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- BIS Certification for Glass Fibre Reinforced Gypsum Panels ensures compliance with IS 17400:2021.
- The ISI mark confirms strength, fire safety, and environmental reliability.
- Diligence Certification assists manufacturers from testing to license approval and renewal.
Introduction
In Coimbatore, a promising construction materials company lost a government housing project because their Glass Fibre Reinforced Gypsum (GFRG) Panels lacked BIS Certification under IS 17400:2021.
Although their panels met high internal quality benchmarks, the tender committee rejected the bid as per BIS Act 2016 — because only ISI-marked building materials are accepted in public works to guarantee safety, structural strength, and fire resistance.
Such rejections are common among manufacturers who rely on internal tests but skip BIS licensing.
With BIS Certification for GFRG Panels, manufacturers can legally sell, export, and supply to all Indian infrastructure and housing projects while ensuring compliance with national standards.
Diligence Certification provides complete guidance — from product testing and documentation to BIS license approval and renewal.
What is IS 17400:2021?
IS 17400:2021 is an Indian Standard specification created by the Bureau of Indian Standards for Glass Fibre Reinforced Gypsum (GFRG) Panels, and it sets the standards for all mechanical, physical, and durability properties of GFRG that is to be utilized as building walls, roofs and modular housing systems for construction.
This standard ensures that GFRG manufactured in India provides a uniformity in safety, load, water absorption, fire, etc.
Key Technical Parameters of IS 17400:2021:
- Raw Material Composition:
Gypsum reinforced with alkali-resistant glass fibre, ensuring crack resistance and structural stability. - Dimensional Tolerance:
Strict limits on thickness, length, and width deviations for precise modular fitting. - Compressive and Flexural Strength:
Panels must meet minimum compressive and bending strength suitable for load-bearing walls. - Water Absorption & Moisture Resistance:
Panels undergo moisture tests to ensure stability in humid conditions. - Fire Resistance:
Panels must maintain integrity during standard fire exposure tests. - Thermal Insulation:
Evaluated for energy efficiency and indoor comfort in sustainable construction. - Marking:
Each BIS-certified GFRG panel must display the ISI mark with manufacturer code and batch identification.
Why BIS Certification for GFRG Panels is Essential
1. Legal Obligation under BIS Act, 2016
Manufacturers are not permitted to sell or distribute GFRG panels in India without obtaining BIS Certification in accordance with IS 17400:2021. Such infringements may result in penalties, having the goods seized, or closure of the facility.
2. Guarantees Product Safety and Reliability
BIS certified panels have gone through rigorous testing for structural performance, water absorption and thermal resistance to ensure compliance with national building codes for safe residential and commercial applications.
3. Increases Market Trust
Builders, contractors, and government agencies prefer ISI-marked GFRG panels, as it reflects tested reliability and compliance with sustainable housing goals.
4. Eligibility for Government Projects
Tender authorities mandate BIS certification for materials used in PMAY (Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana) and other government housing schemes.
5. Supports “Make in India” Initiative
By standardizing local production under IS 17400:2021, Indian manufacturers can compete globally and enhance the reputation of Indian-made construction materials.
Understanding the ISI Mark for Glass Fibre Reinforced Gypsum Panels
The ISI mark on a GFRG panel confirms:
- Compliance with all parameters under IS 17400:2021
- Successful testing by a BIS-approved laboratory
- Regular factory inspections by BIS officials
- Traceability through unique license number
- Assurance of structural safety, thermal stability, and fire resistance
This mark is not merely a logo — it’s a legal symbol of trust that verifies the product’s adherence to Indian safety and quality norms.
Importance and Benefits of BIS Certification for GFRG Panels
| Benefit | Description |
| Legal Compliance | Mandatory for manufacturing and sale under BIS Act 2016 |
| Structural Safety | Panels tested for strength, moisture, and fire resistance |
| Market Credibility | ISI mark builds trust with buyers and contractors |
| Tender Eligibility | Necessary for government and smart city projects |
| Customer Confidence | Confirms sustainable and safe building material |
| Export Advantage | Accepted in global markets requiring certification |
| Brand Reputation | Demonstrates commitment to national quality standards |
Eligibility Criteria for BIS Certification
Manufacturers seeking certification must:
- Be a registered business entity (Company, LLP, or Proprietorship).
- Operate a functional production facility for GFRG panels.
- Have in-house quality testing infrastructure.
- Employ qualified technical personnel.
- Produce panels conforming to IS 17400:2021.
- Permit BIS inspectors to conduct audits and sample verification.
