General-purpose chairs and stools are simple seating products used in homes, offices,
schools, shops, and public places. They are designed for everyday sitting and may
include basic wooden, metal, or plastic structures without advanced features like
adjustment or wheels. Since these products are widely used, they must be strong,
stable, and safe for regular use.
To ensure this, they follow IS 17632:2022. This standard sets the basic rules for the
strength, stability, and durability of chairs and stools. BIS certification confirms that the
product has been tested as per this standard and is safe for use in the market.
Who Needs BIS Certification for Chairs and Stools
- Manufacturers (India): Must get BIS certification if the items are covered under
QCO
- Foreign Manufacturers: Need certification to export furniture to India
- Importers/Brand Owners: Must ensure products are BIS certified before selling
- Sellers/Distributors: Should only sell certified products
Certification is regulated by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) under IS 17632:2022.
What is IS 17632:2022
It is an Indian standard for general-purpose chairs and stools. It is issued by the Bureau
of Indian Standards to set basic requirements for design, safety, and performance
before these products are sold in the market.
This standard ensures that chairs and stools:
- Are strong and stable for daily use
- Can safely handle regular body weight
- Do not break or wobble during use
- Meet basic quality and construction rules
Testing and Inspection Requirements for Chairs and Stools
To ensure safe use and proper performance of these furniture items, IS 17632:2022
specifies testing and inspection requirements. These tests are done during
manufacturing and routine quality checks as per guidelines of the Bureau of Indian
Standards.
What are R and S?
- R (Required): Test must be done during regular production or factory inspection
- S (Subcontracting Allowed): Test can be done in BIS-approved or accredited
laboratories
Material & Surface Tests
- Surface Performance Test (S): Checks resistance to scratches, heat, stains,
and liquids
- Fabric / Leather Tests (S): Checks strength, tearing, and wear resistance of
covering material
- Colour Fastness (S): Ensures colour does not fade due to light, rubbing, or
sweat
- Adhesion Test (S): Checks bonding strength of surface layers and coatings
Design & Construction Checks
- Design & Workmanship (R): Ensures proper build quality and assembly
- Dimension Check (R): Verifies height, width, and size as per standard
Safety & Performance Tests
- Stability Test (R): Checks balance in forward, backward, and sideways
directions
- Static Load Test (R): Checks strength of seat, back, arms, and legs under load
- Impact Test (R): Checks resistance to sudden force or shock
- Drop Test (R): Ensures product does not break on accidental fall
Durability Tests
- Seat Fatigue Test (R): Checks repeated use strength of seating area
- Back Fatigue Test (R): Ensures backrest strength over long use
- Armrest Durability (R): Checks strength under repeated pressure
- Load Cycling Test (R): Simulates long-term usage performance
BIS Certification Process for Furniture Chairs and Stools
The BIS certification process ensures that these furniture products meet the
requirements as mentioned in the standard. This process is defined by the Bureau of
Indian Standards (BIS) and includes the following steps:
- Online Registration: Manufacturers register on the BIS portal by submitting basic details of the
company, factory, and product models. Foreign manufacturers must appoint an
Authorized Indian Representative (AIR).
- Product Testing: Samples of furniture items are tested in BIS-recognized or accredited
laboratories as per IS requirements.
- Application Submission: The application is submitted with test reports, product drawings, technical
specifications, and factory details.
- Factory Inspection: BIS officials inspect the manufacturing unit to check the production process,
testing facilities, and quality control systems.
- Grant of BIS License: After successful verification, BIS grants the license under Scheme-I.
- Use of ISI Mark: Once approved, manufacturers can use the ISI mark with a CM/L number on
their products, showing compliance with BIS standards.
Documents Required for IS 17632 Certification
The following documents are typically required for obtaining BIS certification:
| Basic Details | - GST Certificate
- Email ID & Contact Number
- Factory & Office Address
- Rent Agreement / Lease Deed (if applicable)
|
| Legal Documents | - Partnership Deed (if partnership firm)
|
| Manufacturing Details | - List of machinery
- Process flow chart
- Layout Plan of Factory
|
| 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
- Nature of Printing / Marking on Product
|
| Management Details | - Top Management Details
- Concerned Person for BIS Communication
|
| 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 manufacturers must additionally appoint an Authorized Indian Representative
(AIR) to coordinate with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and manage compliance
requirements in India.
Marking Requirements & License Validity
Marking Requirements
When a manufacturer obtains the BIS license, the ISI mark for general purpose chair
and stools must be applied clearly and permanently on the product or its packaging. In
addition to the ISI Mark, other important details must also be provided on the product or
packaging, as specified in the table below. This ensures the product meets all quality
and safety standards.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|
| ISI Mark | Confirms BIS certification and standard compliance |
| Standard Number | IS 17632
|
| CML Number | Certification marks license number issued by BIS |
| Manufacturer Details | Name of manufacturer or registered trademark |
| Batch / Date | Manufacturing date or batch number for traceability |
Validity of BIS License for Furniture products
| Particulars | Details |
|---|
| Initial Validity | 1–2 years (as per BIS approval) |
| Renewal | Required before expiry with updated documents & fees |
| Surveillance | Includes factory inspections and sample testing |
| Compliance | Must follow BIS standards and applicable QCOs |
| Risk | Non-compliance may lead to suspension or cancellation |
BIS Certification Cost for Chairs and Stools
The cost of BIS certification includes charges for application, inspection, license, testing,
and marking. These fees are paid to BIS as per Scheme I guidelines.
Cost Breakdown
Indian Manufacturers
| No. | Major Charges | Particulars | Amount | Remark |
| 1 | BIS Fees | Application Fee | INR 1,000 | — |
|
| Audit / Inspection Fee | INR 7,000 | — |
|
| License Fee | INR 1,000 | — |
|
| Marking Fee | Depends on product | Discount as per MSME |
| 2. | Testing Charges | Sample Testing Fee | As Applicable | Payable to a BIS-approved laboratory. |
| 3. | EVTL India Service Fee | Consultancy & Support | As per actual | Depends on product type and factory location. |
Foreign Manufacturers
| No. | Major Charges | Particulars | Amount | Remark |
| 1. | BIS Fees | Application Fee | USD 15 | Payable via SWIFT to BIS. SAARC countries can pay INR with 18% GST. |
|
| Audit Charges | USD 3,200 – 5,900 | Depend on Country |
|
| License Fee | USD 15 | — |
|
| Marking Fee | Depends on product | — |
| 2. | Testing Charges | Sample Testing Fee | As Applicable | Payable to a BIS-approved laboratory. |
| 3. | EVTL India Service Fee | Consultancy & Support | As per actual
| Based on product and manufacturing location. |
Note: Additional costs such as pre-testing or factory pre-inspection may apply. The total
cost may vary depending on product type, testing requirements, and current BIS.
Conclusion
BIS certification for general-purpose chairs and stools under IS 17632:2022 ensures
that the products meet Indian standards for safety, strength, and durability. It confirms
that the chairs and stools are properly tested and suitable for daily use in homes,
offices, and public spaces.
With the support of an experienced consultant like EVTL India, manufacturers can
follow a clear and guided process. EVTL India assists with documentation, testing
coordination, and inspection preparation, helping businesses avoid delays and complete
certification smoothly.
