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- ISI Mark for Portland Pozzolana Cement under IS 1489 (Part 1):2015 assures quality, strength, and durability.
- Certification involves application, lab testing, factory audit, and BIS approval.
- ISI certification gives manufacturers government tender access and market credibility.
- Builders and consumers get crack-free and long-lasting construction assurance.
- Misuse of ISI Mark invites strict BIS penalties and licence cancellation.
Introduction
Portland Pozzolana Cement Part 1 (PPC) is perhaps the most common cement in India because of its cost, strength, and durability. The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) now requires that PPC used in construction must have obtained ISI Mark for Portland Pozzolana Cement as per IS 1489 (Part 1): 2015, to ensure strict quality standards for the PPC used in construction. The ISI mark attests that the PPC has been tested as per specifications such as fineness, compressive strength, setting time, pozzolana content, etc., and is safe to be used in residential, commercial or in infrastructure. There is no option of selling PPC in Indian markets, or using it in government projects without the ISI Mark.
What is BIS Certification for Portland Pozzolana Cement Part 1?
BIS Certification for Portland Pozzolana Cement (PPC) is a requirement quality certificate from the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) which allows manufacturers to utilize the ISI Mark. The ISI mark means the cement conforms to prescribed Indian quality and safety specifications.
Portland Pozzolana Cement must be tested and meet requirements. The testing includes, at a minimum, the following in accordance with the standard IS 1489 (Part 1): 2015:
- Fineness and percentage of pozzolana (15-35%)
- Compressive Strength at 3, 7, and 28 days
- Time of setting and limits of soundness
- Durability fit for spanning structural length use
For builders, contractors, and end-users, the ISI Mark means Portland Pozzolana Cement is trustworthy, durable, and safe for the construction work of all kinds.
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 and Benefits of BIS Certification
The cement is the heart of construction, whether it be a house, office or a massive project. If you have bad cement, your structure will undoubtedly suffer. This is also the reason why you should understand the importance of the BIS Certification Scheme for Portland Pozzolana Cement (PPC) under IS 1489 (Part 1): 2015. Once you see the ISI Mark you can be confident the cement was tested and found to be appropriate for use.
Why Is It Important
- Legally required in India: No PPC can be sold without the ISI Mark. This rule was set up to protect consumers.
- Quality assurance: BIS certification will certify that the PPC attained specified strengths, setting time and durability.
- Uniform standard & specification: An ISI Mark lets you know that regardless of whether your PPC is nacional or from fancy brand, it was manufactured under the same conditions as IS specification.
- Right perception of trust: The confidence of using ISI-marked PPC to build the dreams of customers is a big plus for consumers, especially in the case of government works, and for real estate projects while contractors and builders generally don’t take on projects that don’t specify; ISI-marked PPC.
- Safer buildings: together will certified cement – there are less chances of your building cracking, dampness or deterioration in a short-duration implied by builders / contractors
Benefits to Everyone
- Manufacturer:
- Can supply to government and big project where specification is demanded.
- Build trust among regional customers which could lead to a higher order/volumes.
- Helps build a solid upside brand image in the market.
- Can supply to government and big project where specification is demanded.
- Retailers & Dealers:
- Easier to sell because customers ask for ISI-marked cement.
- No tension of product returns or complaints.
- Easier to sell because customers ask for ISI-marked cement.
- Builders & Contractors:
- Confident that structures will be strong and long-lasting.
- Saves money by avoiding repair and rework later.
- Confident that structures will be strong and long-lasting.
- Homeowners:
- Peace of mind that their dream home will stand for years.
- Better resistance against moisture, sulphate, and weather effects.
- Peace of mind that their dream home will stand for years.
- Infrastructure Projects:
- Roads, bridges, and housing projects last longer with ISI-certified PPC.
- Helps in sustainable construction since PPC uses fly ash, which is eco-friendly.
- Roads, bridges, and housing projects last longer with ISI-certified PPC.
Why BIS ISI Certification Matters in Cement Industry
Unlike paints or finishes, cement failures are irreversible. Once cracks develop, fixing is costly and trust is lost.
- For Builders: Confidence in structural durability.
- For Cement Brands: Market entry and retail shelf visibility.
- For Consumers: Assurance of long-term safety.
Cement giants like ACC, Ultratech, and Shree Cement highlight their ISI Mark for Portland Pozzolana Cement prominently in marketing—because Indian buyers equate ISI with credibility.
BIS Certification Process for Portland Pozzolana Cement (PPC): Step-by-Step
The process for BIS certification depends on whether the cement is manufactured in India or outside India.
For Indian Manufacturers (ISI Mark Scheme)
- Identify IS Code & Product
- For PPC, the applicable standard is IS 1489 (Part 1): 2015.
- Decide the exact type and grade of cement you are producing.
- For PPC, the applicable standard is IS 1489 (Part 1): 2015.
- Apply on Manakonline Portal
- Fill out the BIS application form online.
- Submit details of the factory, production process, and product.
- Fill out the BIS application form online.
- Set Up Laboratory & Testing Facility
- Ensure your plant has the required testing equipment as per BIS norms.
- Lab should be capable of conducting routine quality checks.
- Ensure your plant has the required testing equipment as per BIS norms.
