BIS Certification For Safety of Toys Part 2 Flammability. IS 9873 (Part 2) : 2017

Introduction

Every child's life involves toys and games; they greatly influence the kid's personality. But probably they also have their own risks, such as unsecure design and manufacturing. To protect children from any fire dangers arising from toys, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has given clear instructions through the IS 9873 (Part 2) standard about the flammability test methods and requirements. The toy makers must meet the stipulations set by BIS, and they must ensure the safety of their products through the BIS certificate.

MANDATORY TESTING

The flammability tests assess the burning behavior of toys when exposed to small open flames, heat sources or sparks. Specimens are taken from toy component materials or assembled finished toys for testing. Key tests outlined in IS 9873 (Part 2) include:

- Ignitability Test: A small flame is applied to the edge of a specimen for 15 seconds to check if the material ignites. It must self-extinguish within 2 seconds after removing the flame.

- Flame Spread Test: Flames from a burner are impinged at an edge of the vertical mounted specimen for 30 seconds. The flame should not spread over specified limits based on toy dimensions. 

- Smoldering Test: Toy components are placed over a smoldering cigarette and monitored. Materials should not smolder for over 1 hour after removing cigarette.

- Hot Wire Ignitability Test: A hot wire tip touches the specimen surface at designated thermal energy to assess ignitability. 

- Hot Surface Ignitability Test: Toy samples are pressed against a hot copper surface with defined pressure and temperature conditions to check ignition.

The tests are done on toy components like fabrics, papers, plastic films etc. as well as fully assembled toys. Specific conditioning such as pre-washing of fabrics is required before testing. Pass criteria, (BIS Certification) ambient conditions, specimen mounting and measurement procedures are clearly outlined. Tests may be conducted after toy usage simulation involving actions like friction, flexing, torque etc. on operational parts. Quality control and compliance testing of materials, components, sub-assemblies and final products is necessary.

BIS Documents For Domestic and Foreign Manufacturer Checklist

BIS ISI Mark Certification Costing And Timeline

Note: foreign applications will be submitted through an offline process only. we can only check the grant of CML no on the BIS portal for foreign applications

Conclusion

BIS flammability certification for toys as per IS 9873 (Part 2) is critical for safety. Conformance indicates effective fire retardancy; reduced risks of burn injuries or fatalities; and instills consumer trust. With increasing focus on toy quality, more manufacturers are voluntarily opting for BIS certification even for non-mandatory items. Our experts at ETL India assist toy makers through the process - from understanding test requirements to coordinating activities with approved labs for a smooth certification. Partner with us for assured safety, enhanced marketability and legal compliance.