Cement
Masonry Cement
Strategic Recommendations for Masonry Cement
- Engage Early with BIS & Labs
Apply for BIS certification for IS 3466 well in advance. Conduct testing for fineness, compressive strength, and setting time in BIS-recognized labs. - Partner with Compliance Experts
Collaborate with ERA compliance specialists for BIS application, product testing, and ISI marking guidance. - Contact ERA Support Team
📧 cs@eraglobal.co.in | 📞 +91 9599296331 | 💬 WhatsApp
Support for BIS licensing, certification renewals, and handling export exemptions. - Track Notifications & Circulars
Subscribe to ERA Newsletter for real-time updates on Cement QCO, 2003 and BIS amendments related to masonry cement. - Do a Gap Assessment
Carry out a technical gap analysis comparing current product specifications with IS 3466 requirements for strength, setting, and ISI marking compliance.
| Section | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Masonry Cement |
| IS Standard | IS 3466:1988 |
| Title of IS | Masonry 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 and ensure reliable performance of masonry cement used in construction, plastering, and mortar works by making BIS certification mandatory. |
| Products Covered | Masonry Cement, a specially blended cement including plasticizers/air-entraining agents, designed for brickwork, blockwork, plastering, and low-rise masonry structures requiring high workability and bonding. |
| Exemptions | Cement manufactured exclusively for export, subject to overseas buyer’s specifications and Central Government approval. Temporary exemption up to 150 days allowed if BIS license application is under process. |
| Industries Impacted | Cement manufacturers, importers, distributors, and retailers; construction & real estate; contractors; rural & urban housing projects; infrastructure developers. |
| Mandatory Compliance | - Must conform to IS 3466:1988 - BIS license under Scheme-I mandatory - ISI mark to be printed on each bag and invoice - Production and testing in BIS-recognized labs - Maintain proper records of quality tests |
| Next Steps for Stakeholders | Obtain BIS license, carry out lab tests, ensure ISI mark usage, maintain test records, and seek exemption approval if cement is meant only for export. |
| 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, sampling, and seizure. |
| 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 in severe cases - Seizure or destruction of non-conforming cement - Suspension or cancellation of BIS license |
| Conclusion | Masonry Cement under IS 3466 is strictly regulated under the Cement QCO, 2003. It must be BIS-certified and ISI-marked before sale in India to ensure quality, safety, and compliance in construction. |
| References / Annexures | - Cement (Quality Control) Order, 2003 – S.O. 191(E) - IS 3466:1988 Standard - BIS Certification Guidelines (Scheme-I) |
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.
Get in touch with us today
Notification
Masonry Cement is notified 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 Order came into effect on 17 February 2003, making BIS certification and ISI marking mandatory for all production, import, and sale of Masonry Cement.
Overview
Masonry Cement, as per IS 3466:1988, is a specialized cement designed for use in brickwork, blockwork, and plastering. It contains additives such as plasticizers or air-entraining agents that enhance adhesion, workability, and water retention, reducing cracking in mortar.
Objective & Scope
The inclusion of IS 3466 in the Cement QCO ensures consistent quality, safety, and durability of masonry works. It regulates the manufacture, import, storage, and sale of this cement in India, ensuring that only BIS-certified material is used in construction.
Products Covered
Masonry Cement – blended cement incorporating plasticizers or air-entraining agents, specially designed for:
- Brickwork and blockwork masonry
- Internal and external plastering
- Load-bearing walls and finishing mortars
- Low-rise infrastructure and non-structural construction
Exemptions Provided
- Cement manufactured exclusively for export, subject to overseas buyer specifications and Central Government approval.
- Temporary exemption (up to 150 days) for applicants with pending BIS license applications.
Industries Impacted
- Cement manufacturers and importers
- Building contractors and construction companies
- Distributors, retailers, and dealers
- Real estate and housing developers
- Public procurement agencies
Mandatory Compliance Requirements
- Conformance to IS 3466:1988 is compulsory.
- BIS license under Scheme-I (ISI mark) must be obtained.
- ISI mark must be printed on each cement bag and accompanying documents.
- Testing must be carried out in BIS-approved laboratories.
- Manufacturers must maintain detailed production and testing records.
Next Steps for Stakeholders
Manufacturers and importers must apply for BIS certification, conduct product testing, and ensure ISI marking. Dealers and distributors must only trade BIS-certified cement. Exporters must obtain exemption approvals from the Central Government.
Legal Provisions, Enforcement & Penalties
Enforcement is carried out under the BIS Act, 1986 by designated authorities with powers under CrPC, 1973. Authorized officers may inspect premises, seize non-conforming cement, and issue directions. Penalties include:
- Fine up to ₹2,00,000 for first offence
- ₹5,000 per day for continued offence
- Imprisonment up to 2 years in serious violations
- Seizure or destruction of non-conforming stock
- Suspension or cancellation of BIS license
Conclusion
Masonry Cement under IS 3466 is a regulated product under the Cement (Quality Control) Order, 2003. It cannot be manufactured, imported, or sold in India without BIS certification and ISI marking. This ensures reliable quality in masonry applications, enhances construction safety, and prevents circulation of substandard cement.
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.