BIS certification is mandatory for foot warmers and heating mats in India. The requirement comes from the Safety of Household, Commercial and Similar Electrical Appliances (Quality Control) Order, 2026 (S.O. 1739(E), dated 6 April 2026). The Order comes into force on 1 October 2026 for large and medium enterprises, 1 January 2027 for small enterprises, and 1 April 2027 for micro enterprises. Foot warmers and heating mats must conform to IS 302 (Part 1):2024, which is harmonised with IEC 60335-1, together with the applicable particular requirements; the international particular standard is IEC 60335-2-81. USB and battery-operated models are covered too. Each unit must carry the ISI Mark under Scheme-I of the BIS (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018. Products manufactured in India solely for export are exempt. Foreign manufacturers apply through the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS). Non-compliance is punishable under the BIS Act, 2016.
Foot warmers and heating mats are low-power electric appliances that keep feet warm. A foot warmer is a heated boot, muff or box into which the feet are placed, and a heating mat is a small flat heated pad on which the feet rest. They are popular in winter in homes, offices, shops and salons, and come in mains, USB and battery-powered forms. Because they touch bare feet for hours, a hot spot, damaged wire or wet floor can cause burns or electric shock.
The 2026 Quality Control Order for household and similar electrical appliances makes BIS certification compulsory for this product. Manufacturers need a BIS licence and the ISI Mark. Importers and brand owners must source only from BIS-licensed manufacturers. This guide explains what the Order requires, which standard applies, what testing involves and how to plan your certification.
📑 Quick Navigation
- Is BIS Certification Mandatory for Foot Warmers and Heating Mats?
- Applicable Standard: IS 302 (Part 1):2024
- QCO 2026 Implementation Dates
- Mandatory Tests for Foot Warmers and Heating Mats
- Marking and User Information
- BIS Certification Process — Step by Step
- Indian Manufacturers vs Foreign Manufacturers (FMCS)
- Documents Required
- Timeline and Cost Factors
- Exemptions and Relaxations
- Post-Certification Obligations
- Common Non-Conformities
- Penalty for Selling Without the ISI Mark
- Benefits of BIS Certification
- How Rego Services Supports Your Certification
- Frequently Asked Questions
Is BIS Certification Mandatory for Foot Warmers and Heating Mats?
What Is BIS Certification for Foot Warmers and Heating Mats?
BIS certification is the licence and ISI Mark that the Bureau of Indian Standards grants once a foot warmer or heating mat model has been tested and found to conform to IS 302 (Part 1):2024 and the applicable particular requirements. It is how the 2026 Quality Control Order is enforced for this product.
Yes. The Ministry of Commerce and Industry notified the Order on 6 April 2026. It supersedes the 2025 Order and applies to household, commercial and similar electrical appliances rated up to 250 V single-phase or 480 V for other appliances, including DC-supplied and battery-operated ones. Once the Order applies to you, a foot warmer or heating mat cannot lawfully be manufactured, imported, distributed or sold unless it bears the ISI Mark. You can read the Order's scope on the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade website. Licence and standards information is published by the Bureau of Indian Standards.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Regulation | Safety of Household, Commercial and Similar Electrical Appliances (Quality Control) Order, 2026 |
| Notification | S.O. 1739(E), dated 6 April 2026 (supersedes the 2025 Order, S.O. 2232(E)) |
| Product Entries | Foot Warmers and Heating Mats; DC-supplied / battery-operated Foot Warmers and Heating Mats (verify exact Sl. Nos. against the official notification) |
| Indian Standard | IS 302 (Part 1):2024, harmonised with IEC 60335-1, with particular requirements aligned with IEC 60335-2-81 |
| Certification Route | ISI Mark licence under Scheme-I, Schedule-II, BIS (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018 |
| Enforcement | Bureau of Indian Standards; penalties under the BIS Act, 2016 |
Applicable Standard: IS 302 (Part 1):2024
India's household electrical safety standard is the IS 302 series. A general part applies to every household appliance. A particular part adds requirements written for a specific appliance, and for foot warmers and heating mats the international reference is IEC 60335-2-81.
