BIS Certification for Asbestos–Cement Pipes and Fittings for Sewerage and Drainage | IS 6908:1991 -Qualitance India
BIS Certification for Asbestos–Cement Pipes and Fittings for Sewerage and Drainage – IS 6908:1991
Asbestos–cement pipes and fittings have historically been used in sewerage and drainage systems for the conveyance of wastewater and other drainage flows. Manufacturers supplying these products in India need to understand the applicable Indian Standard, product testing requirements and regulatory obligations before placing them on the market.
IS 6908:1991 – Asbestos-Cement Pipes and Fittings for Sewerage and Drainage — Specification is the relevant Indian Standard for this product category. BIS identifies it as a product specification under the Civil Engineering Department and lists it under the Scheme-I (ISI Mark Scheme) category for asbestos or fibre cement-based products. The standard was reviewed in 2022 and has one listed amendment from 2015. <Cite refs={["turn180302search1","turn180302search0"]}/>
Qualitance India supports manufacturers with BIS product certification consultancy, technical documentation, testing coordination and factory-readiness assessment.
1. What Is IS 6908:1991?
IS 6908:1991 specifies requirements for asbestos–cement pipes and fittings intended for sewerage and drainage applications. It is the first revision of the standard. <Cite refs={["turn180302search1"]}/>
The product category includes pipes and associated fittings designed for use in sewerage and drainage systems. The relevant product specifications, classes, diameters and joint configurations must be established using the official standard and its applicable amendment.
The certification scope may need to identify:
- Product class.
- Nominal diameter range of pipes.
- Type and nominal diameter of fittings.
- Type of joint.
- Other applicable product variants covered by the standard.
The current BIS product manual identifies these parameters as part of the licence scope. <Cite refs={["turn180302search21"]}/>
Manufacturers should obtain the official standard and applicable amendment before finalising product specifications or preparing the BIS application.
2. Is BIS Certification Mandatory for IS 6908:1991?
BIS lists IS 6908:1991 under the
Asbestos or Fibre Cement Based Products (Quality Control) Order, 2024, notified through S.O. 1152(E), dated 6 March 2024. <Cite refs={["turn180302search22","turn180302search0"]}/>
Under the QCO, covered products are required to conform to the corresponding Indian Standard and bear the Standard Mark under a BIS licence through Scheme-I, subject to the exact terms of the order and applicable exemptions. The official BIS standard-details page also identifies IS 6908:1991 as requiring mandatory certification. <Cite refs={["turn180302search22","turn180302search1"]}/>
Before manufacturing, importing, selling or supplying these products, businesses should verify:
- Whether the product falls within the scope of IS 6908:1991.
- Whether the applicable QCO covers the proposed activity and transaction.
- Whether any specific exemption applies.
- Whether subsequent government orders or amendments affect the product.
- Whether the latest edition and amendments notified by BIS apply.
The QCO provides an exemption for goods manufactured domestically for export. Its original transition periods for small and micro enterprises were time-limited; businesses should not assume those original periods still provide an exemption. BIS also lists import- and purchase-related exemption orders dated 13 February 2026 for the broader product category. Their precise conditions must be reviewed before relying on them. <Cite refs={["turn180302search22","turn180302search0"]}/>
3. Product Scope and Licence Parameters
The BIS product manual for IS 6908:1991 specifies that the licence scope should identify the following parameters: <Cite refs={["turn180302search21"]}/>
| Scope parameter |
Details to establish |
| Product name |
Asbestos-cement pipes and fittings for sewerage and drainage |
| Product class |
Class 1, Class 2 or Class 3, as applicable |
| Pipe diameter |
Approved nominal diameter range |
| Fittings |
Types and nominal diameters |
| Joint type |
Type of joint covered by the licence |
The final scope should match the products actually manufactured at the factory and the requirements of the official standard.
Manufacturers should prepare a product matrix showing the pipe class, nominal diameter, fitting types, fitting sizes and joint configuration proposed for certification.
