BIS Certification for Transparent Float Glass – IS 14900:2018 – Qualitance India
BIS Certification for Transparent Float Glass – IS 14900:2018
Transparent float glass is widely used in the construction, architectural, automotive and glass-processing industries. It is an important raw material for manufacturing windows, doors, facades, partitions, mirrors, tempered glass and other processed glass products.
The float manufacturing process produces glass with a smooth surface, uniform thickness and excellent optical quality. However, variations in thickness, dimensions, optical distortion, visual defects and light transmission can affect the quality and suitability of the finished glass.
To ensure consistent product quality in the Indian market, the Government of India has made BIS certification compulsory for transparent float glass.
The applicable Indian Standard for the earlier certification framework is IS 14900:2018 – Transparent Float Glass – Specification.
Manufacturers supplying covered transparent float glass in India must comply with the applicable Indian Standard and obtain the BIS licence under Scheme-I of the BIS (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018.
Important: BIS established IS 14900:2026, the Second Revision, on 28 August 2026. IS 14900:2018 remains in force concurrently until 28 February 2027. Manufacturers should plan their certification and transition activities accordingly.
This article explains the BIS certification requirements under IS 14900:2018, including testing, sample quantity, product grouping, laboratory facilities, quality-control arrangements and the application process.
1. Is BIS Certification Mandatory for Transparent Float Glass?
<badge color=”success”>Mandatory BIS Certification</badge>
Yes. BIS certification is mandatory for transparent float glass covered under the Transparent Float Glass (Quality Control) Order, 2021.
The Government of India notified the original Transparent Float Glass Quality Control Order in 2019 and subsequently issued amendments. The 2021 Order, notified through S.O. 1928(E), dated 17 May 2021, superseded the earlier Order.
The QCO requires transparent float glass to conform to the applicable Indian Standard and bear the BIS Standard Mark under a licence issued by BIS in accordance with Scheme-I.
The original implementation date was 1 January 2021.
Goods or articles meant for export are excluded under the provisions of the Order.
Applicable Standard and Current Transition
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Product | Transparent Float Glass |
| Earlier applicable standard | IS 14900:2018 |
| Standard title | Transparent Float Glass – Specification |
| Certification scheme | BIS Scheme-I (ISI Mark Scheme) |
| Applicable QCO | Transparent Float Glass (Quality Control) Order, 2021 |
| QCO notification | S.O. 1928(E), dated 17 May 2021 |
| New revision | IS 14900:2026 |
| New revision establishment date | 28 August 2026 |
| Withdrawal date of IS 14900:2018 | 28 February 2027 |
Important Update: IS 14900:2026
BIS has established IS 14900:2026 – Transparent Float Glass – Specification (Second Revision).
According to the BIS notification published in September 2026:
- IS 14900:2026 was established on 28 August 2026.
- IS 14900:2018 remains in force concurrently.
- IS 14900:2018 is scheduled for withdrawal on 28 February 2027.
Therefore, manufacturers currently operating under IS 14900:2018 should prepare for the transition to IS 14900:2026 before the withdrawal date.
The applicable edition and implementation instructions should be confirmed with BIS before submitting a new application or making changes to an existing licence.
2. Applicable BIS Product Manual – IS 14900:2018
BIS has issued the following product manual for transparent float glass:
Document No.: PM/14900/2 – February 2023
The product manual provides guidance on:
- Product sampling
- Product grouping
- Sample size
- Testing equipment
- Scheme of Inspection and Testing
- Laboratory requirements
- Product marking
- Licence scope
The manual identifies the following scope format:
“Licence is granted to use Standard Mark as per IS 14900:2018 with the following scope:”
- Name of product: Transparent Float Glass
- Thickness
- With or without optional requirement (Bloom)
This means that the manufacturer’s proposed licence scope must clearly identify the thickness range and whether the optional bloom requirement is included.
3. What Is Transparent Float Glass?
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Transparent float glass is manufactured through the float glass process, in which molten glass is floated over a bath of molten metal, usually tin.
