How to Obtain BIS Certification For Plywood?
It is mandatory for importing, manufacturing and selling plywood in India to get this BIS certification. The question that should be asked is: but why is this certification required? Manufacturers, distributors & importers of plywood products in India are governed by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) for product standards, which ensure quality, safety and performance. Considering the escalating demand of plywood, the material which is widely used in building construction and furniture making comes under the 'Mandatory Certification Scheme' of BIS. BIS certification builds consumer confidence, products with ISI mark conform to the basic standards for structural stability (strength), resistance to delamination (layer separation), quality of bonding, resistance to moisture, termite resistance and safety for human use. Manufacturers should do their utmost to not sell the plywood which is not BIS certified in order to ensure their product's credibility and confidence. Plywood cannot be legally imported or sold in India without it, or one would be liable to penalties under the BIS Act, 2016.
Obtaining BIS Certification for plywood is a simple process, provided that all the required documents are available. A few essential documents are needed to complete the certification procedure. If you are not familiar with the process, you can consult Gold Star Product Certification for a free consultation and expert guidance on obtaining BIS certification for plywood.
For Domestic Manufacturers:
- Submit the BIS certification application online through the BIS portal.
- Get plywood samples tested at a BIS-recognized laboratory.
- Upload the application along with the test reports and required supporting documents.
- Undergo BIS review, which may include an inspection of the manufacturing facility.
- Receive the BIS licence and authorization to use the ISI Mark on your plywood products.
For Foreign Manufacturers:
- Appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) to represent the foreign manufacturer in India.
- Complete and submit the BIS certification application through the online portal.
- Arrange testing of product samples at a BIS-recognized laboratory in India.
- Upload the required documents along with the laboratory test reports.
- Undergo BIS document verification and factory inspection, if applicable.
- Receive the BIS license upon successful compliance with all certification requirements.
Documents Required for Plywood BIS Certification
To apply for BIS Certification for plywood products, manufacturers are generally required to submit the following documents:
- Duly filled BIS application form.
- Manufacturing unit's business license or registration certificate.
- Detailed product specification sheet.
- ISO 9001 Certificate of the manufacturing facility.
- Trademark registration certificate (if applicable).
- Product marking and labelling details.
- Authorization letter for the authorized signatory.
- Registration documents of the Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) for foreign manufacturers.
- Photo identity proof of the authorized signatory.
- Product compliance test report from a BIS-recognized laboratory.
It is essential to ensure that all required documents are accurate, complete, and up to date. Missing or incorrect documentation may result in delays, additional queries from BIS, or rejection of the certification application.
For how many types of plywood is BIS certification mandatory?
BIS has established specific Indian Standards for plywood; BIS certification is mandatory for manufacturers to produce, import, and sell these products.
| Indian Standard | Title of Indian Standard |
| IS 303:1989 | Plywood for general purposes |
| IS 2202 (Part 1):1999 | Wooden flush door shutters (solid core type) |
| IS 710:2010 | Marine plywood |
| IS 5509:2021 | Fire retardant plywood |
| IS 1328:1996 | Veneered decorative plywood |
| IS 2191 (Part 2):2022 | Wooden flush door shutters |
| IS 2191 (Part 1):2022 | Wooden flush door shutters (cellular and hollow core type) |
| IS 2202(Part 2): 2022 | Wooden Flush Door Shutters (Solid core type) |
| IS 4990: 2011 | Plywood for concrete shuttering works |
| IS 10701: 2012 | Structural plywood |
Conclusion
BIS Certification of plywood products per various Indian Standards (IS) prescribed by BIS is necessary for their manufacture, sale or import in India. These standards are important in ensuring the safety, quality and performance of goods to the consumer and in helping to identify and remove substandard and unsafe goods from the market.
Exporters, existing manufacturers and new plywood companies in India, who are entering the market, have to abide by the relevant BIS standards for plywood products to succeed. Compliance is essential for legal access to the market and it also builds trust and credibility with customers.
Gold Star Product Certification is here to help you navigate BIS compliance requirements and is available for a free consultation. Skilled employees with long years of expertise and experience, BIS trained personnel, and a complete support system for technical, testing and documentation needs, can make the transition to certification smooth and hassle-free.