The grouping and scope-extension rules should be checked against the current BIS product manual and instructions from the relevant BIS office.
4. Raw Materials and Manufacturing Controls
The BIS product manual refers to the raw-material requirements in Clause 3.1 of IS 6908:1991. <Cite refs={["turn180302search21"]}/>
Manufacturers should establish suitable controls for incoming materials and production consistency.
A practical preparation checklist includes:
- Raw-material specifications.
- Supplier details and purchasing records.
- Incoming-material inspection procedures.
- Material acceptance and rejection records.
- Production process documentation.
- Batch or production-lot traceability.
- In-process inspection records.
- Finished-product inspection and test records.
The exact composition, material properties and acceptance requirements must be confirmed from the relevant clauses of IS 6908:1991 and its applicable amendment. Alternative materials should not be assumed acceptable without verifying the standard's requirements.
5. BIS Testing Requirements for IS 6908:1991
Testing is essential to demonstrate that pipes and fittings meet the applicable requirements of the Indian Standard.
The official BIS product manual provides a list of test equipment and a Scheme of Inspection and Testing in its annexures. It also states that samples are to be tested in the factory for all requirements. <Cite refs={["turn180302search21"]}/>
Depending on the product and applicable clauses, the testing programme should address the requirements specified in the standard, including relevant dimensional, physical and performance characteristics.
5.1 Dimensional inspection
Dimensional checks establish conformity with the specified pipe and fitting dimensions and tolerances.
The manufacturer should maintain suitable measuring equipment, inspection procedures and records for the dimensions applicable to the proposed product range.
5.2 Physical and performance testing
The applicable tests must be selected from the official standard and the current BIS product manual. Requirements can differ depending on the product type and configuration.
Manufacturers should not use a generic test list as a substitute for the standard's specific clauses and acceptance criteria.
5.3 Fitting and joint conformity
Fittings and joint configurations must be assessed against the applicable requirements for the proposed scope. The product manual explicitly identifies fitting type, fitting diameter and joint type as licence-scope parameters. <Cite refs={["turn180302search21"]}/>
5.4 Factory testing and records
The product manual states that the licence operates on a factory-testing basis and that samples must be tested at the factory for all applicable requirements. <Cite refs={["turn180302search21"]}/>
Manufacturers should maintain:
- Approved test procedures.
- Test equipment and calibration records.
- Test results and inspection reports.
- Production identification and traceability records.
- Records of nonconforming products and corrective actions.
The precise test methods, acceptance limits, test frequencies and equipment requirements must be verified against the official standard and current BIS documents.
6. Sample Requirements for BIS Certification
The BIS product manual does
not specify a single numerical sample quantity in its product sampling summary. Instead, it states that samples shall be tested in the factory for all requirements. <Cite refs={["turn180302search21"]}/>
Therefore, manufacturers should confirm the applicable sampling plan and quantities with BIS before preparing samples or estimating testing costs.
The sample plan should identify:
- Pipe class.
- Nominal pipe diameters.
- Fitting types and sizes.
- Joint types.
- Tests required for each proposed product group.
- Sample identification and traceability.
- Any additional samples required by BIS.
Do not assume that one pipe size or fitting type automatically covers the entire proposed product range. The scope and grouping should be confirmed against the current product manual.
7. Factory and Laboratory Requirements
A key feature of the product manual is its requirement for testing at the manufacturing factory. The manual states that the product licence operates on a factory-testing basis, with complete testing carried out at the factory for the applicable requirements. <Cite refs={["turn180302search21"]}/>
Manufacturers should assess their readiness in the following areas:
- Production and manufacturing facilities.
- Testing equipment required by the applicable standard.
- Calibration and maintenance of measuring instruments.
- Trained personnel responsible for testing and inspection.
- Documented quality-control procedures.
- Raw-material inspection and traceability.
- Finished-product testing and records.
