BIS Certification Consultancy for Steel Chequered Plates | IS 3502:2009 | BIS & ISI Mark Certification
Introduction
Steel chequered plates are hot-rolled steel plates having a raised pattern on one surface. They are commonly used where a durable and slip-resistant walking surface is required, including industrial flooring, stair treads, platforms, walkways, ramps, vehicles and structural applications.
The quality of a steel chequered plate depends on its base material, chemical composition, mechanical properties, plate dimensions, rolling tolerances, chequer pattern and chequer height. IS 3502:2009 – Steel Chequered Plates specifies requirements for these products. The BIS Product Manual provides certification guidance under Scheme-I of the BIS Conformity Assessment Regulations, 2018.
Steel Chequered Plates are covered under the Steel and Steel Products (Quality Control) Order, 2024. The current QCO requires covered steel products to conform to the applicable Indian Standard and be accompanied by a BIS Standard Mark test certificate. The Ministry of Steel's 2024 order superseded the earlier 2024 notification and came into force on publication, subject to the specified implementation dates and provisions.
BIS also identifies IS 3502:2009 as a mandatory-certification product. A BIS circular dated February 2023 stated that Steel Chequered Plates under IS 3502:2009 were under mandatory certification and described the implementation of Amendment No. 1.
Qualitance India provides end-to-end BIS Certification Consultancy for Steel Chequered Plates as per IS 3502:2009, including product assessment, documentation, sample preparation, testing coordination, BIS application support and factory inspection preparation.
What is IS 3502:2009?
IS 3502:2009 is the Indian Standard titled:
“Steel Chequered Plates”
The standard covers steel chequered plates having raised figures at regular intervals on one surface. BIS's current product information identifies applications including flooring, stair treads, walkways and other slip-resistant applications.
The BIS Product Manual confirms that certification for IS 3502:2009 is operated under Scheme-I and can be used by existing licensees and prospective applicants seeking a BIS certification licence.
Important requirements covered by the certification framework include:
- Material
- Chemical composition
- Freedom from defects
- Manufacture
- Pattern
- Chequer height
- Tensile strength
- Bend test
- Length
- Width
- Thickness
- Rolling tolerances
- Marking
What are Steel Chequered Plates?
Steel chequered plates are steel plates manufactured with a raised pattern on one surface. The raised pattern increases surface grip and is commonly used where pedestrian or equipment movement requires improved traction.
Typical applications include:
- Industrial flooring
- Staircases
- Platforms
- Walkways
- Ramps
- Factory floors
- Vehicle bodies
- Structural platforms
- Access areas
- Industrial equipment
The Product Manual and BIS product summary identify these types of applications.
Scope of IS 3502:2009
The BIS Product Manual identifies the licence scope primarily through:
Thickness × Width × Length
with the range based on the manufacturer's available manufacturing capacity.
The Product Manual states that product grouping guidelines are not applicable for IS 3502:2009. This means manufacturers should carefully declare the actual size range and manufacturing capability intended to be covered by the licence.
The current BIS LIMS listing identifies the scope for IS 3502:2009 as covering all Grade / Type / Size / Designation under the listed laboratory testing framework.
Latest Update to IS 3502:2009
Manufacturers should not rely only on older copies of the standard.
BIS implemented Amendment No. 1 to IS 3502:2009 from 9 May 2023, correcting the density value used for calculation of mass to 7.85 g/cm³.
BIS also established Amendment No. 2 to IS 3502:2009 on 5 May 2025, with the previous version remaining valid until 4 November 2025. A current standards listing identifies the amended standard as current, with Amendment No. 2:2025.
For certification work today, manufacturers should therefore use the current applicable edition and amendments rather than relying on an old 2009-only text.
Is BIS Certification Mandatory for Steel Chequered Plates?
Yes. Steel Chequered Plates under IS 3502:2009 are subject to mandatory BIS certification requirements.
A BIS Central Marks Department circular specifically states that Steel Chequered Plates according to IS 3502:2009 are under mandatory certification.
