BIS Certification for Viscose Staple Fibres (IS 17266:2019) – Complete Guide for Manufacturers

Interested in production, import or sale of Viscose Staple Fibres in India? It is essential to understand the BIS certification requirements before introducing products to the market. Viscose Staple Fibres are a popular raw material for textiles, garments, home furnishings, non-woven materials, and blended fabrics, and they are required to have certain quality standards to be consistent and effective.

BIS Certification for Viscose Staple Fibres in accordance with IS 17266:2019 is a mandatory certification to certify the product as per the Indian Standard. Once a product is certified, it can carry the ISI Mark, which indicates that the product conforms to the required quality and regulatory standards. The certification process comprises product testing, factory assessment, review of documentation and assessment by BIS.

The certification process and requirements may appear daunting to many manufacturers. This Guide provides details on BIS Certification of Viscose Staple Fibres, covering the standard used, the process of certification, the documents required, testing requirements and the important compliance points.

Why BIS Certification for Viscose Staple Fibres is Mandatory

BIS Certification for Viscose Staple Fibres is not just a regulatory requirement; it is an important measure to maintain product quality and protect the integrity of the textile supply chain. Low-quality fibres may affect the performance, durability and quality of finished textile products.

To resolve these issues, the Government of India has initiated the Viscose Staple Fibres (Quality Control) Order, 2022, which mandates BIS certification for the products falling under the scope of IS 17266:2019.

Some of the main reasons for certification are:

• Legal Compliance: All applicable VSF products are required to have the ISI Mark before being sold in the Indian market.
• Quality Assurance: Certification is required to ensure that fibres satisfy the required performance and quality specifications.
• Market Access: Manufacturers are not permitted to manufacture, distribute, or sell covered products without certification.
• Industry Credibility: Certified products contribute to the credibility within the industry, between textile manufacturers, brands, retailers and buyers.
• Avoidance of Penalty: If the product is not compliant, it can be subject to regulatory action, fines, product seizure or market restrictions.

What type of viscose are staple fibres included in IS 17266:2019? 

IS 17266 – 2019 specifies the requirements for viscose staple fibres of various textile applications. VSF comes in a variety of different lengths and deniers for various end uses.

All variants are covered by the standard, such as:

• Regular viscose staple fibres are the standard grade of textile fibres.
• The high tenacity VSF is a stronger and more durable fabric.
• Micro-denier VSF (for ultra-soft, fine fabrics)
• Blended variants of VSF are used in combination with cotton, polyester, or wool.
• The non-woven grade VSF (hygiene and industrial), etc.

All variants of products have to meet quality parameters specified in IS 17266:2019 – fibre length, linear density, tensile strength, moisture gain, and biodegradability.

Who is required to be certified to get BIS for viscose staple fibres?

1. Indian Manufacturers

All the manufacturers who manufacture Viscose Staple Fibres (VSF) for sale in the Indian market are required to get a valid BIS certification for the production of Viscose Staple Fibres (VSF) according to IS 17266:2019. Certification is the process of establishing conformity of a product with the required quality, safety, and performance standards before its manufacture and supply in the Indian market.

2. Foreign Manufacturers

Foreign manufacturers planning to export Viscose Staple fibres to India must have them BIS certified, conforming to the applicable standards. They also have to designate an Indian Representative (AIR) as the liaison point between the manufacturer and BIS for Foreign manufacturers certification and compliance-related issues.

3. Importers and brand owners

Importers/brand owners will be responsible for ensuring that the Viscose Staple Fibres being introduced to the Indian market meet the BIS requirements. They have to ensure that the products have a valid ISI Mark and are certified before distribution/sale in India.

4. Dealers and Retailers

All the traders and distributors of Viscose Staple Fibres should deal in ISI-marked Viscose Staple Fibres only as per BIS standards. It ensures adherence to regulations, confidence in product quality, and continued acceptance in the marketplace. 

Step-by-Step BIS Certification Process for IS 17266:2019

The certification process is well organised and easy to understand if you’re familiar with what to anticipate at every step. The following is how it works:

Step 1: Identify the Applicable Indian Standard

Finding the right Indian Standard (IS) code for the product is the first step.

Manufacturers need to:

• Understand product requirements
• Make products according to the BIS standards
• Improve production techniques, if necessary

Step 2: Product Testing & Documentation

The product must be tested in a lab accredited by NABL and recognised by BIS.

At this stage:

• For this, product samples are examined.
• Technical documents are developed.
• Information about the factory and manufacturing is gathered.
• Completed application forms.

Step 3: Submit Your Application

The BIS application is online and includes an application letter, a BIS form, and a copy of the DHS grant letter.

Required documents: 

• Test reports
• Factory Info
• Other government charges
• The application, once submitted, is put under review by the BIS authority.

Step 4: BIS Factory Inspection

The BIS officials visit the manufacturing plant to check:

• Production process
• Production Environment
• System of quality control
• Testing facilities
• Samples of the product may be taken for independent testing during the inspection.

Step 5: Lab Report Submission & Product Testing

Samples collected are sent for analysis to authorised laboratories. The lab then forwards the Lab Test Report (LTR) directly to BIS for assessment.