- Procedures for handling nonconforming products.
The detailed equipment list is provided in Annex B of the BIS product manual, while the Scheme of Inspection and Testing is provided in Annex C. <Cite refs={["turn180302search21"]}/>
Manufacturers should review these annexures and confirm the latest applicable requirements before filing an application.
8. Documents Required for BIS Certification
The following is a practical checklist for preparing an application. The final document list should be confirmed against the current BIS procedure and product manual.
A. Business and factory documents
- Legal name and constitution of the business.
- Factory address and applicable ownership or occupancy documents.
- GST registration and other relevant business registrations.
- Authorised signatory details and authorisation documents.
- Factory layout and manufacturing facility details.
- Manufacturing process flow chart.
B. Product and technical documents
- Product description and intended application.
- Proposed pipe classes.
- Nominal pipe diameters and diameter range.
- Fitting types and nominal diameters.
- Joint types and relevant technical details.
- Product drawings and specifications, where applicable.
- Raw-material specifications and supplier details.
- Proposed product identification and marking information.
C. Quality-control and testing documents
- List of manufacturing and testing equipment.
- Calibration certificates and maintenance records.
- Inspection and testing procedures.
- Available internal test reports.
- Raw-material inspection records.
- Production and product traceability records.
- Records of rejected products and corrective actions.
- Details of personnel responsible for testing and quality control.
D. Application-related documents
- Current BIS application forms and declarations.
- Manufacturing-unit and proposed licence-scope details.
- Required fee payments and supporting information.
- Additional documents requested during application scrutiny or factory assessment.
This checklist supports preparation but does not replace the official BIS application requirements.
9. BIS Certification Process for IS 6908:1991
The following steps outline a general preparation workflow. The exact procedure and sequence should be confirmed with BIS.
Step 1: Confirm product applicability
Verify that the product falls within IS 6908:1991 and check the current QCO, applicable amendments and exemptions.
Step 2: Finalise the licence scope
Prepare a list of pipe classes, diameters, fitting types, fitting sizes and joint types to be covered.
Step 3: Assess factory readiness
Review manufacturing processes, laboratory facilities, testing equipment, calibration and quality-control documentation.
Step 4: Prepare application documents
Compile the business, factory, technical, product and testing documentation required under the current BIS procedure.
Step 5: Establish the testing plan
Review the product manual's equipment list, sampling guidance and inspection and testing scheme. Confirm the test plan and sample requirements with BIS.
Step 6: Complete factory assessment and testing
Address the applicable BIS assessment requirements and demonstrate conformity through the required factory testing and inspection process.
Step 7: Obtain the licence before using the Standard Mark
The ISI mark may be used only after the necessary BIS authorisation is granted and in accordance with the licence scope and conditions.
Step 8: Maintain ongoing conformity
Continue the required production controls, testing, inspection, calibration and recordkeeping to maintain compliance.
10. BIS Certification Fees and Testing Costs
The total cost depends on the current BIS fee schedule, proposed licence scope, testing requirements and factory readiness.
Potential cost components include:
- BIS application and licence-related fees, as applicable.
- Testing equipment procurement or upgrades.
- Calibration and maintenance expenses.
- Sample preparation and handling.
- Factory documentation and quality-control preparation.
- Consultancy charges, if professional assistance is engaged.
Because the product manual specifies factory testing, manufacturers should assess the equipment and testing costs before finalising the certification budget. <Cite refs={["turn180302search21"]}/>
A reliable project estimate should be prepared after reviewing the proposed product range, applicable tests, factory facilities and current BIS fee requirements. Do not treat a laboratory or consultancy quote as the complete cost of certification unless its scope explicitly covers all relevant components.
11. How Long Does BIS Certification Take?
The timeline depends on the completeness of the application, factory readiness, testing capability, product scope, sample conformity and BIS processing.
