BIS Certification for Shot Firing Cables (For Use Other Than in Shafts) – IS 5950:1984

Shot firing cables are specialised electrical cables used in mining and other industrial applications involving controlled electrical firing systems. These cables are designed to provide the required electrical and mechanical characteristics for their intended applications.

The quality of shot firing cables depends on conductor material, insulation properties, sheath construction, electrical resistance, dimensional characteristics and other prescribed performance requirements.

To ensure product quality and conformity in the Indian market, BIS certification is mandatory for shot firing cables covered under the applicable Quality Control Order.

The original applicable Indian Standard was IS 5950:1984 – Specification for Shot Firing Cables (For Use Other Than in Shafts).

Manufacturers supplying covered products in India must obtain a BIS licence under Scheme-I of the BIS (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018.

Important Standard Update: IS 5950:1984 was revised to IS 5950:2024 (Second Revision). The implementation deadline was 25 September 2024. BIS issued the revised Product Manual PM/IS 5950/3 in February 2025. According to BIS implementation guidelines, the revision did not introduce changes in the technical requirements for shot firing cables, but existing licences were required to be transitioned to the revised standard.

This article explains the BIS certification requirements, product types, sample quantity, grouping, testing requirements, laboratory facilities, Scheme of Inspection and Testing, documentation and application process.

1. Is BIS Certification Mandatory for Shot Firing Cables?

<badge color=”success”>Mandatory BIS Certification</badge>

Yes. BIS certification is mandatory for shot firing cables covered under the Cables (Quality Control) Order, 2020.

The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry, notified the Cables Quality Control Order through Notification No. S.O. 280(E), dated 21 January 2020.

The Order requires covered cables to conform to their respective Indian Standards and bear the BIS Standard Mark under a valid licence issued by BIS.

IS 5950 is included in the BIS list of products covered under compulsory certification.

Applicable Standard and Certification Details

Particular	Details
Product	Shot Firing Cables (For Use Other Than in Shafts)
Original Standard	IS 5950:1984
Original Standard Title	Specification for Shot Firing Cables
Revised Standard	IS 5950:2024
Revision	Second Revision
Certification Scheme	BIS Scheme-I (ISI Mark Scheme)
Applicable QCO	Cables (Quality Control) Order, 2020
QCO Notification	S.O. 280(E), dated 21 January 2020
Implementation of Revised Standard	25 September 2024
Current Product Manual	PM/IS 5950/3, February 2025
Certification Authority	Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS)
Standard Mark	ISI Mark

Important Update: IS 5950:2024

BIS revised IS 5950:1984 and published IS 5950:2024.

The implementation guidelines issued by BIS on 18 February 2025 clarified:

• IS 5950:1984 was revised to IS 5950:2024.
• The last date for implementation was 25 September 2024.
• The revision was undertaken to align the standard with international practices and incorporate experience and developments.
• No change was introduced in the technical requirements for shot firing cables.
• Existing licences were required to be changed over to IS 5950:2024.
• The product manual was updated to PM/IS 5950/3, February 2025.

Therefore, manufacturers should use IS 5950:2024 and the revised product manual for current certification activities.

2. Applicable BIS Product Manual – IS 5950:2024

BIS has issued the following product manual:

Document No.: PM/IS 5950/3 – February 2025

The product manual provides guidance on:

• Product sampling.
• Raw material requirements.
• Product grouping.
• Sample quantity.
• Testing equipment.
• Scheme of Inspection and Testing.
• Laboratory requirements.
• Quality Assurance Plan.
• Control unit definition.
• Packing and marking.
• Licence scope.

The product manual specifies the following scope format:

“Licence is granted to use Standard Mark as per IS 5950:2024 with the following scope:”

• Name of product: Shot Firing Cables (For Use Other Than in Shafts).
• Type of Shot Firing Cables:
  • Type I.
  • Type II.

The manufacturer must declare the varieties proposed for inclusion in the BIS licence.

