BIS Certification for Indicating Bolts for Use in Public Baths and Lavatories – IS 4621:1975
Introduction
Indicating bolts are specially designed door-locking mechanisms used in public baths and lavatories to indicate whether a toilet or washroom is occupied or vacant.
These bolts are commonly found on doors in places such as public washrooms, railway coaches, aircraft, malls, commercial buildings and other high-traffic facilities. IS 4621:1975 specifies requirements for indicating bolts used for these applications, including requirements related to materials, dimensions, workmanship, finish, marking and packing.
For manufacturers supplying indicating bolts in India, compliance with the applicable BIS requirements is important. IS 4621:1975 is included under Scheme-I of the BIS certification system and is covered under the Bolts, Nuts and Fasteners (Quality Control) Order, 2024.
About Indicating Bolts
An indicating bolt is a door-bolting mechanism designed to provide privacy while simultaneously showing the occupancy status of a room.
The mechanism normally includes an indicator that changes its visible status when the bolt is operated.
For example:
VACANT → Door available for use
OCCUPIED → Door in use
This simple mechanism is particularly useful in public sanitation facilities where users need an immediate indication of whether a particular facility is available.
What is IS 4621:1975?
IS 4621:1975 is titled:
Specification for Indicating Bolts for Use in Public Baths and Lavatories
It is the First Revision of the standard.
The standard was developed to specify suitable indicating bolts fitted to doors of public baths and lavatories for showing whether the facility is engaged or vacant.
The standard covers requirements related to:
- Types
- Sizes
- Dimensions
- Materials
- Manufacture
- Workmanship
- Finish
- Indicator mechanism
- Marking
- Packing
- Sampling
Where Are Indicating Bolts Used?
Indicating bolts can be used in:
- Public toilets
- Public baths
- Railway toilets
- Aircraft lavatories
- Shopping malls
- Hotels
- Restaurants
- Hospitals
- Airports
- Railway stations
- Bus terminals
- Schools
- Colleges
- Offices
- Commercial buildings
- Industrial facilities
- Other public sanitation facilities
Their primary purpose is to provide privacy and clear occupancy indication.
BIS Certification for Indicating Bolts
BIS Certification demonstrates that the manufacturer's product conforms to the applicable requirements of the relevant Indian Standard.
For indicating bolts, IS 4621:1975 is listed by BIS under Scheme-I (ISI Mark Scheme). BIS's current Scheme-I listing identifies the product as “Indicating Bolts for use in public baths and lavatories.”
The manufacturer must establish conformity through the applicable product testing, manufacturing controls, documentation and BIS assessment process.
After obtaining the applicable BIS licence, the manufacturer can use the Standard Mark according to the licence conditions.
Quality Control Order for Indicating Bolts
Indicating bolts are covered by the Bolts, Nuts and Fasteners (Quality Control) Order, 2024.
The 2024 Order requires the applicable products to conform to the relevant Indian Standard and bear the Standard Mark under a BIS licence as per the applicable conformity-assessment provisions.
BIS has also issued implementation information identifying IS 4621:1975 under the relevant Bolts, Nuts and Fasteners regulatory framework.
For manufacturers, this makes BIS compliance an important consideration before supplying the product in the Indian market.
Materials Used for Indicating Bolts
The BIS Product Manual for IS 4621:1975 identifies several permitted material routes for different components.
These include:
Aluminium Alloy
Aluminium alloy castings for components such as:
- Body
- Knob
- Indicating spindle
- Gears
are referenced to IS 617.
Extruded aluminium alloy for the body, knob and indicating spindle is referenced to IS 733.
Brass
Brass castings for components including:
- Body
- Knob
- Indicating spindle
- Indicating disc
- Gears
are referenced to IS 292.
Extruded brass is referenced to IS 319.
Zinc Alloy
Zinc alloy base die castings for the body, knob and indicating spindle are referenced to IS 742.
Aluminium Alloy Sheet
Aluminium alloy sheet used for the indicating disc is referenced to IS 737.
Manufacturers should verify the latest applicable cross-referenced standards before finalizing their raw-material specifications.
Components of an Indicating Bolt
Depending on the design, an indicating bolt can include:
- Body
- Knob
- Indicating spindle
- Indicating disc
- Gears
- Fastening components
- Operating mechanism
- Indicator markings
The exact component arrangement should comply with the applicable requirements of IS 4621:1975.
Types and Sizes
The BIS Product Manual identifies the licence scope for IS 4621:1975 in relation to:
- Type of operation
- Size
The Product Manual specifically identifies Gear Work/Displacement as the type of operation and references Size 1 / Size 2 within the licence scope.