The Steel and Steel Products (Quality Control) Order, 2024 covers steel and steel products specified in its schedules and requires covered products to conform to the corresponding Indian Standards. The Order also requires a Test Certificate bearing the Standard Mark, issued by a BIS-certified manufacturer, with each consignment.
The current BIS Scheme-I page continues to list IS 3502:2009 within the Steel and Iron Products compulsory-certification framework.
Steel and Steel Products Quality Control Order, 2024
The Ministry of Steel issued the Steel and Steel Products (Quality Control) Order, 2024 through S.O. 3716(E) dated 29 August 2024.
The Order:
- Applies to specified steel and steel products
- Requires conformity to the corresponding Indian Standards
- Requires covered products to be accompanied by a BIS Standard Mark test certificate
- Excludes certain domestically manufactured export goods, subject to the Order's conditions
The Ministry of Steel's website continues to list the 2024 QCO as the applicable steel QCO framework.
Important 2025 and 2026 Regulatory Updates
The steel QCO framework has also been amended after the original 2024 notification.
A Steel and Steel Products (Quality Control) Amendment Order, 2025 was notified in November 2025 and modified the enforcement of specified standards listed by serial number.
A further Steel and Steel Products (Quality Control) Amendment Order, 2026, dated 20 June 2026, modified the enforcement of additional listed standards.
For Steel Chequered Plates, manufacturers should verify the current schedule and any applicable amendments before making a compliance decision.
BIS Certification for Steel Chequered Plates
BIS certification demonstrates that the manufacturer's steel chequered plates comply with the applicable requirements of IS 3502:2009 and the current applicable amendments.
The BIS Product Manual confirms certification under Scheme-I.
After obtaining the BIS licence and satisfying the applicable QCO requirements, the manufacturer can use the BIS Standard Mark / ISI Mark on products covered by the approved scope and issue the applicable test certificate.
Who Needs BIS Certification for Steel Chequered Plates?
BIS certification is relevant to manufacturers producing steel chequered plates covered by IS 3502:2009.
This can include:
- Steel Chequered Plate Manufacturers
- Hot Rolled Steel Plate Manufacturers
- Steel Rolling Mills
- Structural Steel Manufacturers
- Industrial Flooring Material Manufacturers
- Steel Fabrication Companies
- Platform and Walkway Material Manufacturers
- Vehicle Body Component Manufacturers
- Infrastructure Material Manufacturers
- OEM Manufacturers
- Contract Manufacturers
Importers and buyers should also verify the current QCO requirements and input-material compliance obligations applicable to their supply chain.
BIS Certification Eligibility Requirements
A manufacturer seeking BIS certification should generally have:
- Suitable steel melting or procurement arrangements
- Rolling facilities
- Plate manufacturing facilities
- Chequer-pattern rolling facilities
- Testing and inspection facilities
- Product drawings and specifications
- Raw-material control
- Quality-control procedures
- Calibration arrangements
- Trained quality personnel
- Production records
- Testing records
- Traceability arrangements
- Marking and test-certificate systems
The exact factory requirements depend on the proposed production scope and manufacturing process.
BIS Certification Process for Steel Chequered Plates
Step 1 – Product Applicability Assessment
The product is assessed against IS 3502:2009 and the latest applicable amendments.
The review includes:
- Steel grade
- Plate type
- Thickness
- Width
- Length
- Chequer pattern
- Chequer height
- Manufacturing process
- Proposed licence scope
Step 2 – Raw Material Assessment
The current BIS Product Manual identifies the base material as Grade E250A of IS 2062 unless otherwise specified.
Step 3 – Product Scope Finalisation
The proposed size range and product designation are finalised according to the manufacturer's manufacturing capability.
Step 4 – Documentation Preparation
Technical, factory and quality-control documents are prepared.
Step 5 – Sample Preparation
The Product Manual specifies:
Mechanical: 500 mm × 300 mm sample, preferably prepared samples for mechanical tests to be drawn and sent to the laboratory.
