- Obtaining the BIS Certification for Shallow Corrugated Asbestos Cement Sheets states compliance and suitability with IS 13008:1990, which demonstrates products’ safety, durability, and performance.
- The ISI Mark actually gives credibility in the market as well as confidence to consumers for manufacturers of asbestos cement sheets.
- Manufacturers can always obtain BIS certification for Asbestos Cement Sheet products, under the BIS Registration Scheme, with support from a BIS Certification Consultant, who can uniquely assist with the whole process of testing, paperwork and approval.
Introduction
In 2024, a sheet manufacturer in Tamil Nadu experienced a financial impact when their shipment of shallow corrugated asbestos cement sheets was rejected by a government procurement agency because it lacked a genuine ISI Mark under IS 13008:1990.
While the product was well-made, missing the BIS Certification was a loss of money and a slowdown in their supply commitment.
After being counseled by a BIS Certification Consultant, the manufacturer successfully completed testing, submitted compliance paperwork, and received their BIS License within 45 days. This approval reinstated their supply contract, and also strengthened the confidence of their brand with dealers and builders.
This case serves a very important point – in India, CONFORMITY TO BIS CERTIFICATION is not optional, it is mandatory safety and performance certification for asbestos-based roofing and corrugated sheets for construction being used over time
Overview of IS 13008:1990 Standard
The IS 13008:1990 standard, titled “Shallow Corrugated Asbestos Cement Sheets”, lays down the technical and quality requirements for the design, manufacture, and testing of these sheets used in roofing and cladding.
Developed by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), this specification covers parameters such as:
- Material composition and fibre ratio
- Dimensions, thickness, and corrugation depth
- Mechanical strength and load-bearing capacity
- Water absorption resistance
- Fire and weather resistance
The IS standard ensures that the sheets perform consistently under Indian climatic and construction conditions.
Why BIS Certification is Mandatory for Asbestos Cement Sheets
BIS Certification is mandatory for products that directly affect public safety and building integrity. Asbestos cement sheets, used in roofing, cladding, and industrial sheds, must comply with IS 13008:1990 to legally sell or distribute in India.
Key reasons for mandatory certification include:
- Structural Safety: To ensure load-bearing strength and durability in extreme weather.
- Consumer Protection: Guarantees users receive tested, standardised material.
- Legal Requirement: As per the Quality Control Order (QCO) issued under the Bureau of Indian Standards Act.
- Market Access: Without BIS approval, manufacturers cannot supply to government or large private construction projects.
The ISI Mark for Shallow Corrugated Asbestos Cement Sheets
The ISI Mark is the symbol of conformity to Indian Standards. For shallow corrugated asbestos cement sheets, the mark signifies that the product meets the quality benchmarks of IS 13008:1990.
When affixed on the product, the ISI Mark confirms that:
- The sheet is tested in a BIS-recognised laboratory.
- The manufacturing process follows a verified quality control system.
- Each batch undergoes routine inspection and compliance testing.
The mark also provides assurance to buyers, government authorities, and construction agencies about the product’s authenticity and performance consistency.
Process for Obtaining BIS Certification
Getting BIS Certification for asbestos cement sheets involves a structured process. A BIS Consultant can streamline these steps for faster approval.
Here’s a professional breakdown of the process:
Step 1 – Product Identification and Standard Selection
Identify the correct Indian Standard — IS 13008:1990 for shallow corrugated asbestos cement sheets.
Step 2 – Application Filing
Submit an online application via the BIS Manakonline portal, along with supporting documents like test reports, manufacturing details, and quality manuals.
Step 3 – Sample Testing
Samples are drawn from the production batch and sent to a BIS-recognised laboratory for testing according to IS 13008:1990.
Step 4 – Factory Audit (if applicable)
BIS officers inspect the manufacturing facility to verify equipment, process control, and internal testing systems.
Step 5 – Review and Grant of License
Once the test results and audit reports meet all conditions, BIS grants the ISI license, allowing the manufacturer to mark their product with the ISI symbol.
The process typically takes 30–60 days, depending on document readiness and test duration.

Documents Required for BIS Certification
Manufacturers applying for BIS Certification under IS 13008:1990 must prepare a complete set of technical and legal documents.
Mandatory documents include:
- Factory registration certificate or Udyam Aadhaar
- Product drawing and specification details
- Manufacturing process flow chart
- In-house test report (if available)
- Third-party test report (from BIS-recognised lab)
- Quality control manual
- Authorisation letter (if consultant or agent is applying)
- Trademark registration (if applicable)
Incomplete documentation is a leading cause of application delays or rejection, which is why most manufacturers choose to work with certified BIS consultants.
