Threaded fasteners including step bolts for steel structures are widely used in transmission tower applications, bridges, steel frames, and other heavy engineering structures where fastening needs to be highly reliable. The application of step bolts in steel structure construction will guarantee strong mechanical joints and performance. In light of this need, it is important that the manufacture of step bolts conform to the technical requirements as set out in BIS IS 10238:2001 standard regarding step bolts in steel structure construction.
Some of the technical issues with respect to step bolts include steel grade and chemical composition, tensile strength, load carrying capacity, dimensional tolerances, thread characteristics, and corrosion resistance coating. In India, threaded steel fasteners are required to be certified and meet the technical specifications as per BIS QCO and IS 10238:2001 for sale.
What is IS 10238:2001 Standard for Step Bolts for Steel Structures
IS 10238:2001 is the Indian Standard that describes the requirements for the use of step bolts in threaded steel fasteners in steel structures like towers, poles, and industrial structures. The standard lays down the material specifications, mechanical strength, dimensional precision, threading specifications, and corrosion protection coatings to provide safety while operating under the required loads. The testing of these fasteners by BIS is based on:
- Chemical composition and steel grade quality
- Tensile strength and proof load capacity
- Dimensional accuracy and thread conformity
- Surface finish and protective coating quality
- Resistance to corrosion and environmental exposure
Uses of BIS Certified Threaded Steel Fasteners Step Bolts in Engineering Projects
Step bolts that are approved according to IS 10238:2001 find many applications in industry and infrastructure constructions where safety is of paramount importance. Step bolts offer durability, strength, and climbing assistance in such tough conditions.
- Telecommunications Towers: Facilitate the installation of telecommunications equipment
- Transmission Towers: Provide climbing assistance to linemen for servicing of the electricity transmission network
- Industrial Buildings: Utilized at steel factories, chimneys and heavy engineering structures for maintenance activities
- Light and Utility Poles: Provide vertical assistance for maintenance activities
Eligibility Rules for BIS ISI Mark on Step Bolts under IS
10238:2001
BIS certification under IS 10238:2001 is mandatory for manufacturers and suppliers producing
or selling step bolts in the Indian market. Compliance ensures adherence to safety standards
and quality control norms required for structural applications in steel frameworks.
Applicable to -
- Domestic Manufacturers - Must obtain BIS certification before market sale in India
- Foreign Manufacturers - Required to secure BIS approval before exporting to India
- \Importers and Brand Owners - Responsible for ensuring BIS-compliant sourcing
- Sellers/Distributors - Must use only certified fasteners in structural projects
Importance of ISI Mark for Step Bolts for Steel Structures
The BIS Certification according to IS 10238:2001 ensures that the step bolts are safe and high-performing products necessary for maintaining the structural strength of steel structures.
- Gives adherence to IS 10238:2001 standards
- Improves load bearing strength and mechanical performance
- Provides better resistance to corrosion and adverse weather
- Reduces chances of structural collapse of steel structures
- Facilitates usage in construction by governments and agencies
- Builds credibility for domestic as well as export markets
- Provides uniformity in the quality of threading
- Improves safety for tower and bridge constructions
- Increases life of the product under heavy mechanical stress
- Creates confidence among engineers, contractors, and architects
Mandatory Inspection Tests for BIS Approved Threaded Steel Fasteners Step Bolts (IS 10238:2001)
The Bureau of Indian Standards specifies the minimum criteria to ensure safe usage of threaded fasteners made from steel like Step Bolts for steel structures as described in IS 10238:2001. This certification guarantees quality and strength of the bolts as per the standards. The step bolts must also have the ability to perform safely when used in structures under load. The BIS testing parameter for step bolts for steel structures are given below -
| Test Group | What is Tested | Purpose |
|---|
| Dimensional & Tolerance Tests | Bolt length, diameter, head dimensions, thread pitch, and fitment accuracy | Ensures correct sizing, interchangeability, and proper installation in steel structures |
| Thread Requirements Tests | Thread form, pitch accuracy, go/no-go gauge checks | Ensures proper engagement with nuts and prevents loosening under load |
| Mechanical Property Tests | Tensile strength, yield strength, proof load, hardness, wedge load test | Ensures high load-bearing capacity and resistance to deformation or failure |
| Surface Discontinuity Tests | Cracks, folds, seams, laps, and other surface defects | Ensures structural integrity and defect-free manufacturing |
| Finish & Coating Tests | Galvanizing thickness, uniformity, adhesion, appearance of coating | Ensures corrosion resistance and long service life in outdoor conditions |
| Nut & Washer Compatibility Tests | Fitment with corresponding nuts and washers as per IS standards | Ensures proper assembly and safe fastening performance |
| Control Unit Testing | Random sampling from production batches for full compliance testing | Ensures consistent quality across production lots and heat treatment batches |
BIS ISI Mark Approval Process for Step Bolts under IS 10238:2001
The BIS certification process makes sure that threaded steel fasteners like Step Bolts used for steel structures as per standard IS 10238:2001 are up to the mark in terms of quality and efficiency. The BIS certification process consists of the following stages -
- Online Registration Manufacturers register on the BIS Manak portal with company and product details. Foreign manufacturers must appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR).
- Testing at BIS-Approved Laboratory Product samples are tested in BIS-approved laboratories for chemical, mechanical, and dimensional compliance in BIS-recognized labs.