Chemical: 100 g drilling or 50 mm × 50 mm chips.
Step 6 – Laboratory Testing
The samples are tested for applicable chemical and mechanical requirements.
Step 7 – Factory Inspection
BIS assesses manufacturing facilities, product inspection, testing arrangements and quality-control systems.
Step 8 – Observation Closure
Any observations raised by BIS are addressed through corrective action and supporting evidence.
Step 9 – BIS Licence Grant
After successful conformity assessment, BIS grants the licence for the approved scope.
Step 10 – ISI Mark and Test Certificate
Products covered by the licence must meet applicable marking and certification requirements, including the test-certificate provisions under the QCO.
Testing Requirements for Steel Chequered Plates
Testing is an important part of BIS certification for steel chequered plates.
The current BIS Scheme of Inspection and Testing identifies the following major controls.
Material and Chemical Composition
The chemical composition of the steel is checked using applicable methods under IS 228 or an established chemical/instrumental method.
The inspection scheme includes controls for the material input and chemical conformity.
Freedom from Defects
Each item should be adequately inspected to ensure freedom from surface defects.
Tensile Test
A tensile test is carried out according to IS 1608 (Part 1).
The Scheme of Inspection and Testing specifies one sample from every control unit.
Bend Test
Bend testing is carried out according to IS 1599, with the applicable IS 3502 and IS 2062 references.
The specified frequency is one sample from every control unit.
Length, Width and Thickness
Dimensions and rolling tolerances are checked according to the applicable requirements, including reference to IS/ISO 7452 in the inspection scheme.
Pattern and Chequered Height
The chequer pattern and chequered height are checked according to IS 3502:2009.
Adequate inspection is required to ensure conformity with the specified nominal dimensions and tolerances.
Raw Material Requirements
The Product Manual states:
Base material shall be as per Grade E250A of IS 2062 unless otherwise specified.
The revised 2023 Product Manual also changed the input-material requirements within the Scheme of Inspection and Testing. BIS's September 2023 circular specifically noted that the revised Product Manual incorporated changes to input-material requirements.
Manufacturers should maintain records such as:
- Steel grade
- Heat/cast number
- Material test certificate
- Supplier details
- Incoming inspection
- Coil/plate traceability
- Chemical composition
- Mechanical properties
The current steel QCO framework also places importance on compliance of input materials with their applicable Indian Standards. The Ministry of Steel issued an order in June 2025 requiring adherence to the relevant Indian Standards for input materials in specified imported steel products.
Manufacturing Process for Steel Chequered Plates
A typical manufacturing process may include:
- Raw-material receiving
- Heat/cast identification
- Incoming material inspection
- Slab or plate preparation
- Hot rolling
- Chequer-pattern rolling
- Cutting
- Straightening
- Dimensional inspection
- Pattern-height inspection
- Mechanical testing
- Chemical verification
- Surface inspection
- Final inspection
- Packing
- Marking
- Test-certificate preparation
The exact process depends on the manufacturer's mill setup and production technology.
BIS Factory Inspection for Steel Chequered Plates
During the BIS factory assessment, the following areas may be examined:
Rolling Facilities
Rolling mills and related equipment used to manufacture the steel plate.
Chequer Pattern Facility
Equipment and process controls for creating the required raised pattern.
Raw Material Traceability
Heat, cast, coil and plate identification systems.
Testing Laboratory
Suitable facilities for applicable chemical, tensile, bend and dimensional checks.
Dimensional Inspection
Equipment for checking:
- Length
- Width
- Thickness
- Pattern
- Chequer height
Calibration
Measuring and testing equipment should be covered by an appropriate calibration system.
Quality Control
Incoming, in-process and final inspection should be documented.
Records
Production, inspection and test records should be maintained.