This process produces a flat glass sheet with smooth surfaces and uniform thickness.
Transparent float glass is commonly used in:
- Residential windows and doors
- Commercial building facades
- Glass partitions
- Office interiors
- Glass furniture
- Mirrors
- Tempered glass manufacturing
- Heat-strengthened glass manufacturing
- Laminated glass manufacturing
- Architectural glazing applications
IS 14900:2018 specifies requirements and test methods to ensure the quality and performance of transparent float glass.
4. Technical Requirements Under IS 14900:2018
The Indian Standard specifies several important characteristics that transparent float glass must satisfy.
A. Identification of Float Glass Technology
The standard specifies a UV test to identify the tin side of float glass.
This test helps establish whether the glass has been manufactured using the float glass technology.
B. Visual Light Transmission
Visual light transmission is an important quality characteristic of transparent float glass.
The standard specifies minimum visual light transmission values for commonly used thicknesses up to 25 mm.
The purpose is to ensure adequate transparency and clarity.
C. Dimensions and Tolerances
The standard specifies requirements relating to:
- Nominal thickness
- Length
- Width
- Squareness
Thickness tolerances are important because variations can affect the performance and processing of glass.
D. Optical Faults
Optical faults can affect the visual appearance and optical quality of glass.
The standard specifies permissible requirements for optical faults, including the evaluation of distortion and related imperfections.
E. Visual Faults
The standard specifies requirements for visual imperfections, including:
- Bubbles
- Scratches
- Spot faults
- Reams
- Strings
- Lines
- Linear and extended faults
F. Defects on Cut Side
The cut edges of glass must comply with the applicable requirements specified in the standard.
G. Bloom – Optional Requirement
Bloom is an optional requirement under IS 14900:2018.
If the manufacturer intends to include this optional requirement in the BIS licence scope, the relevant sample must also be tested for bloom.
The exact permissible limits and test conditions must be taken from the applicable edition of IS 14900 and its amendments.
5. Testing Requirements for BIS Certification
Testing is a critical part of BIS certification for transparent float glass.
As per the BIS Product Manual PM/14900/2, February 2023, the following tests are identified.
| Sr. No. | Test parameter | Clause / reference |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Identification of float glass technology – UV test | Clause 4.1, Annex A |
| 2 | Visual light transmission | Clause 4.2, Annex B |
| 3 | Thickness | Clause 4.3.1, Table 2 |
| 4 | Length and width | Clause 4.3.2 |
| 5 | Squareness | Clause 4.3.3, Table 3 |
| 6 | Optical faults | Clause 4.4, Annex C |
| 7 | Spot faults | Clause 4.5.1, Annex D |
| 8 | Reams, strings and lines | Clause 4.5.2, Annex E |
| 9 | Linear and extended faults | Clause 4.5.3 |
| 10 | Defects on cut side | Clause 4.6 |
| 11 | Bloom – optional | Clause 4.7, Annex F |
A. UV Test to Identify Tin Side
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This test identifies the tin side of float glass using a UV test arrangement.
The BIS product manual specifies:
- Shortwave UV lamp
- UV test setup
- Dark area
B. Visual Light Transmission Test
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This test determines the visual light transmission of transparent float glass.
The BIS product manual identifies:
- Spectrophotometer
- CIE Standard Illuminant
- Test setup as per Figure 3 of the standard
C. Dimensions and Tolerances
The dimensions and tolerances of glass are verified using suitable measuring instruments.
The required equipment includes:
- Micrometer
- Vernier calliper
- Steel tape
The testing covers thickness, length, width and squareness.
D. Optical Fault Test
Optical faults are evaluated using the zebra test arrangement.
The product manual identifies:
- Zebra test setup
- Measuring tape
- Fluorescent tubes
E. Visual Fault Test
Visual faults are assessed using the specified observation arrangement.
