Waterproof multipurpose rain poncho with convertibility as a bivouac protects against rain as well as provides shelter in case of emergencies. It acts as a raincoat when one is moving around and can easily be converted into a protective shield once they come to rest. It is lightweight, waterproof in nature, and is used in trekking, defence, and disaster management operations.
The performance requirements of the poncho have been specified by the Bureau of Indian Standards as per IS 17286:2019. The important testing parameters are waterproof performance, fabric durability, seam sealing and overall material efficiency. The tests are conducted in laboratories recognized by BIS to ensure consistent performance of the material. The companies manufacturing these waterproof ponchos must obtain the BIS approval before selling the products in the market.
What is IS 17286: 2019?
This is the Indian Standard for waterproof multipurpose rain ponchos that can also be converted into a bivouac shelter. It mentions the material quality and performance standards to ensure dependable use in outdoor and emergencies. As per the BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards), these rain ponchos are:
- Evaluated for tensile and tear strength
- Checked for seam sealing integrity
- Tested for waterproof resistance
- Assessed for dimensional stability
- Verified for durability
Eligibility Criteria for Survival Rain Poncho BIS Approval
BIS authorisation under IS 17286: 2019 is required for businesses involved in manufacturing, importing, or supplying waterproof rainwear in India.
Applicable to:
- Manufacturers (India) - Must get BIS approval if the Outdoor Waterproof Poncho is covered under QCO.
- Foreign Manufacturers - Need certification to export the Convertible Bivouac Ponchos to India.
- Importers/Brand Owners - Must ensure that the products are BIS-certified before sale.
- Sellers/Distributors - Should only sell certified rainwear products.
Testing and Inspection Requirements
To ensure reliable performance of waterproof multipurpose rain ponchos, the Bureau of Indian Standards outlines the minimum requirements under IS 17286: 2019. This certification ensures that manufacturers meet the essential performance and durability standards for protective rainwear. The BIS testing parameters and quality checks for the waterproof protective clothing are listed below:
| Test Group | What is Tested | Purpose |
|---|
| Fabric Identification Test | Type of fibre/filament used in PU coated fabric | Ensures correct raw material composition as per standard |
| Thread Density Test | Ends and picks per unit length | Ensures fabric strength and structural consistency |
| Breaking Strength Test | Warp-wise and weft-wise tensile strength | Ensures mechanical durability under stress |
| Tearing Strength Test | Resistance to tear propagation | Ensures durability during field use |
| Accelerated Ageing Test | Performance after heat ageing | Ensures long-term durability of material |
| Low Temperature Resistance Test | Behaviour at sub-zero temperatures | Ensures performance in extreme weather conditions |
| Flexing Resistance Test | Damage after repeated folding cycles | Ensures durability during repeated use and folding |
Blocking Test | Fabric sticking under pressure & heat | Ensures usability during storage and transport |
| pH Value Test | Acidity/alkalinity of fabric extract | Ensures skin safety and material compatibility |
| Water Repellency Test | Spray resistance rating | Ensures rain protection efficiency |
| Hydrostatic Pressure Test | Water penetration resistance | Ensures waterproof performance under pressure |
| Bundesmann Shower Test | Water absorption & penetration behaviour | Ensures real-world rain resistance performance |
| Moisture Vapour Transmission Test | Breathability of fabric | Ensures comfort during wear |
| PU Film Separation Test | Delamination of coating | Ensures coating adhesion and durability |
| Cord Strength Test | Tensile strength of cord/accessories | Ensures reliability of supporting components |
| Stitching & Construction Check | Seam strength and workmanship | Ensures reliability of supporting components |
How to get BIS Approval for Waterproof Poncho?
The BIS Authorisation process ensures that the outdoor rain protection gear meets the safety, performance, and durability standards. 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 evaluated for waterproofing, strength, seam integrity, and durability as per standard requirements.
- 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 : The Bureau of Indian Standards officials inspect the manufacturing units to verify the production process, safety measures, and quality control system.
- Grant of BIS License: After successful verification, BIS issues the license under Scheme-I.
- Use of ISI Mark: Once approved, the manufacturer can use the ISI mark on the product with a CM/L number, confirming that the product meets BIS standards.
IS 17286: 2019 Approval Documents List
| 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 |
The Foreign manufacturers are required to appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) in India. The representative is the local point of contact for the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and takes care of all rules and compliance work in India.
Marking Requirements & License Validity
Marking Requirements
Once BIS approval is granted, the ISI Mark for an emergency bivouac rain poncho must be clearly and permanently marked on its packaging or on the product. Along with the ISI Mark, key details such as the manufacturer’s identification and licence number (CM/L) must also be included. This ensures the product complies with all performance standards. Further details are mentioned below:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|
| ISI Mark | Indicates that the product is BIS certified and conforms to standards |
| Standard Number | IS 17286: 2019 |
| 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.
Bivouac Convertible Rain Poncho BIS License Validity
| 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 | 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 |
Fee Details for Survival Rain Poncho BIS Approval
The cost of BIS Approval for a waterproof multipurpose poncho 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.
- The marking fee is determined based on the product category and production volume (MSME benefits may apply).
- Testing charges are to be paid directly to BIS-recognised laboratories.
- Consultancy fees can vary depending on product type and factory location.
Conclusion
The multifunctional rain poncho that is not only waterproof but also able to act as a bivouac under harsh conditions must work efficiently without fail. An approved rain poncho ensures better reliability in water resistance and usability in stressful situations. Meeting the IS 17286: 2019 standards also eliminates the possibility of seam leakage, fabric tearing, or loss of protection due to prolonged exposure outdoors. Applying for a license in line with the BIS guidelines involves certain technicalities and coordination among laboratories and other departments. EVTL India provides guidance to the applicant in meeting these procedural requirements and organizing the entire process of certification.
