QCO 2026 Exclusions: Which Electrical Products Are NOT Covered by IS 302 Part 1

Understanding QCO 2026 exclusions is as important as understanding scope — to avoid both unnecessary certification costs and missed mandatory requirements.

Explicit QCO 2026 Exclusions

1. Products Covered by Other QCOs

Products already mandatorily certified under a separate QCO are excluded from IS 302 Part 1 QCO. Examples: IT equipment under MeitY CRO, electric cables under cables QCO, switchgear under separate QCO.

2. Export-Only Products

Products manufactured exclusively for export and not sold in India are excluded.

3. Existing Inventory (6-Month Window)

Products manufactured or imported before the QCO implementation date are exempt up to 6 months, provided the manufacturer has BIS certification OR has applied for it on the implementation date.

Voltage Scope Exclusion

Products operating above 480V are outside IS 302 Part 1 voltage scope.

Common Misconceptions — NOT Excluded

• Low-wattage products: still require certification if in scope
• B2B-only sales: commercial use is explicitly within scope
• CE-marked imports: CE does not exempt from BIS
• Foreign-brand imports: Indian importer is responsible for certification

When in Doubt

Seek formal BIS scope clarification in writing. Do not proceed on assumptions — wrong scope decisions cost either unnecessary certification or enforcement risk.