IS/IEC 62368-1:2023 – Strengthening Safety in Audio/Video, Information and Communication Technology Equipment

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has formally adopted IS/IEC 62368-1:2023, aligning India’s regulatory framework with the latest International Electro technical Commission (IEC) requirements for audio/video, information, and communication technology equipment. This second revision replaces the earlier Indian versions (2018 and 2020) and reflects advancements in safety design, product testing, and risk mitigation for modern multimedia and ICT devices.

This standard plays a pivotal role in safeguarding consumers, ensuring product reliability, and facilitating global market access for Indian manufacturers by harmonizing with international benchmarks.

IEC 62368-1:2023 safety for AV and ICT equipment introduces a hazard-based safety engineering approach for modern technology products such as audio, video, and information communication devices.

Key Updates in the 2023 Revision

Compared to its predecessors, the 2023 edition introduces critical technical enhancements:

1. External Circuits Requirements– A new table defines stricter conditions for connecting external circuits, minimizing risks of electric shock and fire.
2. Fire Enclosures– Revised provisions address openings in enclosures, enhancing containment of flames and smoke in case of electrical faults.
3. Liquid-Filled Components– Updated requirements ensure safety when using liquid-cooled or liquid-insulated components.
4. Battery Charging– Strengthened safety protocols for charging systems, reflecting the widespread use of rechargeable batteries in ICT and consumer electronics.

Structure of the Standard

The standard is comprehensive, spanning from general safety principles to detailed test methods. Major parts include:

1. Energy Source Classifications– Categorizes hazards as electrical, thermal, mechanical, chemical, or radiative.
2. Safeguards Framework– Defines equipment, installation, personal, and behavioral safeguards against hazards.
3. Injury Models– Covers risks such as electric shock, fire, burns, hazardous substances, and radiation.
4. Testing & Compliance– Specifies normal, abnormal, and single-fault condition testing, alongside requirements for insulation, wiring, batteries, and protective devices.
5. Annexes– Provide detailed test conditions, UV/radiation requirements, safety interlocks, disconnect devices, and battery safety provisions.

Impact on Industry and Manufacturers

The transition to IS/IEC 62368-1:2023 is mandatory for manufacturers of ICT and AV equipment in India, including laptops, servers, televisions, set-top boxes, routers, and audio systems.

Key implications:

• Compliance for BIS Registration– Products under the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS) must adhere to this updated standard.
• Design Revisions– Companies must re-evaluate product design, particularly in battery charging, fire protection, and external connections.
• Global Market Alignment– Since the standard is harmonized with IEC, compliance facilitates exports by ensuring mutual recognition.

Benefits for Consumers and Regulators

• Enhanced Safety– Protects against modern risks such as lithium battery hazards, overheating, and fire incidents.
• Consumer Confidence– Ensures reliability and safe usage of electronics in homes, offices, and industries.
• Regulatory Efficiency– Provides a uniform framework for BIS and other regulators to assess product conformity.

Conclusion

The adoption of IS/IEC 62368-1:2023 marks a decisive step by BIS towards future-proofing safety compliance in India’s rapidly growing electronics and ICT sectors. Manufacturers must now integrate the revised safeguards and testing methods into their product designs to ensure timely market approvals, while consumers can expect higher levels of reliability and protection.

By harmonizing with global standards, India strengthens its position as a trusted manufacturing hub, fostering both domestic safety and international trade opportunities.