Products Typically Assessed as Foot Warmers and Heating Mats
Heated boots, muffs, boxes and mats connected to the mains supply, often with an in-line controller.
Low-voltage DC warmers powered from a USB port or an external adaptor.
Battery-operated warmers with a built-in rechargeable battery.
Warmers used by laymen in shops, offices, salons and similar premises, which the standard's scope includes.
QCO 2026 Implementation Dates
The Order applies different start dates by enterprise size, as defined under the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Act, 2006.
The Order applies to both domestic manufacturers and importers. Goods manufactured in India purely for export are outside its scope.
Mandatory Tests for Foot Warmers and Heating Mats
Samples are tested at a BIS-recognised laboratory against IS 302 (Part 1):2024 and the applicable particular requirements. The exact test plan depends on the editions in force and your model's construction. Testing generally falls into these groups:
Marking durability and the instruction manual are reviewed alongside these tests.
Marking and User Information
- ISI Mark — the Standard Mark with the BIS licence number (CM/L number), on the product, rating label, packaging and manual.
- Rating label — rated voltage and frequency (or DC supply), input power, model or type, and manufacturer name, address and brand.
- Safety instructions — typically include not using a damaged product, not using it to warm animals, how to recognise a worn cover, and warnings for people with reduced sensitivity to heat. Confirm the full list in the edition in force.
- Care instructions — washing or cleaning guidance, including symbols such as do not dry clean, for washable products.
BIS Certification Process — Step by Step
The process below follows Scheme-I. Delays usually come from incomplete documents or samples that fail in the laboratory.
Confirm that your product is a foot warmer or heating mat, and not an electric blanket, pad or heated carpet, under the Order, identify the IS 302 parts that apply, and check which implementation date applies to your enterprise.
Group models by rating and construction. Freeze the heating element or PTC, thermal cut-out, controller, cover materials, cord, adaptor and battery details before testing begins.
Compile factory, quality-control, product and authorisation documents. Foreign manufacturers also appoint an Authorised Indian Representative.
Submit the Scheme-I application with fees and supporting documents on the BIS online portal. BIS scrutinises the file and may raise queries.
A BIS officer inspects the manufacturing process, in-house testing facilities and quality system, and draws samples from your production.
Samples are tested against IS 302 (Part 1):2024 and the applicable particular requirements. A failed test means corrective action and retesting, so pre-compliance checks save time.
BIS reviews the inspection findings and test reports. When every requirement is met, the licence is granted with a CM/L number for the certified models.
Mark every certified unit with the ISI Mark and licence number, then comply with periodic surveillance, marking fees and renewal.
Indian Manufacturers vs Foreign Manufacturers (FMCS)
The standard and the tests are the same for everyone. What differs is how the licence is applied for, how the factory is inspected, and who holds accountability in India.
| Business | Typical BIS Responsibility |
|---|---|
| Indian manufacturer | Apply for the Scheme-I BIS licence covering each certified model |
| Foreign manufacturer | Apply through the FMCS route and appoint an Authorised Indian Representative |
| Importer | Verify that the overseas supplier holds a valid BIS licence covering the exact model being imported |
| Brand owner using a contract manufacturer | Ensure the factory holds the licence for the certified models and that brand authorisation is in order |
| Export-only manufacturer | Check that the goods fall within the Order's export exemption before relying on it |
- Licence is held by the Indian manufacturer
- BIS inspects the factory in India
- Samples tested at a BIS-recognised laboratory
- Shorter overall timeline
- Small and micro enterprises get later start dates
- Licence is held by the foreign manufacturer
- An Authorised Indian Representative is appointed
- BIS inspects the overseas factory
- Longer timeline because of inspection scheduling
- Importers must buy from BIS-licensed manufacturers
Documents Required
Missing or inconsistent documents are the most common reason applications stall. Prepare the following before filing:
- Business documents — company registration or Udyam certificate, GST registration, and proof of the manufacturing premises.
- Authorised signatory — board resolution or authorisation letter with identity proof. Foreign manufacturers also submit the Authorised Indian Representative appointment.
- Factory details — layout plan, manufacturing process flow chart, and list of plant, machinery and production equipment.
- Testing and quality control — list of in-house test equipment with calibration certificates, and the quality-control plan covering incoming, in-process and final checks.