Manufacturers should determine the appropriate product grouping before applying for certification.
Dimensions and Tolerances
Dimensional accuracy is important because the indicating bolt must fit correctly onto the intended door and operate smoothly.
Applicable requirements can relate to:
- Overall dimensions
- Component dimensions
- Tolerances
- Operating mechanism
- Indicator position
- Component fit
- Alignment
BIS laboratory information currently lists dimensions and tolerances among the testing areas for IS 4621:1975.
Workmanship and Finish
Indicating bolts should be manufactured with appropriate workmanship and finish.
The product should be free from defects that could affect:
- Appearance
- Operation
- Durability
- Fitment
- Safety
- Indicator visibility
BIS laboratory listings identify workmanship and finish as applicable test/evaluation areas for IS 4621:1975.
Marking Requirements
Proper marking helps identify the product and manufacturer.
The applicable marking requirements should be followed according to IS 4621:1975 and the conditions of the BIS licence.
Where applicable, the product marking can include information such as:
- Manufacturer identification
- Product identification
- Size
- BIS Standard Mark
- Licence number
- Other required information
The actual marking requirements should be checked against the latest BIS Product Manual and licence conditions.
Packing Requirements
Indicating bolts should be packed appropriately to protect the product during:
- Transportation
- Handling
- Storage
- Delivery
The packaging should prevent unnecessary damage, scratching, deformation or loss of components.
IS 4621:1975 includes packing requirements, and BIS laboratory information identifies packing as part of the applicable product requirements.
Testing Requirements
Testing and evaluation for indicating bolts can cover:
- Dimensions
- Tolerances
- Materials
- Workmanship
- Finish
- Component requirements
- Marking
- Packing
- Other applicable requirements
BIS LIMS currently lists testing information for IS 4621:1975. One listed laboratory shows a complete testing charge of ₹17,000 excluding taxes, while another BIS listing shows ₹12,500 for specified testing scope. Charges vary according to laboratory and testing scope.
Sample Requirement
The BIS Product Manual for IS 4621:1975 specifies:
Product Sample Size: 6 Nos.
This sample requirement is stated in the BIS Product Manual for the product.
The actual sample requirement for a particular application should always be confirmed against the current BIS instructions.
Product Grouping
Product grouping is important when determining the scope of a BIS licence.
For indicating bolts, grouping may be associated with factors such as:
- Type of operation
- Size
- Design
- Applicable product variants
The BIS Product Manual contains specific grouping guidelines under Annex-A.
Correct grouping can help manufacturers determine an appropriate licence scope without unnecessarily testing every individual variant.
Who Needs BIS Certification?
BIS certification requirements may apply to manufacturers involved in producing indicating bolts for the Indian market, including:
- Indicating bolt manufacturers
- Builder hardware manufacturers
- Door hardware manufacturers
- Bathroom hardware manufacturers
- Sanitary hardware manufacturers
- OEM manufacturers
- Fastener manufacturers
- Hardware exporters/importers covered by applicable regulations
The precise regulatory applicability should be checked based on the manufacturer's role, product and current QCO provisions.
Eligibility Requirements
A manufacturer planning BIS certification should generally have:
- Manufacturing premises
- Appropriate production machinery
- Raw-material control system
- Product drawings
- Product specifications
- Quality-control arrangements
- Testing facilities or permitted testing arrangements
- Measuring instruments
- Calibration records
- Inspection procedures
- Trained personnel
- Product identification system
- Suitable storage facilities
- Packaging arrangements
Documents Required
The required documentation may include:
- Company registration documents
- Factory address proof
- Manufacturing licence
- Factory layout
- Manufacturing process flow
- Machinery details
- Product drawings
- Product specifications
- Raw-material specifications
- Material test certificates
- Testing equipment list
- Calibration certificates
- Internal test reports
- Quality-control documents
- Inspection records
- Product photographs
- Packaging details
- Marking details
- Trademark documents, where applicable
- Authorized signatory documents
The exact documentation depends on the applicant and product scope.
BIS Certification Process
Product Review
The product is reviewed to confirm applicability of IS 4621:1975.
Requirement Review
The applicable material, dimensional, construction and performance requirements are identified.
Factory Assessment
Manufacturing machinery and quality-control arrangements are reviewed.
Documentation
Technical and legal documents are prepared.
Product Grouping
The applicable product grouping and licence scope are determined.
Sample Preparation
Required samples are prepared.
