with a structured route to demonstrate conformity with applicable Indian Standards and machinery safety requirements.
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has issued the Guidelines for Grant Machinery Safety Certification under Conformity Assessment Scheme-X, dated 5 August 2026, providing a framework for voluntary certification of machinery and related equipment under BIS Scheme-X.
What Does This Mean for Machinery Manufacturers?
While Machinery Safety Certification is currently voluntary, it provides manufacturers with a formal mechanism to demonstrate that their machinery has been assessed against applicable safety and conformity requirements.
What Does the Machinery Safety Certification Process Focus On?
The guidelines place emphasis on demonstrating compliance through a combination of technical documentation, risk assessment, safety measures and conformity assessment activities.
Key elements include:
- Technical File – Documentation supporting the design, construction and safety of the machinery.
- Risk Assessment – Identification and evaluation of hazards associated with the machinery.
- Risk Reduction – Measures implemented to eliminate or reduce identified risks.
- Product Compliance Report (PCR) – Documentation demonstrating conformity with applicable requirements.
- Desk Audit – Review of relevant technical and compliance documentation.
- Site Audit – Assessment of applicable manufacturing and quality-related processes.
Together, these elements provide a structured approach to evaluating machinery safety and conformity.
Which Machinery Is Covered?
The Scheme-X framework applies to various categories of machinery, including:
- Pneumatic Compressors
- Textile Machinery
- Metal Cutting Machinery
- Machinery for Working Rubber and Plastics
Manufacturers should assess their specific machinery against the applicable Indian Standards and Scheme-X requirements before proceeding with certification.
Voluntary Does Not Mean “Prepare Later”
While BIS Machinery Safety certification is voluntary, manufacturers may consider obtaining certification as a proactive step to demonstrate product safety, strengthen compliance readiness, and support market confidence.
Unlike local manufacturers, foreign manufacturers must appoint an Authorised India Representative (AIR) to obtain voluntary BIS certification.
A strong compliance package should include appropriate:
Technical Documentation | Risk Assessment | Safety Validation | Quality Controls | Product Compliance Documentation
Early preparation can help manufacturers identify potential gaps, align technical documentation with applicable requirements and streamline the certification process.
What Should Manufacturers Do Next?
Manufacturers considering voluntary machinery safety certification should begin by:
- Identify the applicable Indian Standards
- Review the Technical File
- Conduct a Machinery Risk Assessment
- Evaluate Product Compliance
- Assess Readiness for BIS Aud.
- If you are a foreign manufacturer, look for a professional and experienced Authorised India Representative (AIR)
Looking Ahead
The introduction of the voluntary Machinery Safety Certification framework gives machinery manufacturers a structured pathway to demonstrate conformity with Indian safety requirements. Additionally, it will help foreign machinery manufacturers strengthen market credibility and differentiate their products in India.
Overall, it provides a competitive advantage for manufacturing companies seeking to expand or strengthen their presence in India.
Need India BIS support or AIR Services?
Contact us at indiabis@reachlaw.fi. We would be happy to discuss your case further.
Useful links:
REACHLaw India Website: www.reachlaw.co.in
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