- ISI-marked Portland Slag Cement ensures strong, durable concrete that resists cracks and chemical damage.
- It is mandatory for government and institutional projects, keeping construction legally compliant.
- Using certified PSC reduces long-term maintenance and repair costs thanks to predictable performance.
- Builders and contractors gain client trust and credibility by using ISI-marked cement.
- Expert consultants help manufacturers with documentation, testing, and BIS inspections for smooth certification.
Introduction
Portland Slag Cement (PSC) is a type of cement based on the blending of blast furnace slag and ordinary cement. If the PSC has the ISI Mark, then it has been tested and verified by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). ISI-marked PSC is reliable, durable, flexible while not cracking and has strength. Using it will ensure the building is safe for all users, and provides the builder and home owners peace of mind in knowing that the cement used is of the highest quality. The PSC will also have met all; the relevant laws and professional standards.
What is BIS Certification for Portland Slag Cement?
BIS Certification for Portland Slag Cement (PSC) indicates that the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has assessed and approved the cement. With the ISI Mark, it indicates that the cement will be of good quality, safe and long lasting. The certification means that the cement checked will comply with the standards provided in the respective IS code. The ISI certification is mandatory for government projects, and builds positive trust for builders when they use BISIS certified products.

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 for Portland Slag Cement:
- BIS certification ensures Portland Slag Cement is strong, durable, and safe, meeting Indian quality standards.
- Using ISI-marked PSC is mandatory for government and institutional projects, helping avoid fines or delays.
- Certified cement keeps long-term repair and maintenance costs down because it performs the same no matter the setting.
- Builders and contractors gain client trust and confidence through the use of high-quality ISI marked cement.
- Recognized expert consultants make the process of certification easier, walking the manufacturer through testing and documentation to Inspection by the Bureau of Indian Standards.
Eligibility Criteria for BIS Certification of Portland Slag Cement (PSC)
To get BIS Certification for Portland Slag Cement (PSC), a manufacturer has to meet some basic conditions. These conditions are given under IS 455:2015.
1. Applicant Must Be a Manufacturer
Only cement producers can apply. Dealers, suppliers, or traders are not allowed to take this certification.
2. Factory Location in India
The cement plant must be in India. BIS does not give licenses to companies without a production unit in the country.
3. Compliance with IS 455:2015
The cement produced should match all the quality standards such as strength, fineness, setting time, and chemical composition mentioned in IS 455:2015.
4. Proper Laboratory Setup
The factory should have its own testing laboratory with the required equipment and trained staff to check raw material, clinker, slag, and finished cement quality.
5. Quality Control System
There should be a proper system to maintain production quality. Records of test results and inspections must be kept.
6. BIS Inspection and Verification
BIS officials will visit the plant for checking the production process, testing system, and records before giving approval.
7. Payment of Prescribed Fees
The applicant has to pay the application fee, inspection fee, and annual license fee as required by BIS.
BIS Certification Process for Portland Slag Cement (PSC)
For Indian Manufacturers (ISI Mark Scheme)
- Identify IS Code & Cement Type
For PSC, submit application under IS 455:2015 (Portland Slag Cement).
- BIS Officer Inspection
BIS officer visits the plant to check the manufacturing process and laboratory setup.
- Testing (In-House + BIS Lab)
Cement samples are tested in the manufacturer’s lab and a BIS-recognized third-party lab.
- Reports and Documents
Provide test results, quality control records, and compliance documents.
- Submit Reports & Documents
All testing and compliance documents are submitted to BIS for review.
- Grant of License
After approval, BIS issues an ISI license, allowing use of the ISI mark on cement bags.
For Foreign Manufacturers (FMCS Scheme)
- Appoint Indian Representative (AIR)
Must have an official representative based in India.
- Apply with Factory Details
Submit online application with factory and product information.
- Pay Application & Audit Fees
Pay charges for audit, testing, and certification process.
- BIS Foreign Audit
BIS team visits the foreign manufacturing plant to verify production and quality.
- Sample Testing in India
Cement samples are sent to Indian BIS-recognized labs for testing.
- BIS Review
BIS examines all reports, documents, and compliance with IS 269.
- Certification Granted
Once approved, the manufacturer can use the BIS mark for selling OPC in India.

Documents Required for BIS Certification of Portland Slag Cement (PSC)
Here is a point-by-point list of documents needed for BIS certification of PSC:
- Application Form:
- Duly filled BIS application form (Form I or as specified by BIS)
- Details of the manufacturer, factory, and product category
- Factory Documents:
- Factory address proof and ownership documents
- Layout plan of the manufacturing unit
- List of machinery and equipment used in cement production
- Quality control lab details and personnel information
- Product Documents:
- Product specification sheet for Portland Slag Cement
- Test reports for cement samples (if available)
- Details of raw materials used, including slag and clinker source
- Legal and Business Documents:
- Company registration certificate (e.g., GST, Incorporation Certificate)
- Trade license or manufacturing license
- Environmental clearance or pollution control certificate (if applicable)
- Quality Control and Testing Documents:
- Standard operating procedures for production and quality control
- Calibration and maintenance records of laboratory equipment
- Record of in-house testing and batch-wise quality checks
- Previous Certifications (if any):
- Any earlier BIS certification or ISI license details
- International quality certificates (optional, if applicable)
Validity & Renewal of BIS License
- Initial license validity: 1 to 2 years
- Renewal Period: Up to 5 years with proof of continued IS compliance
- Surveillance Audits: Done at least once a year
Renewal requires:
- Updated documentation
- Payment of renewal fees
- Past surveillance audit outcomes
Common Challenges in BIS Cement Certification
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
Partnering with experienced consultants like Diligence Certifications can cut approval time by 40%.
The Costs of BIS Certification for Portland Slag Cement
BIS certification costs for Portland Slag 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 Portland Slag Cement (PSC) 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 PSC 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
Why is BIS Certification necessary for Portland Slag Cement?
BIS Certification is a guarantee that Portland Slag Cement satisfies the IS 455 standard, ensuring strength, durability, and safety of this material is used in construction projects.
What standard does BIS use to define Portland Slag Cement
Portland Slag Cement is defined under IS 455 specification, which guarantees quality, composition, and testing.
Can Portland Slag Cement be sold in India without BIS Certification?
No. If Portland Slag Cement does not posses BIS Certification, they cannot legally produced, imported, or sold in India.
What test are performed to obtain BIS Certification for Portland Slag Cement?
BIS will perform fineness, setting time, compressive strength, chemical composition, and durability tests.
Who issues BIS Certification for Portland Slag Cement companies?
There is an initial, followed by any future BIS Certifications issued by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) after an acceptable inspection of the manufacturer facilities, and testing of the certification product.
How long does a BIS Certification last for Portland Slag Cement?
A BIS Certification generally lasts for two years and must be renewed before the expiration date to continue producing Portland Slag Cement.
Is it necessary for Portland Slag Cement to have BIS Certification for importation?
Yes. A foreign manufacturer must have BIS Certification before exporting Portland Slag Cement to the India market.
What are the advantages for Portland Slag Cement manufacturers to have BIS Certification?
BIS Certification provides credibility in the market, compliance with government standards, give customers a sense of trust with the product purchase, and opens access for opportunities with government projects.
Does BIS Certification apply to both large and small Portland Slag Cement manufacturers?
Yes. All manufacturers, no matter how large or small, must comply with BIS Certification, if the intent is to sell Portland Slag Cement in India.
Will BIS Certification for Portland Slag Cement be transferable from one plant/unit to another?
No. Certification is for that particular unit, and cannot be transferred, even if the plants have the same owners.