The final licence scope depends on the manufacturing and testing capabilities available at the manufacturing premises.

3. What Are Shot Firing Cables?

Shot firing cables are specialised electrical cables designed for applications involving electrical firing systems in mining and similar operations outside shafts.

These cables are manufactured using suitable copper conductors and PVC insulation, with or without an additional protective sheath, depending on their construction.

IS 5950:2024 covers two types of shot firing cables.

Type I – Twin Cable

Type I consists of:

• PVC insulated construction.
• Unsheathed construction.
• Twin cable arrangement.
• Parallel twin configuration.

The standard covers this type for single-shot and multi-shot firing applications.

Type II – Single-Core Cable

Type II consists of:

• PVC insulated construction.
• Additional PVC sheath.
• Single-core cable arrangement.

This type is specified for multi-shot firing applications.

Major Construction Components

The principal components include:

1. Copper conductor.
2. PVC insulation.
3. Outer PVC sheath, where applicable.
4. Cable identification and marking.

The conductor material is specified with reference to IS 8130, while insulation and sheath materials are specified with reference to IS 5831.

4. Technical Requirements Under IS 5950:2024

IS 5950:2024 specifies requirements relating to conductor material, insulation, sheath, construction, dimensions and electrical and physical performance.

The major technical requirements include:

A. Conductor Material

The conductor must comply with the applicable requirements of IS 8130.

The product manual identifies plain annealed copper wire conforming to IS 8130 as the specified raw material.

B. Conductor Construction

The conductor construction must comply with the relevant requirements of IS 5950 and IS 8130.

Important characteristics include:

• Conductor material.
• Wire dimensions.
• Conductor construction.
• Electrical resistance.
• Annealing characteristics.

C. Insulation Requirements

The insulation must comply with the applicable requirements of IS 5831.

The standard specifies requirements relating to:

• Insulation material.
• Insulation application.
• Average thickness.
• Minimum thickness.
• Colour identification.
• Physical characteristics.

D. Sheath Requirements

For Type II cables, the outer sheath must comply with the applicable requirements.

Important parameters include:

• Sheath material.
• Nominal radial thickness.
• Minimum thickness.
• Thickness tolerance.
• Colour of sheath.

E. Dimensional Requirements

The standard specifies requirements relating to:

• Conductor dimensions.
• Insulation thickness.
• Sheath thickness.
• Cable construction.
• Applicable dimensional tolerances.

F. Electrical Requirements

The cable must satisfy the prescribed electrical performance requirements, including:

• Conductor resistance.
• Insulation resistance.
• Voltage test.
• Spark test.

G. Physical and Mechanical Requirements

The insulation and sheath materials must comply with applicable physical testing requirements, including:

• Tensile strength.
• Elongation at break.
• Ageing in air oven.
• Loss of mass.
• Hot deformation.
• Heat shock.
• Shrinkage.

H. Flammability Requirements

The cable must comply with the applicable flammability requirements specified in IS 5950:2024.

The applicable test methods and acceptance criteria must be followed as prescribed in the standard.

5. Testing Requirements for BIS Certification

Testing is an important part of BIS certification for shot firing cables.

As per the revised BIS Product Manual PM/IS 5950/3, February 2025, the following major tests and test references are identified.

Sr. No.	Test Parameter	Applicable Reference
1	Conductor Material	IS 8130
2	Insulation Material	IS 5831
3	Sheath Material	IS 5831
4	Conductor Construction	IS 8130
5	Insulation Application	IS 5950
6	Thickness of Insulation	IS 5950
7	Colour of Insulation	IS 5950
8	Thickness of Sheath	IS 5950
9	Colour of Sheath	IS 5950
10	Annealing Test	IS 8130
11	Conductor Resistance Test	IS 8130
12	Tensile Strength and Elongation at Break	IS 5831
13	Ageing in Air Oven	IS 5831
14	Loss of Mass Test	IS 5831
15	Hot Deformation Test	IS 5831
16	Heat Shock Test	IS 5831
17	Shrinkage Test	IS 5831
18	Insulation Resistance Test	IS 5831
19	Voltage Test	IS 5950
20	Spark Test	IS 5950
21	Flammability Test	IS 5950

The applicability of individual tests depends on the cable type and construction.