The product manual identifies:
- Screen
- Point source projector
- Glass sample with spot fault
- Distortion gauge
- Fluorescent lamps
- Black matte surface-coated wall
- Specimen glass
- Measuring tape
F. Defects on Cut Side
Defects on the cut side are evaluated using a Vernier calliper, as specified in the product manual.
G. Bloom Test
Bloom is an optional requirement.
The BIS product manual identifies:
- Electric furnace
- Optical pyrometer
The applicable testing procedure must be followed according to Annex F of IS 14900:2018.
6. Sample Quantity Required for BIS Testing
<badge color=”success”>Sample quantity: 3 pieces</badge>
As per BIS Product Manual PM/14900/2, February 2023:
Three pieces of transparent float glass, each measuring 1 metre × 1 metre, are required.
| Particular | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Product | Transparent Float Glass |
| Sample quantity | 3 pieces |
| Sample dimensions | 1 m × 1 m each |
| Optional bloom requirement | Additional testing of the sample for bloom, if included in scope |
The samples must represent the product and thickness range proposed for certification.
The final sample selection and dispatch should be coordinated with the concerned BIS office or laboratory.
7. Product Grouping Guidelines Under IS 14900:2018
Product grouping is particularly important for transparent float glass manufacturers producing different thicknesses.
As per Annex A of the BIS Product Manual PM/14900/2, February 2023, the following grouping guidelines apply.
A. Thickness Range
To cover a range of thicknesses within the proposed licence scope:
- Samples of the highest thickness may be drawn for testing.
- Samples of the lowest thickness may be drawn for testing.
- If both samples pass the required tests, the licence may cover all thicknesses within that range.
B. Manufacturing and Testing Facilities
The manufacturer must have all necessary manufacturing and testing facilities for producing and testing the varieties proposed for inclusion in the licence.
C. Optional Requirement – Bloom
If the manufacturer wants to include bloom in the licence scope, the sample must also be tested for this requirement.
D. Surveillance Sampling
During operation of the licence, samples of all varieties are to be drawn by rotation.
Practical Example of Product Grouping
Consider a manufacturer producing transparent float glass in the following thicknesses:
| Product | Thickness |
|---|---|
| Model A | 2 mm |
| Model B | 3 mm |
| Model C | 4 mm |
| Model D | 5 mm |
| Model E | 6 mm |
| Model F | 8 mm |
| Model G | 10 mm |
| Model H | 12 mm |
If the manufacturer proposes a licence scope covering 2 mm to 12 mm, the grouping guidelines allow testing of the highest and lowest thicknesses in the proposed range.
Subject to satisfactory test results and adequate manufacturing and testing facilities, the licence may cover the intermediate thicknesses.
The final scope is subject to BIS assessment and approval.
8. Factory Laboratory Requirements
The manufacturer must maintain a suitably equipped and staffed laboratory for carrying out the tests specified in IS 14900:2018.
As per Annex C of the BIS product manual, the manufacturer must:
- Maintain an appropriately equipped laboratory.
- Ensure that testing is carried out according to the applicable methods.
- Prepare and implement a calibration plan for testing equipment.
- Maintain test records.
- Establish suitable quality-control arrangements.
Major Laboratory Equipment
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Shortwave UV lamp | Tin-side identification |
| Spectrophotometer | Visual light transmission |
| Micrometer | Thickness measurement |
| Vernier calliper | Dimensional measurement |
| Steel tape | Length and width measurement |
| Zebra test setup | Optical fault assessment |
| Fluorescent tubes | Optical fault assessment |
| Point source projector | Visual fault assessment |
| Distortion gauge | Visual fault assessment |
| Screen and observation setup | Visual fault assessment |
| Electric furnace | Bloom test |
| Optical pyrometer | Bloom test |
The above equipment list is indicative and is based on Annex B of the product manual. It should not be treated as exhaustive.
Factory Testing
The BIS product manual specifically notes that applications received from new manufacturing units in India may be processed on a factory-testing basis, provided that the unit has complete in-house testing facilities for the product.
