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 |
process of bis certification
The BIS certification process for Threaded Steel Fastener – Step Bolts for Steel Structures involves multiple steps, designed to thoroughly evaluate a product's compliance with the required standards. Here is a general overview of the certification process:
- Online Registration: Manufacturers register on the BIS Manak Online Portal by submitting company
details, factory information, and product specifications. Foreign manufacturers
must appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) in India.
- Testing at BIS-Approved Laboratory: Product samples are tested in BIS-approved laboratories to evaluate electrical
safety, insulation resistance, heating efficiency, durability, and overall
performance as per requirements.
- Application Submission: The application is submitted along with laboratory test reports, technical
documents, manufacturing process details, and factory information. Foreign
manufacturers must also provide AIR-related documents.
- Factory Inspection: BIS officials conduct an on-site inspection of the manufacturing unit to verify
production processes, quality control systems, safety measures, and compliance
with the standard.
- Grant of BIS License: If all requirements are successfully met, BIS issues the certification license under
Scheme-I, allowing the manufacturer to produce and sell certified products.
- Use of ISI Mark: After certification approval, the manufacturer is permitted to use the ISI mark
along with a CM/L number on the products, confirming compliance with the
standard.
documents required for bis certification
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 the BIS license, the ISI mark for steel step bolts 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 conforms to standards |
| Standard Number | IS 10238 |
| 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 |
Validity of BIS licenses for steel step bolts
After obtaining BIS certification for the product, the license 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 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 |
cOST AND TIMELINE OF CERTIFICATION
Cost of BIS certification for Threaded steel fasteners
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
guidelines.
to know the process in detail, please visit:
Under BIS Registration Products ISI and CRS
conclusion
The BIS certification for step bolts, as per IS 10238:2001, ensures that the product
follows the required standards for proper design, material, and performance in steel
structures. It also confirms that the step bolts are tested for strength, correct
dimensions, and proper coating before being used in applications like towers and
industrial frameworks.
With the support and guidance of an experienced BIS consultant like EVTL India,
manufacturers can complete the certification process easily, avoid errors, and get faster
approval without delays.