Step-by-Step BIS Certification Process
- Identify Applicable Standard
Confirm your panels fall under IS 17400:2021. - Application Submission
Apply via the Manak Online Portal with product and factory details. - Sample Testing
Send panel samples to a BIS-recognized laboratory for evaluation of strength, density, and fire safety. - Factory Inspection
BIS officials visit your site to assess manufacturing process, machinery, and quality systems. - Result Review & License Grant
Once both lab and inspection reports are satisfactory, BIS grants a license with ISI mark authorization. - License Validity & Renewal
The BIS license remains valid for two years and can be renewed for up to five years with updated test reports.
Documents Required for BIS Certification
| Category | Documents |
| Company Details | Incorporation Certificate, GST, MSME/Udyam Registration |
| Factory Information | Layout Plan, Machinery List, Process Flow Diagram |
| Quality System | QC Reports, Calibration Certificates |
| Product Testing | BIS-approved Lab Test Report (IS 17400:2021) |
| Technical Data | Raw Material Composition, Strength Test Records, Fire Resistance Data |
Validity and Renewal
- Initial Validity: 2 years
- Renewal Period: Up to 5 years
- Renewal Application: Submit at least 3 months before expiry
- Requirement: Updated lab test reports & consistent production proof
- Inspection: BIS may perform re-audit before license renewal
Delays in renewal can cause temporary suspension or cancellation of license.
Common Challenges in BIS Certification for GFRG Panels
- Incomplete Documentation: Missing QC or process records delay approval.
- Test Failures: Panels failing fire resistance or moisture absorption tests may need design modifications.
- Improper Factory Setup: Non-standard machinery or inadequate curing areas can fail inspection.
- Testing Delays: BIS-approved labs often have a long waiting queue.
- Consultant Errors: Using inexperienced agents may lead to non-conformity in test parameters.
- Budget Planning: Testing and inspection costs should be accounted for early to prevent project delays.
Cost of BIS Certification
| S.No. | Cost Component | Details |
| 1 | Application Fee | BIS online processing charge |
| 2 | Testing Fee | Laboratory cost for IS 17400:2021 tests |
| 3 | Factory Inspection Fee | BIS officials’ site visit and evaluation |
| 4 | License Fee | Issuance of BIS license and ISI mark approval |
| 5 | Renewal Fee | Payable every 2 years for continuity |
Choose Diligence Certification
Diligence Certification is a trusted BIS Certification Consultant in India, specializing in construction materials and housing-related products under IS 17400:2021.
Key Strengths:
- End-to-End Support: From product testing to license renewal.
- Expertise: Skilled consultants familiar with BIS inspection protocols.
- Speed: Faster coordination with BIS and accredited labs.
- Error-Free Documentation: Complete file preparation and quality checks.
- Compliance Review: Identifies gaps before the BIS audit to prevent rejection.
- Nationwide Network: Trusted by manufacturers from Tamil Nadu to Gujarat.
By working with Diligence Certification, manufacturers ensure smooth, cost-effective, and compliant BIS registration.
Conclusion
Obtaining BIS Certification for Glass fibre Reinforced Gypsum Panels to IS 17400:2021, is a way to guarantee that your panels meet safety, durability, and Indian building regulations.
The ISI mark not only creates credibility for your brand, but allows you to pursue government tenders, housing projects and export markets.
Diligence Certification provides your organisation with expert support through all stages, i.e., testing, documentation, inspection readiness and renewal, to ensure your product meets all BIS requirements.
Get your BIS Certification now, and help create position your brand in India’s expanding sustainable construction market
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Glass Fibre Reinforced Gypsum (GFRG)?
GFRG is a lightweight, sustainable building material created from gypsum and glass fibres for durable and robust walls and panels.
Where is GFRG used in construction?
GFRG is frequently used for walls, roofs, and modular housing systems in modern sustainable buildings.
Why is GFRG considered a sustainable material?
GFRG uses natural gypsum and less cement, saves energy, and has a lower carbon footprint.
Is GFRG fire resistant?
Yes, GFRG panels are naturally fire resistant and have passed appropriate testing for safety under BIS standards.
What are the positives of using GFRG panels?
GFRG panels are lightweight, economical, strong, and easy to install, making them ideal for mass housing applications.
What is BIS certification for GFRG panels?
BIS certification is given to panels that meet the IS 17400:2021 standard for safety, structural integrity, and durability.
Is BIS certification necessary for GFRG manufacturers?
Yes, Consumers should know that while not required, a BIS certification for the manufacture or sale of GFRG panels in India is mandatory under the BIS Act, 2016.
How long does BIS Certification take for GFRG panels?
It normally takes around 4–6 weeks or as determined by the testing and factory inspection processes.
Who will assist with the BIS certification for GFRG panels?
Diligence certification will assist with the entire process from testing to license approval and renewal
Can BIS-certified GFRG panels be exported?
Yes, BIS-certified panels are accepted in both domestic and international construction projects.