Testing Equipment for IS 3502:2009
The BIS Product Manual identifies major equipment including:
- Vernier calipers
- Micrometer
- Steel scale
- Try-square
- Radius gauges
- Filler gauges
- Depth gauges
- Straight edges
- Magnetic V-block
- Angle protractor
- Inside and outside calipers
- Carbon paper
- Universal Testing Machine, 0–1000 kN
The equipment list should be reviewed against the current Product Manual and applicable licence scope before factory assessment.
Product Grouping for Steel Chequered Plates
Unlike some products where multiple varieties can be grouped through representative testing, the Product Manual states:
Product Grouping Guidelines: Not Applicable.
The licence scope is therefore particularly important and is based on the manufacturer's actual manufacturing capacity and declared dimensions.
The Product Manual identifies licence scope through:
Thickness × Width × Length (based on manufacturing capacity available).
Manufacturers should therefore avoid declaring a product range that cannot be consistently manufactured and tested at the factory.
Scheme of Inspection and Testing
The current BIS Product Manual includes a Scheme of Inspection and Testing.
According to the revised scheme:
Freedom from Defects
Adequate inspection of each item.
Material
One sample from each 100 MT of material or part thereof rolled from the same cast.
No further testing is required where the material received is ISI marked and is accompanied by a Test Certificate, subject to the stated requirements.
Tensile Test
One sample from every control unit.
Bend Test
One sample from every control unit.
Dimensions and Rolling Tolerances
Adequate inspection of each item.
Pattern and Chequered Height
Adequate inspection of each item.
Marking and Test Certificate Requirements
Marking is an important part of BIS compliance.
The BIS standard implementation material specifies that the top plate of each pile of chequered plates should be marked legibly and indelibly with information such as:
- Manufacturer's name or trademark
- Cast/lot number or traceability identification
- Steel designation
The older BIS testing framework also identifies a test certificate containing the Standard Mark, cast/lot number, plate/coil number and corresponding test results.
Under the current Steel and Steel Products QCO, every covered steel product is required to be accompanied by a Test Certificate bearing the Standard Mark issued by a BIS-certified manufacturer, subject to the Order's provisions.
Documents Required for BIS Certification
Typical documents may include:
- Company registration documents
- Factory address proof
- Factory layout
- Manufacturing process flow chart
- Machinery list
- Rolling mill details
- Product specifications
- Size range
- Steel grade details
- Raw-material test certificates
- Heat/cast records
- Testing equipment list
- Calibration certificates
- Quality-control plan
- Inspection records
- Production records
- Laboratory test reports
- Product photographs
- Packing details
- Marking details
- Test-certificate format
- Authorised signatory documents
- Trademark documents, where applicable
The exact documentation depends on the applicant's factory and proposed product scope.
Common Reasons for BIS Certification Delays
Manufacturers may face delays because of:
- Incorrect steel grade
- Incorrect product scope
- Inadequate raw-material traceability
- Chemical-composition failure
- Tensile-test failure
- Bend-test failure
- Incorrect thickness
- Width or length non-conformity
- Incorrect chequer height
- Pattern defects
- Surface defects
- Inadequate testing facilities
- Missing calibration records
- Incomplete inspection records
- Improper heat/cast traceability
- Factory not ready for inspection
- Incorrect marking
- Incorrect test certificate
- Failure to update the manufacturing process to the latest amendment
A pre-certification technical review can help identify these issues before the BIS application and factory assessment.
BIS Certification Cost for Steel Chequered Plates
There is no single fixed BIS certification cost applicable to every steel chequered plate manufacturer.
The total cost can depend on:
- BIS application fees
- Laboratory testing charges
- Product size range
- Testing requirements
- Factory assessment
- Testing equipment
- Calibration
- Documentation
- Retesting, if required
- Consultancy charges
The current BIS LIMS database contains a testing entry for IS 3502:2009 – Steel Chequered Plates, including clause-wise testing. One current listing shows a testing charge of approximately ₹2,985 for the referenced laboratory entry, while another current BIS entry shows a different composite testing charge for the standard.
Laboratory testing charges should not be confused with the complete BIS certification cost. Application, factory assessment, testing infrastructure, calibration, documentation and consultancy may be additional.
