Tower Bolts made
from ferrous metals are robust and reliable fasteners used primarily for
securing doors, windows, and cabinets in residential, commercial, and
industrial environments. Crafted from materials such as steel or iron, these
bolts are known for their strength, durability, and ability to withstand
significant mechanical stress.
What is IS 204 (Part 1):1991
This is the Indian Standard for ferrous tower bolts, which are commonly used in doors,
windows, and gates for secure locking. It is a standard set by the Bureau of Indian
Standards to ensure that these products are strong, durable, and suitable for regular
use.
This standard makes sure that these products are:
- Strong enough to handle frequent locking and external force
- Made from proper ferrous materials like steel or iron
- Resistant to wear, rust, and environmental conditions
- Smooth in operation without jamming
- Accurate in size, shape, and fitting
Testing and Inspection Requirements for tower bolts
To ensure proper performance and quality of tower bolts made from ferrous metals, the
Bureau of Indian Standards has defined clear testing and inspection requirements under
IS 204 (Part 1): 1991 which are carried out during manufacturing
What are R and S?
- R (Required): Test must be done in the manufacturer’s own laboratory
- S (Subcontracting Allowed): Test can be done in a BIS-approved or external
laboratory
Physical and Quality Tests
- Visual Appearance (R) – Ensures tower bolts are free from defects, cracks, or
damage
- Dimensions and Size (R) – Checks correct length, thickness, and tolerances as
per standard
- Workmanship (R) – Ensures proper finishing and smooth functioning
Material Tests
- Raw Material Quality (S) – Confirms MS sheets and bars meet required IS
standards
- Material Verification (S) – Ensures proper grade and certification of raw
materials
Manufacturing and Process Tests
- Manufacturing Check (R) – Ensures bolts are produced as per specified
methods
- In-Process Inspection (R) – Regular checks during production for consistency
Finish and Coating Tests
- Finish Check (R) – Ensures proper surface finish like bright or coated finish
- Nickel-Chromium Plating Test (R) – Verifies coating quality and thickness
- Zinc Plating Test (R) – Ensures corrosion resistance of coating
- Copper Oxidizing Test (R) – Checks surface treatment quality
BIS certification process for Non-Ferrous Tower bolts

The BIS certification process ensures that these tower bolts meet the required standard for proper and efficient operation as defined by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).
- 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: 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 product, confirming compliance with the
standard.
Documents Required for IS 204 (part 1) 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
|
Marking Requirements & License Validity
| ISI Mark | Indicates that the product is BIS certified and follows the standard |
| Standard Number | IS 204 (part 2) |
| CML Number | Certification Marks License number issued by BIS |
| Manufacturer Details | Name of manufacturer or registered trademark |
| Batch / Date | Batch number or manufacturing date for traceability |
Validity of BIS licenses for non-ferrous tower bolts
Cost of BIS certification for tower bolts

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.
Indian Manufacturers
| No. | Major Charges | Particulars | Amount | Remark |
|---|
| 1. | BIS Fees | Application Fee | INR 1,000 | |
| | Audit Charges | 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.
Conclusion
BIS certification for tower bolts made from non-ferrous metals, as per IS 204 (Part 2):1992, ensures that the product meets all required quality parameters and performance standards for proper locking applications. It guarantees that the tower bolts are properly tested for dimensions, finish, smooth operation, and resistance to corrosion, making them reliable for long-term use in doors, windows, and furniture. With the support and guidance of an experienced BIS consultant like EVTL India, manufacturers can complete the certification process smoothly, reduce errors, and obtain approval faster for market compliance.