BIS Certification for Galvanised Steel Strips and Sheets: Everything You Need to Know

What if you built a building, warehouse, railway or industrial project and steel sheets started to corrode within a few hours? Picture that you want to build a facility, like a building, but that the steel starts to rust after a few hours? This would lead to safety problems, maintenance expense issues and shortened product life. That is why it is essential that galvanised steel product quality standards are set.

Galvanised Steel Strips and Sheets are one of the most popular steel products produced in India as they are corrosion-resistant, durable and versatile. As compliance with the Indian Standards is a mandatory requirement for these products to ensure their quality and performance as per the standards laid out by the Government of India, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) mandates it.

Galvanised steel strips, galvanised steel sheets manufacturers who want to sell their product in the Indian market should get a BIS Certificate for galvanised steel strips & sheets IS 277 for the relevant Quality Control Order (QCO). For an Indian manufacturer, BIS ISI certification is crucial if you are looking for certification of your products, if you need the product to be BIS certified for your foreign manufacturer; not knowing the process of BIS certification would be detrimental for both sides.

This guide outlines all the aspects and information required for the BIS certification process and available in the applicable branches, names of the products, eligibility criteria, testing procedure, documentation, timeline and how UMSPCS could help during the certification process.

What are Galvanised Steel Strips and Sheets?

The Galvanised Steel Strips and Sheets are coated with zinc to resist corrosion and environmental damage.

A salve prepared from this species is much in use in:

• Roofing applications
• Industrial sheds
• Warehouses
• Automobile components
• Electrical panels
• Agricultural equipment
• Ducting systems
• Fencing structures
• Construction projects
• Railway infrastructure

The zinc coat provides a protective barrier and greatly extends the service life of the steel.

Applicable Indian Standard: IS 277:2018

These products are covered under the following Indian Standard: IS 277:2018 – Galvanised steel strips and sheets

This standard sets standards on aspects covering:

• Base metal quality
• Zinc coating mass
• Mechanical properties
• Surface finish
• Dimensional tolerances
• Sampling procedures
• Testing requirements
• Mark and pack as required

Manufacturers need to make sure they meet all the requirements specified in IS 277:2018 prior to acquiring the BIS certificate.

What is ISI Mark Certification for Galvanised Steel Strips and Sheets?

ISI Mark is a quality assurance mark awarded by BIS once it has been ensured that the product meets the specified Indian Standard.

With the certification, the manufacturers will be allowed to embellish their products with the ISI mark, showing that the product meets IS 277 standards.

This qualification comprises the following assessments:

• Application submission
• Factory evaluation
• Product testing
• Produce samples of the manufactured goods
• Quality control assessment
• BIS approval

The ISI mark provides confidence to the regulators, buyers, contractors and consumers that the product complies with the Indian stipulation for quality.

Why Has the Government Made BIS Certification Mandatory?

The Government of India has brought out Quality Control Orders (QCOs) for a few products of steel to ensure:

• Inconsistent Steel Quality: Substandard steel products may result in the failure of structures and cause issues.
• Consumer Protection: Certification keeps consumers in line with low-quality and non-conforming products.
• To achieve uniformity, BIS certification helps domestic and imported products to be similar in terms of quality.
• Market Surveillance: Certification is required to ensure good quality and surveillance.
• Infrastructure Safety: Certified steel products are helping to create durable and reliable infrastructure projects.

Manufacturing, importing or selling products not meeting the specifications can lead to penalties and regulation.

Key Aspects of BIS Certification for Galvanised Steel Strips and Sheets

For manufacturers trying to apply, they should take time to learn about the following:

Benefits of BIS Certification

Several benefits can be accrued from getting a BIS Certificate for Galvanised Steel Strips and Sheets.

• Legal Compliance: Making sure that the law is followed in India.
• Market Access: Provides legal access for sales and distribution across India.
• Customer’s Trust is built: ISI mark provides better credibility of the product.
• Competitive Advantage: The private procurement and Government procurement have a preference for certified products.
• Reduce Risk: Lowers regulatory fines and product rejections.
• Commitment to Quality and Safety: Shows a dedication to quality and safety.

Step-by-Step BIS Certification Process for Galvanised Steel Strips and Sheets

Step 1: Identify the Applicable Indian Standard

The first step is to find out which Indian Standard (IS code) is applicable to the particular product.

Manufacturers should:

• Knows what is required and requested for the product and how to meet them.

• Make sure that the product is produced by conforming to the corresponding BIS standard.

• Implement or change production procedures, if necessary, to meet compliance.

Step 2: Product Testing & Documentation

The product should be placed in a lab that is recognised by the BIS and accredited by NABL.

During this stage:

• The product samples are tested according to the appropriate standard.

• Information relating to technical documentation is prepared.

• Information about factories/manufacturing is collected.

• Applying, the forms are filled out.

Step 3: Application Submission

The BIS application is made online with all the necessary supporting documents.

Typical documents include:

• Test reports
• Routine factory/manufacturing information.
• Applicable government fees

The application will be reviewed by BIS once submitted, along with supporting documents.

Step 4: BIS Factory Inspection

Officials from BIS do an audit at the manufacturing site to check the compliance.