Testing Parameters under IS 13008:1990
Testing is the most crucial phase in obtaining BIS approval. Each sample must pass specific performance and quality tests under IS 13008:1990.
Main testing parameters include:
- Flexural Strength Test – Measures resistance to bending or breaking under load.
- Water Absorption Test – Ensures water resistance and long-term durability.
- Dimensional Accuracy – Checks thickness, width, and corrugation depth tolerance.
- Fire Resistance – Confirms the sheet’s ability to withstand heat and flame exposure.
- Weather Resistance – Verifies performance under sunlight, rain, and temperature variations.
Each test is conducted according to the BIS testing protocol in approved laboratories.
Timeline and Cost of BIS Certification
| Stage | Description |
| Application Submission | The manufacturer submits the BIS application along with product details, documents, and samples. |
| Product Testing | Samples are tested in a BIS-recognized laboratory as per IS 13008:1990 requirements. |
| Document Verification | BIS officials review all submitted documents to ensure accuracy and compliance. |
| Factory Inspection | A BIS officer may visit the manufacturing unit to verify production capability and quality control system. |
| Grant of License | Once all parameters are met, BIS issues the certification with a unique license number. |
| Timeline | The overall timeline depends on documentation, testing, and inspection readiness — generally completed within a reasonable duration. |
| Cost Factors | Cost varies with product type, testing needs, and factory location; includes application, testing, and license issuance charges. |
Validity and Renewal of BIS License
Once granted, the BIS Certification for shallow corrugated asbestos cement sheets is valid for two years.
Manufacturers can renew their license by submitting:
- Updated factory details
- Periodic test reports
- Renewal fee and self-declaration of compliance
Renewal can be completed online through the BIS portal. Continuous compliance helps maintain uninterrupted production and market access.
Common Challenges During BIS Certification
Some common issues faced by asbestos sheet manufacturers include:
- Misinterpretation of IS standards
- Incorrect lab selection
- Incomplete test samples
- Delay in audit scheduling
- Document mismatch during final review
Such challenges can be easily avoided with pre-assessment and consultant-led verification before filing.
Benefits of BIS Certification for Manufacturers
Securing BIS Certification for shallow corrugated asbestos cement sheets offers measurable business benefits:
- Market Legitimacy: Legal approval to sell and export across India.
- Consumer Confidence: ISI Mark enhances product credibility.
- Government Procurement Eligibility: BIS license is mandatory for public contracts.
- Reduced Rejection Risk: Tested and standardised products mean fewer complaints.
- Brand Reputation: Recognised compliance standards builds long-term trust.
Why Choose Diligence Certification?
Complete support is provided under Diligence Certification for BIS Certification of Shallow Corrugated Asbestos Cement Sheets according to IS 13008:1990. Everything from testing through documentation through BIS approval is managed at a flat fee without any hidden costs, ensuring you know all of your costs upfront. With our quick processing time, high approval rate, and all-in-one support, the process of BIS registration is streamlined and can be done efficiently and reliably for manufacturers.
Conclusion
The BIS Certification for Shallow Corrugated Asbestos Cement Sheets (IS 13008:1990) is not just a compliance formality — it’s a business necessity for every roofing sheet manufacturer in India.
Achieving certification ensures your products are safe, durable, and legally compliant, giving your brand the confidence to compete in regulated and government-backed projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Shallow Corrugated Asbestos Cement Sheets?
These sheets are designed for durability and strength, and they are essentially sheets for roofing and cladding made of asbestos.
Which BIS standard do these sheets have to comply with?
They have to comply with IS 13008:1990.
Is BIS Certification mandatory for these sheets?
Yes, it is mandatory under the BIS Quality Control Order.
What does the ISI Mark mean?
The ISI mark shows the sheet complies with the minimum safety and performance standards from the Government of India.
Who grants BIS Certification?
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) grants an applicant a license.
What is the usual approval time for BIS Certification?
Usually, the approval process takes 30-60 days.
What tests are performed on the sheets?
They test for flexural strength, water absorption, fire, and weather performance.
How long is the BIS Licence valid?
The BIS licence is valid for a period of two years, and can be renewed.
Can foreign companies apply for BIS Certificate?
Yes, they can apply for the certificate through an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR).
Who can help with the BIS approval?
Diligence Certification can assist with testing, documentation compliance, and approval.
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