BIS Issues Implementation Guidelines for IS 16242 (Part 1):2025 / IEC 62040-1:2017 (UPS Safety)

Published by BIS Registration Department: 21 August 2025

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has revised IS 16242 (Part 1)—the Indian safety standard for Uninterruptible Power Systems (UPS)—aligning it with IEC 62040-1:2017. The earlier edition IS 16242 (Part 1):2014 / IEC 62040-1:2008 will run concurrently only until 19 November 2025, after which it stands withdrawn.

What’s Changing?

• New Edition: IS 16242 (Part 1):2025 harmonized with IEC 62040-1:2017.
• Cut-off Date: Concurrent running of both editions ends on 19 November 2025; the 2014 edition is withdrawn thereafter.

Key Technical Updates (Annexure Highlights)

The 2025 edition references IEC 62477-1:2012 and brings several safety and test updates, including: definition of movable UPS; modified flammability requirements; added working voltages for creepage distance; additional requirements for steady force, handles/manual controls, touch current, temperature rise, input current; updated capacitor discharge (pluggable type B and permanently connected UPS); and new clauses such as short-time withstand current, unsynchronized load transfer, loss of coolant, dry heat, damp heat, and hydrostatic pressure tests.

Implementation Guidelines

For Existing Licensees

• Mandatory Migration: Implement IS 16242 (Part 1):2025 / IEC 62040-1:2017 by 19 November 2025. Licences not demonstrating compliance by this date will not remain operative.
• Test Evidence: Submit complete test reports from BIS-recognized labs for all lead models previously tested to the 2014 edition.
• Series Models: Provide an undertaking that all other series models under licence also meet the 2025 edition.

For New Applicants

• In-Process Cases: Applications with samples already in lab or reports issued may continue under the old standard.
• New Applications (from now): May be processed under old or revised standard, but old-standard processing is allowed only up to 19 November 2025. Applicants choosing the old standard must declare they will implement the revised standard by the deadline.
• Post-Deadline: No new licence will be granted under the old standard after 19 November 2025.

Change in Scope of Licence

• Requests for scope change follow the applicant provisions above. Processing under the old standard is permitted only until the licensee switches over to the revised standard or until the implementation date, whichever is earlier.

Effective Immediately

The guidelines take immediate effect from the date of issue.

What Manufacturers & Importers Should Do Now

1. Plan Testing: Book BIS-recognized laboratory slots for lead model testing to IS 16242 (Part 1):2025.
2. Gap Assessment: Compare current product compliance (2014 edition) against the new test/requirement additions (e.g., touch current, temperature rise, loss of coolant).
3. Documentation: Prepare undertakings for series models and update technical files, labels, and user manuals in line with the 2025 edition.
4. Submission Timeline: Target completion well before 19 November 2025 to avoid disruption of licence validity.

Need Assistance?

If you manufacture or import UPS systems for the Indian market, align your certification strategy with IS 16242 (Part 1):2025 / IEC 62040-1:2017 now to maintain uninterrupted market access post-19 November 2025. Our compliance team can help with gap analyses, testing coordination with BIS-recognized labs, documentation, and licence amendments.