There is no single completion time that can be guaranteed for every application. Delays may occur if testing equipment is unavailable, documentation is incomplete, products fail applicable tests or the factory needs to address assessment observations.
A realistic project schedule should be prepared after reviewing the factory's facilities and the proposed licence scope.
12. Common Challenges During Certification
Manufacturers may experience difficulties when:
- The applicable standard is incorrectly identified.
- Pipe classes and diameter ranges are not clearly defined.
- Fitting types and joint configurations are omitted from the proposed scope.
- Testing equipment is incomplete or unsuitable.
- Calibration records and internal test reports are unavailable.
- Samples do not conform to the applicable requirements.
- Production traceability and quality-control records are inadequate.
- The manufacturer assumes that a regulatory exemption applies without reviewing its conditions.
A pre-application review can help identify these issues before formal assessment and testing.
13. Asbestos Safety and Handling Considerations
Asbestos-containing materials require careful handling because inhalation of airborne asbestos fibres can cause serious health harm.
Manufacturers should follow applicable occupational-safety and environmental requirements and implement appropriate controls for material handling, dust exposure, storage, transport and disposal.
Workers should receive appropriate training, and cutting, drilling or other operations that could release fibres should be managed in accordance with applicable safety requirements.
Product certification does not replace separate statutory obligations relating to occupational safety, environmental protection or other applicable laws.
14. Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is IS 6908:1991?
IS 6908:1991 is the Indian Standard titled
Asbestos-Cement Pipes and Fittings for Sewerage and Drainage — Specification. It is the first revision of the standard and was reviewed by BIS in 2022. <Cite refs={["turn180302search1"]}/>
Q2. Is BIS certification mandatory for this product?
BIS identifies IS 6908:1991 as requiring mandatory certification and lists it under the Asbestos or Fibre Cement Based Products QCO 2024 category. Applicable exemptions and subsequent orders should be checked for the specific product and transaction. <Cite refs={["turn180302search1","turn180302search22"]}/>
Q3. What determines the licence scope?
The BIS product manual identifies the pipe class, nominal diameter range, fitting types and nominal diameters, and joint type as licence-scope parameters. <Cite refs={["turn180302search21"]}/>
Q4. How many samples are required?
The product manual's sampling summary does not state a single numerical sample quantity. It requires samples to be tested in the factory for all applicable requirements. Confirm the detailed sampling plan with BIS before preparing samples. <Cite refs={["turn180302search21"]}/>
Q5. Can all testing be performed at an external laboratory?
The product manual states that the licence operates on a factory-testing basis, with samples tested in the factory for all requirements. Manufacturers should confirm the current testing arrangements with BIS before relying on external testing. <Cite refs={["turn180302search21"]}/>
Q6. What is the total cost of certification?
The total cost depends on current BIS fees, the proposed scope, testing requirements, equipment availability and factory readiness. A project-specific estimate should be prepared after reviewing these factors.
Q7. Can the ISI mark be used before a licence is granted?
No. The Standard Mark may be used only after the necessary BIS authorisation has been granted and in accordance with the licence conditions.
Get BIS Certification Consultancy for IS 6908:1991
Planning to apply for BIS certification for asbestos–cement pipes and fittings for sewerage and drainage?
Qualitance India can support your certification preparation through product-standard applicability review, documentation assistance, factory-readiness assessment, testing coordination and BIS application support.
Our consultancy approach focuses on your actual pipe classes, diameters, fitting configurations, manufacturing facilities and applicable regulatory requirements.
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Official References
- BIS Product Manual – IS 6908:1991
- BIS Standard Details – IS 6908:1991
- BIS Scheme-I (ISI Mark Scheme) – Product Listing
- Asbestos or Fibre Cement Based Products (Quality Control) Order, 2024
- BIS – Products Under Compulsory Certification
Regulatory note: Indian Standards, amendments, QCOs, exemptions, testing requirements, fees and application procedures may change. Verify the latest official BIS requirements before making certification or market-placement decisions.