Manufacturers should therefore evaluate their laboratory infrastructure before submitting an application.
9. Scheme of Inspection and Testing (SIT)
The manufacturer must implement the Scheme of Inspection and Testing specified in Annex C of the BIS product manual.
The SIT defines the control unit, sampling frequency, testing requirements and production quality-control arrangements.
A. Control Unit
As per the product manual:
The total quantity of material produced in one day from the same batch of raw material under similar conditions constitutes one control unit.
The manufacturer must identify and maintain records for each control unit.
B. Recommended Levels of Control
| Test parameter | Number of samples | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| UV test – identification of float glass technology | 1 | Each control unit |
| Visual light transmission | 3 | Every 7th control unit, subject to the prescribed initial testing conditions |
| Thickness | 1 | Every 2 hours |
| Length and width | 1 | Every 2 hours |
| Squareness | 1 | Every 2 hours |
| Optical faults | 1 | Every 2 hours |
| Spot faults | 1 | Every 2 hours |
| Reams, strings and lines | 1 | Every 2 hours |
| Linear/extended faults | 1 | Every 2 hours |
| Defects on cut side | 1 | Every 2 hours |
| Bloom – optional | 1 | Once a week, if required by purchaser |
Important Conditions for Visual Light Transmission
The product manual specifies additional controls for visual light transmission:
- At the beginning of production, each control unit must be tested until five consecutive control units pass.
- After five consecutive satisfactory results, every seventh control unit is tested.
- In case of failure, all subsequently manufactured control units are tested until three consecutive control units pass.
- After three consecutive satisfactory results, the original frequency of every seventh control unit may be restored.
Manufacturer-Defined Levels of Control
The product manual states that the recommended levels of control are recommendatory in nature.
The manufacturer may define its own control unit, batch or lot and submit its proposed testing levels with proper justification for approval by the BIS Branch Office Head.
Manufacturers must maintain appropriate test records for all production covered under the quality-control plan.
10. Packing and Marking Requirements
After obtaining the BIS licence, the manufacturer must apply the BIS Standard Mark in accordance with IS 14900:2018 and the licence conditions.
A. Marking on Each Piece of Glass
As per Annex C of the product manual, each piece of float glass must carry:
- The words “Float Glass”
- Indication of source of manufacture
- Thickness of glass
The Standard Mark and licence number must also be marked on each piece of float glass, provided the glass conforms to all requirements of the specification.
B. Marking on Each Package
Each package of float glass must contain the following information:
- Name of material – “Float Glass”
- Indication of source of manufacture
- Nominal thickness in mm
- Nominal length and width in mm
- Number of panes per package
- BIS licence number (CM/L number)
- BIS website details
The prescribed website statement is:
“For details of BIS certification please visit www.bis.gov.in”
C. Packing Requirements
Float glass must be packed in a suitable shock-absorbing manner, as agreed between the manufacturer and purchaser.
The packing must protect the glass from damage during handling, transportation and storage.
11. Documents Required for BIS Certification of Transparent Float Glass
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
B. Manufacturing Documents
- Manufacturing process flow chart
- Detailed manufacturing process description
- Factory layout plan
- List of manufacturing machinery
- Production capacity details
- Details of float glass manufacturing process
- Raw material procurement details
- Product thickness range
- Product dimensions and specifications
- Packing and handling procedure
C. Quality Control Documents
- Quality Control Manual
- Scheme of Inspection and Testing
- Control unit definition
- List of testing equipment
- Equipment calibration certificates
- In-house laboratory details
- UV test records
- Visual light transmission test records
- Thickness and dimensional inspection records
- Optical fault inspection records
- Visual fault inspection records
- Bloom test records, if applicable
- Non-conforming product control procedure
D. BIS Application Documents
- BIS application form and declarations
- Product scope details
- Proposed thickness range
- Details of optional bloom requirement
- Manufacturing unit details
- Applicable undertakings and declarations
- Prescribed application and processing fee payment details
The exact document requirements may vary depending on the manufacturing process, proposed thickness range and laboratory arrangements.
