Unplasticized PVC (uPVC) Pipes for Potable Water Supplies are commonly used in various water distribution systems for households, industries, agriculture and municipalities. The use of such pipes is essential in ensuring that water is transported safely from one point to another, without compromising its quality. Considering the importance of these items in water supply systems, there are requirements to be followed by the manufacturers based on BIS IS 4985:2021.
According to BIS IS 4985:2021, manufacturers of Unplasticized PVC Pipes for Potable Water Supplies have certain requirements they should fulfill regarding raw materials used, pipe dimensions, pressure ratings, mechanical properties, hydraulic behaviour, among other features. Ensuring that the products comply with the Indian Standard by following the provisions outlined in the BIS Quality Control Order (QCO) and acquiring BIS certification for uPVC Pipes guarantees that such products conform to Indian quality standards.
What is IS 4985:2021 for Unplasticized PVC Pipes
IS 4985:2021 specifies the requirements for Unplasticized PVC Pipes intended for potable water supply applications. The standard covers material requirements, dimensions, pressure classifications, workmanship, testing methods, and performance criteria to ensure safe and reliable water distribution. As per BIS, Unplasticized PVC Pipes are:
- Tested for hydrostatic pressure performance
- Checked for dimensional conformity
- Evaluated for impact resistance
- Assessed for opacity and quality of material
- Verified for suitability in potable water applications
Benefits of ISI Mark Certification for Unplasticized PVC Pipes
BIS ISI Mark Certification for Unplasticized PVC Pipes as per IS 4985:2021 ensures customer that the product meets the Indian standards.
- Provides Assurance of BIS Certification for uPVC Pipes as per IS 4985:2021
- Ensures adherence to the BIS ISI Mark Certification criteria for uPVC Pipes
- Increases the reliability and longevity of the pipe for use in potable water supplies
- Increases acceptability in government projects
- Establishes credibility of the brand by providing ISI Mark for uPVC Pipes for Potable Water Supplies
BIS Certification Eligibility for uPVC Pipes under IS 4985:2021
BIS Certification under IS 4985:2021 applies to manufacturers and suppliers involved in the production of Unplasticized PVC Pipes for Potable Water Supplies.
Applicable to:
- Manufacturers (India) - Must get BIS approval if the uPVC plastic pipes are covered under QCO.
- Foreign Manufacturers - Need certification to export Unplasticized PVC pipes to India.
- Importers/Brand Owners - Must ensure that the products are BIS certified before selling.
- Sellers/Distributors - Should only sell certified pipes for the water supply.
BIS Testing Requirements for Unplasticized PVC Pipes
To ensure safe and reliable performance of uPVC Pipes for Potable Water Supplies, the Bureau of Indian Standards outlines the minimum quality requirements under IS 4985:2021. This certification ensures that manufacturers maintain consistent standards of strength and suitability for potable water applications. It also ensures that the pipes provide excellent pressure resistance, dimensional stability and long-term performance even under varying environmental conditions.
The BIS testing parameters under IS 4985:2021, including the BIS Testing Approval for UPVC Pipes for Potable Water Supplies, are listed below:
ISI Mark Certification Process for uPVC Potable Water Supply Pipe
The BIS certification process ensures that Unplasticized PVC Pipes for Potable Water Supplies, as per IS 4985:2021, meet the required quality and safety standards for reliable performance in water distribution systems. 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, dimensional accuracy and pressure resistance.
- 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 uPVC pipes for potable water supplies with a CM/L number, confirming that the product meets BIS standards.
IS 4985: 2021 Approval Documents Checklist
| Document Category | Documents Required |
|---|
| Basic Details | GST Certificate, Email ID & Contact Number, Factory & Office Address, Rent Agreement / Lease Deed (if applicable),Partnership Deed (if applicable for partnership firms) |
| Manufacturing Details | List of Machinery, Process Flow Chart, Factory Layout Plan |
| 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, Product Printing / Marking Details |
| Management Details | Top Management Details, BIS Communication Contact Person |
| 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 Manufacturer Requirement | Appointment of Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) for BIS coordination and compliance in India |
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.
BIS ISI Marking Requirements for Unplasticized PVC Pipes under IS 4985:2021
When a manufacturer obtains BIS Approval, the ISI Mark for uPVC potable water 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:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|
| ISI Mark | Indicates that the product is BIS certified and conforms to standards |
| Standard Number | IS 4985: 2021 |
| 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.
BIS Approval Validity for UPVC Pipes for Potable Water Supply
| 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 |
| Surveillane | BIS may inspect factories and test samples periodically |
| Annual Fees | Annual license fee must be paid regularly |
| Compliance | Continuous compliance with BIS requirements is necessary |
| License Format | BIS is shifting towards a 10-digit license number format |
| Non-Compliance Risk | May lead to suspension or cancellation of license |
BIS License Fees for PVC Potable Water Supply Pipe
The cost of BIS certification for 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.
How to Identify Certified uPVC Pipes for Potable Water Supplies
Certified UPVC Pipes under IS 4985:2021 can easily be recognized by means of accurate BIS markings and labels on the product itself. This will ensure that the pipes comply with Indian quality standards for safe drinking water usage. Hence, it is advisable to check all the certification information before purchasing any certified UPVC Pipes.
- Check ISI Mark on Pipe/Package
- Look for the BIS License Number (CM/L) on the uPVC Pipes
- Standard IS 4985:2021 must be visible in the markings
- Manufacturer Name & Class of Pipe must be mentioned
- Ensure Authenticity on the Official Website of BIS
Conclusion
Unplasticized PVC Pipes for Potable Water Supplies have gained importance in modern water distribution systems to ensure the safe, robust and efficient conveyance of potable water. The primary reason behind the use of these pipes is to safeguard the quality of water, its safe supply without any leakage and durability over a period of time. The IS 4985:2021 standard helps manufacturers achieve the best quality standards concerning pressure testing, dimensional standards, structural soundness and overall performance criteria.
The BIS Certification for Unplasticized PVC Pipes for Potable Water Supplies ensures that the pipes meet prescribed quality standards, and therefore, the ISI mark can be used by manufacturers. It indicates the quality, reliability and performance of potable water supply pipes. With BIS certification, one can be assured of the quality and performance of uPVC pipes for water supplies in all government and private projects. Manufacturers can avail themselves of the services provided by EVTL India for BIS certification.
