Top 10 Mistakes Manufacturers Make During Toy BIS Certification — And How to Avoid Them

Ensuring toy safety is vital—not just for children’s health, but also for legal compliance and brand reputation. In India, the Toys (Quality Control) Order, 2020 mandates that all toys must comply with Indian Standards and carry the ISI mark.

Since enforcement began on January 1, 2021, manufacturers have had to step up. BIS data in mid-2025 shows that 91% of 17,860 toy samples tested were compliant. Still, many manufacturers struggle.

Below are the 10 most common mistakes — and how you can avoid them.

1. Misunderstanding Which Indian Standards Apply

Toy safety is governed by standards like IS 9873 (multiple parts) and IS 15644 (electric toys).

Mistake: Applying under the wrong IS standard.

Tip: Identify the toy category, materials, age group, and map them correctly.

2. Incomplete Material & Chemical Testing

Many miss testing for heavy metals, phthalates, or ignore raw material certificates.

Tip: Test all materials in BIS-recognised labs.

3. Inadequate Documentation

BIS requires reports, plant layout, machinery list, trademarks, and manufacturing details.

Mistake: Missing documents or incorrect submissions.

Tip: Follow a proper checklist.

4. Using Non-Recognised Test Labs

Mistake: Using labs not recognised by BIS.

Tip: Only use BIS-recognised laboratories.

5. Poor Sample Selection

Mistake: Sending prototypes that don’t match production.

Tip: Use actual production materials and components.

6. Labelling, Marking & Packaging Errors

Mistake: Wrong warnings, missing ISI mark, incorrect packaging.

Tip: Finalise packaging only after test approval.

7. Poor Cost Planning

Mistake: Underestimating certification costs.

Tip: Keep buffer funds for retests and documentation.

8. Ignoring Renewal Requirements

Mistake: Missing renewals or updating models without notifying BIS.

Tip: Track licence validity and changes.

9. Poor Quality Control After Certification

Mistake: Production drift creating unsafe toys.

Tip: Maintain strong QC systems and supplier checks.

10. Ignoring Enforcement & Legal Risks

Mistake: Underestimating penalties and inspections.

Tip: Stay updated with BIS rules and ensure complete compliance.

Why These Mistakes Matter

Child Safety & Trust: Unsafe toys cause harm and ruin brand image.
Legal Risks: BIS can seize products and impose penalties.
Market Access: Compliance is mandatory for domestic and export markets.