Why BIS Certification is Essential for Precast Concrete Blocks for Paving – IS 15658

Now picture yourself on the roads of any modern city, park, township or shopping complex. You will feel the strong, tough pavement blocks that help keep the area safe and secure for people walking around.

The thing that many manufacturers do not know is that these precast concrete blocks have certain standards set out by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) for the same. As per the standard laid down in IS 15658, some requirements have been prescribed for paving blocks of precast concrete.

If you are looking at getting the BIS certification for precast concrete paving blocks, then it can mean great things in terms of your credibility in the market. Whether you are a manufacturer from India trying to get a BIS ISI certification or a foreign manufacturer applying for BIS certification, it is important that you know all about the process.

UMSPCS brings you a complete guide on BIS certification for precast concrete paving blocks under IS 15658.

What is BIS Certification for Precast Concrete Paving Blocks?

The BIS Certification process is an evaluation process whereby compliance with a certain standard is evaluated by the Bureau of Indian Standards to ensure the product complies with a certain Indian Standard.

In this particular case, the standard is IS 15658: Precast Concrete Blocks for Paving – Specification. Manufacturers that succeed in complying with this standard are permitted to apply the ISI Mark to their product.

This means that the concrete blocks meet certain criteria.

Products Covered Under IS 15658

This specification is applicable to the following types of pre-cast concrete paving blocks:

• Interlocking concrete paving blocks
• Rectangular paving blocks
• Square paving blocks
• Decorative paving blocks
• Zig-zag paving blocks
• I-beam paving blocks
• Hexagonal paving blocks
• Heavy-duty industrial paving blocks
• Road paving blocks
• Footpath paving blocks

Why BIS Certification for Precast Concrete Paving Blocks is Important

• Quality Assurance of Product: This certification will assure us that the pavement blocks conform to the prescribed standards.

• Gives Customers Confidence: ISI certification is highly respected as an emblem of quality and credibility.

• Helpful for Tender Proposals from the Government: BIS-certified construction materials enjoy preference in several public sector construction tenders.

• Increases Market Acceptance of Products: Certification ensures better market acceptance among constructors, builders, architects, and real estate developers.

• Lessens the Problem of product rejection: Adherence to the specified standards eliminates problems of product rejection.

Key Aspects of IS 15658 Compliance

Manufacturing of products is subject to various technical specifications, such as:

• Size: The products have to conform to specific sizes.
• Strength: The blocks have to satisfy the required strength requirements.
• Absorption Capacity: The specification sets maximum levels of water absorption for durability and resistance to weather.
• Durability: They have to resist wear and tear as a result of exposure to the elements.
• Appearance: The products have to be without any defects.
• Production Process: The process has to be consistent to comply with standards.

Eligibility Requirements for BIS Certification for Precast Concrete Paving Blocks

The following are the criteria that manufacturers will have to meet in order to be certified:

• Legally registered manufacturing establishment
• Proper manufacturing facilities
• Effective quality control system
• Testing facility/availability of approved testing lab
• Technical expertise
• Conformity to IS 15658 specifications
• Documentation and record keeping

Domestic and international manufacturers may seek certification under the relevant BIS scheme.

Applicable Tests for Precast Concrete Blocks

Products are tested using different test criteria, which are defined by IS 15658.

• Compressive Strength Test
• Water Absorption Test
• Abrasion Resistance Test
• Dimensions and Tolerances Test
• Visual Testing
• Breaking Load Test

Depending upon the classification of products and their purpose, the requirement for testing is defined.

BIS Certification Process for Precast Concrete Blocks

Step 1: Applicable Standard Identification

The certification procedure starts with identifying the Indian Standard for precast concrete paving blocks according to BIS requirements.

At this point, producers:

• Study the product specifications
• Identify the suitable IS Standard
• Adopt manufacturing techniques according to BIS requirements
• Evaluate compliance gap(s), if any

Step 2: Product Testing & Documentation Preparation

The product is tested in an authorised BIS laboratory to determine its compliance with the concerned standard.

The following activities take place during this phase:

• Sample testing
• Technical documentation preparation
• Information about manufacturing & factory details
• Certification documentation compilation

Step 3: BIS Application Filing

Upon completion of the tests and documentation, the certification application is sent to BIS.

Generally, the application consists of:

• Test reports
• Information about the factory or manufacturing
• Technical documentation
• Fees charged by the government

Step 4: Factory Inspection by BIS

An inspection of the manufacturing plant is carried out by the BIS authorities.

During this inspection process, BIS checks on:

• Manufacturing process
• Infrastructure of the manufacturing plant
• Quality assurance systems
• Testing facilities

Samples of the product might also be taken.

Step 5: Sample Evaluation & Report Review

The samples are tested in authorised laboratories, and the report is sent to BIS for review.

