In today’s digital era, smartphones, tablets, and other electronic devices have become an integral part of everyday life. To protect these devices from scratches, cracks, and damage, glass screen protectors are widely used by consumers. While the demand for screen protectors continues to rise, so does the need to ensure their safety, quality, and durability. In India, this is regulated through the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) under the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS). Specifically, glass screen protectors are governed by the Indian Standard IS 19348, making it mandatory for manufacturers and importers to obtain BIS Certification before selling them in the Indian market.

This certification not only assures consumers about the product’s quality but also ensures that manufacturers comply with Indian safety standards. Let’s explore in detail why BIS certification for glass screen protectors is important, what IS 19348 entails, and how the certification process works.

What is BIS Certification?

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is the national standards body of India, operating under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution. It is responsible for developing standards, certifying products, and ensuring consumer safety.

Under the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS), certain electronic and IT products must be registered with BIS before they can be imported, distributed, or sold in India. This scheme helps eliminate substandard products from the market and protects Indian consumers.

For glass screen protectors, BIS certification ensures that products meet the quality and durability requirements defined under IS 19348. Without this certification, selling such products in India is prohibited.

About IS 19348 Standard

The Indian Standard IS 19348 was specifically introduced to regulate glass screen protectors used for smartphones and similar devices. It sets the minimum safety, quality, and performance benchmarks that manufacturers must adhere to.

The key aspects covered under IS 19348 include:

1. Material Quality – Ensures that the glass used in screen protectors is free from impurities, cracks, or unsafe materials.

2. Hardness and Strength – The standard specifies the hardness levels and mechanical strength of glass protectors to ensure durability against scratches and impacts.

3. Transparency and Clarity – A screen protector must maintain high optical clarity so that device screens remain visible without distortion.

4. Adhesion and Fit – Protectors must adhere properly to the screen surface without peeling off easily.

5. Thermal Resistance – Screen protectors should withstand varying temperature conditions without breaking or warping.

6. Safety Requirements – In case of breakage, the glass should not cause injury to users.

By meeting these parameters, IS 19348 ensures that only high-quality glass screen protectors are available in the Indian market.

Why BIS Certification is Mandatory for Glass Screen Protectors

The mandatory certification under IS 19348 serves multiple purposes:

1. Consumer Safety – Substandard glass protectors may shatter easily, causing injuries. BIS ensures products are safe to use.

2. Quality Assurance – Consumers receive durable, high-performing screen protectors that meet defined standards.

3. Market Regulation – Prevents the flooding of the Indian market with cheap, low-quality imports.

4. Legal Compliance – Importers and manufacturers avoid penalties, seizures, or bans by complying with BIS regulations.

5. Brand Credibility – BIS certification enhances consumer trust and boosts brand reputation in India.

Who Needs BIS Certification?

The following entities must obtain BIS registration for glass screen protectors:

• Indian Manufacturers – Local producers of glass screen protectors must certify their products under IS 19348.

• Importers – Businesses importing screen protectors into India must ensure BIS compliance before customs clearance.

• Foreign Manufacturers – Companies producing screen protectors outside India must appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) to obtain BIS registration.

Process of Obtaining BIS Certification for Glass Screen Protectors (IS 19348)

The BIS registration process involves several steps:

1. Application Submission

The manufacturer or importer must apply online through the BIS portal, selecting IS 19348 as the applicable standard.

2. Nomination of Authorized Indian Representative (AIR)

If the manufacturer is foreign, they must appoint an AIR to liaise with BIS on their behalf.

3. Testing of Products

Samples of glass screen protectors must be sent to a BIS-recognized laboratory in India for testing. The lab will evaluate the product as per IS 19348 parameters, including durability, hardness, clarity, and safety.

4. Test Report Submission

Once testing is complete, the laboratory issues a test report, which must be submitted along with the application.

5. Document Verification

BIS verifies all documents, including company details, manufacturing processes, test reports, and compliance declarations.

6. Grant of BIS Certification

If the product complies with IS 19348 requirements, BIS issues a Registration Certificate with a unique number. This number must be displayed on the product packaging.

Documents Required for BIS Certification

Some common documents required include:

• Business License or Company Registration Proof

• Manufacturing Process Flowchart

• Product Details and Specifications

• Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) Agreement (for foreign manufacturers)

• Test Reports from BIS-recognized lab

• Factory Address Proof

• Brand Authorization Letter (if applicable)

Validity and Renewal

• A BIS registration certificate is usually valid for two years.

• It can be renewed further, provided the product continues to comply with IS 19348 standards.

• Renewal requires submission of updated documents and payment of renewal fees.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Selling or distributing glass screen protectors without BIS certification is a punishable offense in India. Penalties may include:

• Seizure of Non-Compliant Goods at customs or in the market.

• Fines and Legal Penalties imposed on the company.

• Loss of Consumer Trust, harming long-term business prospects.

Conclusion

The BIS Certification for Glass Screen Protectors under IS 19348 is a critical requirement for manufacturers and importers in India. It not only ensures consumer safety but also builds market credibility and compliance with Indian regulations. With the growing demand for mobile accessories, obtaining BIS certification helps companies establish trust, avoid legal hurdles, and contribute to a safer marketplace.