- Inspection by BIS Officer
- A BIS officer will visit your factory.
- They will check production facilities, quality control system, and lab setup.
- A BIS officer will visit your factory.
- Testing of Cement Samples
- Samples are taken during inspection.
- Tests are done in both your in-house lab and BIS-recognized third-party labs.
- Samples are taken during inspection.
- Submit Reports & Documents
- Provide all test reports along with quality management documents.
- Provide all test reports along with quality management documents.
- Grant of BIS License (ISI Mark)
- If everything is approved, BIS issues an ISI license.
- You can now use the ISI Mark on PPC cement bags.
- If everything is approved, BIS issues an ISI license.
For Foreign Manufacturers (FMCS Scheme)
- Appoint Authorized Indian Representative (AIR)
- A local Indian representative is mandatory to coordinate with BIS.
- A local Indian representative is mandatory to coordinate with BIS.
- Online Application Submission
- Apply on the BIS portal with details of the overseas factory.
- Apply on the BIS portal with details of the overseas factory.
- Pay Application & Audit Fees
- Fees include application charges, audit charges, and testing costs.
- Fees include application charges, audit charges, and testing costs.
- BIS Audit of Foreign Plant
- BIS officials travel to your country to inspect your cement plant.
- They check quality control, process, and infrastructure.
- BIS officials travel to your country to inspect your cement plant.
- Sample Testing in India
- Cement samples are sealed during the audit and sent to India.
- Testing is done at BIS-approved labs.
- Cement samples are sealed during the audit and sent to India.
- Evaluation of Reports
- BIS examines all lab results, audit findings, and compliance documents.
- BIS examines all lab results, audit findings, and compliance documents.
- Certification Grant
- After approval, BIS issues a license.
- You can mark your PPC bags with the ISI logo for sale in India.
- After approval, BIS issues a license.
Benefits of ISI Mark for Portland Pozzolana Cement
For Manufacturers
- Market eligibility in government tenders.
- Retail edge against non-ISI competitors.
- Brand reputation as “quality-first.”
For Distributors & Retailers
- Easy sales pitch to contractors and homeowners.
- Reduced product return risks.
For Builders & End-Users
- Long-term durability of structures.
- Protection against counterfeit/low-quality cement.
Common Challenges in ISI Mark Certification
- Inadequate lab setup in cement plants.
- Delays in documentation compliance.
- Misunderstanding of IS 1489 requirements.
With expert guidance, these hurdles can be overcome quickly. Many manufacturers lose months due to improper application filing—a mistake we prevent through a structured compliance checklist.
Documents Required for BIS ISI for PPC
- Factory incorporation certificate
- Quality control lab calibration reports
- Manufacturing process flow chart
- Raw material source approvals
- Test reports for compressive strength, fineness, and setting time
Cost & Timeline for ISI Certification
- Government Fees: As per BIS schedule
- Testing Charges: Based on cement type and quantity
- Consultancy Charges: Vary depending on scope
ISI Mark Printing on Cement Bags
Once certified, manufacturers must print:
- ISI Mark with licence number
- “IS 1489 (Part 1): 2015” standard reference
- Batch number, date, and net weight
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
Whatever you are, a builder in Delhi, a distributer in Patna, or a manufacturer in Gujarat, the ISI Mark for Portland Pozzolana Cement under IS 1489 (Part 1): 2015, is the ultimate mark of quality.
It builds trust with your clients, allows you to demonstrate you meet the regulatory requirements, and protects the enduring integrity of your business.
If you are a manufacturer or distributor of cement, work with Diligence Certifications for a smooth BIS’s approval process. Our national expertise means you won’t just get certified, you will be certified on time!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is IS 1489 (Part 1): 2015 important for PPC manufacturers?
Because it sets mandatory quality benchmarks for fineness, compressive strength, and pozzolana content. Without compliance, manufacturers cannot sell legally in India.
Can a non-ISI PPC cement be used in government projects?
No. Government contracts and institutional buyers only accept ISI-marked cement to ensure safety and durability.
How long is BIS ISI certification valid?
Typically, a BIS licence is granted for 2 years, after which it must be renewed with fresh testing and audits.
Does ISI Mark guarantee better strength than OPC?
Not necessarily higher, but consistent. PPC offers improved durability, lower heat hydration, and resistance to sulphate attacks compared to OPC.
What happens if a manufacturer misuses the ISI Mark?
BIS has strict penalties including cancellation of licence, financial penalties, and even prosecution for fraudulent use.
Is BIS Certification mandatory for PPC manufacturers in India?
Yes. BIS Certification is compulsory for all cement manufacturers in India. Without it, selling PPC in the market is illegal.
How long does it take to obtain BIS Certification for PPC?
It generally takes 4-6 weeks depending on the readiness of the factory, lab testing and the timing of BIS inspections.
Does BIS test every batch of PPC cement?
Not every batch. BIS conducts periodic inspections and testing, while manufacturers must maintain regular in-house quality checks as per the standard.
Does BIS certification help with exports of PPC cement?
Yes, many countries accept BIS certified cement as a guarantee of quality which can facilitate exports.
Who can apply for BIS Certification for PPC?
Only actual manufacturers (no traders) with a production unit in production and testing facilities can apply for BIS certification.
