Ensuring Paper Quality: Understanding IS 1848 (Part 1):2018 and the Role of Omega QMS Pvt. Ltd. in BIS Certification

Komal17 July 2025

Introduction

In a world driven by documentation, writing and printing papers are fundamental to communication, education, and business. To ensure the quality, consistency, and environmental safety of such paper products in India, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) introduced and maintains IS 1848 (Part 1):2018 — the Indian Standard for writing and printing papers.

Omega QMS Pvt. Ltd., a trusted BIS consultant, plays a vital role in guiding manufacturers through the rigorous certification process under this standard, enabling them to produce BIS-compliant paper products.

What is IS 1848 (Part 1):2018?

IS 1848 (Part 1):2018 is the fifth revision of the Indian Standard that specifies the requirements, sampling methods, and testing protocols for various types of writing and printing papers. It covers the following varieties:

Account Book Paper
Azure Laid
Bond
Cream Laid and Cream Wove
Printing White / Coloured / Offset
Printing Maplitho
White Super Calendered
Typewriting Paper

Key Features:

Mechanical Pulp Restriction: Max 15% to ensure quality and durability.
Substance & Thickness Tolerances: Strict tolerances on mass and thickness.
Environmental Compliance: Optional ECO-Mark criteria for eco-friendly products.
Testing Methods: Includes standards like ISO 535, ISO 1924, IS 1060, and others for assessing tensile strength, brightness, opacity, tear resistance, smoothness, etc.

Importance of BIS Certification for Paper Manufacturers

BIS certification under IS 1848 ensures:

Product quality and standardization
Eligibility for government contracts and public sector supplies
Competitive advantage in both domestic and export markets
Credibility with consumers, especially with ECO-Mark labelling for sustainable production

Role of Omega QMS Pvt. Ltd. in BIS Certification

Omega QMS Pvt. Ltd. is a leading consultancy specializing in regulatory compliance and quality certification, including BIS certification. Here’s how they assist paper manufacturers:

Standard Interpretation & Gap Analysis

Omega QMS decodes the complex requirements of IS 1848 (Part 1):2018, performs audits of existing systems, and identifies compliance gaps.

Documentation Support

From preparing technical files to test reports and application forms, Omega ensures all documentation complies with BIS norms.

Lab Coordination & Product Testing

They liaise with BIS-recognized laboratories to get the required quality tests conducted, ensuring accurate and timely results.

Application Filing & Liaison

Omega QMS handles end-to-end coordination with BIS authorities, including application submission, inspection arrangements, and license follow-ups.

ECO-Mark Advisory

For manufacturers aiming at environmental certification, Omega assists in obtaining pollution control clearances and preparing additional documentation for the ECO-Mark.

Training & Continual Support

They provide training to internal teams on BIS requirements, ensuring sustained compliance even after certification.

Technical Overview of IS 1848 (Part 1):2018

Scope and Coverage

IS 1848 (Part 1) covers writing and printing papers used across commercial, governmental, and educational applications? It applies to:

Writing and printing white or coloured papers
Maplitho and offset printing grades
Typewriting and high-smoothness paper varieties

Physical and Chemical Properties

Mechanical Pulp:≤ 15%
Substance (GSM):± 2.5% average; ± 5% individual; minimum tolerance of ± 1.5 g/m²
Thickness:± 10% or ± 20 microns (whichever is less)
pH Value: Minimum 6.5 (hot extract)
Opacity:75% – 90% depending on grade
Tear Index: CD: 3.5–4.0, MD: 4.0–5.0 (mN.m²/g)
Tensile Index: CD: 17–25, MD: 25–40 (Nm/g)
Cobb Value: Max 25 g/m² (water absorptiveness)
Brightness: Min 75% – 90% for white grades
Smoothness: Max 280–350 ml/min (Bendtsen)
Double Fold (Endurance):10–15 minimum cycles
Gloss (Super Calendered):Minimum 15%

Environmental Considerations (ECO-Mark)

To qualify for BIS ECO-Mark:

Paper must be manufactured with at least 60% non-wood fiber pulp or 100% recycled paper
Factory must have pollution control clearance from relevant authorities
Packaging must be recyclable, reusable, or biodegradable
Must comply with the Water Act (1974), Air Act (1981), and Environment Protection Act (1986)

Marking & Packaging

Each ream/package must be marked with:
Paper type and grammage
Size and ream weight
Manufacturer’s details
BIS Standard Mark (if certified)
ECO-Mark criteria (if applicable)

Conclusion

IS 1848 (Part 1):2018 is a comprehensive standard that guarantees the quality, consistency, and environmental responsibility of writing and printing papers in India. With the expert support of Omega QMS Pvt. Ltd., paper manufacturers can efficiently navigate BIS certification, enabling them to build market trust, meet regulatory requirements, and lead in sustainable paper production.