Deepwell Handpumps are manual devices used to withdraw water from deep well sources. They are widely used for drinking water supply, mostly in rural and remote areas, where electricity is not readily available. As these handpumps operate under critical conditions, their design, material quality, and durability must meet the standards set by BIS.
The quality and safety of manual handpumps are governed by the Bureau of Indian Standards under IS 15500 (Part 2): 2021. This standard outlines the material, performance criteria and testing procedures to ensure safety of the pumps. It also ensures that the water pumping system meets the standards set for quality and efficiency. Manufacturers must obtain a BIS certificate before selling the product in the Indian Market.
What is IS 15500 (Part 2): 2021?
- This is the Indian Standard for Openwell Pump, which is designed to lift groundwater manually from deep borewells.
- This standard is set by the BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) to ensure that product quality and safety are met, and the handpumps are Tested for hydraulic performance
- Made from corrosion-resistant materials
- Designed for efficient manual water extraction
- Build to ensure a consistent water supply
Who Needs BIS Certification for Water Handpump?
BIS certification under IS 15500 (Part 2): 2021 is required for businesses involved in manufacturing, importing, or supplying rural water handpumps in India. Applicable to:
- Manufacturers (India): Must get BIS certification if handpumps are covered under QCO.
- Foreign Manufacturers - Need certification to export the product to India.
- Importers/Brand Owners - Must ensure that the products are BIS certified before selling.
- Sellers/Distributors - Should only sell certified manual handpumps.
Testing and Inspection Requirements
To ensure the premium quality, safety needs, and adequate performance of handpumps, the standard set by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) defines proper testing and inspection requirements during manufacturing.
What is R and S?
- R (Required): Test must be conducted in the manufacturer’s in-house laboratory
- S (Subcontracting Allowed): Test can be conducted in a Bureau of Indian Standards-recognized or NABL-accredited external laboratory
Material & Raw Material Tests
- Raw Material Verification Test - Ensures compliance of steel, cast iron, brass, bronze, rubber, and other materials as per IS 15500 Part 1 (S)
- Component Material Inspection Test - Verifies material quality and conformity for all components (S)
- Anti-Corrosive Treatment Check - Ensures proper surface protection and coating quality (S)
Manufacturing & Construction Tests
- General Workmanship Inspection - Ensures proper fabrication, finishing, and assembly quality (R)
- Component Assembly Check - Ensures correct assembly of all handpump parts (R)
- Sub-Assembly Verification Test - Confirms correct fitting and alignment of subassemblies (S)
- Handle and Bracket Fitment Test - Ensures proper mechanical fit and movement (R)
- Cylinder and Riser Pipe Inspection - Ensures correct construction and assembly (R)
- Welding Quality Inspection - Ensures defect-free welding joints (R)
Dimensional & Physical Tests
- Dimensional Verification Test - Ensures compliance with IS 15500 dimensions and tolerances (R)
- Stroke Length Measurement Test - Verifies correct pump stroke operation (R)
- Clearance & Fitment Test - Ensures proper spacing and mechanical clearance (R)
- Alignment Test - Ensures correct alignment of head, cylinder, and riser pipe (R)
- Thickness Measurement Test - Ensures material thickness compliance (R)
Mechanical Strength & Performance Tests
- Discharge Performance Test - Measures water output capacity (R)
- Load Bearing Test - Ensures structural strength under working load (R)
- Handle Strength Test - Verifies durability of handle and bracket assembly (R)
- Cylinder Performance Test - Ensures efficient water lifting capability (R)
- Operational Durability Test - Ensures long-term usage performance (R)
Surface & Coating Tests
- Galvanization Thickness Test - Ensures proper coating thickness (R)
- Surface Finish Inspection - Ensures smooth and defect-free surfaces (R)
- Paint Quality Test - Ensures proper application of primer and enamel paint (S) Functional & Operational Tests
- Pump Operation Test - Ensures smooth and continuous pumping operation (R)
- Handle Movement Test - Verifies smooth operation without obstruction (R)
- Valve Functionality Test - Ensures proper water flow control (R)
- Leakage Test - Ensures no water leakage during operation (R)
Hydraulic Performance Tests
- Discharge Measurement Test - Measures water output per stroke (R)
- Efficiency Performance Test - Evaluates overall pumping efficiency (R)
- Water Lifting Test - Ensures proper deepwell water extraction (R)
Quality Control & Compliance Tests
- Batch Inspection Test - Ensures consistency across production batches (R)
- Control Unit Verification Test - Ensures compliance per defined batch/control unit (R)
- Quality Assurance Plan Implementation - Ensures defined inspection and testing frequency (R)
- Test Record Maintenance - Ensures proper documentation of test results (R)
Marking & Certification Tests
- ISI Marking Verification - Ensures correct use of Standard Mark on product (R)
- Labelling & Marking Check - Ensures compliance with IS 15500 Part 2 marking requirements (R)
- Licence Number Verification - Ensures correct BIS certification details on product (R)
Performance & Type Tests
- Hydraulic Performance Type Test - Conducted for each design/type (S)
- Durability Type Test - Ensures long-term performance validation (S)
- Periodic Compliance Test - Ensures continued conformity of certified models (S)
Step-by-Step BIS Certification Process for Deepwell Pump
The BIS certification process ensures that the pumps 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 for material safety and structural durability.
- 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 unit to verify the production process, safety measures, and quality control system.
- Grant of BIS License - If all requirements are met, 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 Checklist for IS 15500 (Part 2): 2021 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
|
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 deepwell pumps 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 follows to the standard |
| Standard Number | IS 15500 (Part 2): 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 Licence Validity for a Rural Water Handpump
After obtaining BIS Certification for the rural handpumps, the license is valid for a fixed period and must be maintained by following BIS rules and standards.
Handpumps Certification Fee Structure
The cost of BIS Certification for a manual pumping system includes charges for application, inspection, license, testing, and marking. These fees are paid to BIS as per Scheme I guidelines.
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 BIS certification process for the Deepwell Handpumps follows the requirements specified in IS 15500 (Part 2): 2021. It ensures that the product meets the safety and efficiency standards during its operation. BIS certification reduces risks such as component failure, corrosion, and inefficient water discharge. One can obtain the BIS certification easily with proper guidance and without unnecessary delays. EVTL India provides all necessary help, right from documentation, application filing, testing, compliance advice, and even inspections. Getting help from the experts ensures a smooth certification journey.