- Oil Well Cement must have a BIS Certificate and ISI Mark before it can be sold or exported in India.
- The rule IS 8229:1986 explains the quality and strength needed for Oil Well Cement.
- The ISI Mark shows the cement is safe, strong, and trusted for oil and gas well work.
- To get this mark, companies must apply to BIS, pass a factory check, lab test, and audit.
- If cement is sold without the ISI Mark, the factory may face fines, product seizure, or export rejection.
Introduction
Oil Well Cement is a special type of cement used in deep oil and gas wells. Because it is used in high pressure and high temperature places, it must be safe and strong. To make sure the cement meets the right quality, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) gives a BIS Certificate and ISI Mark. The rule for this cement is called IS 8229:1986. This rule explains how the cement should be made and tested. If a company wants to sell or export Oil Well Cement in India, it must follow this rule and get the ISI Mark.
What is BIS Certification for Oil Well Cement?
BIS Certification for Oil Well Cement is an approval given by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) to make sure this cement is safe, reliable, and of good quality. Oil well cement is mainly used in drilling and cementing oil wells, where it must handle high pressure and extreme temperatures.

With BIS Certification:
- The cement meets Indian Standards (IS 8229:1986).
- It ensures safety and strength during oil well operations.
- It helps companies follow government rules.
- It builds trust in the market with the ISI mark.
Why BIS Certification is Mandatory for Oil Well Cement?
BIS Certification is required for Oil Well Cement because it ensures the cement is safe, strong quality, and meets the standards in India (IS 8229:1986). Without this certificate, the sale or export of the cement in India is illegal. The order promotes faith with engineers, contractors, and oil companies and will take away the risks associated with failures or accidents in drilling.
IS Standards Under BIS for Cement:
| IS Code | Cement Type / Specification |
| IS 12330 | Sulphate Resisting Portland Cement |
| IS 12600 | Low Heat Portland Cement |
| IS 1489 (Part 1) | Portland Pozzolana Cement – Part 1 (Fly-ash based) |
| IS 1489 (Part 2) | Portland Pozzolana Cement – Part 2 (Calcined clay based) |
| IS 269 | Ordinary Portland Cement |
| IS 3466 | Masonry Cement |
| IS 455 | Portland Slag Cement |
| IS 6452 | High Alumina Cement for Structural Use |
| IS 6909 | Super Sulphated Cement |
| IS 8041 | Rapid Hardening Portland Cement |
| IS 8042 | White Portland Cement |
| IS 8043 | Hydrophobic Portland Cement |
| IS 8229 | Oil Well Cement |
| IS 16415:2015 | Composite Cement – Specification |
| IS 16993:2018 | Microfine Ordinary Portland Cement – Specification |
| IS 15895:2018 | High Alumina Refractory Cement |
Importance of BIS Certification for Oil Well Cement
- Assures Quality- It shows the cement is manufactured to Indian Standards (IS 8229:1986).
- Safe to Use– The cement withstands the high pressure, heat and chemical exposure in oil wells.
- Reduces Risk – Using uncertified cement can cause problems or accidents in drilling.
- Legally Obligation– In India, Oil Well Cement cannot be sold or exported without BIS clearence.
- Promotes Confidence- Engineers, contractors and companies know this cement will be high quality and safe.
Benefits of BIS Certification for Oil Well Cement
- Better Brand Image – The ISI Mark shows the product is trusted and good quality.
- Access to Big Projects – Government and oil companies prefer BIS-certified cement.
- Customer Confidence – Buyers know the cement is safe and strong.
- Follow Rules – Companies stay legal and avoid fines or product problems.
- Grow Business – Certified cement can sell in more markets and is better than uncertified cement.
- Consistent Quality – Every bag of cement is tested to maintain the same standard.
Eligibility Criteria for BIS Certification (Oil Well Cement – IS 8229:1986)
Manufacturer License: Application for BIS certification can only be made by companies or manufacturers with a valid manufacturing unit.
Quality Control Facilities: The factory must have equipment and laboratory testing facility to carry out testing of cement as per BIS and International Standards.
Standard Compliance: The manufacturer must ensure that the product is in compliance with IS 8229:1986 (strength, chemical compositions, setting time, etc.)
Document Submission: The manufacturer must prepare and submit all documents including factory layout, detailed machinery, quality control processes etc.
Sample Testing: The manufacturer must provide BIS with cement samples to be tested in BIS accredited laboratories.
Factory Audit: BIS officials shall conduct visit to assess the factory to ensure compliance with the production standards and quality control.
BIS Certification Process for Oil Well Cement
For Indian Manufacturers (ISI Mark Scheme)
- Identify IS Code – Apply under IS 8229:1986 for Oil Well Cement.
- Online Application – Submit application via Manakonline portal along with required documents.
- Factory Setup – Ensure in-house lab facilities and proper quality control systems.
- Sample Testing – Cement samples are tested both in the in-house lab and BIS-recognized laboratory.
- BIS Inspection – A BIS officer visits the plant to verify manufacturing and testing processes.
- Grant of License – If compliance is met, BIS issues the ISI mark license.
For Foreign Manufacturers (FMCS Scheme)
- Application Submission – Apply under the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS).
- Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) – Appoint an AIR to act on your behalf in India.
- Sample Testing in India – Send product samples for testing at a BIS-recognized lab in India.
- BIS Factory Audit – BIS officials conduct a physical inspection of the overseas plant.
- Compliance Verification – Ensure conformity to IS 8229:1986 and BIS guidelines.
- License Grant – On approval, BIS issues the license to affix the ISI mark on Oil Well Cement bags.