This step ensures:

• Conformity of products to the IS standards
• Uniformity in the quality of manufacture
• Performance within set standards

Step 6: Resolution of Observations

In case of any deviation found from inspection or testing, corrective action needs to be taken.

It includes:

• Improvement of the process
• Filing of additional documentation
• Closure of compliance observations

Step 7: Payment of Certification Fees

Following the successful evaluation, the manufacturer is obligated to make the necessary payment to the BIS.

Typically, this consists of:

• License fee
• Marking fee
• And other applicable fees

Step 8: Grant of BIS ISI License

Post approval of testing, inspection, and certification fees, the BIS issues the ISI license.

Subsequently, the manufacturer is allowed to:

• Apply the ISI mark to their products
• Mention that their products are BIS-certified
• Comply with the concerned Indian Standard

Documents Required for BIS Certification for Precast Concrete Paving Blocks

The documentation process is an essential element of the certification process.

The documents that are usually required are:

• Basic information about the manufacturing facility and the concerned product line.
• Evidence for the manufacturing facility’s location (ownership documents/lease deed/electricity bill, etc.)
• Certificate for the trademark (in case of a trademarked name)
• Manufacturing license or statutory permissions where applicable (such as pollution
• control and industrial permission, etc.)
• Detailed design/drawings of the products
• Total manufacturing capacity
• List of materials along with their specifications
• Description of the manufacturing machinery and equipment
• Layout diagram of the manufacturing facilities, including manufacturing, testing, and storage sections
• The process of manufacture is described in detail.
• Internal testing equipment details and calibration data
• Quality control staff details
• Organisational structure within the manufacturing facility

Proper documentation will increase the effectiveness of the application process.

Cost of BIS Certification for Precast Concrete Blocks

Overall costs for certification depend on certain factors:

• Category of product
• Test costs
• Laboratory fees
• Application fees

Due to variations in project costs, manufacturers are advised to receive an individualised assessment prior to beginning the certification process.

Certification time depends on certain factors, such as documentation quality, scheduling tests, and other issues.

In general, the process lasts up to 30 – 40 workdays; for AIF products, up to 180 workdays.

Common Challenges Faced by Manufacturers

There are various problems that many manufacturers face during the process of certification, such as:

• Documentation Issues: Failure to provide full documentation might result in delays.
• Test Failing: The product does not pass the technical tests carried out.
• Process Control Issues: Inconsistencies during the manufacturing process might affect compliance.
• Regulatory Issues: The process of BIS might prove hard for new companies.
• Delays in Response to Queries from BIS: This may delay the certification process.

Why Choose UMSPCS for BIS Certification?

Being experienced in regulatory compliance and product certification, UMSPCS assists manufacturers in obtaining BIS certification in India with ease. With our team of professionals, we guide the manufacturers right from the beginning until the end of the process, starting from the identification of standards through to post-certification compliance.

The range of services offered by us includes:

• Product Standard Identification
• Documentation Assistance
• Testing Coordination
• Application Processing
• BIS Queries Resolution
• Project Management
• Assistance for Indian and International Manufacturers

Our goal is to make your certification process easy and quick.

Conclusion

Due to increased development in the construction and infrastructure sectors in India, there is a need for greater emphasis on quality and durability. Compliance with the specifications as provided in IS 15658 guarantees performance and enhances durability.

Obtaining BIS Certification for Precast Concrete Paving Blocks will not only increase the credibility of the product but will also increase its marketability.

Whether you are an Indian manufacturing unit looking for ISI certification for Indian Manufacturers or are a foreign entity looking for BIS certification for Foreign Manufacturers, professional advice can help you achieve your goal more easily.

Need to get BIS certification for Precast Concrete Paving Blocks?

Contact UMSPCS for professional help with testing, documentation, and getting certified.

Read more about: BIS Certification for HDPE Fittings for Potable Water Supplies

FAQs

1. How will UMSPCS facilitate the process to get BIS Certification for Precast Concrete Blocks?

UMSPCS will assist in all aspects like assessment, documentation, testing, application, and other assistance required for approval.

2. Whether the Certification of Precast Concrete Blocks is Mandatory in India or not?

It depends on the requirement under various regulations and guidelines. One has to check the same at the time of manufacture/sales of such products.

3. What is the Indian Standard for Precast Concrete Paving Blocks?

The standard for pre-cast concrete paving blocks is IS 15658: Precast concrete paving blocks – Specification.

4. Is BIS certification possible for foreign manufacturers in India?

Yes, the BIS certification is possible for foreign manufacturers after complying with all the necessary process and requirements of BIS.

5. How much time does BIS Certification for Paving Blocks take?

The approximate time period for this process is six to twelve weeks.

6. On what basis does the cost of BIS Certification of Precast Concrete Blocks depend?

Cost depends upon various factors, including testing, documentation, and inspection costs, among others.