Why Welding rods and bare electrodes for gas shielded arc welding of structural steel needs BIS certification
Welding rods and bare electrodes for gas shielded arc welding of structural steel falls under the Steel Products category and is covered by IS 6419 (1996). Manufacturers and importers must obtain the ISI mark licence from the Bureau of Indian Standards before the product can be manufactured, imported, stored or sold in India. Selling a notified product without a valid BIS licence can lead to seizure of stock, marketplace delisting and penalties under the BIS Act, 2016.
Testing & costs
Sample testing for IS 6419 (1996) is currently available at 4 BIS-recognised laboratories across India. Reported test charges range from ₹18K – ₹26K (excluding GST), depending on the laboratory, the number of models/varieties and the tests included in the scope. Certko can help you pick a lab that balances cost, turnaround time and location.
Typical process
- Standard & scope check – confirm your exact product variant maps to IS 6419 (1996).
- Documentation – factory details, quality control records, test equipment list and trademark proof.
- Sample testing – testing at a BIS-recognised lab against every clause of the standard.
- Factory inspection – BIS officers audit the manufacturing site (for ISI mark licences).
- Grant of licence – on successful evaluation, the licence/registration is issued, typically within 12-20 weeks.
