Unplasticized Non-Pressure Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC-U) pipes are widely used in underground drainage and sewerage systems. These pipes are used to transfer domestic and industrial sewage without any kind of leakage in underground drainage and sewerage networks. These pipes are made up of rigid PVC, which is durable and also free of corrosion. Moreover, such pipes have very good structural strength.
For the continuous functioning of drainage piping, the Bureau of Indian Standards has established guidelines under IS 15328: 2003. Such standards specify all important requirements, including the quality of raw materials used, ring stiffness, impact strength, and performance of non-pressure PVC pipes. Manufacturers who comply with this standard are eligible to obtain BIS certification. They can use the ISI mark on their products, ensuring trust and acceptance in the Indian market.
What is IS 15328: 2003?
This is the Indian Standard for Unplasticized Non-Pressure PVC Pipes used in underground drainage and sewerage systems, which outlines the standard requirements for dimensions, material composition, pressure ratings, and mechanical properties. This standard is set by the BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) to ensure that product quality and safety are met, and the sewer pipes are
- Tested for wall thickness and pipe length.
- Ensured to provide long-term performance.
- Verified for mechanical strength, such as ring stiffness.
- Checked for joint integrity and resistance to external loads.
- Made from high-quality PVC-U compounds.
- Designed for non-pressure underground drainage .
Sewerage PVC-U Pipes BIS Approval Eligibility Criteria
BIS authorisation under IS 15328: 2003 is required for businesses involved in manufacturing, importing, or supplying PVC drainage pipe in India.
Applicable to:
- Manufacturers (India) - Must get BIS approval if the underground drainage pipes are covered under QCO.
- Foreign Manufacturers - Need certification to export Drainage & Sewer Pipes to India.
- Importers/Brand Owners - Must ensure that the products are BIS certified before selling.
- Sellers/Distributors - Should only sell certified sewerage PVC pipes.
Testing and Inspection Requirements
To ensure the quality, safety needs, and adequate performance of PVCU Underground Drainage Pipes, the standard set by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) defines proper testing and inspection requirements during manufacturing.
Manufacturing & Standards Compliance Tests
- IS 15328:2003 Compliance Verification (R) - Ensures pipes meet all requirements of the Indian Standard, including amendments.
- Process Control Verification (R) - Confirms proper extrusion, socketing, cooling, and finishing processes.
- Specification Compliance Review (R) - Ensures dimensional, physical, and mechanical properties meet BIS norms.
- Production Traceability Check (R) - Ensures traceability from raw materials to finished pipes.
Material & Chemical Verification Tests
- Material Composition Test (S) - Verifies compliance of PVC-U compound as per standard requirements.
- Additives & Stabilizer Check (S) - Ensures proper formulation of additives used in manufacturing.
- Effect on Water Test (S) - Ensures pipes do not release harmful substances.
- Density / Material Property Check (R) - Confirms consistency of raw material quality.
Dimensional & Geometrical Tests
- Mean Outside Diameter Test (R) - Measures pipe diameter accuracy .
- Wall Thickness Test (R) - Ensures uniform thickness as per specification.
- Length Verification Test (R) - Confirms standard pipe length.
- Socket & Spigot Dimension Test (R) - Verifies dimensions of pipe ends and joints.
- Tolerance Compliance Check (R) - Ensures all dimensions are within permissible limits.
Physical Property Tests
- Visual Appearance Test (R) - Ensures pipes are free from cracks, voids, and defects.
- Colour Verification Test (R) - Confirms uniform colour as per IS requirements.
- Vicat Softening Temperature Test (S) - Determines heat resistance of the material.
- Longitudinal Reversion Test (R) - Checks dimensional stability under heat.
Mechanical Strength Tests
- Resistance to External Blows Test (R) - Evaluates impact resistance at low temperature (0°C).
- Ring Stiffness Test (R) - Determines load-bearing capacity of pipes.
- Hydrostatic Pressure Test - Acceptance (R) - Ensures pipes withstand internal pressure.
- Hydrostatic Pressure Test - Type Test (S) - Validates long-term pressure performance.