Documents Required for BIS Certification of Oil Well Cement
- Application Form – Duly filled BIS application via the Manakonline Portal.
- Factory Registration Documents – Incorporation certificate / GST certificate / Partnership deed / MSME certificate.
- Factory Layout Plan – Details of manufacturing unit, production line, and laboratory.
- Manufacturing Process Flow Chart – Step-by-step process of White Oil Well Cement production.
- List of Machinery & Equipment – Installed machines used in cement production.
- List of Testing Equipment – In-house lab details, testing apparatus, calibration records.
- Quality Control Documents – Internal test reports, quality manuals, and raw material records.
- Utility Documents – Electricity bill, water bill, etc., as proof of factory operation.
- Employee Details – Qualified technical staff and lab chemist details.
- Product Test Report – In-house and BIS-recognized lab reports proving compliance with IS standards.
- Trademark/Brand Certificate – Copy of registered brand/trademark (if applicable).
- Authorization Letter – If application is filed through a consultant/representative.
Import-Export Documents (for Foreign Manufacturers) –
- Business License of the company
- Nomination of Indian Authorized Representative (AIR)
- Product test reports from BIS-approved labs
Common Challenges in BIS Certification for Oil Well Cement
Despite its benefits, manufacturers often face these roadblocks:
- Testing Delays from overloaded labs
- Non-Conformity During Audit
- Improper Documentation
- Infrastructure Gaps in Lab Setup
- Lack of Regulatory Understanding
The Costs of BIS Certification for Hydrophobic Portland Cement
BIS certification costs for Oil Well Cement usually represent the filing of the application, mandatory product tests accomplished at a BIS accredited laboratory, factory inspections and maintaining the license. The actual costs depend on factors, including the size of the plant, the extent of testing and the compliance readiness.
Why Choose Diligence Certification?
For compliance and credibility, Diligence Certification is much more than a simple checklist — it provides true confidence in your business.
Diligence Certification encompasses all facets of making sure your business is ethical, responsible, and aligned with laws and industry best practices. It examines your company’s legal, financial and operational status — meaning that you are not just certified, but trusted.
Here’s why businesses rely on Diligence Certification:
- Stronger Risk Protection
It helps you spot hidden legal, financial, or operational risks early — so you can fix problems before they become threats. - Earn Stakeholder Trust
From investors to customers, people want to work with businesses that play by the rules. Diligence Certification proves you’re one of them. - Stay Legally Aligned
It makes sure your company is complying with laws not just regarding your products, but also labor laws, environmental laws, tax laws, and more. - Enhance Your Brand Reputation
Consumers respect ethical, transparent businesses. Diligence Certification shows the world that you operate with integrity.
- Stand Out from Competitors
In a crowded market, credibility is your biggest edge. Certification helps position your brand as reliable and responsible — not just another name.
Conclusion
BIS Certification for Oil Well Cement is more than just a legal requirement. It is an indication of Trust, Safety, and Acknowledgement in the Market. No manufacturer can sell or even distribute cement for sale in India without this certification, be it for commercial or Government associated potential projects with large Infrastructure contracts.
In conclusion, by fulfilling eligibility requirements, requesting documentation, and progressing through the BIS process sequentially, businesses can ensure compliance and develop long standing credibility in the market.
If you happen to be a OPW cement manufacturer or importer wishing to simplify your certification journey, then by way of expertise, money, time, and effort will be saved.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is BIS Certification for Oil Well Cement?
BIS Certification is a license issued by BIS which is issued if the cement is satisfactory against IS 8229:1986 for safety and quality.
Why is BIS Certification mandatory for Oil Well Cement?
This type of cement is used in very deep oil wells under high pressure and heat, so BIS tests to confirm the cement is safe & dependable.
Which IS code applies to Oil Well Cement?
The IS Code for Oil Well Cement is IS 8229:1986.
Is it legal to sell uncertified cement in India?
No, it is illegal in India to sell, distribute or export Oil Well Cement if it is not BIS certified.
Who can apply for BIS Certification?
Only manufacturers with a valid production unit can apply to BIS.
Which tests are required for BIS Certification?
BIS conducts tests for strength, chemical composition, setting time and functioning under high pressure (1000 psi) and high temperature (130 °C).
How long does the BIS Certification process take?
It generally takes 3-6 months which depends on the state of the factory and lab testing report.
If the factory sells cement without the ISI Mark, what would happen?
The factory will incur fines, product will be seized, and exports may be rejected.
Do foreign manufacturers also need BIS Certification?
Yes, foreign manufacturers are also required to apply for BIS certification under the FMCS scheme through Authorised Indian Representatives.
How can Diligence Certification help?
They guide manufacturers through documentation, testing, and audits to make the process faster and error-free.



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