BIS Certification Consultancy for Solid PVC Soles and Heels | IS 6719:1972 – Qualitance India
Introduction: BIS Certification for Solid PVC Soles and Heels
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is widely used in the footwear industry to manufacture soles and other footwear components. PVC footwear components are valued for their mouldability, durability and suitability for different footwear designs and applications.
In India, PVC footwear components are subject to applicable quality-control and BIS certification requirements. Historically,
IS 6719:1972 – Specification for Solid PVC Soles and Heels covered full solid soles with or without heels, half soles and heels. However, BIS has published a revised standard,
IS 6719:2026 – Moulded PVC Unit Outsole — Specification (First Revision). Manufacturers should therefore assess their products against the current standard and applicable Quality Control Order before applying. <Cite refs={["turn247875view2","turn298629search2","turn298629search8"]}/>
The footwear certification framework includes the
Footwear Made from All Rubber and All Polymeric Material and its Components (Quality Control) Order and subsequent amendments. BIS lists the legacy IS 6719:1972 entry under its compulsory-certification scheme. Because the technical standard has been revised, manufacturers should verify the latest QCO transition provisions and applicable certification requirements with BIS. <Cite refs={["turn298629search0","turn298629search1"]}/>
Qualitance India provides BIS certification consultancy for footwear manufacturers and component manufacturers, including assistance with product-scope assessment, documentation, testing coordination and certification preparation.
1. What Is Solid PVC Soles and Heels Certification?
BIS certification demonstrates that a product covered by the applicable certification requirements conforms to the relevant Indian Standard and may bear the BIS Standard Mark under a valid licence.
For PVC footwear components, the applicable standard and licence scope must match the actual product being manufactured.
Under the legacy IS 6719:1972, the product categories included:
- Full solid PVC soles with or without heels.
- PVC half soles.
- PVC heels.
The revised standard, IS 6719:2026, is titled
Moulded PVC Unit Outsole — Specification. This revised title reflects a change in the technical scope from the older solid soles and heels specification to moulded PVC unit outsoles. <Cite refs={["turn247875view2","turn247875view3","turn298629search2"]}/>
Manufacturers should not assume that every product previously covered under IS 6719:1972 automatically falls within the scope of IS 6719:2026.
2. Applicable Indian Standard for PVC Sole Certification
| Particular |
Details |
| Product category |
PVC footwear soles and outsoles |
| Legacy standard |
IS 6719:1972 |
| Revised standard |
IS 6719:2026 |
| Revised standard title |
Moulded PVC Unit Outsole — Specification |
| Revision |
First Revision |
| Certification framework |
BIS Scheme-I, ISI Mark Scheme, where applicable |
| Regulatory framework |
Footwear Made from All Rubber and All Polymeric Material and its Components (Quality Control) Order, including amendments |
| Certification authority |
Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) |
BIS's standards catalogue identifies IS 6719:2026 as the specification for moulded PVC unit outsoles. Its compulsory-certification listing continues to display IS 6719:1972, so the latest legal and implementation position should be confirmed before submitting an application. <Cite refs={["turn298629search2","turn298629search1"]}/>
Important: Verify the standard edition before applying
A manufacturer preparing an application should establish:
- The precise type of PVC sole or outsole being manufactured.
- Whether the product falls within the scope of IS 6719:2026.
- Whether the applicable QCO and transition provisions cover the product.
- Whether BIS has issued an updated product manual and certification instructions.
- Whether any existing licence needs a change of scope or transition action.
This assessment helps avoid preparing an application or testing plan against an outdated specification.
3. Is BIS Certification Mandatory for PVC Soles?
BIS has explicitly identified the product under IS 6719 as subject to mandatory certification in its implementation circular concerning Amendment No. 1 to the earlier standard. The applicable footwear QCO and subsequent amendments govern the current legal obligations. <Cite refs={["turn247875view3","turn298629search0"]}/>
Manufacturers should verify the current standard edition, implementation dates and any applicable transition or exemption provisions before manufacturing or selling covered products.