Laboratory Testing
Samples are tested according to applicable requirements.
BIS Application
The application is submitted through the applicable BIS certification process.
BIS Scrutiny
BIS reviews the application and documents.
Factory Inspection
The manufacturing facility is assessed as required.
Test Report Evaluation
Testing results are evaluated.
Observation Closure
Any observations are addressed.
Licence Grant
After successful completion of the applicable requirements, the BIS licence can be granted.
Standard Mark
The manufacturer uses the Standard Mark according to the conditions of the licence.
Factory Inspection
During factory assessment, the following areas may be examined:
Raw Materials
Verification of aluminium, brass, zinc alloy and other applicable materials.
Manufacturing Machinery
Inspection of casting, extrusion, machining, finishing and assembly facilities as applicable.
Production Process
Review of manufacturing and assembly processes.
Quality Control
Inspection of incoming, in-process and final-product inspection.
Testing Equipment
Verification of applicable measuring and testing equipment.
Calibration
Checking calibration records.
Product Identification
Verification of batch/product traceability.
Marking
Checking compliance with applicable marking requirements.
Packing
Review of product packaging and storage.
Common Problems During Certification
Manufacturers can face delays because of:
- Incorrect standard selection
- Wrong product grouping
- Incorrect material specification
- Missing raw-material certificates
- Incomplete product drawings
- Dimensional non-conformity
- Poor workmanship
- Finish defects
- Inadequate testing arrangements
- Missing calibration records
- Incorrect marking
- Incomplete quality-control records
- Factory not being ready for inspection
- Test failure
- Incomplete application documentation
Proper preparation before application can significantly reduce avoidable delays.
BIS Certification Cost
The overall cost depends on:
- BIS application charges
- Laboratory testing
- Number of product variants
- Product grouping
- Number of sizes
- Factory inspection
- Sample transportation
- Retesting, if required
- Documentation
- Consultancy charges
Current BIS laboratory information shows testing charges for IS 4621:1975 varying by laboratory and testing scope. For example, current listings include ₹12,500 and ₹17,000 excluding taxes for listed scopes.
Therefore, the final cost should be calculated after reviewing the exact product range and licence scope.
Certification Timeline
The timeline depends on:
- Document readiness
- Sample availability
- Laboratory schedule
- Testing requirements
- Factory readiness
- BIS scrutiny
- Factory inspection
- Test results
- Observation closure
A product-specific timeline can be determined after reviewing the manufacturer's factory and product details.
Benefits of BIS Certification
Improved Product Confidence
Certification demonstrates conformity with the applicable Indian Standard.
Regulatory Compliance
It helps manufacturers meet applicable requirements under the relevant QCO framework.
Better Market Acceptance
Certified products can be supplied in accordance with applicable regulatory requirements.
Consistent Manufacturing
The certification process encourages systematic quality control.
Customer Trust
The BIS Standard Mark provides an additional level of confidence for buyers.
Better Product Reliability
Compliance with material, dimensional and workmanship requirements helps improve consistency and reliability.
Why Choose Qualitance India?
Qualitance India provides BIS certification consultancy services for manufacturers dealing with products covered by Indian Standards.
For Indicating Bolts as per IS 4621:1975, assistance can include:
- Product applicability assessment
- Standard requirement review
- Product grouping guidance
- Documentation support
- Technical document review
- Testing laboratory coordination
- Sample preparation guidance
- BIS application assistance
- Factory inspection preparation
- Quality-control documentation
- Test report coordination
- Observation closure assistance
- BIS licence-related support
Qualitance India
Phone: +91-9310-615-170
Email: info@qualitanceindia.com
Website: Qualitance India
Certification Process
Product Identification
↓
IS 4621:1975 Requirement Review
↓
Factory & Manufacturing Assessment
↓
Documentation Preparation
↓
Product Grouping
↓
Sample Preparation
↓
Laboratory Testing
↓
BIS Application
↓
BIS Scrutiny
↓
Factory Inspection
↓
Test Report Evaluation
↓
Observation Closure
↓
BIS Licence
↓
Standard Mark Compliance
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is IS 4621:1975?
IS 4621:1975 is the Indian Standard titled Specification for Indicating Bolts for Use in Public Baths and Lavatories.
2. What is an indicating bolt?
An indicating bolt is a locking mechanism used on doors of public baths and lavatories that indicates whether the facility is occupied or vacant.
3. Where are indicating bolts used?
They are used in public washrooms, railway toilets, aircraft lavatories, malls, hotels, airports and other public facilities.