12. BIS Testing Charges for Transparent Float Glass
Testing charges depend on the selected laboratory, test scope and applicable product requirements.
The BIS Laboratory Information Management System lists testing charges for IS 14900:2018.
The displayed test-wise charges should be checked directly before budgeting because they may vary or be revised.
Major testing cost components include:
- UV test
- Visual light transmission
- Thickness measurement
- Length and width measurement
- Squareness
- Optical faults
- Spot faults
- Reams, strings and lines
- Linear and extended faults
- Defects on cut side
- Bloom, where applicable
Other BIS Certification Costs
The overall project cost may include:
| Cost component | Description |
|---|---|
| Application fee | Prescribed BIS application fee |
| Factory inspection | Applicable inspection expenses |
| Laboratory testing | Testing charges for the product |
| Licence fee | Annual BIS licence fee |
| Marking fee | Applicable minimum and unit marking fee |
| Sample transportation | Sample packing and transportation |
| Laboratory infrastructure | Equipment and calibration expenses |
| Consultancy charges | Professional certification support, if engaged |
The applicable BIS marking fee should be checked from the current Scheme-I fee schedule and the product-specific requirements.
13. Step-by-Step BIS Certification Process for Transparent Float Glass
The general process for obtaining a BIS licence under Scheme-I is explained below.
Step 1 – Product Applicability Assessment
Confirm that the product falls within the scope of transparent float glass covered by the applicable QCO.
Step 2 – Standard and Edition Review
Identify the applicable standard edition and review the transition from IS 14900:2018 to IS 14900:2026.
Step 3 – Product Scope Assessment
Determine the thickness range and whether the optional bloom requirement is proposed.
Step 4 – Factory Infrastructure Assessment
Review the float glass manufacturing process, production facilities and laboratory arrangements.
Step 5 – Documentation Preparation
Prepare company, manufacturing, technical and quality-control documentation.
Step 6 – BIS Application Submission
Submit the application through the applicable BIS certification process along with supporting documents and prescribed fees.
Step 7 – Factory Inspection
BIS evaluates the manufacturing infrastructure, process controls, testing facilities and quality-control system.
Step 8 – Sample Drawal and Testing
Samples are selected according to the applicable grouping guidelines and tested against the relevant Indian Standard.
Step 9 – Compliance and Clarifications
The manufacturer addresses any observations, testing issues or non-conformities raised during the certification process.
Step 10 – Grant of BIS Licence
After satisfactory completion of the applicable requirements, BIS may grant the licence to use the Standard Mark for the approved scope.
14. Common Challenges in BIS Certification for Transparent Float Glass
Manufacturers may face several challenges during BIS certification.
1. Thickness Tolerance Failure
The manufacturer may face difficulty in maintaining uniform thickness within the limits specified by the standard.
2. Visual Light Transmission Failure
Inadequate transparency or variations in glass composition may affect visual light transmission results.
3. Optical Faults
Optical distortion, reams, strings and lines may lead to non-conformity during testing.
4. Visual Faults
Bubbles, scratches and spot faults can affect the acceptability of the glass.
5. Inadequate Laboratory Infrastructure
Manufacturers may not have the required UV testing setup, spectrophotometer, optical fault testing arrangements or measuring instruments.
6. Improper Control Unit Definition
Failure to establish suitable control units and testing frequencies can affect the implementation of the SIT.
7. Incorrect Licence Scope
The manufacturer must ensure that the proposed thickness range and optional bloom requirement are correctly declared.
8. Transition to IS 14900:2026
Manufacturers operating under IS 14900:2018 must prepare for the new edition before the scheduled withdrawal date of 28 February 2027.
A proper gap assessment can help manufacturers identify technical and documentation issues before applying for BIS certification.
15. How Qualitance India Can Help
Qualitance India provides professional BIS certification consultancy and regulatory compliance support to manufacturers and businesses seeking BIS licences in India.