The applicability assessment should consider:
- The product type and intended application.
- Whether the component falls within the current standard's scope.
- The manufacturer's role and the nature of the transaction.
- Any applicable QCO amendment or transition order.
- Any specific exemption available for the relevant product or transaction.
Important: The technical standard and the legal QCO are related but distinct documents. A revised standard does not, by itself, explain every transition requirement under the QCO. Obtain confirmation of the applicable certification route from BIS before relying on a legacy licence or standard reference.
4. IS 6719:1972 vs IS 6719:2026 — Key Changes
The change from the legacy specification to the revised standard is an important consideration for PVC sole manufacturers.
| Particular |
IS 6719:1972 |
IS 6719:2026 |
| Standard title |
Specification for Solid PVC Soles and Heels |
Moulded PVC Unit Outsole — Specification |
| Revision status |
Legacy edition |
First Revision |
| Product terminology |
Solid PVC soles and heels |
Moulded PVC unit outsole |
| Application preparation |
Based on the older specification and manual |
Must be assessed against the revised specification |
| Licence scope |
Legacy product categories |
Must match the revised standard's scope |
| Testing requirements |
Legacy test provisions and applicable amendments |
Confirm the current standard and applicable test methods |
| Transition |
Subject to applicable historical orders and amendments |
Verify current BIS/QCO implementation requirements |
BIS's implementation circular for Amendment No. 1 to IS 6719:1972 had already changed the title to
Moulded PVC Unit Outsoles — Specification and revised the scope to moulded PVC unit outsoles. The 2026 first revision should be treated as the current technical reference for new projects, subject to confirmation of the applicable regulatory implementation. <Cite refs={["turn247875view3","turn298629search2"]}/>
5. Product Scope and Classification
Before applying for BIS certification, manufacturers should identify the type of PVC footwear component they produce.
A. Moulded PVC unit outsoles
The revised standard is specifically titled for moulded PVC unit outsoles. Manufacturers producing this type of component should review the scope, construction and technical requirements of IS 6719:2026.
B. Full solid PVC soles and heels
These products were specifically included in the legacy IS 6719:1972. Manufacturers should verify whether their particular product is covered under the revised specification or another applicable Indian Standard.
C. Half soles and separate heels
Half soles and heels were included in the legacy standard. Their treatment under the current certification framework must be assessed individually, especially where the product is not a moulded unit outsole.
D. Special footwear components
Top-lifts and ladies' high heels above 50 mm were expressly identified as outside the scope in the earlier amended version of IS 6719:1972. Manufacturers of such components should not assume coverage under the revised specification without confirmation. <Cite refs={["turn247875view3"]}/>
6. Quality and Testing Requirements for PVC Outsoles
PVC outsoles must satisfy the applicable physical, mechanical and material-related requirements of the relevant standard.
The earlier BIS Product Manual for IS 6719:1972 identified several tests, including the following. These are useful historical references, but the current test plan must be confirmed against IS 6719:2026 and the latest product manual.
A. Relative density
Relative density is used to assess a material's density in relation to a reference substance. The prescribed test method and acceptance criteria must be followed.
B. Tensile strength
Tensile strength evaluates the material's resistance to pulling forces before failure.
C. Elongation at break
Elongation at break measures the material's extension before rupture.
D. Tear strength
Tear strength evaluates resistance to the propagation of a tear in the material.
E. Volatility
The volatility test assesses the loss of material under specified test conditions.
F. Lead content
Where applicable under the current standard, lead content is assessed against the specified limit.
G. Hardness
Hardness testing evaluates the resistance of the outsole material to indentation using the prescribed method.
H. Flexing resistance
Flexing resistance assesses how the outsole material withstands repeated bending.
I. Abrasion resistance
Abrasion resistance evaluates the material's resistance to wear under the specified test conditions.
