UMSPCS-Compliance

BIS QCO for Geogrids used in Reinforced Soil Retaining Structures

Indian Standard Compliance

BIS Quality Control Order (QCO) for Geogrids Used in Reinforced Soil Retaining Structures

Conformity Assessment & Regulatory Compliance

IS 17373:2020

10 Apr 2023

10 Oct 2023

Geogrids are geosynthetic materials that are of great importance in civil engineering and in various infrastructure projects for reinforcing soil and enhancing the stability of structures. They are frequently employed in retaining walls, embankments, road building, and in all other cases where soil reinforcement is needed. The Bureau of Indian Standards has released IS 17373:2020 - Geosynthetics - Geogrids utilized in reinforced soil retaining structures - Specification to specify the quality and performance requirements of these products.

This specification provides information on the requirements regarding the geogrids used in strengthened soil retaining structures, especially related to physical characteristics, tensile strength, dimensions, functionality, and testing. The manual of products specifies different geogrids based on tensile strength, aperture dimensions, and physical features of the products, such as rigid and flexible types.

By adhering to this Indian Standard, the manufacturers will keep the quality of their product intact and will be able to prove compliance with the compulsory certification provided by the BIS.

Requirements of Quality Control Order

The geogrids employed in reinforced soil retaining structures are included in the mandatory certification list issued by BIS in accordance with IS 17373:2020, the standard being part of the BIS Scheme-I product certification framework.

Any manufacturers, importers, and other companies that are involved in products falling within the notified scope must comply with the relevant BIS certification requirements. They should also check the most recent Quality Control Order, any amendments, and the current BIS requirements before manufacturing, importing, supplying, or marketing the products.

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has made three changes to IS 17373:2020, which were made in 2023, 2024, and 2025. Therefore, it is essential for manufacturers and license holders to verify the latest applicable version and confirm that their products and certification documents conform to the changes that have been made in the version.

Important Requirements for Geogrids in Reinforced Soil Retaining Structures

Important product characteristics under IS 17373:2020 may include:

  • Geogrid type and classification
  • Tensile strength in machine and cross-machine directions
  • Elongation at designated load
  • Dimensional stability
  • Width and roll length
  • Aperture size and related physical characteristics
  • Resistance to ultraviolet exposure
  • Retention of strength after specified exposure conditions
  • Chemical resistance, where applicable
  • Workmanship, finish, packaging and marking

The requirements and acceptance criteria must be determined on the basis of IS 17373:2020, its most recent amendments, and the present BIS product manual; the BIS product manual specifies the requirements and testing procedures for different types of geogrid and their physical and mechanical properties.

Some Key Applications of Geogrids in Soil Reinforced Retaining Structures

Geogrids are utilized in civil engineering, road infrastructure, retaining walls, embankments, and for soil reinforcing purposes. The properties of these units allow them to behave in conjunction with the soil mass surrounding them, thus allowing them to reinforce it properly.

Use of geogrid for infrastructure applications would make the construction process meaningful in terms of its pavement stability and structural reliability.

Conformity Assessment under BIS Certification

Where BIS certification is required, manufacturers are required to carry out the applicable Scheme-I conformity assessment procedure, including product testing, the preparation of documentation, and a factory assessment as specified. The BIS product manual for IS 17373:2020 acts as a reference for the certification procedures provided for in the BIS (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018.

Manufacturers must make sure that their quality-control systems, testing procedures, and product specifications adhere to the current standard as well as to the relevant amendments.

Significance of Conformity

Sticking to the respective Indian Standard and QCO stipulations allows manufacturers to demonstrate compliance and uphold a stable level of quality. In addition, it allows running production under systematic controls, carrying out correct testing, and complying with the requirements for regulated geosynthetic products.

Currently, all BIS licence holders are encouraged to revise their respective amendments and alter their specifications, testing procedures, and technical documents as appropriate.

Timeline for BIS Certification

The time taken to secure BIS Certification for geogrids in accordance with IS 17373:2020 will depend on the documentation, the results of laboratory testing, the factory assessment, and the processing carried out by BIS.

As a general planning estimate:

  • Indian Manufacturers: Approximately 30 days
  • Foreign Manufacturers: Approximately 180 days

These are only indicative estimates of the BIS processing times and are not guaranteed. The actual time taken may differ according to the type of product, the testing requirements, the laboratory's schedule, the factory's assessment, and any questions or further explanations raised during the certification process.

Conclusion

Geogrids are important geosynthetic materials which are used for reinforcing soil and for supporting retaining structures and various types of infrastructure. The IS 17373:2020 standard specifies the requirements concerning the geogrid usage in the reinforced soil retaining works, and the changes introduced in the standard can result in alterations of the technical and certification requirements imposed upon manufacturers.

Manufacturers, suppliers, and importers should be aware of the relevant Indian Standard, Quality Control Order, and amendments before they start production, import, supply, and sale of covered products.

Companies are able to receive professional help connected to BIS standards, QCO requirements, applicability of amendments, and certification procedures from UMSPCS.

Also, get to know more information about BIS QCO for Geogrids for Flexible Pavements.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

 

The requirements for geogrids for the construction of reinforced soil retaining structures have been defined in IS 17373:2020.

 

Ethics has included IS 17373:2020 in its mandatory certification standards database, and it has also been included in Scheme-I for product certification. Organizations need to check their products against the applicable QCO requirements.

 

The standard covers all the necessary physical and mechanical characteristics of the geogrid, which include tensile strength, elongation, physical dimensions, functioning, and, of course, workmanship.

 

Yes, BIS has made three amendments to IS 17373:2020, and these amendments have been issued in the years 2023, 2024, and 2025. Therefore, manufacturers must ensure that they have the latest version of the standard.

 

Yes, the products have to carry out the relevant testing under the conformity assessment procedure prescribed in order to show that they comply with the requirements of IS 17373:2020.

 

Foreign manufacturers who are eligible can apply under the relevant BIS certification framework and meet the extra requirements that apply to manufacturers based overseas, including the Authorized Indian Representative provisions where these are required.

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