The Laboratory Recognition Scheme (LRS) is a framework operated by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) to recognize laboratories—both within India and abroad—that are capable of conducting product testing and sample analysis as part of conformity assessments for BIS certification schemes.

Key Features and Objectives:

• Recognizes laboratories qualified to test products to ensure conformity with Indian Standards (IS).
• Ensures laboratories follow international quality standards, primarily IS/ISO/IEC 17025 for Laboratory Quality Management Systems.
• Applies to private, government, and in-house manufacturer laboratories.
• Recognizes foreign laboratories provided they meet BIS criteria and have liaison offices in India.
• Prohibits subcontracting tests except under exceptional cases.
• Ensures impartiality, technical competence, adequate infrastructure, and neutrality in operations.
• Facilitates the availability of reliable testing facilities to support BIS product certification and registration schemes without BIS needing to maintain separate labs for every product.

Eligibility and Criteria:

• Laboratories must be accredited by bodies recognized by BIS, typically NABL accreditation in India or equivalent international accreditations.
• Must demonstrate ability to perform tests per relevant Indian Standards covered under BIS conformity assessment schemes.
• Must meet facility, equipment, personnel, and documentation criteria.
• Must adhere to BIS rules covering operation, suspension, withdrawal, and renewal of recognition.

Process:

1. Application Submission: Online application via BIS portal with all required documents and fees.
2. Document Evaluation: BIS reviews compliance with recognition criteria.
3. On-site Audit: BIS conducts audits of infrastructure, testing facilities, and quality management.
4. Decision: Based on audit results and closure of non-conformities, BIS grants or denies recognition.
5. Recognition Validity: Recognition is typically valid for 3 years, subject to periodic surveillance audits.

Benefits:

• Laboratories gain formal authorization to test samples for BIS certification.
• Manufacturers can use recognized labs to obtain certification marks like the ISI mark.
• Strengthens the trustworthiness and reliability of product testing under BIS schemes.
• Facilitates more widespread availability of accredited testing facilities across India and abroad.

In summary, the BIS Laboratory Recognition Scheme ensures that both Indian and foreign laboratories performing product testing under BIS standards are qualified, competent, and reliable parties, thereby supporting the overall conformity assessment process efficiently and transparently

License / Certification

Registration

Auxiliary