Medium-density particle boards are wood panels made from wood particles and other
lignocellulosic materials bonded together under heat and pressure. These boards are
commonly used in furniture, interior work, and construction due to their smooth surface,
uniform structure, and cost-effective nature.
To regulate their quality and performance, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has
introduced IS 3087:2025. This standard sets requirements for strength, durability, and
safety. When notified under a Quality Control Order (QCO), manufacturers must obtain
BIS certification before selling these boards in the Indian market.
Who Needs BIS Certification for Particle Boards?
- Manufacturers (India): Need BIS certification if particle boards are notified
under QCO
- Foreign Manufacturers: Must obtain certification to export boards to India
- Importers/Brand Owners: Should ensure the boards are BIS certified before
selling
- Sellers/Distributors: Should deal only in certified particle boards
Certification is regulated by the Bureau of Indian Standards under IS 3087:2025.
What is IS 3087:2025
This is an Indian standard issued by the Bureau of Indian Standards that defines the
requirements for medium-density particle boards. It gives guidelines on how these
boards should be manufactured, tested, and checked before being sold in India.
- This standard ensures that particle boards:
- Have proper density and uniform structure
- Meet required strength for regular use
- Provide good surface quality for applications
- Follow defined quality and performance requirements
Testing and Inspection Requirements for Particle Boards
To ensure proper quality and performance of these boards, the standard defines testing
and inspection requirements. These tests are carried out during manufacturing and
regular checks as per guidelines of the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).
What are R and S
- R (Required): Test must be conducted as part of regular factory checks
- S (Subcontracting Allowed): Test can be conducted in a BIS-recognized or
accredited laboratory
Material & Basic Property Tests
- Density Test (R) – Checks uniform structure and board strength
- Moisture Content Test (R) – Ensures proper moisture level
- Thickness Swelling Test (R) – Checks resistance to water absorption (mainly
for MR/HMR grades)
Design & Manufacturing Checks
- Manufacturing Check (R) – Ensures proper production process
- Finish Check (R) – Verifies smooth and even surface
- Dimension & Tolerance Test (R) – Confirms correct size and thickness
Strength & Performance Tests
- Modulus of Rupture (R) – Measures bending strength
- Modulus of Elasticity (R) – Checks stiffness of board
- Internal Bond Strength (R) – Ensures strong bonding of particles
- Screw Withdrawal Test (R)—Checks screw holding capacity
Safety & Special Tests
- Formaldehyde Content Test (R) – Ensures safe emission levels
- Formaldehyde Emission Test (S) – Optional test for environmental safety
- Moisture Resistance Test (R) – For MR and HMR grades (cycle/boil test)
Durability Tests
- Cyclic/Boil Test (R) – Checks performance under moisture conditions
- Regular Quality Checks (R) – Ensures consistent performance over time
BIS Certification Process for Medium-Density Particle Boards
The BIS certification process ensures that these boards meet the requirements of the
standard for safe and proper use. 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 products 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
product, showing compliance with BIS standards.
Documents Required for IS 3087 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 particle boards 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 | Indicates that the product is BIS certified and follows to the standard |
| Standard Number | IS 3087 |
| CML Number | Certification Marks Licence (CML) number issued by BIS |
| Manufacturer Details | Name of manufacturer or registered trademark |
| Size Details | Diameter, gauge, or dimensional specifications of product |
| Batch / Date | Batch number, heat number, or manufacturing date for traceability |
Note: Marking should be applied using durable methods such as stamping, tagging, or
permanent printing for long-term visibility.
Validity of BIS License for particle boards
| 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 |
| Surveillance | 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 |
BIS Certification Cost for medium-density particle boards
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 particle boards as per IS 3087:2025 ensures that these boards meet
the required Indian standards for quality, strength, and safe use. It confirms that the
boards are properly tested and are suitable for furniture and interior applications. It also
helps maintain consistent product quality and improves trust among buyers in the
market.
With the support of a BIS consultant like EVTL India, manufacturers can complete the
process smoothly with proper guidance, avoid common mistakes, and get approval
without unnecessary delays.
