1. What is ER:01 in CCTV camera testing?

ER:01 stands for Essential Requirements, a set of cybersecurity and performance standards defined by STQC (Standardisation Testing and Quality Certification), MeitY for IP-based CCTV cameras.

2. Why was ER:01 introduced?

To ensure cybersecurity, reliability, and performance of CCTV cameras in India and prevent vulnerabilities like unauthorized access, data leaks, or weak encryption.

3. Which CCTV cameras must comply with ER:01?

All IP/network-based CCTV cameras (imported or manufactured in India).

4. Are analog CCTV cameras covered under ER:01?

No, analog (non-IP) cameras are exempt from ER:01 compliance.

5. Who enforces ER:01 compliance?

Compliance is enforced by BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards), with testing handled by STQC-accredited labs.

6. What happens if a CCTV model is not ER:01 compliant?

The product will be delisted from BIS registration, cannot be sold or marketed legally in India, and will be disqualified from government tenders.

7. What is the deadline for ER:01 compliance?

The official deadline was April 9, 2025. Post this, only ER:01-compliant cameras can remain BIS registered.

8. Can the deadline be extended?

Industry associations requested an extension up to Jan 2026, but as of now, no official extension has been granted.

9. What is the process of ER:01 certification?

1. Apply on BIS portal. 2. Generate Test Request for ER:01. 3. Submit device samples to STQC lab. 4. Lab conducts cybersecurity & performance testing. 5. Lab uploads test report to BIS. 6. BIS reviews documents + report. 7. Certification is issued.

10. How long does the testing process take?

Typically 4–6 weeks, depending on lab workload, product complexity, and whether re-testing is required.

11. Who conducts the testing?

Only STQC-accredited laboratories authorized by MeitY can perform ER:01 CCTV testing.

12. What are the main areas tested under ER:01?

Cybersecurity, Network protocols, Hardware vulnerability checks, and Performance/image quality.

13. What documents are needed for certification?

ISO 9001 certificates, Incorporation certificates, Manufacturer Authorization Letter, Datasheet, BOM, Firmware details, User Manual, Block diagram, ER:01 test report, Declarations.

14. What is “series certification”?

If multiple CCTV models share the same SoC, firmware, and BOM, they can be certified as a series, avoiding testing each model individually.

15. Is ER:01 certification mandatory for imports?

Yes, imported IP CCTV cameras must also comply with ER:01 before being registered under BIS.

16. Can firmware updates affect compliance?

Yes. Significant firmware changes require an **Impact Analysis Report** to be submitted, instead of a complete re-testing, to ensure continued compliance.

17. Does ER:01 apply to CCTV DVRs, NVRs, or other devices?

Currently, ER:01 applies specifically to IP CCTV cameras. Separate guidelines may later extend to related surveillance equipment.

18. What are the costs involved?

Costs vary based on lab fees, number of models, and series certification. Higher for multiple unique models.

19. How do manufacturers/importers prepare for ER:01?

Review firmware & hardware for vulnerabilities, avoid default credentials, ensure encryption, prepare documents, and engage early with STQC lab.

20. Where can I find the official ER:01 guidelines?

On the STQC website (stqc.gov.in) under the IoT System Certification Scheme (IoTSCS).