The inspection will generally focus on:

• Manufacturing processes
• Production set up and facilities.
• Quality control systems
• Results obtained from the testing facilities and the means of doing so.

Product samples can also be taken to independent laboratories during the inspection for independent testing.

Step 5: Product Testing & Lab Report Submission

Tested by approved laboratories with samples taken by BIS. Then the report of the laboratory is directly sent to BIS for evaluation.

Step 6: Closure of Non-Conformities (If Any)

Upon the manufacturer’s inspection and/or test, if any non-conformity is detected, the manufacturer shall:

• Implement corrective actions.
• Submit revised and/or additional documents.
• Correct any compliance issues found.

Step 7: Payment of License & Marking Fees

Once the quality has been judged, the manufacturer must pay the following:

• Annual license fee

• ISI marking fee

Step 8: Grant of ISI License

Upon testing, inspection, compliance closure and payment of the necessary fees, BIS issues ISI. Once authorised by the manufacturer, he/she can put the ISI mark on the manufactured products.

Documents Required BIS Certification for Galvanised Steel Strips and Sheets

A varying representation of documentation may apply to the different types of applicants. Typically, the documents that are needed are:

• Basic information about the manufacturing unit and the product segment.
• Document verifying the address of the manufacturing unit (ownership/lease deed, utility bill, etc.)
• Registration Certificate of the trademark (when the trader’s brand name is used and registered as a trademark)
• Authorities)Pollution Control / statutory issues (where applicable – e.g., Manufacturing License)
• Approval from control and industry (detailed above)
• Product drawings/design schematics
• Installed manufacturing capacity
• Create a list of materials used, specifications
• Tecnica will present information on the manufacture of machinery and equipment.
• Outline plan of production and testing areas, as well as storage areas related to the factory construction.
• A detailed manufacturing process flow is given.
• On-site test equipment/calibration data.
• Quality Control personnel information will be given.
• Factory organisational chart

Documentation will greatly minimise the delays in obtaining approval.

Cost of BIS Certification for Galvanised Steel Strips and Sheets

It depends on a number of factors, such as:

• BIS application fee
• Licence fee
• Audit fee
• Product testing charges
• Consultant fees

Because of cost fluctuations, it is best to get a detailed assessment before applying, to ensure that the manufacturer will have the cost of ionics to consider.

It should be noted that the timelines could be different if the data is not well documented or if the timelines differ due to lab schedules and/or BIS observations. Typically, it will be around 30 – 40 days approximately.

Validity and Renewal of BIS Certification in India

The BIS licence will be valid, provided that BIS regulations and compliance requirements are complied with.

Manufacturers must:

• Maintain product quality
• Comply with IS 277:2018 (continue)
• Undergo surveillance activities
• Make timely applications for renewals

Failure to do so may lead to cancellation of the license.

Common Challenges Faced by Manufacturers

When applying to fill vacancies, several candidates have problems, such as:

• Incorrect standard identification
• Incomplete documentation
• Testing failures
• Delayed query responses
• Factory audit observations
• Inadequate, slow, and reactive government regulations

These problems can be greatly minimised with professional advice.

Why Choose UMSPCS BIS Certification for Galvanised Steel Strips and Sheets?

At UMSPCS, we provide end-to-end support for manufacturers seeking BIS certification in India. Our compliance team has expertise in minimising compliance risks, compliance delays and rendering manufacturers certified as soon as possible.

Our services include:

• Standard Identification
• Documentation Support
• Testing Coordination
• Application Filing
• Query Handling
• Foreign Manufacturer Assistance
• End-to-End Project Management

Conclusion

As India’s infrastructure, industrial and construction industry continue to grow, continued demand for quality certified steel products is expected. BIS certification through compliance with IS 277:2018 is not only a regulatory requirement but also a smart way to invest in the quality of products, reputation, and future growth strategies.

For the manufacturers in India, the BIS ISI certification symbolises the rope that allows them to enter the Indian market on a legal footing; be it the BIS ISI certification for Indian manufacturer or the BIS certification for foreign manufacturer, you cannot enter the Indian market without BIS Certification for Galvanised Steel Strips and Sheets.

Wishing to acquire BIS certification for Galvanised Steel Strips and Sheets?

Contact UMSPCS now for expert guidance and a faster approval process.

Read more also: BIS CRS Certification LED Luminaires for Emergency Lighting

FAQs

1. Is there a need for a BIS Certificate for the galvanised steel strips and sheet material in India?

Yes, BIS has to certify products covered under QCO prior to manufacturing, importing or selling in the Indian market.

2. In which standard are Galvanised Steel Strips and Sheets found?

IS 277:2018, Galvanised Steel Sheets – Plain and corrugated, is the applicable Indian Standard.

3. Is the BIS certification available to the foreign manufacturers of Galvanised Steel Strips and Sheets?

The answer is yes, all overseas manufacturers can get certified under the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS) with the help of an appointed Authorised Indian Representative.

4. What is the duration to get BIS Certification?

This usually takes 30 to 40 days, based upon the testing, documentation, inspections and review by BIS.

5. Which are the crucial tests being asked for by IS 277: 2018?

Some typical tests include the bend test, tensile strength test, surface inspection, zinc coating mass test and dimension test.