A. Conductor Material and Construction Test

This test verifies the conformity of the copper conductor with the applicable requirements of IS 8130.

The manufacturer must maintain appropriate raw material specifications and supporting conformity records.

B. Annealing Test

The annealing test evaluates the required characteristics of the copper conductor.

The product manual identifies a tensile testing machine and associated measuring equipment for the relevant testing arrangements.

C. Conductor Resistance Test

This test verifies the electrical resistance of the conductor.

The product manual identifies a Kelvin Double Bridge with galvanometer and DC supply as the testing equipment.

D. Insulation Thickness Test

The test evaluates the average and minimum insulation thickness.

The applicable dimensional requirements must be verified against IS 5950:2024.

E. Sheath Thickness Test

For Type II cables, the sheath thickness must comply with the prescribed requirements.

F. Tensile Strength and Elongation Test

This test evaluates the mechanical properties of insulation and sheath materials.

The parameters include:

• Tensile strength.
• Elongation at break.

G. Ageing in Air Oven Test

This test evaluates the physical properties of insulation and sheath after exposure to the specified ageing conditions.

H. Loss of Mass Test

The test evaluates the loss of mass of insulation and sheath materials under the prescribed test conditions.

I. Hot Deformation Test

This test evaluates the behaviour of insulation and sheath materials under the prescribed temperature and loading conditions.

J. Heat Shock Test

The heat shock test evaluates the resistance of insulation and sheath materials to the specified thermal exposure.

K. Shrinkage Test

The test evaluates dimensional shrinkage characteristics of the insulation and sheath materials.

L. Insulation Resistance Test

This test evaluates the electrical insulation resistance of the cable.

M. Voltage Test

The voltage test evaluates the electrical performance and dielectric properties of the cable according to the prescribed test method.

N. Spark Test

The spark test is included as a prescribed electrical quality-control test.

O. Flammability Test

The flammability test evaluates compliance with the applicable flame-related requirements of IS 5950:2024.

The actual testing procedures, test conditions and acceptance criteria must be taken from the applicable Indian Standard.

6. Sample Quantity Required for BIS Testing

As per BIS Product Manual PM/IS 5950/3, February 2025, the following sample quantities are specified.

<badge color=”success”>25 metres of finished cable</badge>

Particular	Sample Quantity
Copper Wire – Before Stranding	5 metres
Copper Wire – For Annealing Test	100 grams
Copper Wire – For Copper Purity Test	As required by applicable test method
Finished Shot Firing Cable	25 metres

Important Conditions for Sample Submission

1. The manufacturer must declare the type of cable proposed for testing.
2. Samples must represent the product variety proposed for BIS certification.
3. The applicable raw material and conductor requirements must be verified.
4. The test request must clearly identify Type I or Type II.
5. The final sample selection and dispatch must be coordinated with the concerned BIS office or testing laboratory.

The sample quantity specified in the product manual is the reference for certification sample submission.

7. Product Grouping Guidelines Under IS 5950:2024

Product grouping is important for manufacturers producing different types of shot firing cables.

As per Annex A of PM/IS 5950/3, February 2025, IS 5950:2024 covers two types of cables.