4. Is BIS Certification required for indicating bolts?
IS 4621:1975 is listed by BIS under Scheme-I, and the product is covered under the applicable Bolts, Nuts and Fasteners regulatory framework.
5. What QCO covers indicating bolts?
Indicating bolts are covered under the Bolts, Nuts and Fasteners (Quality Control) Order, 2024.
6. What materials can be used?
The BIS Product Manual references aluminium alloys, brass and zinc alloy materials for specified components, with applicable cross-referenced Indian Standards.
7. How many samples are required?
The BIS Product Manual specifies 6 numbers as the product sample size.
8. What tests are performed?
Testing can include dimensions, tolerances, material-related requirements, workmanship and finish and other applicable requirements.
9. Is dimensional testing required?
Yes. Dimensions and tolerances are among the applicable evaluation requirements.
10. Is workmanship checked?
Yes. Workmanship and finish are specifically included in the applicable testing information.
11. Is marking required?
Yes. Applicable marking requirements need to be followed according to the standard and BIS licence conditions.
12. Is packing covered?
Yes. IS 4621:1975 includes requirements related to packing.
13. What is the BIS testing cost?
Current BIS laboratory listings show different charges depending on laboratory and scope, including examples of ₹12,500 and ₹17,000 excluding taxes.
14. Is factory inspection required?
Factory assessment can form part of the BIS certification process under the applicable conformity-assessment procedure.
15. What documents are required?
Documents can include factory details, product drawings, raw-material specifications, machinery details, testing equipment, calibration records, quality-control documents and product information.
16. Can an OEM manufacturer apply?
An eligible manufacturer can apply subject to the applicable BIS certification requirements.
17. Can foreign manufacturers obtain BIS certification?
Foreign manufacturers may have additional requirements depending on the applicable BIS certification route and regulatory provisions.
18. What is product grouping?
Product grouping is the method used to determine which product variants can be included within a BIS licence scope.
19. Can different sizes be covered?
Different sizes may be covered according to the applicable product grouping and licence-scope requirements.
20. Can Qualitance India help with IS 4621 certification?
Yes. Qualitance India can assist with product assessment, documentation, testing coordination, BIS application and factory inspection preparation.
People Also Ask
What is the use of an indicating bolt?
It is used to lock a public bath or lavatory door while showing whether the facility is occupied or vacant.
What is the BIS code for indicating bolts?
The applicable Indian Standard is IS 4621:1975.
Is IS 4621:1975 under compulsory certification?
The product is listed by BIS under Scheme-I and is covered by the applicable Bolts, Nuts and Fasteners QCO framework.
What materials are used for indicating bolts?
Depending on the component, materials can include aluminium alloys, brass and zinc alloy as specified under the standard and Product Manual.
How are indicating bolts tested?
Testing can cover dimensions, tolerances, material-related requirements, workmanship and finish, along with other applicable requirements.
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INDICATING BOLTS
IS 4621:1975
For Use in Public Baths & Lavatories
BIS CERTIFICATION CONSULTANCY
Qualitance India
+91-9310-615-170
info@qualitanceindia.com
qualitanceindia.com
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- Indicating Bolts IS 4621:1975
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- IS 4621:1975 Certification
- Indicating Bolt Testing
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- Indicating Bolt Manufacturer BIS Licence
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Contact Qualitance India
Need BIS Certification for Indicating Bolts?
If you manufacture Indicating Bolts for Public Baths and Lavatories and need assistance with BIS certification, testing, documentation, product grouping or factory inspection preparation, Qualitance India can assist throughout the certification process.
Phone: +91-9310-615-170
Email: info@qualitanceindia.com
Website: Qualitance India
Discuss your IS 4621:1975 certification requirement with our team today.
Conclusion
Indicating bolts are important door hardware products used in public baths and lavatories to provide both privacy and clear occupancy indication.
IS 4621:1975 – Specification for Indicating Bolts for Use in Public Baths and Lavatories establishes requirements covering materials, dimensions, manufacture, workmanship, finish, marking, packing and other product characteristics.
The standard is included under BIS Scheme-I, and indicating bolts are covered under the Bolts, Nuts and Fasteners (Quality Control) Order, 2024.
Manufacturers should ensure that their raw materials, manufacturing process, product dimensions, workmanship, testing arrangements and documentation are aligned with the applicable BIS requirements before applying for certification.
Qualitance India can assist manufacturers with the complete certification process for IS 4621:1975, including product assessment, documentation, testing coordination, application support and factory inspection preparation.