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- BIS Certification for Geogrids used in Reinforced Soil confirms compliance with IS 17373:2020, ensuring strength, durability, and safety measures for soil-reinforcement applications.
- The ISI Mark for Geogrids used in Reinforced Soil fosters confidence for government tenders and infrastructure projects.
- Diligence Certification assists manufacturers from testing to BIS license approval and renewal under IS 17373:2020.
Introduction
In 2024, a geosynthetics manufacturer, located in Pune, failed to win a significant National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) tender because their geogrid products did not have BIS Certification under IS 17373:2020.
The manufacturer conducted extensive quality tests for their geogrids, but the application was rejected. Remember, the tender specifically called for the ISI-marked geogrids to comply with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), Act, 2016. As is often the case and I’m sure for every geosynthetic manufacturer, the developer’s quality control process was followed, but their statutory compliance was absent.
BIS Certification not only indicates legal acceptance to manufacture and sell but also objectionable verification of structural inspection to national infrastructure projects.
Diligence Certification assists manufacturers through every area, product testing, filing documents, factory audit, and renewal for compliance under IS 17373:2020.
What is IS 17373:2020?
IS 17373:2020 is an Indian Standard stipulated by the Bureau of Indian standards (BIS), which is relevant to geogrids used in reinforced soil applications.
Geogrids are polymeric materials that comprise a grid-like structure, which serves to to reinforce soil structures, including retaining walls, embankments, and road foundations, to provide lateral stability and load distribution.
This Indian Standard is meant to specify requirements to ensure that geogrids meet minimum benchmarks for mechanical strength, durability, and environmental performance, to safeguard the long-term integrity of soil-structure interaction.
Key Technical Parameters of IS 17373:2020
1. Material Composition:
Geogrids must be manufactured from high-strength polymers such as polyester (PET), polypropylene (PP), or polyethylene (HDPE), ensuring resistance to biological and chemical degradation.
2. Tensile Strength and Junction Efficiency:
Each geogrid sample is tested for ultimate tensile strength, elongation at break, and junction efficiency, verifying load transfer capacity between ribs.
3. Aperture Geometry:
The opening size, shape, and alignment are critical for effective soil interlocking and load distribution; the standard defines tolerance limits for each.
4. Durability and Creep Resistance:
Geogrids must withstand long-term creep, UV exposure, and temperature variations without loss of structural properties.
5. Weathering and Chemical Resistance:
Tests evaluate the geogrid’s resistance to oxidation, acidic or alkaline soil, and hydrolysis, ensuring lifespan beyond 50 years in typical soil environments.
6. Marking and Identification:
Every certified product must bear the ISI mark, manufacturer’s name, code, and batch number for traceability and authenticity.
Why BIS Certification for Geogrids Used in Reinforced Soil is Essential
1. Legal Compliance under the BIS Act, 2016
Under Schedule of Compulsory Registration Orders, geogrids used in reinforced soil require mandatory certification as per IS 17373:2020.
Unlicensed manufacturing or sale can result in penalties or production suspension under Section 17 of the BIS Act.
2. Assurance of Structural Reliability
Certified geogrids undergo testing for tensile strength, creep, and junction efficiency, ensuring structural safety for critical projects like highways and retaining walls.
3. Tender and Market Eligibility
Government authorities like NHAI, PWD, CPWD, and Smart City Missions accept only ISI-marked geogrids. Without certification, manufacturers lose tender eligibility.
4. Brand Trust and Professional Credibility
The ISI mark builds confidence among engineers, contractors, and government buyers by signaling compliance with national standards.
5. Export and Global Acceptance
BIS-certified geogrids are recognized by many foreign clients as proof of Indian quality assurance, opening global trade opportunities.
Understanding the ISI Mark for Geogrids Used in Reinforced Soil
The ISI Mark acts as a symbol of safety, strength, and compliance. For geogrids under IS 17373:2020, it verifies that:
- The geogrid meets minimum tensile strength and junction efficiency parameters.
- The aperture geometry and alignment meet dimensional tolerances.
- Products show chemical and UV resistance during environmental testing.
- Each batch carries a unique license number (CM/L) traceable to the manufacturer.
Each ISI-marked roll can thus be traced from project site to production batch — ensuring total accountability.
Benefits of BIS Certification
| Benefit | Description |
| Legal Compliance | Mandatory under BIS Act, 2016 for soil reinforcement products |
| Tender Qualification | Required for NHAI, CPWD, and other infrastructure tenders |
| Structural Safety | Verified for tensile and creep resistance |
| Brand Credibility | Builds confidence among engineers and contractors |
| Export Recognition | Globally accepted as a mark of Indian quality |
| Market Access | Enables participation in government and private projects |
| Long-term Trust | Reflects adherence to consistent quality |
| Renewal Support | Simplifies compliance continuity |
Eligibility Criteria for BIS Certification
To obtain BIS Certification for Geogrids under IS 17373:2020, manufacturers must:
- Be a legally registered entity (Company/LLP/Proprietorship).
- Operate a production facility equipped with extrusion, weaving, or welding equipment.
- Maintain in-house test equipment or access to BIS-approved labs.
- Have qualified quality control personnel.
- Allow BIS factory audits and record inspections during licensing.
