PVC sandals are more durable and robust than conventional rubber or leather footwear. However, their quality may vary as per the type of PVC compound used in their production. Since there is a great demand for PVC sandals in India, their standardization has become an absolute necessity. In the status quo, every PVC sandal manufacturer must abide by the BIS norms and hence register their products under ISI marking scheme. To qualify for this scheme, products must pass different tests as mentioned in IS 6721:1972. Read on to discover more about the BIS ISI certification for PVC sandals.
An Overview of Indian Standards IS 6721:1972
Indian Standards IS 6721:1972 pens down the quality, testing, and labeling requirements for PVC sandals manufactured via the injection molding[1] process. Fundamentally, the S 6721:1972 encompasses the two types of sandals:
- Type 1: One-part sandals
- Type 2: Two-part sandals
The PVC sandals should comprise a material as recommended by the standard. The final design of the sandal should align with the norms of IS 1638:1960.
General Requirements around the Type 1 and Type PVC Sandals
Type 1 PVC sandals should adhere to unibody construction achieved via injection moulding. On the contrary, the Type 1 PVC sandals must stick around parting design construction achieved via injection moulding. The PVC sandals must withstand burning, shrinkage, wrapping, and cold flow marks.
Mandatory Tests under BIS ISI Certification for PVC Sandals
The following are the tests to be performed by the BIS-certified lab to determine the overall quality of the PVC sandals:
- Relative Density Test
- Tensile Strength Test
- Hardness Test
- Tear Strength Test
- Volatility Test
- Elongation Test
- Test For Lead
The above tests should be performed in a well-equipped lab and as per the guidelines cited in the governing standard. The sole of each sandal must reflect the standard marking concerning the size, trademark, ISI, and manufacturer’s name.
Every sandal manufacturer must secure BIS registration to qualify for the ISI marking scheme. The BIS conducts a thorough examination of the production premises, testing capabilities, and quality control for possible non-conformity.
Documents Requirement for BIS ISI Certification for PVC Sandals
Following are the documents required for BIS ISI Certification for PVC Sandals:
- Production unit’s name and address
- Business legal documents such as MoA, Incorporation Certificate (COI), and partnership deed, whichever is available.
- Detailed flow chart concerning the manufacturing of sandals
- List of machinery and testing equipment in use
- List of calibration instruments
- Third-party lab report
- Layout plan of the factory
- Authorization letter enclosing the CEO’s signature declaring that the applicant in question has the authorization to deal with licensing requirements.
- Nomination details concerning the Indian agent if the applicant belongs to the overseas nation.
How to Secure BIS ISI Certification for PVC Sandals?
Listed below is the step-by-step process for securing a BIS ISI certification for PVC sandals
Step 1: Application Filing With BIS
Form V serves as a prescribed application for registering products under ISI marking scheme. The applicant must duly fill out the form and submit it to the BIS along with the mandatory document (mentioned below) and the applicable fee. The application fee will also comprise on-site vetting expenses. Please bear in mind that one application shall cover only one product type.
Step 2: On-Site Inspection of the Production Unit
As soon as the BIS came across the application and attested annexure, it will send its officials to the production facility for physical inspection. The inspection protocols also involve the collection of samples for which certification is required. During the visit, the officials will also scrutinize the manufacturing process and quality management system.
Step 3: Specimens testing and Report Generation
Collected samples will find their way to the BIS-accredited lab, which will test each sample for quality. Post conducting all the required tests, the lab pens down their finding in a test report. The notice of test report generation shall be shared with the applicant via registered contact details. The applicant, in response, should ensure the timely collection of the report and submit it to BIS as it adheres to limited validity.
Step 4: Issuance of BIS ISI Certification for PVC sandals
The lab report shall be scrutinized by the BIS for any possible error. If the authority fails to identify any loophole in the report, the grant of registration will come into effect. The grant of the certificate shall authorize the manufacturer to use the ISI marking on their products.
Is It Mandatory To Renew BIS ISI Certification For PVC Sandals?
Indeed it is! A BIS ISI Certification for PVC sandals or any other products comes with 1 year of validity. The renewal application should be attested by the practicing CA before submission.
What If Someone Misuses The ISI Marking?
BIS has penned down stringent penalties for the misuse of ISI marking. Those who allegedly commit such acts will be subjected to the following penalties:
- A monetary fine amounting to Rs 50000
- Jail term of one year
Conclusion
The compliance requirements for PVC sandal production in India are on the higher side. However, with apt planning and process, the manufacturer can easily abide by such requirements and keep producing quality products. In the legal context, the production and quality of PVC sandals are subjected to BIS guidelines which must be fulfilled without fail to avert penalties.
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