Piping systems for the safe distribution of water are dependent on the quality of pipes. PVC-U Fittings for Potable Water Supply are special connecting fittings which are used for pipelines within households and industries. The fittings are made with unplasticized polyvinyl chloride material. They are corrosion-resistant, lightweight, and have a smooth internal surface.
The BIS certificate confirms that the plumbing products are safe according to the required criteria. As per IS 10124 (Part 1): 2009, the standard outlines requirements related to material quality, workmanship, etc. The certification process also checks whether the fittings meet the prescribed technical requirements. Obtaining the BIS license helps companies to build brand value and gain customers' trust.
What is IS 10124 (Part 1): 2009
This is the Indian Standard for fabricated PVC-U fittings used in potable (drinking) water supply systems. It mentions the material and design criteria to ensure safe water distribution. As per the BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards), fittings are:
- Evaluated for material quality
- Assessed for dimensional accuracy
- Tested for hydrostatic pressure strength
- Verified for leakage
- Checked for long-term durability
Eligibility Guide for PVC Pipe Fittings BIS Approval
BIS authorisation under IS 10124 (Part 1): 2009 is required for businesses involved in manufacturing, importing, or supplying Drinking Water Pipe Fittings in India. Applicable to:
- Manufacturers (India) - Must get BIS approval if the products are covered under QCO.
- Foreign Manufacturers - Need certification to export PVC Plumbing Fittings to India.
- Importers/Brand Owners - Must ensure that the products are BIS-certified before sale.
- Sellers/Distributors - Should only sell certified Plastic Pipe Fittings.
Testing and Inspection Requirements
To ensure reliable performance of fabricated PVC-U fittings used in potable water supply systems, the Bureau of Indian Standards outlines the minimum requirements under IS 10124 (Part 1): 2009. This certification ensures that manufacturers meet the performance standards for fittings used in drinking water distribution.
The BIS testing parameters and quality checks for the fittings are listed below:
Steps for BIS Approval for PVC Plumbing Fittings
The BIS Authorisation process ensures that the Pipe Fittings meets the required standards for proper and efficient operation. This process is set by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and includes the following steps:
- Online Registration: Manufacturers register on the BIS Manak portal by submitting company, factory, 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 dimensional accuracy, hydrostatic pressure strength, opacity, and water quality compatibility.
- 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: The Bureau of Indian Standards officials inspect the manufacturing units to verify the production process, safety measures, and quality control system.
- Grant of BIS License: Upon successful verification of all requirements, BIS grants the certification license under Scheme-I.
- Use of ISI Mark: Once approved, the manufacturer can use the ISI mark on the product with a CM/L number, confirming that the product meets BIS standards.
IS 10124 (Part 1): 2009 License Documents Checklist
| 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 Requirement | Appointment of Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) for BIS coordination and compliance in India |
The Foreign manufacturers are required to appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) in India. The representative is the local point of contact for the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and takes care of all rules and compliance work in India.
Marking Requirements & License Validity
Marking Requirements
Once a manufacturer obtains BIS approval, the ISI Mark for PVC Water Supply Fittings must be clearly and permanently marked on its packaging or on the product. Along with the ISI Mark, key details such as the manufacturer’s identification and licence number (CM/L) must be marked. This ensures the product complies with all safety and performance standards. More details are mentioned below:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|
| ISI Mark | Indicates that the product is BIS certified and conforms to standards |
| Standard Number | IS 10124 (Part 1): 2009 |
| CML Number | Certification Marks License (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 Duration for PVC Pipe Fittings
| particulars | Details |
|---|
| Initial 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 |
| Surveillane | Includes periodic factory inspections and market sample testing conducted by BIS |
| Compliance | Continuous following to standard and applicable Quality Control Orders (QCOs) is mandatory |
| Risk | Non-compliance or failed sample testing may lead to suspension or cancellation of the BIS license |
Cost for PVC-U Potable Water Fittings BIS License
The cost of BIS Approval for Water Supply Fittings includes charges for application, inspection, license, testing, and marking. These fees are paid to BIS as per Scheme I guidelines.
| Charge Type | Indian Manufacturers | Foreign Manufacturers |
|---|
| Application Fee | INR 1,000 | USD 15 |
| Audit Charges | INR 7,000 | USD 3,200 – 5,900 |
| License Fee | INR 1,000 | USD 15 |
| Marking Fee | As applicable | As applicable |
| Testing Charges | As applicable | As applicable |
| EVTL India Consultancy Fee | As per actual | As per actual |
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 to be paid directly to BIS-recognised laboratories.
- Consultancy fees can vary depending on product type and factory location.
Conclusion
Fabricated PVC-U fittings are widely used in modern water distribution networks. Compliance with IS 10124 (Part 1): 2009 strengthens confidence in the product’s performance and suitability for potable water applications. Approved joints can withstand stable connections in water pipes. They provide a continuous supply of water over an extended period. Dealing with BIS certification requirements may necessitate proper coordination among various aspects. EVTL India will facilitate providing support to manufacturers in the process of obtaining product certification in an easy way. Their help makes it easier for companies to fulfill all requirements without any risk of missing out on anything.