BIS Certification Timeline
The certification timeline may depend on:
- Product scope
- Steel grade
- Size range
- Documentation readiness
- Sample preparation
- Laboratory testing
- Test results
- BIS application scrutiny
- Factory readiness
- Factory assessment
- Closure of observations
Manufacturers can reduce delays by completing technical documentation, traceability systems and testing arrangements before submitting the application.
Benefits of BIS Certification for Steel Chequered Plates
Regulatory Compliance
Helps manufacturers comply with applicable BIS and steel QCO requirements.
ISI Mark
Allows eligible manufacturers to use the BIS Standard Mark according to the licence and QCO conditions.
Consistent Product Quality
Chemical, mechanical and dimensional controls support consistent product quality.
Better Surface Performance
Control of the raised chequer pattern and height supports intended slip-resistant applications.
Customer Confidence
BIS certification can strengthen confidence among construction companies, fabricators and industrial buyers.
Market Acceptance
Certification supports legal supply where the QCO applies.
Traceability
BIS and QCO documentation supports traceability through heat, cast, lot and test-certificate records.
Business Credibility
A valid BIS licence can strengthen the manufacturer's position in the steel and infrastructure market.
Why Choose Qualitance India?
Qualitance India provides professional BIS Certification Consultancy for manufacturers seeking BIS and ISI Mark certification.
For Steel Chequered Plates as per IS 3502:2009, our consultancy support can include:
- Product applicability assessment
- IS 3502:2009 requirement review
- Latest amendment review
- Steel-grade assessment
- Size-scope assessment
- Raw-material compliance review
- Documentation preparation
- Sample selection guidance
- Laboratory testing coordination
- BIS application assistance
- Factory inspection preparation
- Quality-control documentation
- Traceability-system guidance
- Test-certificate guidance
- Observation closure support
- BIS licence assistance
Our support is designed to help manufacturers manage the certification process from product assessment through testing, BIS application, factory assessment and licence approval.
Contact Qualitance India
Phone: +91 93106 15170
Email: info@qualitanceindia.com
Website: qualitanceindia.com
BIS Certification Process – Quick Flow
Product Identification
↓
IS 3502:2009 Requirement Review
↓
Latest Amendment Verification
↓
Steel Grade & Raw Material Assessment
↓
Thickness × Width × Length Scope Finalisation
↓
Documentation Preparation
↓
Sample Preparation
↓
Chemical & Mechanical Testing
↓
Dimensional & Pattern Inspection
↓
BIS Application
↓
Application Scrutiny
↓
Factory Assessment
↓
Observation Closure
↓
BIS Licence Grant
↓
ISI Mark & Test Certificate
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is IS 3502:2009?
IS 3502:2009 is the Indian Standard for Steel Chequered Plates, covering steel plates having raised figures at regular intervals on one surface.
2. Is BIS certification mandatory for steel chequered plates?
Yes. BIS has identified IS 3502:2009 as a mandatory-certification product, and it is covered under the applicable Steel and Steel Products QCO framework.
3. What raw material is specified?
The BIS Product Manual identifies Grade E250A of IS 2062 unless otherwise specified as the base material.
4. Is product grouping applicable?
The Product Manual states that product grouping guidelines are not applicable for IS 3502:2009.
5. What is the sample size for mechanical testing?
The Product Manual specifies a 500 mm × 300 mm sample, preferably prepared samples for mechanical tests to be sent to the laboratory.
6. What is the chemical-test sample requirement?
The Product Manual specifies 100 g drilling or 50 mm × 50 mm chips for chemical testing.
7. What tests are required for steel chequered plates?
Important controls include chemical composition, freedom from defects, tensile test, bend test, dimensions and rolling tolerances, and pattern and chequered height.
8. What is the tensile-test frequency?
The current inspection scheme specifies one sample from every control unit for tensile testing.
9. What is the bend-test frequency?
The current inspection scheme specifies one sample from every control unit for bend testing.
