Audio, Video and Similar Electronic Apparatus – Safety Requirements
Wireless Microphone
Strategic Recommendations – Wireless Microphone (IS 616:2017)
- Apply for BIS CRS Registration
Ensure all wireless microphone models conform to IS 616:2017 and are registered with BIS before sale, import, or manufacturing.
- Engage Compliance Experts
Collaborate with ERA Global Standards for testing, documentation, exemption clarifications (export/R&D/HSE), and BIS marking requirements.
- Contact ERA Support Team
📧 cs@eraglobal.co.in | 📞 +91 9599296331 | 💬 WhatsApp – for BIS certification, testing coordination, and CRS documentation assistance.
- Monitor Notifications & Amendments
Track all BIS CRS Orders and amendments (especially those related to Audio/Video apparatus under IS 616:2017) through ERA newsletters and MeitY/BIS circulars.
- Conduct Technical Gap Assessment
Audit microphone designs for insulation resistance, current leakage, fire hazard, and mechanical safety parameters as per IS 616:2017 to ensure conformity before CRS testing.
| Section | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Television (other than Plasma/LCD/LED TVs) |
| Applicable Indian Standard (IS) No. | IS 616:2017 |
| Title of Indian Standard | Audio, Video and Similar Electronic Apparatus – Safety Requirements |
| Quality Control Order | Electronics and IT Goods (Requirements for Compulsory Registration) Order, 2012 (with subsequent amendments) and CRS Order, 2021 under BIS Act, 2016 |
| Notification & Amendments | - S.O. 2357(E), dated 3rd October 2012 (Principal Order) - S.O. 3429(E), dated 1st October 2020 (Amendment adding Wireless Microphone) - S.O. 1248(E), dated 18th March 2021 (New CRS Order under BIS Act, 2016) |
| Final Enforcement Date | 1st April 2021 (six months after publication of 2020 Amendment) |
| Objective & Scope | To ensure the electrical and operational safety of wireless microphones, preventing electric shock, overheating, or fire risks during audio transmission and use. |
| Products Covered | All wireless microphone systems (handheld, lapel, headworn, or instrument-based) used in professional, consumer, or broadcasting applications. |
| Exemptions | - Products manufactured solely for export - Imported units for R&D, testing, or demonstration (subsequently re-exported or scrapped) - Highly Specialized Equipment (HSE) exemptions under CRS 2021 |
| Industries Impacted | - Audio equipment manufacturers - Event & stage equipment suppliers - Broadcasting & recording device OEMs - Importers and distributors of professional sound systems |
| Mandatory Compliance | - Must conform to IS 616:2017 - BIS CRS registration mandatory before sale, import, or distribution - Each unit must bear marking: “Self-declaration – Conforming to IS 616:2017 – (Unique Registration No.)” |
| Testing Parameters | - Electrical insulation & shock protection - Temperature rise & fire hazard tests - Power input, current leakage, and overvoltage performance - Mechanical strength, drop & stability tests |
| Certification & Enforcement Authority | Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) as certification authority. Enforcement by MeitY and State Industry Departments. |
| Penalties for Non-Compliance | - Suspension or cancellation of BIS license - Seizure of stock - Fines and/or imprisonment up to 2 years under BIS Act, 2016 |
| Conclusion | All wireless microphones sold, imported, or manufactured in India must comply with IS 616:2017 and obtain BIS CRS certification under the Electronics and IT Goods Orders. This ensures safe, standardized performance and consumer protection across the professional and consumer audio market. |
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Notification
Wireless Microphones were officially brought under the purview of the Electronics and IT Goods (Requirements for Compulsory Registration) Order, 2012 through Amendment S.O. 3429(E), dated 1st October 2020, and are regulated under the CRS Order, 2021 (S.O. 1248(E), dated 18th March 2021), issued under the BIS Act, 2016.
The regulation became enforceable from 1st April 2021, six months after notification.
Overview
Wireless Microphones are widely used in entertainment, broadcasting, events, and consumer electronics for audio transmission without physical cabling. The governing Indian Standard, IS 616:2017, specifies comprehensive safety requirements for such electronic apparatus to prevent electrical hazards, overheating, and fire.
Objective & Scope
The primary objective of this regulation is to ensure that all wireless microphones available in the Indian market are electrically safe, reliable, and BIS-certified, maintaining uniform quality and consumer safety.
Products Covered
All types of wireless microphones, including handheld, clip-on, headworn, instrument transmitters, and receiver systems, whether analog or digital.
Exemptions Provided
- Goods manufactured exclusively for export
- Units imported for R&D, testing, or demonstration (later scrapped/exported)
- Highly Specialized Equipment (HSE) as defined under CRS 2021
Industries Impacted
Audio equipment manufacturers, professional sound system OEMs, importers, and distributors are directly affected. Event production, media, and broadcasting sectors must ensure compliance for all audio transmission devices.
Mandatory Compliance Requirements
All wireless microphones must conform to IS 616:2017 and obtain BIS CRS Registration before sale, import, or manufacture in India. Each compliant product must bear the self-declaration mark with the BIS registration number.
Enforcement Timeline
Effective from 1st April 2021, following the six-month transition window after the 2020 Amendment notification.
Legal Provisions, Enforcement & Penalties
The Order is enforced by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) under the BIS Act, 2016, in coordination with the Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY). Non-compliance may result in license suspension, seizure of goods, fines, or imprisonment for up to two years.
Conclusion
Since April 2021, wireless microphones are required to be BIS-registered under IS 616:2017 to ensure standardized electrical safety and consumer protection. This promotes a safer ecosystem for India’s rapidly growing audio and entertainment industry.
Ready to start your certification journey?
Let us help you navigate regulatory challenges and achieve certification with ease. Leave us your details, and we’ll get back to you—or request a free consultation today.