Sealing & Joint Integrity Tests
- Elastomeric Sealing Ring Test (S) - Verifies sealing ring quality as per IS 5382.
- Solvent Cement Test (S) - Ensures bonding material meets IS requirements.
- Internal Hydrostatic Pressure Test for Joints (R) - Checks leak-proof performance of joints .
- Internal Vacuum Test (R) - Ensures joints withstand negative pressure conditions.
Performance & Functional Tests
- Internal Pressure Performance Test (R) - Confirms pipe performance under working conditions.
- Joint Tightness Test (R) - Ensures leak-proof connections in drainage systems.
- Durability & Reliability Check (R) - Verifies long-term usability in underground applications.
Steps for Non-Pressure PVC-U Pipes BIS License
The BIS Authorisation process ensures that the Non-pressure PVC drainage pipes meet 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 to verify material quality and dimensional accuracy.
- 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 requirements are satisfied, BIS grants the certification license under Scheme-I.
- Use of ISI Mark: After approval, the manufacturer can use the ISI mark on the product with a CM/L number, confirming that the product meets BIS standards.

Documents Required for IS 15328: 2003 Approval
The following documents are typically required for obtaining BIS approval:
Basic Details: - GST Certificate
- Email ID, Contact Number
- Factory, Office Address
- Rent and Lease Agreement(if applicable)
- Partnership Deed (if partnership firm)
| Product and Packing Details: - Quantity per Package
- Nature of Packing
- Nature of Printing / Marking on Product
|
Testing and Quality Control: - List of testing Equipment
- Calibration Certificates
- QC or Lab In-charge Appointment Letter
- Qualification
| Raw Material Details: - List of Row Materials
- Supplier Details
- Raw Material Invoices
- Raw Material Test Certificates
|
Manufacturing Details: - List of Machinery
- process flow chart
- Layout plan of Factory
| Brand and Certification Documents: - Trademark / Brand Certificate
- Consent Latter From BIS Recognized Laboratory
|
Production Details: - Annual Installed Capacity
- Last Year Production Value
| Additional Documents: - Weekly Off Details
- Hygiene Documents(if applicable)
- Relaxation Latter(if applicable)
- Any Other Relevant Documents
|
Management Details: - Top Management Details
- Concerned Person for BIS Communication
| Required Documents: - Agreement with AIR
- Aadhaar Card with AIR
- AIR Nomination Form
- Required Undertakings
- Scope of License
|
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 BIS Approval, the ISI Mark for sewer pipes must be clearly and permanently marked on its packaging or on the product. 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 conforms to standards |
| Standard Number | IS 15328: 2003 |
| 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.
How Long is BIS Approval for UPVC Sewer Pipes Valid?
After obtaining BIS approval for the Underground Drainage Pipes, the approval is valid for a fixed period and must be maintained by following BIS rules and standards.
| particulars | Details |
|---|
| Initial Validity | Typically 1 to 2 years, depending on BIS approval conditions |
| Renewal | Must be renewed before expiry with required documents and fees |
| Surveillance | BIS conducts factory inspections and may test market samples |
| Compliance | Continuous compliance with IS standards and QCOs is required |
| Risk | May lead to suspension or cancellation of the license |
PVC Sewerage Pipe BIS License Cost
The cost of BIS Approval for Non-Pressure UPVC Pipes 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.
- Marking fee depends on the product category and production volume (MSME benefits may apply).
- Testing charges are paid directly to BIS-approved laboratories.
- Consultancy fees depend on product type and factory location.
Conclusion
The PVCU Pipes used in underground drainage and sewerage systems must comply with the specifications outlined in IS 15328: 2003 issued by the Bureau of Indian Standards. The certification ensures that manufacturers meet the established quality and performance benchmarks of the Sewerage pipes. It also helps reduce the risks associated with leakage and structural failure. The BIS certificate is essential for maintaining legal and regulatory compliance. A manufacturer having the product license helps them gain customers' trust. EVTL India helps streamline the entire certification process for the manufacturers. It offers assistance with documentation, application submission, product testing coordination, compliance support, and inspection preparation.