A. Type I – Twin Cable

Particular	Details
Cable Type	Type I
Construction	Twin Cable
Arrangement	Parallel Twin
Insulation	PVC Insulated
Sheath	Unsheathed
Application Category	Single-shot and multi-shot firing

B. Type II – Single-Core Cable

Particular	Details
Cable Type	Type II
Construction	Single-Core
Insulation	PVC Insulated
Sheath	PVC Sheathed
Application Category	Multi-shot firing

Important Product Grouping Conditions

According to Annex A:

1. Shot firing cables are classified into Type I and Type II.
2. Each type must be tested for considering Grant of Licence or inclusion in the Scope of Licence.
3. The manufacturer must declare the varieties intended to be covered under the licence.
4. The scope of licence may be restricted depending on the manufacturing and testing capabilities of the manufacturer.
5. During the operation of the licence, BIS Branch Offices should ensure that all varieties covered under the licence are tested in rotation, to the extent possible.

Practical Example of Licence Scope

Consider a manufacturer proposing to manufacture:

Product	Type	Construction
Product A	Type I	PVC Insulated Twin Cable
Product B	Type II	PVC Insulated and Sheathed Single-Core Cable

If the manufacturer intends to obtain certification for both types, both types must be covered through the applicable testing and assessment requirements.

If only Type I is proposed, the application and licence scope should clearly identify Type I.

The final scope is subject to BIS evaluation and approval.

8. Factory Laboratory Requirements

Manufacturers must maintain appropriate laboratory and testing arrangements for ensuring conformity with IS 5950:2024.

As per Annex B of the BIS Product Manual, PM/IS 5950/3, February 2025, the following equipment is identified as an indicative list.

Major Laboratory Equipment

Equipment	Purpose
Vernier Callipers	Insulation and Sheath Thickness
Steel Scale	Dimensional Measurement
Micrometer	Wire Diameter Measurement
Measuring Microscope / Graduated Magnifying Glass	Insulation and Sheath Measurement
Tensile Testing Machine	Annealing and Tensile Strength Tests
Hot Air Oven	Heat Shock, Hot Deformation and Shrinkage
Thermal Ageing Oven	Ageing in Air Oven
Air Flow Meter	Thermal Ageing Testing Arrangement
Megohm Meter with DC Supply	Insulation Resistance Test
Heat Shock Mandrels	Heat Shock Test
Hot Pressure Test Apparatus with Weights	Hot Deformation Test
Physical Weighing Balance	Loss of Mass and Flammability Tests
Kelvin Double Bridge	Conductor Resistance Test
Digital Balance	Loss of Mass Test
Water Bath and Hour Meter	Voltage Test for Type II
AC High Voltage Test Set	Voltage Test
AC Spark Tester	Spark Test
Glass Thermometer	Conductor and Insulation Resistance Testing
Flammability Test Apparatus	Flammability Test

The above equipment list is indicative and should not be treated as exhaustive.

In-House Laboratory Requirements

The revised BIS product manual provides specific provisions for laboratory arrangements.

For MSME Manufacturers:

• Maintaining a laboratory or in-house testing facility for routine tests is optional.
• MSME manufacturers may utilise common cluster-based testing facilities.
• They may also use shared testing facilities.
• Testing may be subcontracted to BIS-recognised or empanelled laboratories or laboratories having valid NABL accreditation as per IS/ISO/IEC 17025.

For Large-Scale Manufacturers:

• An in-house laboratory must be maintained for the routine tests identified in the product manual.
• Testing equipment must be maintained appropriately.
• A calibration plan must be implemented.
• Sharing of testing facilities may be utilised according to applicable BIS guidelines.

This distinction is important when manufacturers plan their laboratory investment before applying for BIS certification.

9. Scheme of Inspection and Testing (SIT)

Manufacturers must implement the Scheme of Inspection and Testing prescribed under Annex C of PM/IS 5950/3, February 2025.

The revised product manual provides for a Quality Assurance Plan covering routine testing, in-process inspection and quality control.

A. Quality Assurance Plan

Manufacturers must prepare a Quality Assurance Plan defining:

• Control unit.
• Sampling frequency.
• Number of samples.
• Applicable tests.
• In-process inspection arrangements.
• Testing records.

