Steel frames for Doors are commonly used for fitting the doors in several types of construction buildings, like homes and business premises. They offer durability to doors along with the ability to withstand any physical wear and tear caused by daily usage or climatic conditions. These frames offer more structural stability and durability than wooden door frames. Besides, steel door frames offer enhanced safety and improved door alignment accuracy.
BIS certification is a compulsory requirement for steel door frames under IS 4351:2024 to check the uniform quality. The Indian standard covers various aspects, including material strength, size dimensions, weld quality, surface finish, corrosion resistance, etc. The companies have to get a product license to sell the steel frames legally in India.
What is IS 4351: 2024?
This is the Indian Standard for steel frames used in doors for residential and commercial buildings. It mentions the construction details and finish quality needed to ensure long-term durability of steel door frames. As per the BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards), these steel frames are:
- Checked for dimensional accuracy
- Assessed for construction quality
- Evaluated for surface finish
- Tested for hardware compatibility
Eligibility Criteria for Steel Door Frame BIS Approval
BIS authorisation under IS 4351: 2024 is required for businesses involved in manufacturing, importing, or supplying Commercial Steel Door Frames in India.
Applicable to:
- Manufacturers (India) - Must get BIS approval if the Powder Coated Steel Door Frames 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 sale.
- Sellers/Distributors - Should only sell certified SS Door Frames.
Testing and Inspection Requirements
To ensure reliable structural performance of steel frames used for doors in residential, commercial and industrial buildings, the Bureau of Indian Standards outlines the minimum requirements under IS 4351: 2024. This certification ensures that manufacturers produce steel door frames with proper dimensions and durable surface protection for long-term use. The BIS testing parameters and quality checks for the galvanized steel door frames are listed below:
| Test Group | What is Tested | Purpose |
|---|
| Dimension & Tolerance Test | Frame size, profile dimensions, wall opening dimensions, and tolerances | Ensures dimensional accuracy and proper fitting during installation |
| Pressed Steel Frame Construction Test | Frame profile, reinforcement, mortar guards, lock plates, seals, and base ties | Ensures structural strength and proper frame construction |
| Tubular Steel Frame Construction Test | Tubular profile dimensions, hardware fixing, frame assembly, and base ties | Ensures stability and durability of tubular steel frames |
| Workmanship Inspection | Welding quality, assembly finish, alignment, and fabrication accuracy | Ensures proper manufacturing quality and reliable performance |
| Hinge Compatibility Test | Hinge fitting dimensions and fixing arrangements | Ensures smooth door operation and secure attachment |
| Surface Pretreatment Test | Phosphating and surface preparation before coating | Ensures proper adhesion and corrosion protection |
| Painting Quality Test | Paint coating consistency and finish application | Ensures uniform appearance and surface protection |
| Powder Coating Thickness Test | Dry film thickness of powder-coated finish | Ensures adequate coating protection and finish durability |
Procedure for Steel Door Frame BIS Approval
The BIS Authorisation process ensures that the Tubular Steel Door Frames meet the required standards for safe 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 dimensional accuracy, frame construction quality, material strength, surface finish, coating performance, and corrosion 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 carry out an on-site inspection of the manufacturing unit to verify the production process, safety measures, and quality control system.
- Grant of BIS License: Once all compliance requirements are successfully verified, BIS grants the certification license under Scheme-I.
- Use of ISI Mark : After approval, the manufacturer is authorized to use the ISI Mark on the product along with a valid CM/L number, confirming that the product meets BIS standards.
Documents List for IS 4351: 2024 License
| 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 must designate an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) in India. The representative is the local point of contact for the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and is responsible for handling all compliance, documentation, and regulatory requirements on behalf of the foreign manufacturer in India.
Marking Requirements & License Validity
Marking Requirements
After the manufacturer obtains a BIS license, the ISI Mark for Industrial Steel Door Frames must be clearly and permanently marked on its packaging or on the product. The marking must also include essential information, such as the manufacturer’s identification and licence number (CM/L). This ensures the product complies with BIS quality and safety requirements. Further details are mentioned below:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|
| ISI Mark | Indicates that the product is BIS certified and conforms to standards |
| Standard Number | IS 4351: 2024 |
| 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.
Architectural Steel Door Frames BIS Registration 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 Structure for Steel Entry Door Frames BIS Approval
The cost of BIS Approval for a welded steel door frame 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 labs.
- Consultancy fees may vary depending on the product category and the location of the factory.
Conclusion
A proper frame for steel doors ensures structural stability and proper working of the doors for a long duration. The quality of the manufactured products in terms of design, strength and finish can be maintained by following the requirements under IS 4351:2024. This helps in preventing problems like warping, rusting or premature wear. This also keeps the door functional and perfectly aligned during installation. The BIS certification process is a multi-step process which demands certain skills and knowledge. EVTL India assists the manufacturers in this process to help them complete all the necessary actions.