- Product documents — model list, ratings, circuit diagram, bill of materials and critical component list.
- Brand and packaging — trademark proof and packaging artwork showing ISI Mark placement.
- Samples and test request — samples and the test request to a BIS-recognised laboratory.
- Declarations and undertakings — BIS-format declarations signed by the authorised signatory.
Timeline and Cost Factors
The figures below are indicative. Your actual timeline depends on document readiness, the number of models, laboratory availability and inspection scheduling.
| Stage | Indian Manufacturer | Foreign Manufacturer (FMCS) |
|---|---|---|
| Documents and application filing | 1–2 weeks | 2–3 weeks |
| Factory inspection and sample drawing | 2–4 weeks | 6–10 weeks |
| Laboratory testing and report | 3–6 weeks | 4–8 weeks |
| Review and licence grant | 1–2 weeks | 2–4 weeks |
| Indicative total | 45–90 days | 4–6 months |
| Cost Component | What Drives It |
|---|---|
| BIS application and licence fees | Scheme, number of models and product groups |
| Laboratory testing charges | Number of models, power rating and construction |
| Factory inspection charges | Location of the factory, number of visits, auditor travel and stay |
| Annual licence and marking fee | Production or sales volume of certified products |
| Foreign factory inspection (FMCS) | Overseas inspection logistics and travel |
| Internal QA set-up | In-house test equipment, calibration and routine test procedures |
Exemptions and Relaxations
The Order includes several carve-outs. Use them only after confirming that your situation fits the wording precisely.
The Order does not apply to goods manufactured domestically for export. Products sold in India remain fully covered.
Manufacturers of household appliances may import up to 200 units a year for research and development. These units cannot be sold, may be disposed of as scrap, and must be recorded year-wise.
A manufacturer who is BIS-certified or has applied for certification may sell declared stock for up to six months from the implementation date, subject to a declaration to BIS.
Small enterprises comply from 1 January 2027 and micro enterprises from 1 April 2027.
Post-Certification Obligations
- Use the ISI Mark exactly as licensed — on the product, rating label, packaging and manual.
- Keep routine tests and records — earthing continuity, high-voltage and insulation checks, functional checks and marking verification, with instruments calibrated on schedule.
- Inform BIS before changes — any critical component change or design revision needs prior intimation, and new models may need to be added to the licence.
- Support surveillance — market sample testing and factory audits.
- Renew on time — licences are granted for a fixed validity and must be renewed before they lapse.
Common Non-Conformities for Foot Warmers and Heating Mats
Surfaces the feet touch exceed temperature limits, especially where heating wire folds or bunches. Review element layout and temperature control.
Treating a heated foot pad as an electric blanket, or the reverse, and testing to the wrong requirements.
Washable products claimed without testing after laundering. Insulation and heating wires must survive washing.
Battery and USB models with cells or adaptors that lack the required registration cause component queries and delays.
In-line controllers and cords fail strength or flexing tests. Upgrade strain relief and test every design.
Instructions without required warnings, or missing circuit diagrams and component lists, delay the application and inspection.
Penalty for Selling Without the ISI Mark
Once the Order applies to you, foot warmers and heating mats without a valid BIS licence and ISI Mark cannot be lawfully placed on the Indian market. Contravention is punishable under the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016. Consequences can include fines, imprisonment and seizure of non-conforming goods. Imported consignments without a valid licence and marking also risk being held at customs.
Benefits of BIS Certification
BIS Certification Services in India
Explore Rego Services' full range of BIS ISI Mark, FMCS and CRS certification support for manufacturers, importers and foreign brands.
BIS Certification for Electric Kettles and Jugs in India
Another heating appliance under the same QCO 2026. See the certification process for electric kettles and jugs.
How Rego Services Supports Your Certification
Rego Services Private Limited manages BIS certification for foot warmers and heating mats and other household electrical appliances, from the first applicability check to the granted licence.
- Applicability and dates — We confirm your product's entry in the QCO, the standard editions in force and the date that applies to your enterprise.
- Gap analysis — We review your design, critical components and existing test reports against IS 302 (Part 1):2024 and the applicable particular requirements.
