Geo Textiles
Poly Vinyl Chloride (PVC) Geomembranes,
Strategic Recommendations for PVC Geomembranes
- Engage Early with BIS & Labs
Apply for BIS certification under IS 15909:2020 before 1 Jan 2024. Use only BIS-recognized labs for testing. - Partner with Compliance Experts
Collaborate with the ERA Compliance Team for certification, documentation, and ISI marking readiness. - Contact ERA Support Team
📧 cs@eraglobal.co.in | 📞 +91 9599296331 | 💬 WhatsApp
Assistance for licensing, lab testing coordination, and QCO compliance. - Track Notifications & Circulars
Subscribe to the ERA Newsletter to stay updated on Geo Textiles (QCO), 2022, amendments, enforcement orders, and BIS circulars. - Do a Gap Assessment
Verify product specifications and packaging for IS 15909:2020 compliance. Identify and upgrade non-compliant SKUs in advance.
| Section | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Poly Vinyl Chloride (PVC) Geomembranes |
| IS Standard | IS 15909:2020 |
| Title of IS | Poly Vinyl Chloride (PVC) Geomembranes — Specification (First Revision) |
| Quality Control Order | Geo Textiles (Quality Control) Order, 2022 |
| Notification & Amendments |
- Notified via S.O. 1706(E), dated 10 April 2023 - Amended via S.O. 2331(E), dated 24 May 2023 - Final enforcement via MoT Order dated 6 Oct 2023 |
| Final Enforcement Date | 1 January 2024 |
| Objective & Scope | To regulate the quality of PVC geomembranes used in containment and waterproofing by enforcing conformity to IS 15909:2020 |
| Products Covered | Flexible, impermeable PVC sheets used as geomembrane barriers in water management and environmental projects |
| Exemptions | Products manufactured solely for export are exempt from BIS certification and ISI marking. |
| Industries Impacted | Water Storage, Agriculture, Waste Management, Mining, Civil Engineering |
| Mandatory Compliance | BIS certification under Scheme–I of BIS Regulations; ISI mark required |
| Next Steps for Stakeholders | Apply for BIS license, conduct testing in BIS-recognized labs, ensure ISI mark before distribution |
| Legal Framework & Enforcement | Enforced under the BIS Act, 2016. BIS is the certifying and enforcement authority for this standard |
| Penalties for Non-Compliance | Penalties under BIS Act, 2016 may include:- Seizure of non-compliant goods- Cancellation of license- Fines or imprisonment up to 2 years |
| Conclusion | Certification ensures performance, quality, and environmental safety for all PVC geomembranes in India |
| References / Annexures |
- QCO: S.O. 1706(E) [10 Apr 2023] - Amendment: S.O. 2331(E) [24 May 2023] - Enforcement Order: MoT [6 Oct 2023] |
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Notification
Poly Vinyl Chloride (PVC) Geomembranes were brought under mandatory BIS certification via the Geo Textiles (Quality Control) Order, 2022. The QCO was notified through S.O. 1706(E), dated 10 April 2023, amended through S.O. 2331(E), dated 24 May 2023. Final enforcement from 1 January 2024 was confirmed in the Ministry of Textiles Order dated 6 October 2023.
Enforcement Timeline
The compliance obligation for this product becomes mandatory from 1 January 2024 for all manufacturers and importers selling in the Indian market.
Overview
PVC Geomembranes are flexible, synthetic liners made from polyvinyl chloride that provide a durable, waterproof barrier. These are widely used in applications requiring seepage control, containment of liquids, and protection against chemical or biological contamination. The Indian Standard IS 15909:2020 outlines performance requirements such as tensile strength, elongation, low-temperature flexibility, puncture resistance, and impermeability.
Objective & Scope
The standard ensures high-performance, durable geomembrane liners suitable for applications like reservoirs, waste containment, canals, ponds, and mining operations. It regulates material specifications, performance parameters, and quality assurance processes for all PVC geomembrane products sold in the Indian market.
Products Covered
The specification applies to PVC geomembranes in sheet or roll form. These are typically used for:
- Liquid containment (canals, reservoirs, farm ponds)
- Lining in landfill and hazardous waste sites
- Barriers in tunnels and irrigation systems
- Waterproofing and environmental protection
Exemptions Provided
As per the Geo Textiles QCO, products that are meant exclusively for export are exempted from the BIS certification and marking requirements.
Industries Impacted
- Agriculture & Irrigation – Pond lining, canal waterproofing
- Water Resource Management – Tank and reservoir lining
- Waste Management – Landfill containment liners
- Mining – Lining for leach pads and tailings containment
- Civil Engineering – Groundwater protection and tunnel waterproofing
Mandatory Compliance Requirements
All PVC geomembranes must:
- Conform to IS 15909:2020
- Be certified by BIS under Scheme–I of the BIS (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018
- Carry the BIS Standard Mark (ISI mark) before being sold, imported, or distributed in India
Next Steps for Stakeholders
- Submit application for BIS license with product details
- Conduct third-party testing in BIS-accredited labs
- Affix ISI mark only after successful certification
- Prepare for surveillance and inspection by BIS
Legal Provisions, Enforcement & Penalties
The regulation is implemented under the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016. The BIS is the designated certifying and enforcing authority for this product. Violations of the QCO are subject to legal penalties as prescribed in the Act. Entities that violate the provisions of the QCO may face:
- Seizure of non-compliant goods,
- Suspension or cancellation of BIS license, and
- Fines or imprisonment up to 2 years, or both, under the BIS Act, 2016.
Conclusion
As of 1 January 2024, PVC geomembranes used for waterproofing and containment must conform to IS 15909:2020 and carry BIS certification. This measure ensures consistent quality, environmental safety, and reliable performance across key infrastructure and environmental sectors. Stakeholders are advised to complete the licensing process promptly to maintain regulatory compliance and avoid penalties.
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.