The Quality Assurance Plan must be submitted to the concerned BIS Branch Office for information.

B. Control Unit

As per Clause 1.3.1 of Annex C:

Shot firing cables of the same type having continuous length manufactured in a day under similar conditions shall constitute one control unit.

This definition is used for determining routine inspection and testing frequency.

C. Recommended Levels of Control

The following requirements are based on Table 1 of PM/IS 5950/3, February 2025.

Test Parameter	No. of Samples	Frequency
Copper Purity Test	1	Each Consignment
Voltage Test	1	Each Control Unit
Spark Test	1	Each Control Unit
Flammability Test	1	Each Control Unit
Conductor Resistance	1	Each Control Unit
Insulation Resistance	1	Each Control Unit
Tensile Strength and Elongation	1	Each Control Unit
Loss of Mass Test	1	Each Control Unit
Hot Deformation Test	1	Each Control Unit
Heat Shock Test	1	Each Control Unit
Shrinkage Test	1	Each Control Unit
Insulation and Sheath Thickness	In-process control	Adequate controls and records required
Conductor Inspection	In-process control	As per applicable standard
Annealing Test	In-process control	As per applicable standard
Colour and Manufacturer Identification	In-process control	Adequate controls and records required

The recommended levels of control are provided for guidance in preparing the manufacturer’s Quality Assurance Plan.

The manufacturer may prepare its own Quality Assurance Plan, defining suitable sampling frequencies and control levels, and submit it to BIS.

D. Subcontracting of Tests

As per the revised product manual:

• Tests marked as routine in-house tests should be conducted through appropriate in-house arrangements.
• Other tests may be subcontracted to BIS-recognised or empanelled laboratories.
• Laboratories having valid NABL accreditation as per IS/ISO/IEC 17025 may also be utilised, subject to the applicable provisions.

E. Records to Be Maintained

Manufacturers should maintain:

1. Raw material inspection records.
2. Copper conductor test certificates.
3. Insulation material test records.
4. Sheath material test records.
5. Conductor resistance records.
6. Insulation resistance records.
7. Voltage test records.
8. Spark test records.
9. Flammability test records.
10. Physical test records.
11. Dimensional inspection records.
12. Calibration records.
13. Production and control unit records.
14. Non-conforming product records.
15. Laboratory test reports.

F. Rejection of Non-Conforming Products

Products that fail to meet the requirements of the applicable Indian Standard must be identified and controlled.

Their disposal must be carried out in accordance with the provisions of the BIS Act, 2016.

10. Packing and Marking Requirements

After obtaining the BIS licence, manufacturers must ensure that shot firing cables are marked according to IS 5950:2024 and the licence conditions.

A. BIS Standard Mark

As per Annex C of the revised product manual:

The BIS Standard Mark must be incorporated legibly and indelibly on the cables or provided through suitable stencilling or labels attached to reels or coils.

The Standard Mark may only be applied to cables that conform to all requirements of the applicable Indian Standard.

B. Additional Packaging Marking

The packaging must also carry the following statement:

“For BIS certification details please visit www.bis.gov.in”

C. Manufacturer Identification

The applicable manufacturer identification and cable identification requirements under Clause 12 of IS 5950:2024 must be followed.

D. Traceability Requirements

The manufacturer should maintain appropriate identification and traceability records connecting:

• Raw material consignments.
• Production batches.
• Control units.
• Finished cable reels or coils.
• Inspection and testing records.
• BIS marking records.

Proper traceability helps during BIS factory inspections and surveillance activities.

11. Documents Required for BIS Certification of Shot Firing Cables

Manufacturers should prepare the following documents before submitting their BIS application.

A. Company and Legal Documents

• Certificate of Incorporation / Company Registration.
• PAN Card.
• GST Registration Certificate.
• Factory Address Proof.
• Authorised Signatory Details.
• Authorisation Letter or Board Resolution, wherever applicable.
• Company Profile.
• Ownership or Rent Agreement of Manufacturing Premises.

