Steel hammers serve as essential tools across multiple industries, ranging from construction and manufacturing to automotive work and home improvement. Quality assurance stands as a crucial requirement because these systems possess mechanical characteristics while serving safety-critical functions. The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) in India manages the regulation and certification of these tools through mandatory and voluntary programs to ensure compliance with relevant Indian Standards (IS).
This article serves as a thorough manual for acquiring the BIS certificate for steel hammers covering applicable standards certification procedures mandatory requirements documentation and FAQs.
What is BIS Certification?
BIS Certification is a product conformity scheme operated by the Bureau of Indian Standards, India’s national standards body under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs. It ensures that products meet the prescribed Indian Standards (IS) in terms of quality, performance, and safety.
BIS certification for pipe wrenches falls under the Compulsory Certification Scheme owing to safety implications and a Quality Control Order (QCO) notification issued by the government.
Read More: Introduction To Bureau Of Indian Standards
Is BIS Certification Mandatory for Steel Hammers?
Yes, BIS certification for steel hammers is mandatory in India under a Quality Control Order (QCO) issued by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT).
As per the QCO issued in 2021, several hand tools, including steel hammers, fall under mandatory BIS certification.
Applicable Indian Standard for Steel Hammers
| Product Name | Indian Standard | Title of Standard | Certification Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steel Hammers | IS 841:1983 | Specification for Claw Hammers and Cross Pein Hammers | Voluntary (ISI Mark) |
IS 841:1983 defines the requirements for steel hammers used for general purposes, including:
- Claw hammers
- Ball pein hammers
- Cross pein hammers
- Sledgehammers
Scope of IS 841:1983
IS 841:2001 outlines the following key parameters for steel hammers:
- Material requirements – High-carbon or alloy steel
- Hardness of striking surfaces
- Mass and dimensional tolerances
- Markings – Size, batch code, manufacturer’s name, ISI symbol
- Tests for quality assurance:
- Hardness test
- Mass measurement
- Drop test
- Handle pull-out test
- Impact test on striking face
Why is BIS Certification for Steel Hammers Important ?
Given their frequent use in mechanical and structural tasks, substandard steel hammers can cause accidents, injuries, or equipment damage. BIS certificate for Steel Hammers ensures:
- Product quality and durability
- Worker safety
- Compliance with Indian law
- Eligibility to manufacture, store, sell, import, or distribute steel hammers in India
- Market preference and export-readiness
Process For BIS Certification for Steel Hammers (ISI Mark Scheme)
Below we mentioned step-by-step process to obtain BIS certificate for Steel Hammers
Step 1: Identify Product and Standard
Ensure your product (e.g., claw hammer or sledgehammer) complies with IS 841:1983.
Step 2: BIS Portal Registration
Apply on the BIS Manakonline Portal using Form V and pay the application fee.
Step 3: Product Testing
Send samples of steel hammers to a BIS-recognized laboratory. Testing includes:
- Hardness test
- Mass and dimension check
- Drop/impact test
- Handle strength
Step 4: Factory Audit by BIS
A BIS officer will inspect:
- Production process
- Quality control measures
- Raw material traceability
- In-house lab setup
- Marking and packaging
Step 5: Grant of ISI License
After successful testing and audit clearance, the BIS issues a license to use the ISI mark with a license number on each unit/package.
Read More: Process for getting BIS for Certification
Documents Required for BIS Certification of Steel Hammers
Documents required for BIS Certificate for Steel Hammers:
| Document Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Company Incorporation Certificate | Proof of registration (GST, PAN, CIN) |
| Manufacturing Process Flow | Detailed process chart from raw material to finished product |
| Quality Control Documents | SOPs, testing protocols, inspection reports |
| In-house Testing Facilities | List of machinery and lab equipment |
| Product Drawings & Dimensions | Blueprints or technical drawings of the hammers |
| Raw Material Invoices | Proof of high-carbon or alloy steel use |
| Factory Layout | Map showing machinery, QC lab, storage, etc. |
| Test Reports | From BIS-recognized laboratories as per IS 841 |
| Authorized Person ID Proof | Aadhaar/Passport, Board Resolution if required |
Read More: Documents Required For BIS Registration
Cost Structure for BIS Certification of Steel Hammers
| Cost Head | Estimated Fee (INR) |
|---|---|
| Application Fee | ₹1,000 to ₹5,000 |
| Testing Charges | ₹15,000 to ₹40,000 (as per IS 841) |
| Factory Inspection Fee | ₹7,000 to ₹10,000 |
| Annual License Fee | ₹10,000 to ₹25,000 |
| Marking Fee | ₹0.30 to ₹2 per piece (depending on size) |
Note: Fees vary depending on product variants and production volume.
Marking Requirements under ISI Scheme
As per BIS guidelines, each steel hammer certified under IS 841:1983 must carry the following markings:
- ISI Mark
- Manufacturer’s identification symbol or name
- Batch number or date code
- Size/weight (e.g., 500g)
- IS Standard number (IS 841:1983)
Renewal and Surveillance
BIS grants licenses with an initial validity of 1 year, renewable based on compliance.
During the license period, BIS may:
- Conduct surprise inspections
- Collect market samples for re-testing
- Ask for updated test reports
Non-compliance can result in license suspension or cancellation.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
As per the BIS Act, 2016, manufacturing or selling steel hammers without BIS certification (after QCO notification) can lead to:
- Fines up to ₹2,00,000 or more
- Imprisonment (in case of repeated or serious violations)
- Product seizures and recall orders
Role of Consultants in BIS Certification
Hiring a BIS certification consultant for steel hammers helps in:
- Understanding exact scope under IS 841:1983
- Setting up in-house labs
- Preparing the correct documentation
- Pre-audit compliance check
- Testing coordination and license application filing
This reduces the risk of rejection and shortens the certification timeline.
How ELT Corporate Can Help You
At ELT Corporate, we specialise in providing end-to-end assistance for BIS certification of toothpaste, including
- Document preparation
- Lab coordination
- BIS portal submission
- Factory inspection support
- Liaison with BIS officials
Whether you are a domestic brand or a global exporter, we ensure fast-track BIS certification with complete legal compliance.
Get in touch with our experts today and simplify your certification journey!
Conclusion
With the mandatory BIS certification for steel hammers under IS 841:1983, manufacturers, importers, and distributors must comply to ensure lawful business operations. This certification assures the market of the product’s safety, mechanical strength, and usability.
Whether you are a large-scale hand tool manufacturer or a small business catering to local markets, obtaining the ISI mark is crucial for your brand’s credibility and survival in a regulated economy. Acting early not only avoids penalties but also provides a competitive edge.
What if I manufacture only a few hundred hammers per year?
Regardless of production volume, BIS certification is mandatory for all quantities unless specifically exempted.
Can imported hammers be sold without BIS certification?
No. Importers must obtain a BIS license under the FMCS scheme (Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme).
How long does it take to get BIS certification?
The timeline ranges from 30 to 90 days, depending on documentation, lab testing, and audit readiness.
