Cement
Ordinary Portland Cement (33 Grade)
Strategic Recommendations for Ordinary Portland Cement (33 Grade)
- Engage Early with BIS & Labs
Apply for BIS certification for IS 269 well before enforcement deadlines. Conduct compressive strength, fineness, and setting time tests at BIS-recognized labs. - Partner with Compliance Experts
Work with ERA compliance specialists for BIS documentation, factory audit preparation, and ISI marking guidance. - Contact ERA Support Team
📧 cs@eraglobal.co.in | 📞 +91 9599296331 | 💬 WhatsApp
Assistance for BIS license application, certification maintenance, and export exemption approvals. - Track Notifications & Circulars
Subscribe to ERA Newsletter for real-time updates on Cement QCO, amendments, and BIS regulatory requirements related to OPC (33 Grade). - Do a Gap Assessment
Conduct a technical gap analysis comparing current cement production with IS 269 requirements for strength, setting time, and ISI marking compliance.
| Section | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Ordinary Portland Cement (33 Grade) |
| IS Standard | IS 269:2015 (latest revision) |
| Title of IS | Ordinary Portland Cement – Specification |
| Quality Control Order | Cement (Quality Control) Order, 2003 |
| Notification & Amendments | Notified via S.O. 191(E) dated 17 February 2003 |
| Final Enforcement Date | 17 February 2003 |
| Objective & Scope | To regulate the quality, strength, and performance of Ordinary Portland Cement (33 Grade), ensuring its safe use in general construction, infrastructure, and mass concreting where moderate strength is sufficient. |
| Products Covered | Ordinary Portland Cement (33 Grade), manufactured by grinding cement clinker with gypsum, suitable for brick/block work, plastering, low-rise buildings, rural infrastructure, and mass concreting applications. |
| Exemptions | Cement manufactured exclusively for export, subject to overseas buyer specifications and Central Government approval. Temporary exemption (up to 150 days) if BIS license application is under process. |
| Industries Impacted | Cement manufacturers, importers, distributors, and retailers; real estate & construction companies; rural development projects; infrastructure developers; public procurement agencies. |
| Mandatory Compliance | - Conformance to IS 269:2015 required - BIS license under Scheme-I (ISI mark) compulsory - ISI marking mandatory on bags & documents - Product testing in BIS-approved labs - Maintain test & production records. |
| Next Steps for Stakeholders | Apply for BIS license, conduct lab testing, ensure ISI mark printing, maintain compliance records, and obtain exemptions for export-only cement. |
| Legal Framework & Enforcement | Enforced under BIS Act, 1986 by BIS & Appropriate Authority (Under Secretary to GoI / GM-DIC). Officers empowered under CrPC, 1973 for inspection, seizure, and issuing binding directions. |
| Penalties for Non-Compliance | - Fine up to ₹2,00,000 for first offence - ₹5,000 per day for continuing offence - Imprisonment up to 2 years for major violations - Seizure/destruction of non-compliant cement - Suspension/cancellation of BIS license |
| Conclusion | OPC (33 Grade) under IS 269 is covered under the Cement QCO, 2003 and must be BIS-certified and ISI-marked before sale in India. Compliance ensures construction quality, consumer safety, and prevents circulation of substandard cement. |
| References / Annexures | - Cement (Quality Control) Order, 2003 – S.O. 191(E) [17 Feb 2003] - IS 269:2015 Standard - BIS Certification Guidelines (Scheme-I) |
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Notification
The product Portland Pozzolana Cement (PPC) – Fly Ash Based has been covered under the Cement (Quality Control) Order, 2003 through S.O. 191(E) dated 17 February 2003, issued by the Ministry of Commerce & Industry under the BIS Act, 1986.
Enforcement Timeline
The Cement QCO for PPC (Fly Ash Based) became effective on 17 February 2003 and remains in force.
Overview
Portland Pozzolana Cement (Fly Ash Based) is a blended cement made by inter-grinding Portland cement clinker with fly ash. It is known for improved workability, enhanced resistance to chemical attacks, reduced heat of hydration, and long-term durability.
Objective & Scope
The objective of including IS 1489 (Part 1):1991 under the Cement QCO is to ensure only standardized, durable, and sustainable cement is used in Indian infrastructure, especially in water-retaining, marine, and eco-conscious construction.
Products Covered
Portland Pozzolana Cement made with Portland cement clinker and fly ash, specifically used in general construction, hydraulic structures, marine works, pavements, and sustainable building projects.
Exemptions Provided
Cement manufactured solely for export is exempt if approved by the Central Government and if it complies with buyer’s or overseas standards. A temporary exemption (up to 150 days) may be granted while BIS license application is under process.
Industries Impacted
- Cement manufacturing and import sector
- Civil construction and real estate projects
- Infrastructure (roads, dams, reservoirs)
- Marine and coastal structures
- Eco-friendly/sustainable building initiatives
Mandatory Compliance Requirements
- All PPC (Fly Ash Based) must conform to IS 1489 (Part 1):1991
- BIS license under Scheme-I is compulsory
- ISI marking on packaging and invoices is mandatory
- Testing to be done in BIS-recognized labs
- Manufacturers must maintain production records and test reports
Next Steps for Stakeholders
Manufacturers and importers must obtain BIS licenses, ensure product testing, update packaging, and maintain compliance records. Exporters should secure exemption approvals where cement is exclusively for overseas markets.
Legal Provisions, Enforcement & Penalties
The Cement QCO is enforced under the BIS Act, 1986 by BIS and Appropriate Authorities empowered under CrPC, 1973. Penalties for non-compliance include:
- Fine up to ₹2,00,000 for first offence
- ₹5,000 per day for continuing offences
- Imprisonment up to 2 years for severe violations
- Seizure or destruction of non-conforming cement stock
- Suspension or cancellation of BIS license
Conclusion
From 7 October 2023, BIS certification under IS 17286:2019 is mandatory for all waterproof multipurpose rain ponchos sold, manufactured, or imported in India. This ensures consistent product quality, weather resistance, and reliability for defense, tactical, and outdoor use.
Ready to start your certification journey?
Let us help you navigate regulatory challenges and achieve certification with ease. Leave us your details, and we’ll get back to you—or request a free consultation today.