B. Manufacturing Documents

• Manufacturing Process Flow Chart.
• Detailed Manufacturing Process Description.
• Factory Layout Plan.
• List of Manufacturing Machinery.
• Production Capacity Details.
• Details of Copper Conductor Manufacturing Facilities.
• Insulation Extrusion Machinery Details.
• Sheathing Facilities, wherever applicable.
• Details of Raw Material Procurement.
• Manufacturing Process Control Details.
• Production and Inspection Arrangements.

C. Product Technical Documents

• Product Technical Specifications.
• Cable Construction Details.
• Type I / Type II Product Details.
• Conductor Material Specifications.
• Copper Wire Details.
• Insulation Material Specifications.
• Sheath Material Specifications, where applicable.
• Conductor Dimensions.
• Insulation Thickness Details.
• Sheath Thickness Details.
• Cable Drawings.
• Cable Cross-Sectional Drawings.
• Colour Identification Details.
• Reel and Coil Packaging Details.

D. Quality Control Documents

• Quality Control Manual.
• Quality Assurance Plan.
• Scheme of Inspection and Testing.
• Control Unit Definition.
• List of Testing Equipment.
• Equipment Calibration Certificates.
• In-House Laboratory Details.
• Raw Material Inspection Procedure.
• Conductor Testing Procedure.
• Insulation Testing Procedure.
• Sheath Testing Procedure.
• Electrical Testing Procedure.
• Physical Testing Procedure.
• Flammability Testing Procedure.
• Non-Conforming Product Control Procedure.
• Test Records and Inspection Reports.

E. BIS Application Documents

• BIS Application Form and Declarations.
• Product Scope Details.
• Type I / Type II Declaration.
• Manufacturing Unit Details.
• Testing Facilities Details.
• Applicable Undertakings and Declarations.
• Prescribed Application and Processing Fee Payment Details.

The exact documentation requirements may vary depending on the manufacturing arrangement and proposed licence scope.

12. BIS Testing Charges for Shot Firing Cables

Testing charges depend on the applicable Indian Standard, laboratory, test scope and product type.

The BIS Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) provides laboratory-wise testing charges for IS 5950.

For reference, the LIMS listing displays the following examples for IS 5950:2024:

Laboratory	Standard	Displayed Testing Charges (Excl. Taxes)
Alpha Test House, Delhi	IS 5950:2024	₹10,000
RTRC Limited, Gurugram	IS 5950:2024	₹10,000

These are laboratory-specific displayed charges and should be verified directly before budgeting.

Other BIS Certification Costs

The overall certification cost may include:

Cost Component	Description
Application Fee	Prescribed BIS application fee
Factory Inspection	Applicable inspection expenses
Laboratory Testing	Product testing charges
Licence Fee	Annual BIS licence fee
Marking Fee	Applicable minimum and unit marking fee
Sample Transportation	Sample packing and transportation expenses
Laboratory Infrastructure	Testing equipment and calibration expenses
Consultancy Charges	Professional certification support, if engaged

The actual project budget should be prepared after evaluating the product types, testing requirements, laboratory facilities and latest BIS fee schedule.

13. Step-by-Step BIS Certification Process for Shot Firing Cables

The general process for obtaining BIS certification under Scheme-I is explained below.

Step 1 – Product Applicability Assessment

Confirm whether the proposed product falls under IS 5950 and the Cables Quality Control Order.

Step 2 – Applicable Standard Review

Review IS 5950:2024 and the latest BIS Product Manual PM/IS 5950/3, February 2025.

Step 3 – Product Scope Assessment

Identify whether the manufacturer proposes Type I, Type II or both types of shot firing cables.

Step 4 – Factory Infrastructure Assessment

Review manufacturing machinery, conductor processing facilities, insulation and sheathing facilities and testing arrangements.

