BIS Certification for Cement Sheets and Boards as per IS 459:1992, IS 2096:1992 and IS 2098:1997

Building materials play a crucial role in constructing safe and durable structures, ensuring the well-being of occupants and the longevity of buildings. In India, where diverse climatic conditions and environmental factors pose challenges to construction, adherence to stringent quality standards becomes imperative. Among various building materials used, asbestos cement products hold significance due to their strength, durability, and resistance to fire and adverse weather conditions. However, the use of asbestos cement necessitates adherence to safety protocols to mitigate health risks associated with asbestos exposure. In this article we shall delve into BIS certification as pet IS 459, IS 2096 and IS 2098 and role of Omegs QMS Pvt. Ltd in obtaining  the BIS certification .

INDIAN STANDARDS

IS 459:1992 CORRUGATED AND SEMI – CORRUGATED ASBESTOS CEMENT SHEETS

This standard covers corrugated and semi-corrugated asbestos cement sheets designed to provide structural weather exposed surfaces of roofs and building walls of industrial, residential, agricultural, commercial and institutional types of buildings and for decorative and other purposes. The products shall be composed of an inert aggregate consisting of clean asbestos fibre, including other suitable fibres, cemented together either by 33 grade ordinary Portland cement, rapid hardening Portland cement, Portland slag cement, Portland pozzolana cement or 43 grade ordinary Portland cement Pozzolanic materials, pigments and fillers which are compatible with asbestos cement may be added. The sheets may be left in their natural colour or colouring matter may be added in the composition. They may receive coloured or uncoloured coatings on their surfaces. Load Beariag Capacity, Impermeability, Frost Cracking, Density, depth of corrugation besides the dimensions are some of the requirements specified for IS 459.

IS 2096:1992 ASBESTOS CEMENT FLAT SHEETS

This standard lays down the requirements regarding composition, dimensions and tests of asbestos cement flat sheets (semi-compressed and fully compressed). Asbestos cement flat sheets shall be made from a thorough and homogeneous mixture of ordinary Portland cement, or rapid hardening Portland cement or Portland slag cement or Portland pozzolana cement and asbestos fibre to which other suitable fibres may be added. The sheets may be left in their natural colour or colouring matter may be added in the composition. They may receive coloured or uncoloured coating on their surface. Pigments which are embodied in asbestos cement for colouring purpose shall be of permanent colour. Asbestos cement flat sheets shall be classified in two types according to the value of minimum bending strength and density. Bending strength, Thickness,  Straightness and squareness of edges , Squareness of Edges and Density are some of the requirements specified in IS 2096

IS 2098:1997 ASBESTOS CEMENT BUILDING BOARDS

This standard specifies the requirements regarding composition, dimensions and tests of asbestos cement building boards. Asbestos cement flat sheets and silica asbestos cement flat sheets which are different, are not covered in this standard. Asbestos cement building boards shall be made from a thorough and homogenous mixture of ordinary Portland cement, grade 33 or ordinary Portland cement, grade 43 or ordinary Portland cement, grade 53 or rapid hardening Portland cement, Portland slag cement, Portland pozzolana cement and Asbestos fibre to which other suitable libres may be added. Pozzolanic materials, fillers and pigments which are compatible with Asbestos cement may be added. The boards may be left in their natural colour or colouring matter may be added in the composition. They may receive coloured or uncoloured coatings on their surface. Pigments which are embodied in Asbestos cement for colouring purposes shall be of permanent colour. Asbestos cement building boards shall be of three classes namely, Class A, Class B and Class C. Load Bearing Capacity Test, Thickness, Water Absorption Test and dimensions are some of the requirements specified in IS 2098.

QUALITY CONTROL ORDERS ISSUED

In addition to BIS standards, the government of India has issued Quality Control Orders (QCOs) to regulate the production and sale of asbestos cement products. These QCOs aim to safeguard public health and the environment by imposing restrictions on the use of hazardous substances, ensuring compliance with permissible limits of asbestos content, and mandating labeling requirements to inform consumers about product composition and usage guidelines.

The issuance of QCOs underscores the government’s commitment to promoting responsible manufacturing practices and safeguarding public health interests. By enforcing strict regulatory frameworks, QCOs contribute to the overall improvement of product quality, environmental sustainability, and occupational safety within the construction industry.

BIS CERTIFICATION SCHEME

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) plays a pivotal role in ensuring the safety and quality of asbestos cement products in India. BIS has formulated specific standards and regulations, such as IS 459 for corrugated and semi-corrugated asbestos cement sheets, IS 2096 for asbestos cement flat sheets, and IS 2098 for asbestos cement building boards. These standards delineate manufacturing processes, material specifications, and quality control measures to be adhered to by manufacturers.

Under the BIS certification scheme, manufacturers of asbestos cement products are required to obtain certification from BIS, indicating compliance with established standards. This certification serves as a hallmark of quality and safety, assuring consumers of the reliability and performance of the products. Compliance with BIS standards not only enhances consumer confidence but also facilitates market acceptance and regulatory compliance.

HOW DOES OMEGA QMS PVT LTD HELP ?

At Omega QMS Pvt Ltd, we operate at the forefront of regulatory compliance consulting, leveraging over two decades of unparalleled experience to support businesses across more than 40 countries. Through steadfast partnerships with esteemed Fortune 500 companies, we uphold our commitment to delivering exceptional services that ensure our clients meet rigorous regulatory standards within their industries.

Our dedicated team works hand in hand with clients, understanding their unique needs and challenges to provide tailored solutions that guarantee compliance with all pertinent regulations. We firmly believe that regulatory compliance transcends mere legal obligation; it is a cornerstone of ethical and responsible business conduct. By fostering a culture of integrity and diligence, we empower organizations to navigate complex regulatory landscapes with confidence and integrity.

At Omega QMS Pvt Ltd, our mission extends beyond mere compliance; it’s about fostering a culture of excellence and accountability that drives sustainable success in today’s dynamic business environment. Through our unwavering dedication to our clients’ success, we continue to set the benchmark for regulatory compliance consultancy worldwide.

In conclusion, the stringent regulatory framework governing asbestos cement products underscores the paramount importance of safety and quality assurance in the construction industry. With BIS standards, Quality Control Orders, and the indispensable support of consultancy firms like Omega QMS Pvt. Ltd., manufacturers can navigate regulatory complexities, uphold product integrity, and ensure consumer safety. By adhering to established standards and embracing best practices in quality management, stakeholders collectively contribute to building a safer, resilient, and sustainable built environment for generations to come.