For transparent float glass certification under IS 14900, our support can include:
- BIS certification applicability assessment
- Review of IS 14900:2018 requirements
- Transition assessment for IS 14900:2026
- Thickness range and licence scope assessment
- Product grouping guidance
- Factory infrastructure gap assessment
- Laboratory and testing equipment assessment
- Preparation of Quality Control Manual
- Preparation of Scheme of Inspection and Testing
- Control unit and sampling procedure development
- Guidance on calibration arrangements
- Sample testing coordination
- BIS application documentation
- Assistance during BIS factory inspection
- Support in responding to BIS observations
- Guidance through the BIS licence grant and transition process
Our objective is to help manufacturers establish compliant production and testing 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 transparent float glass in India?
Yes. Transparent float glass covered under the Transparent Float Glass Quality Control Order must comply with the applicable Indian Standard and bear the BIS Standard Mark under a valid licence.
Q2. Which Indian Standard applies to transparent float glass?
IS 14900:2018 is the First Revision. BIS established IS 14900:2026 as the Second Revision on 28 August 2026.
Q3. Is IS 14900:2018 still valid?
Yes. BIS has notified that IS 14900:2018 will remain in force concurrently with IS 14900:2026 until 28 February 2027, when the 2018 edition is scheduled to be withdrawn.
Q4. What is the sample quantity required for BIS testing under IS 14900:2018?
As per PM/14900/2, February 2023, the sample quantity is three pieces of glass, each measuring 1 metre × 1 metre.
Q5. What are the grouping guidelines for transparent float glass?
Samples of the highest and lowest thicknesses in the proposed range may be tested. If both pass and the manufacturer has the necessary facilities, the licence may cover the thicknesses within that range.
Q6. What is the optional bloom requirement?
Bloom is an optional requirement under IS 14900:2018. If the manufacturer wants to include it in the licence scope, the sample must be tested for bloom.
Q7. What are the major tests required under IS 14900:2018?
The major tests include UV identification of the tin side, visual light transmission, thickness, dimensions, squareness, optical faults, visual faults, cut-side defects and optional bloom.
Q8. Is an in-house laboratory required?
The product manual requires a suitably equipped and staffed laboratory. It also states that applications from new manufacturing units in India may be processed on a factory-testing basis if the unit has complete in-house testing facilities.
Q9. What is the control unit for transparent float glass?
The total quantity produced in one day from the same batch of raw material under similar conditions constitutes one control unit under the February 2023 product manual.
Q10. What information must be marked on each piece of float glass?
The product manual specifies the words “Float Glass”, indication of source of manufacture and thickness. The Standard Mark and CM/L number must also be marked as required by the licence and product manual.
Q11. Can transparent float glass be manufactured without an ISI Mark?
Products covered by the applicable QCO cannot be manufactured, imported, sold or distributed in India without complying with the applicable mandatory certification requirements, subject to the stated exemptions.
Q12. Can foreign manufacturers obtain BIS certification for transparent float glass?
Yes. Eligible foreign manufacturers may apply through the BIS Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS), subject to the applicable requirements, inspection and testing arrangements.
Q13. Who can assist with BIS certification for transparent float glass?
Qualitance India can assist manufacturers with product grouping, thickness scope assessment, documentation, laboratory readiness, sample testing coordination, factory inspection preparation and BIS certification support.
Conclusion
BIS certification for transparent float glass under IS 14900 is an important regulatory requirement for manufacturers supplying covered products in India.
The certification process requires careful attention to thickness tolerances, visual light transmission, optical faults, visual defects, dimensions, squareness, laboratory arrangements and production quality-control systems.
With the introduction of IS 14900:2026, manufacturers currently certified under IS 14900:2018 should also plan for the transition before 28 February 2027.
For professional assistance with BIS Certification for Transparent Float Glass, contact Qualitance India.
Qualitance India – Improving Quality & Competence
Website: https://qualitanceindia.com
Email: info@qualitanceindia.com
Phone: +91 93106 15170
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