Step 5 – Documentation Preparation

Prepare company documents, manufacturing details, product specifications, cable drawings, Quality Control Manual and Quality Assurance Plan.

Step 6 – BIS Application Submission

Submit the application through the applicable BIS certification portal along with the required documents and prescribed fees.

Step 7 – Factory Inspection

BIS officials inspect the manufacturing premises, production facilities, laboratory arrangements and quality-control systems.

Step 8 – Sample Drawal and Testing

Samples are selected according to the applicable product manual and tested against IS 5950:2024.

Step 9 – Test Report Evaluation

The test results are evaluated to verify conformity with the applicable Indian Standard.

Step 10 – Compliance and Clarifications

The manufacturer addresses any observations or non-conformities identified during the certification process.

Step 11 – Grant of BIS Licence

After satisfactory evaluation of the application, inspection and testing requirements, BIS may grant the licence to use the ISI Standard Mark for the approved scope.

Step 12 – Post-Licence Compliance

The manufacturer must implement the approved Quality Assurance Plan, maintain production and testing records and comply with BIS surveillance and licence renewal requirements.

14. Common Challenges in BIS Certification for Shot Firing Cables

Manufacturers may face several technical and documentation-related challenges during BIS certification.

1. Copper Conductor Non-Conformity

Incorrect conductor material or dimensional variations may affect conformity with IS 8130.

2. Insulation Thickness Variation

Improper extrusion or inadequate process control may result in insulation thickness non-conformity.

3. Sheath Thickness Failure

Manufacturers producing Type II cables must ensure that sheath dimensions comply with the prescribed requirements.

4. Conductor Resistance Failure

Variations in conductor material or dimensions may affect resistance values.

5. Insulation Resistance Failure

Poor insulation quality or manufacturing defects may affect insulation resistance.

6. Physical Testing Non-Conformity

Insulation and sheath materials may fail the prescribed tensile strength, elongation, ageing or other physical tests.

7. Voltage and Spark Test Failure

Electrical non-conformity may arise due to defects in insulation or cable construction.

8. Flammability Test Failure

Manufacturers must ensure that insulation and sheath materials comply with the prescribed flammability requirements.

9. Inadequate Laboratory Infrastructure

Manufacturers may not have suitable testing equipment for conductor resistance, insulation resistance, dimensional checks and physical testing.

10. Incorrect Product Scope Declaration

Type I and Type II cables must be correctly identified in the BIS application.

11. Non-Compliance with Revised Standard

Manufacturers continuing to refer only to the 1984 edition may overlook the revised product manual and current certification requirements.

A proper technical gap assessment before submitting the BIS application can help manufacturers avoid unnecessary delays and additional expenses.

15. How Qualitance India Can Help

Qualitance India provides professional BIS certification consultancy and regulatory compliance support to cable manufacturers and businesses seeking BIS certification in India.

For shot firing cable certification under IS 5950:2024, our consultancy support includes:

• BIS certification applicability assessment.
• Review of IS 5950:2024 requirements.
• Review of BIS Product Manual PM/IS 5950/3.
• Type I and Type II scope assessment.
• Product construction and technical drawing review.
• Manufacturing facility gap assessment.
• Laboratory infrastructure assessment.
• Preparation of Quality Control Manual.
• Preparation of Quality Assurance Plan.
• Development of inspection and testing procedures.
• Control unit and sampling procedure development.
• Guidance on testing equipment and calibration.
• Raw material documentation review.
• Laboratory testing coordination.
• BIS application documentation.
• Assistance during BIS factory inspection.
• Support in resolving testing non-conformities.
• Assistance with BIS licence grant and post-certification compliance.

Our objective is to help manufacturers establish compliant manufacturing and quality-control systems and manage the BIS certification process efficiently.

Qualitance India – Improving Quality & Competence

Website: https://qualitanceindia.com

Email: info@qualitanceindia.com

Contact: +91 93106 15170

16. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Is BIS certification mandatory for shot firing cables in India?