- Documentation — We prepare the complete Scheme-I application file, including factory and quality-control documents.
- Testing coordination — We arrange sample submission and testing at BIS-recognised laboratories.
- Inspection support — We prepare your team and facility for the BIS factory inspection, in India or overseas.
- ISI Mark and FMCS management — We handle the process end to end, including Authorised Indian Representative services for foreign manufacturers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is BIS certification mandatory for foot warmers and heating mats in India?
Yes. Foot warmers and heating mats are covered by the Safety of Household, Commercial and Similar Electrical Appliances (Quality Control) Order, 2026 (S.O. 1739(E), dated 6 April 2026). They must conform to IS 302 (Part 1):2024 and bear the ISI Mark under a BIS licence. DC-supplied and battery-operated models are reported to be listed as a separate entry. Confirm the exact serial-number entries with BIS or the latest official notification.
From which date is BIS certification compulsory for foot warmers and heating mats?
1 October 2026 for large and medium enterprises, 1 January 2027 for small enterprises, and 1 April 2027 for micro enterprises, as defined under the MSMED Act, 2006.
Are USB and battery-operated foot warmers covered?
Yes. The Order covers appliances rated up to 250 V single-phase, including DC-supplied and battery-operated appliances, and IEC 60335-2-81 covers DC-supplied and battery-operated foot warmers and heating mats. Battery and USB models are reported to have a separate entry in the Order.
Which standard applies to foot warmers and heating mats?
IS 302 (Part 1):2024, harmonised with IEC 60335-1, sets the general safety requirements named in the Order. The international particular standard is IEC 60335-2-81, whose 2024 edition adds external surface temperature limits. Confirm the Indian particular-requirements standard and edition with BIS or your laboratory.
Are electric blankets and heating pads covered by the same standard?
No. Electric blankets and pads fall under a different particular standard, IEC 60335-2-17. Electrically heated carpets and heating appliances for animals are also excluded from IEC 60335-2-81. Classify each model carefully before filing.
Can stock made before the deadline be sold?
A manufacturer who is BIS-certified or has applied for certification may sell, display or offer declared stock for up to six months from the implementation date, subject to a declaration to BIS.
Can a foreign manufacturer apply for BIS certification for foot warmers?
Yes. Foreign manufacturers apply under the BIS Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS), appoint an Authorised Indian Representative, and BIS inspects the overseas factory.
How long does BIS certification for foot warmers take?
Indicatively, 45 to 90 days for Indian manufacturers and 4 to 6 months for foreign manufacturers. The timeline depends on documentation, laboratory slots, the number of models and factory inspection scheduling.
✓ Key Takeaways
- BIS certification is mandatory for foot warmers and heating mats under the QCO 2026 (S.O. 1739(E), 6 April 2026)
- Verify the exact Sl. No. entries for mains and for DC or battery-operated models against the official Gazette notification
- Dates: 1 October 2026 (large and medium), 1 January 2027 (small), 1 April 2027 (micro)
- Standard: IS 302 (Part 1):2024, with particular requirements aligned with IEC 60335-2-81; USB and battery models are covered
- Certification route: Scheme-I ISI Mark licence; foreign manufacturers apply through FMCS
- The 19 March 2026 date quoted in older articles belongs to the superseded 2025 Order
- Export-only manufacturing is exempt; declared pre-implementation stock can be sold for six months if you are certified or have applied
- Rego Services provides end-to-end support — applicability checks, gap analysis, testing coordination and licence management
Reviewed by the Rego Services Compliance Team | Last Updated: October 2026 | Applicable QCO: S.O. 1739(E), dated 6 April 2026 | Applicable Standard: IS 302 (Part 1):2024
Your Next Step
The first implementation date, 1 October 2026, has already passed for large and medium enterprises, right at the start of the winter selling season, and small and micro enterprises are close behind. Testing slots, factory inspections and document preparation all take time. An early application can also protect existing stock under the Order's clearance provision.
Rego Services' regulatory team can confirm your applicability, prepare a complete application and manage your BIS licence from filing to grant. Contact Rego Services today for expert guidance on BIS certification for foot warmers and heating mats and the ISI Mark process.