Step 6. Close Non-Conformities

If BIS finds any issues during its inspection or testing, there is a need for corrective measures to be taken

• New documents will have to be provided
• Any non-conformity should be dealt with

Step 7: Payment of License & Marking Fees

• Once BIS has completed the certification process, the manufacturer must pay: Annual license fee
• ISI marking fee

Step 8: Issuance of ISI License

After completion of testing, inspection, and payment procedures, the ISI license is issued by BIS. The manufacturer can then use the ISI mark of certified products.

Documents Required for BIS Certification of Viscose Staple Fibres

The importance of accurate and complete documentation in obtaining a BIS certificate without unnecessary delays and in a smooth way.

Commonly Required Documents: 

• Basic data about the manufacturing plant and product category.
• Address of manufacture (manufacturing documents/lease deed/utility bill, etc.)
• Trademark registration certificate (in case a brand name is being registered)
• Manufacturing license and statutory approvals (where applicable – pollution control or industry-specific approvals)
• Product drawings, designs and technical specifications
• Information on installed manufacturing capacity.
• The specifications and list of raw materials used.
• Technical information on the manufacturing of machinery and equipment
• All the production, testing and storage areas are shown in the layout plan for the factory.
• Manufacturing process flow chart with details.
• Data on on-site testing and calibration documents.
• Details about the quality control staff. 

Properly prepared documentation can help prevent inquiries and delays in processing and expedite the certification process. 

Cost and Timeline of BIS ISI Certification

The cost of ISI certification depends on factors such as:

• Product category
• Testing requirements
• Factory size
• Documentation complexity
• BIS application and license fees
• Inspection and marking charges
• Consultancy support (if required)

The total cost varies depending on the product and certification requirements

Project Timeline

• Time needed: 30-40 working days
• AIF Products: Up to 180 days, in some instances

Challenges Faced by Manufacturers Without Expertise 

Many manufacturers begin their own BIS Certification for Viscose Staple Fibres process, and most of them run into unforeseen roadblocks. The following are the most common problems:

• Incomplete Documentation: IS 17266:2019 requires detailed technical records. One certificate, one BIS objection, and the clock is reset.
• Lab Coordination Issues: These take time to find a BIS-approved lab, to send the correct samples to the lab, and to ensure that test reports are followed up on
• An unprepared manufacturing unit may be unable to pass the BIS audition, causing it to be audited again and resulting in weeks of further delay.
• Foreign Manufacturer Complexity: The presence of an AIR, BIS communication across borders, and the processing of SWIFT payments introduces a lot of complexity.
• Starting Late: Manufacturers who begin late frequently miss the Quality Control Order (QCO) deadline, potentially resulting in liquidation and/or sales restrictions.
• Post-Certification Compliance: Many companies do not realize that there are inspections and testing of samples in the market to follow after the license.

Read more about: BIS Certification Consultant in Noida: Complete BIS Registration

Why choose UMSPCS for BIS Certification of Viscose Staple Fibres?

There are numerous consultancies available. But few offer the depth of experience and hands-on support that is provided at UMSPCS.

Our track record is proof of 600+ successful BIS projects. We have assisted different manufacturers from various product categories in being certified on time. With many years of BIS consultant experience, we are thoroughly familiar with IS 17266:2019, every clause, every document, and every testing requirement.

UMSPCS does everything, from the initial document to the final ISI Mark License.

• Direct Lab Coordination: We directly pass on to the laboratories of BIS for testing without any delay.
• Factory Audit Preparation: You don’t have any surprises on the day when you have us prepare your facility.
• On-Time Delivery: We have a process that incorporates QCO deadlines; urgency is part of the process.

After certification, we are with you: Renewals, surveillance compliance, and using the ISI Mark. 

Conclusion 

The BIS Certification for Viscose Staple Fibres (IS 17266:2019) is not a matter of choice but a legal and responsible approach to business in India’s textile industry. Besides, it’s a quality mark for your customers, brands, and retail partners!

There are lots of moving parts to the process. With the right partner, however, it doesn’t have to be stressful. You can rely on the UMSPCS strength at every engagement, ensuring your certification is done accurately, efficiently, and in a timely manner. Take the complexity off your plate so you can focus on what you do best.

For Viscose Staple Fibres, obtain your BIS Certification today.

To contact us, please give us a call, send us a letter, or fill out our contact form.

FAQs

1. Does BIS certification have to be mandatory for all manufacturers of VSF in India?

Yes, under the Viscose Staple Fibres (Quality Control) Order, 2022, all the manufacturers or importers of Viscose Staple Fibres (VSF) are required to have BIS certification. ‘You can’t sell a product unless it has an ISI mark.

2. How long does it take to address BIS certification?

The process takes around 20-30 days, and Indian manufacturers take 7-15 days for product testing. 

3. Is there a need to have a foreign manufacturer’s representation in India?

Yes, all foreign manufacturing companies are required to hire an Authorised Indian Representative (AIR), which is a locally registered entity engaged in all BIS communication and compliance work in India on its behalf.

4. What is the term of the BIS license?

The BIS license of VSF is valid for 2 years. Must be renewed before the expiration date by submission of new documents and the renewal fee. Post certification compliance also includes ongoing surveillance inspections.

5. If I sell VSF products without BIS certification, what will happen?

It is illegal to sell VSF that is not certified in India. It may lead to fines, seizure of the product, a ban on the product and legal proceedings under Indian law. It is highly recommended to begin the certification process early.