BIS's implementation circular for Amendment No. 1 to the legacy standard specifically records the addition of flexing-resistance and abrasion-resistance tests, changes to the hardness requirement and updates to certain test methods. <Cite refs={["turn247875view3","turn247875view2"]}/>
Important: Do not use historical limits as current acceptance criteria. The exact test parameters, methods and permissible limits must be verified in the applicable edition of IS 6719 and its current product manual.
7. BIS Sample Requirements for PVC Sole Certification
The February 2023 BIS Product Manual for IS 6719:1972 specifies
two test slabs made from the same composition as the sample quantity for that legacy standard. <Cite refs={["turn247875view2"]}/>
However, this historical sample quantity should not automatically be applied to a new application under IS 6719:2026.
Before arranging sample preparation, the manufacturer should confirm:
- The applicable standard edition.
- The number and dimensions of samples or test slabs required.
- The material composition and preparation conditions.
- Any pre-conditioning requirements.
- The applicable testing laboratory and test methods.
- Whether different product designs or material formulations require separate testing.
Sample requirements can depend on the current product manual, licence scope and the particular product being assessed. Confirm the instructions with BIS or the relevant laboratory before dispatch.
8. Documents Required for BIS Certification of PVC Soles
The required documentation depends on the manufacturer's legal status, facility, product scope and applicable BIS procedure.
A. Company and manufacturing documents
- Company constitution or registration documents.
- Manufacturer's name and manufacturing address.
- Factory ownership or occupancy documents, as applicable.
- Authorised signatory details.
- Relevant identity and address proofs.
- Manufacturing capacity and facility details.
B. Product and technical documents
- Product description and intended application.
- Identification of the PVC sole or outsole type.
- Applicable Indian Standard and edition.
- Product specifications and drawings, where relevant.
- Raw-material specifications.
- PVC resin and other material details.
- Manufacturing process flow chart.
- Details of moulds and production methods.
- Proposed licence scope.
C. Machinery and testing equipment
- List of production machinery.
- Details of moulding and processing equipment.
- List of testing equipment.
- Equipment identification and specifications.
- Calibration records for applicable instruments.
- Testing arrangements and laboratory details.
D. Quality-control records
- Raw-material inspection procedures.
- In-process inspection records.
- Finished-product testing formats.
- Batch identification and traceability records.
- Non-conforming product control procedures.
- Calibration and maintenance records.
- Quality-control procedures and relevant work instructions.
E. Packaging and marking information
- Product marking details.
- Packaging specifications.
- Manufacturer identification.
- Batch or code-number arrangements.
- Any declarations required under the applicable BIS procedure.
The final checklist should be prepared against the latest BIS application requirements and the product manual for the applicable standard. This list is intended for preparation and may not include every document required for a particular application.
9. BIS Certification Process for PVC Soles
The certification process generally involves the following stages.
Step 1: Product applicability assessment
The manufacturer's product is examined to determine whether it falls under the relevant Indian Standard and QCO.
Step 2: Standard and scope confirmation
The applicable edition is confirmed, with particular attention to the transition from IS 6719:1972 to IS 6719:2026 and the current QCO implementation.
Step 3: Manufacturing facility assessment
The production process, raw materials, moulds, testing facilities and quality-control arrangements are reviewed for compliance gaps.
Step 4: Documentation preparation
Business, technical and quality-control documents are compiled and checked for consistency with the proposed product scope.
Step 5: Application submission
The application is submitted through the applicable BIS process with the prescribed information and fees.
Step 6: Factory inspection
BIS may assess the manufacturing premises, production facilities, testing arrangements and quality-control system according to the applicable certification procedure.
Step 7: Sample testing
The product is sampled and tested against the applicable standard. The testing plan should reflect the current specification and any relevant product grouping requirements.
Step 8: Closure of observations
Any documentation gaps, inspection observations or test failures must be addressed with appropriate corrective actions.