- Application Submission The application is submitted along with test reports, technical documents, and factory details. Foreign manufacturers must also submit AIR-related documents.
- Factory Inspection BIS officials inspect the manufacturing units to verify the production process, safety measures, and quality control system.
- Grant of BIS License If all the above requirements are satisfactorily met, BIS grants the certification license under Scheme-I.
- Use of ISI Mark Certified manufacturers are allowed to use the ISI mark and CM/L number on approved products.
Documentation List for BIS IS 10238 Certification Application
| Document Category | Documents Required |
| Basic Details | GST Certificate, Email ID & Contact Number, Factory & Office Address, Rent Agreement / Lease Deed (if applicable), Partnership Deed (if applicable for partnership firms) |
| Manufacturing Details | List of Machinery, Process Flow Chart, Factory Layout Plan |
| Raw Material Details | List of Raw Materials, Supplier Details, Raw Material Invoices, Raw Material Test Certificates |
| Testing & Quality Control | List of Testing Equipment, Calibration Certificates, QC/Lab In-charge Appointment Letter & Qualification |
| Production Details | Annual Installed Capacity, Last Year Production Value |
| Product & Packaging Details | Quantity per Package, Nature of Packing, Product Printing / Marking Details |
| Management Details | Top Management Details, BIS Communication Contact Person |
| Brand & Certification Documents | Trademark / Brand Certificate, Consent Letter from BIS Recognized Laboratory |
| Additional Documents | Weekly Off Details, Hygiene Document (if applicable), Relaxation Letter (if applicable), Any Other Relevant Document |
| Foreign Manufacturer Requirements | Agreement with AIR (Authorized Indian Representative), Aadhaar Card of AIR, AIR Nomination Form, Required Undertakings, Scope of License |
Foreign manufacturers need to appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) in India. This person is the local point of contact for the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and takes care of all rules and compliance work in India.
ISI Marking Requirements for Step Bolts under IS 10238:2001
After gaining the BIS license, Step Bolt for steel structure should have the ISI mark imprinted on it. In addition to the ISI mark, other information like the manufacturer's identity and the BIS license number (CM/L) is mandatory. This would make sure that the item conforms to all the requirements of IS 10238:2001 standards. Some additional information is provided in the following section.
| Requirement | Details |
| ISI Mark | Indicates that the product is BIS certified and conforms to standards |
| Standard Number | IS 10238:2001 |
| CML Number | Certification Marks Licence (CML) number issued by BIS |
| Manufacturer Details | Name of manufacturer or registered trademark |
| Batch / Date | Batch number, heat number, or manufacturing date for traceability |
Note: Marking is typically applied using durable stamping, tagging, or permanent printing to ensure clear identification during handling, storage, and transportation, as per BIS marking requirements.
BIS License Validity and Surveillance for Step Bolts for Steel Structures
| Particulars | Details |
| Validity | Typically 1 to 2 years, depending on BIS approval conditions |
| Renewal | Must be renewed before expiry by submitting the application along with the prescribed fee and updated documents |
| Surveillance Compliance Risk |
Includes periodic factory inspections and market sample testing conducted by BIS.
Continuous following to standard and applicable Quality Control Orders (QCOs) is mandatory.
Non-compliance or failed sample testing may lead to suspension or cancellation of the BIS license.
|
BIS Certification Cost Structure for Step Bolts for Steel Structures under IS 10238:2001
The costs involved in the process of BIS approval for threaded steel fasteners like Step Bolts include application fees, factory inspection fees, license fees, testing fees and stamping fees. These costs vary according to Scheme-I of the Bureau of Indian Standards and can differ based on the type of product, quantity, and location of manufacture.
Note - - Application fee for foreign manufacturers is payable via SWIFT (SAARC countries may pay in INR with applicable GST).
- Audit charges for foreign manufacturers vary based on country/location.
- The marking fee is determined based on the product category and production volume (MSME benefits may apply).
- Testing charges are paid directly to BIS-recognised laboratories.
- Consultancy fees vary depending on product type and factory location.
Key Problems Faced in BIS Licensing under IS 10238:2001
Various difficulties may be encountered when it comes to certifying step bolts using the BIS standard, some of which include the following -
- Variation in steel chemical composition
- Failure in tensile or proof load testing
- Dimensional deviations in threading
- Poor galvanizing or coating quality
- Inconsistent production quality control
- Documentation errors or missing records
- Delays in laboratory test reports
- Non-compliance with BIS inspection observations
Conclusion
Threaded steel fasteners such as Step Bolts for steel structures have become necessary elements for today's construction, which includes transmission towers, bridges, steel plants, and many more. The main reason behind using the Step Bolt is their strong and reliable mechanical fixing capacity. Conformity to the IS 10238:2001 standard guarantees that manufacturers observe quality standards regarding strength, threading, dimension, and corrosion of fasteners. Certification by BIS for Step Bolts involves confirmation that the step bolts meet the Indian Standard and provides license to use the ISI logo. It implies that the fasteners made from steel will be safe in terms of quality and durability in use. Certification makes it easier for step bolts to enter the market because clients trust the ISI logo and the manufacturer's reputation.
Manufacturers of step bolts may contact EVTL India, a BIS Consultant, for an easier certification process.