10. What is the chemical-testing frequency for input material?
The revised Scheme of Inspection and Testing specifies one sample from each 100 MT of material or part thereof rolled from the same cast, subject to the stated conditions.
11. Is factory inspection required?
Yes. Factory assessment is part of the BIS Scheme-I certification process.
12. What equipment is required?
The Product Manual identifies equipment such as vernier calipers, micrometers, steel scales, try-squares, radius gauges, depth gauges, straight edges and a Universal Testing Machine.
13. Has IS 3502:2009 been amended?
Yes. BIS implemented Amendment No. 1 from 9 May 2023, and Amendment No. 2 was established on 5 May 2025, with the previous version remaining valid until 4 November 2025.
14. Is a test certificate required?
Yes. The Steel and Steel Products QCO requires covered products to be accompanied by a Test Certificate bearing the Standard Mark issued by a BIS-certified manufacturer, subject to the Order's provisions.
15. Can Qualitance India help with IS 3502:2009 certification?
Yes. Qualitance India provides support for product assessment, raw-material review, documentation, testing coordination, BIS application and factory inspection preparation.
People Also Ask
What is BIS certification for steel chequered plates?
BIS certification for steel chequered plates is the conformity-assessment process for demonstrating compliance with IS 3502:2009 under the BIS Scheme-I framework.
Is IS 3502:2009 under a QCO?
Yes. Steel Chequered Plates are covered under the Steel and Steel Products (Quality Control) Order, 2024.
What is the BIS standard for steel chequered plates?
The applicable Indian Standard is IS 3502:2009 – Steel Chequered Plates.
What grade of steel is used for chequered plates?
The BIS Product Manual identifies Grade E250A of IS 2062 unless otherwise specified.
What tests are required for steel chequered plates?
The main controls include chemical composition, tensile strength, bend test, dimensions, rolling tolerances, freedom from defects and chequer pattern/height.
What is the sample size for IS 3502?
The Product Manual specifies a 500 mm × 300 mm mechanical sample and 100 g drilling or 50 mm × 50 mm chemical-test chips.
How do I get an ISI Mark for steel chequered plates?
A manufacturer must obtain the applicable BIS licence for IS 3502:2009 and comply with BIS marking, testing and QCO requirements, including the applicable test-certificate provisions.
Related BIS Certification Services
- BIS Certification for Hot Rolled Steel Plates
- BIS Certification for Structural Steel – IS 2062
- BIS Certification for Steel Sheets and Plates
- BIS Certification for Galvanized Steel Products
- BIS Certification for Steel Flooring Products
- BIS Certification for Steel Products
- BIS & ISI Mark Certification
- BIS Factory Inspection Assistance
- BIS Testing Coordination
- BIS Certification Consultancy
Conclusion
IS 3502:2009 – Steel Chequered Plates establishes requirements for steel plates having a raised chequered pattern on one surface and covers important characteristics such as material, chemical composition, mechanical properties, dimensions, rolling tolerances, pattern and chequer height.
The BIS Product Manual identifies Grade E250A of IS 2062 unless otherwise specified as the base material, states that product grouping guidelines are not applicable, and defines the licence size scope according to the manufacturer's manufacturing capability.
Steel Chequered Plates are under mandatory BIS certification and are covered by the Steel and Steel Products (Quality Control) Order, 2024. The current QCO also requires applicable covered steel products to be accompanied by a BIS Standard Mark test certificate.
Manufacturers should also ensure compliance with the latest amendments to IS 3502:2009, including Amendment No. 2 established in May 2025, and use the current applicable requirements for certification and production.
Qualitance India provides end-to-end BIS Certification Consultancy for Steel Chequered Plates as per IS 3502:2009, including product assessment, raw-material compliance review, documentation, sample preparation, laboratory testing coordination, BIS application support and factory inspection preparation.
For BIS Certification and ISI Mark Consultancy for Steel Chequered Plates, contact Qualitance India today.
Phone: +91 93106 15170
Email: info@qualitanceindia.com
Website: qualitanceindia.com