Step 9: Grant of licence
BIS may grant the licence once the applicable requirements have been satisfied. The manufacturer must comply with the licence scope, marking conditions and ongoing certification obligations.
The timeline depends on the application, facility readiness, inspection scheduling, sample testing and closure of observations. Application submission does not guarantee approval or a fixed grant date.
10. Manufacturing and Quality-Control Requirements
A manufacturer seeking certification should establish production and quality-control systems capable of consistently producing conforming PVC outsoles.
Raw-material control: Maintain specifications and traceability records for PVC resin and other materials used in production.
Process control: Document moulding and processing parameters and maintain suitable operating controls.
Dimensional checks: Establish procedures for checking product dimensions and relevant design characteristics.
Mechanical testing: Arrange testing for the parameters required by the current standard.
Equipment calibration: Maintain a calibration plan for applicable measuring and testing equipment.
Batch traceability: Identify production batches and link them to inspection and test records.
Non-conformity management: Establish procedures for identifying, segregating and handling products that fail to meet requirements.
Marking and packaging: Ensure that product identification and marking meet the applicable standard and BIS licence conditions.
The legacy product manual also required a suitable laboratory, a calibration plan, test records and use of the Standard Mark only for conforming products covered by the licence. The current manual and licence conditions should be consulted for the precise requirements applicable today. <Cite refs={["turn247875view2"]}/>
11. BIS Certification Fees for PVC Soles
The total cost of certification depends on the applicable BIS fee schedule, testing requirements, product scope and readiness of the manufacturing facility.
| Cost component |
Description |
| BIS application fees |
Prescribed fees under the current BIS schedule |
| Product testing |
Laboratory charges for applicable tests |
| Inspection-related expenses |
Expenses associated with applicable assessment arrangements |
| Consultancy fees |
Professional assistance with documentation and certification preparation |
| Testing equipment |
Cost of equipment required for in-house testing, where applicable |
| Calibration |
Calibration and maintenance of relevant equipment |
| Corrective actions |
Cost of addressing identified compliance gaps |
| Licence-related fees |
Applicable marking, licence and renewal-related charges |
BIS's Laboratory Information Management System lists testing information for the legacy IS 6719:1972. However, that information should not be treated as a confirmed quotation or complete fee schedule for certification under IS 6719:2026. <Cite refs={["turn298629search3"]}/>
For an accurate estimate, the manufacturer should confirm the applicable standard, product scope, current laboratory charges and facility requirements before preparing a project budget.
12. Common Challenges in PVC Sole BIS Certification
Applying under an outdated standard
The revised standard changes the title and technical scope. Manufacturers should confirm which edition applies to their product and certification route.
Unclear product classification
A manufacturer producing separate heels, half soles and unit outsoles may need to assess each product category individually.
Incomplete testing facilities
The facility may lack suitable equipment or documented testing arrangements for all required parameters.
Inconsistent material composition
Changes in raw materials or formulations can affect product conformity and should be managed through documented controls.
Incomplete batch records
Test reports and production records may not be linked to identifiable batches.
Incorrect assumptions about QCO transition
The standard revision and the legal implementation of a QCO are separate matters. The latest amendments and transition provisions should be checked before making a compliance decision.
A structured pre-assessment helps manufacturers identify and address these issues before the formal certification process.
13. Why Choose Qualitance India for BIS Certification Consultancy?
Qualitance India provides consultancy support for BIS product certification, regulatory compliance and manufacturing quality requirements.
Our support can include:
- Initial assessment of PVC sole certification requirements.
- Review of the applicable Indian Standard and QCO.
- Assistance in identifying the correct product scope.
- Documentation preparation and review.
- Assessment of manufacturing and testing arrangements.
- Sample-testing coordination.
- Preparation for factory inspection.
- Support in addressing observations and documentation gaps.
- Guidance on licence scope, marking requirements and ongoing compliance.
Our consultancy approach is tailored to the manufacturer's product type, facility readiness and project requirements. BIS fees, laboratory charges and other third-party expenses should be identified separately in the commercial proposal.
14. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Which standard applies to PVC soles and heels?
The legacy standard is IS 6719:1972,
Specification for Solid PVC Soles and Heels. BIS has published IS 6719:2026,
Moulded PVC Unit Outsole — Specification (First Revision). The applicable standard depends on the product and current regulatory implementation. <Cite refs={["turn247875view2","turn298629search2"]}/>
Q2. Is BIS certification mandatory for PVC soles?
BIS has identified the product under IS 6719 as subject to mandatory certification. Manufacturers should verify the latest QCO amendments and transition requirements applicable to their product. <Cite refs={["turn247875view3","turn298629search0"]}/>
Q3. What is the difference between IS 6719:1972 and IS 6719:2026?
The older standard covered solid PVC soles and heels. The revised standard is titled
Moulded PVC Unit Outsole — Specification, so manufacturers must assess whether their product falls within the revised scope. <Cite refs={["turn247875view2","turn298629search2"]}/>
Q4. What sample quantity was specified in the earlier product manual?
The February 2023 BIS Product Manual for IS 6719:1972 specified two test slabs made from the same composition. Manufacturers should confirm the sample requirements under the current standard before arranging testing. <Cite refs={["turn247875view2"]}/>
Q5. Which tests are relevant to PVC sole certification?
The earlier standard and amendment addressed relative density, tensile strength, elongation at break, tear strength, volatility, lead content, hardness, flexing resistance and abrasion resistance. The current testing plan must be confirmed against IS 6719:2026. <Cite refs={["turn247875view3"]}/>
Q6. Can a manufacturer obtain one licence for different sole designs and sizes?
Product grouping depends on the applicable standard, product manual, manufacturing facilities and testing requirements. The older manual contained grouping guidance, but manufacturers should confirm the current grouping provisions before deciding the licence scope. <Cite refs={["turn247875view2","turn242848search33"]}/>
Q7. How long does BIS certification take?
The timeline depends on documentation readiness, inspection scheduling, sample testing and closure of any observations. A reliable estimate should be prepared after reviewing the facility and current BIS procedure.
Q8. What is the cost of PVC sole BIS certification?
The cost depends on BIS fees, laboratory testing, consultancy, equipment readiness and the proposed product scope. A project-specific quotation is recommended.
Q9. Can existing manufacturers continue using their old IS 6719 licence?
Existing licence holders should verify the current transition provisions and any directions issued by BIS. They should not assume that an old licence or product manual automatically remains sufficient following a standard revision.
Q10. Where can manufacturers verify official information?
Manufacturers should consult the BIS standards catalogue, the BIS compulsory-certification listing, the applicable product manual, the relevant footwear QCO and its latest amendments.
Official References
- BIS – IS 6719:1972 Product Manual: https://www.bis.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/PM-6719-corrected.pdf
- BIS – Implementation Circular for Amendment No. 1 to IS 6719:1972: https://www.services.bis.gov.in/tmp/Circular_nEre_2024-02-01.pdf
- BIS – Standards Catalogue: https://standards.bis.gov.in/website/standard-details
- BIS – Products Under Compulsory Certification: https://www.bis.gov.in/products-under-compulsory-certification/scheme-1/?lang=en
- BIS – Product Manuals: https://www.bis.gov.in/product-certification/product-specific-information-2/product-manualsmk/?lang=en
- BIS – Laboratory Information Management System: https://lims.bis.gov.in/
Contact Qualitance India for BIS Certification Consultancy for PVC Soles
Are you a manufacturer of PVC soles, moulded PVC unit outsoles or other footwear components looking for BIS certification support?
Qualitance India assists manufacturers with product-scope assessment, BIS application documentation, testing coordination, factory inspection preparation and regulatory compliance guidance.
Contact us to discuss your product, manufacturing facility, intended licence scope and the requirements applicable to your PVC sole certification project.
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