Step-by-Step BIS Certification Process
Step 1: Determine the Standard
Verify the product category to be IS 17373:2020 – Geogrids for Reinforced Soil.
Step 2: Application
Make an account on the BIS Manak Online Portal, and then submit details about the manufacturing, the list of testing facilities, and the location of the factory.
Step 3: Testing of Samples
The samples will be sent to a BIS accredited laboratory to perform testing (tensile strength, junction efficiency, aperture geometry, UV aging).
Step 4: Audit of Factory
BIS will send representatives to the plant to audit the manufacturing system, quality control programs, and raw materials traceability.
Step 5: License Grant
Upon successful inspection and test compliance, BIS issues a Certification Mark License (CM/L).
Step 6: License Validity & Renewal
- Initial validity: 2 years
- Renewal: Up to 5 years based on continued compliance and performance report
Documents Required for BIS Certification
| Category | Documents Required |
| Company Information | Incorporation Certificate, GST, Udyam/MSME Registration |
| Factory Setup | Layout Plan, Process Flow Diagram, Machinery Details |
| Testing & Quality Control | BIS-recognized Lab Report, Calibration Certificates |
| Production Records | Raw Material Source, In-house Test Results |
| Technical Data | Tensile & Creep Test Values, Chemical Resistance Reports |
Validity and Renewal
- Initial License Validity: 2 years
- Renewal Duration: Up to 5 years
- Renewal Process: Submit application with updated test reports and production data at least 3 months before expiry.
- Non-compliance Risk: Failure to renew may lead to license suspension or withdrawal.
Common Challenges Manufacturers Face
- Missing or incomplete documentation
- Product failing tensile or UV resistance tests
- Inconsistent in-house testing results
- Delays in BIS laboratory reports
- Misinterpretation of IS 17373:2020 clauses
- Lack of guidance during BIS inspections
Diligence Certification mitigates these issues through proactive compliance checks and technical documentation support before submission.
Cost of BIS Certification
| Cost Component | Description |
| Application Fee | Payable via BIS Manak Portal |
| Testing Charges | Based on number of parameters and lab category |
| Inspection Fee | For BIS official site visit |
| License Fee | Applicable per manufacturing unit |
| Renewal Fee | Payable every 2–5 years depending on validity |
Total cost depends on factory location, production capacity, and test scope.
Diligence Certification provides a transparent fee structure before filing the application.
Why Choose Diligence Certification
Diligence Certification is a leading BIS Certification Consultant in India specializing in geosynthetics, construction, and infrastructure materials.
Our Expertise
- End-to-end certification assistance — from product testing to license approval
- Experienced technical engineers familiar with IS 17373:2020 standards
- Fast-track documentation & audit scheduling
- Pan-India presence for manufacturers in industrial zones
- Dedicated renewal reminders to prevent license lapses
Conclusion
Obtaining BIS Certification for Geogrids used in Reinforced Soil (IS 17373:2020) is no longer optional — it’s a gateway to legal manufacturing, tender eligibility, and market credibility.
The ISI mark provides assurance that each roll of geogrid produced adheres to the world’s strictest standards for strength, durability, and safety published in India.
With Diligence Certification’s industry specialists guiding you, manufacturers can value-efficiently save time and money with a fully supportive service catering to every step, from testing and audit to license renewal, establishing a credible reputation in the rapidly evolving markets of India’s geotechnical and civil infrastructure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is BIS Certification for Geogrids?
BIS Certification is a certification from the Bureau of Indian Standards that states that geogrids are compliant with the quality and safety standards of IS 17373:2020.
Why is BIS Certification important?
BIS Certificates guarantee the quality of products being sold, requirement to comply with the law, and qualification for advertised government projects like NHAI and CPWD.
What does IS 17373:2020 consist of?
IS 17373:2020 consists of a list of performance requirements for geogrids that are used for soil reinforcement, including mechanical strength and durability.
Who needs BIS Certification for geogrids?
Everyone who manufactures or imports geogrids, which are to be used for the daily purpose of soil reinforcement in India, needs a BIS Certification.
What tests are performed in the process of attaining BIS Certification?
Testing requirements could include tensile strength, junction efficiency, creep resistance, and stability to UV rays.
What are the steps to apply for a BIS Certification?
The manufacturer must apply for a BIS certification through the BIS Manak Online Portal. Next, samples are submitted by the manufacturer for testing and examination. Additionally, a factory assessment must be conducted.
What is required when applying, in terms of documentation?
Documents to submit must include a Goods and Services Tax (GST) registration, Micro Small and Medium Enterprise (MSME) registration, a factory layout, a flowchart of the manufacturing process, and lab testing reports.
How long does a BIS license remain valid for?
The BIS license will remain valid for two years, however any manufacturer can apply for a renewal after 1 completed year for a duration of up to 5 years.
What are the main benefits to obtaining a BIS Certification?
The main benefits of obtaining a BIS licensing include legal approval to sell that product, better access to the marketplace, qualification for offers advertised by government project tenders, and consumer confidence that they are using approved products.
What is the market price to obtain a BIS Licensing?
The market price to obtain a BIS Licensing varies based on specific product type and required testing, as the total will include the cost to process the application, testing, and providing inspection to the facility.