Yes. BIS certification is mandatory for shot firing cables covered under the Cables Quality Control Order, 2020.

Q2. Which Indian Standard applies to shot firing cables?

The original standard was IS 5950:1984. It was revised to IS 5950:2024, which is the current applicable edition.

Q3. What is the applicable BIS certification scheme?

Shot firing cables are covered under Scheme-I (ISI Mark Scheme) of BIS.

Q4. When was the revised IS 5950:2024 implemented?

The last date for implementation of IS 5950:2024 was 25 September 2024.

Q5. What are the two types of shot firing cables covered under IS 5950?

The standard covers:

• Type I – PVC Insulated and Unsheathed Twin Cable (Parallel Twin).
• Type II – PVC Insulated and Sheathed Single-Core Cable.

Q6. What is the sample quantity required for BIS testing?

As per PM/IS 5950/3, February 2025, the specified quantities are:

• 5 metres of copper wire before stranding.
• 100 grams of copper wire for copper purity testing.
• 25 metres of finished shot firing cable.

Q7. What is the raw material requirement for shot firing cables?

The product manual specifies plain annealed copper wire conforming to IS 8130. Insulation and sheath materials must comply with the applicable requirements of IS 5831.

Q8. What are the major tests required under IS 5950:2024?

The major tests include conductor resistance, insulation resistance, voltage, spark, flammability, tensile strength, elongation, ageing in air oven, loss of mass, hot deformation, heat shock and shrinkage.

Q9. Is an in-house laboratory mandatory for BIS certification?

The revised product manual provides different provisions for MSME and large-scale manufacturers. MSMEs may use common cluster-based or shared testing facilities and eligible external laboratories. Large-scale manufacturers must maintain suitable in-house facilities for routine testing or use applicable shared testing provisions.

Q10. What is the control unit under IS 5950:2024?

Shot firing cables of the same type having continuous length manufactured in a day under similar conditions constitute one control unit as per the recommended definition in the revised product manual.

Q11. Can both Type I and Type II cables be covered under one BIS licence?

Yes. Both types may be included in the licence scope, subject to testing of each type and the manufacturer’s manufacturing and testing capabilities.

Q12. Can manufacturers subcontract certain tests?

Yes. Tests permitted for subcontracting may be conducted at BIS-recognised or empanelled laboratories or laboratories having valid NABL accreditation as per IS/ISO/IEC 17025, subject to the product manual.

Q13. Can foreign manufacturers obtain BIS certification for shot firing cables?

Eligible foreign manufacturers may apply under the BIS Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS), subject to the applicable requirements.

Q14. What is the current BIS Product Manual for shot firing cables?

The current product manual is PM/IS 5950/3, February 2025, based on IS 5950:2024.

Q15. Who can assist with BIS certification for shot firing cables?

Qualitance India provides consultancy support for product scope assessment, technical documentation, laboratory readiness, testing coordination, factory inspection preparation and BIS certification.

Conclusion

BIS certification for shot firing cables (for use other than in shafts) is an important regulatory requirement for manufacturers supplying covered products in the Indian market.

The certification process requires careful attention to conductor material, insulation and sheath construction, electrical characteristics, physical testing, product identification, laboratory facilities and production quality-control arrangements.

With the revision of IS 5950:1984 to IS 5950:2024, manufacturers must ensure that their certification documentation, product scope and quality-control systems are aligned with the current product manual.

Proper technical documentation, product testing and factory readiness can help manufacturers complete the BIS certification process efficiently.

For professional assistance with BIS Certification for Shot Firing Cables, contact Qualitance India.

Qualitance India – Improving Quality & Competence

Website: https://qualitanceindia.com

Email: info@qualitanceindia.com

Phone: +91 93106 15170

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• Documents, testing & factory requirements in one place
• Covers ISI Mark, CRS, FMCS & Hallmarking
• Tick-box format — share it with your team