ISI Certification (BIS) for
General-Purpose Chairs and Stools IS 17632 in India
In India, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) plays a major role in regulating the quality and safety of products across industries. For manufacturers and suppliers of work chairs, compliance with Indian Standard IS 17631: 2022 is more than just a recommendation; it is a regulatory necessity. This standard specifies the requirements for work chairs, ensuring they meet key safety, durability, and ergonomic criteria. Achieving BIS certification for work chairs indicates a manufacturer’s commitment to quality and consumer safety.
Overview of Work Chairs BIS Certification
Work chairs are found in offices, educational institutions, and industrial establishments. The quality and design of the work chairs directly impact the comfort, health, and productivity of the users. BIS has developed the IS 17631 standard to specify the requirements for work chairs. This standard applies to fully assembled chairs as well as ready-to-assemble units, thereby covering the products in the market comprehensively.
BIS certification is a rigorous process that ensures work chairs meet the required standards. Manufacturers who want to be certified must put their products through a series of tests that evaluate various parameters, including design, dimensions, stability, and durability. Successful certification means the product meets the high standards set by BIS, which provides assurance to consumers and increases the manufacturer's credibility in the market.
BIS QCO (Quality Control Order) Update for Work Chair Furniture
The Furniture (Quality Control) Order, 2025, was published by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry on February 13, 2025. The order will come into effect on February 13, 2026, providing a twelve-month period from the date of publication for manufacturers and suppliers to ensure compliance.
The order mandates that all specified furniture products, including work chairs, must be manufactured in accordance with the applicable Indian Standards and certified by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). These products are required to carry the Standard Mark under a license granted by BIS as per Scheme-I of Schedule-II of the BIS (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018. Goods manufactured exclusively for export purposes are exempt from this order.
Specification for IS 17631:2022
The Indian Standard IS 17631 provides a comprehensive framework for the design, construction, and performance of work chairs. Key aspects covered under this standard include:
- Design and Workmanship: Chairs must be well crafted with smooth finishes and free from sharp edges or defects that could pose safety hazards.
- Dimensions: The standard specifies ergonomic dimensions to ensure user comfort and support, good posture and reduced risk of musculoskeletal problems.
- Materials: The frame, upholstery, and padding all must be made of high-quality materials that will last for a long time.
- Performance Requirements: Chairs must pass testing for stability, static and dynamic load-bearing capacity, and durability under repetitive use.
- Safety and Marking: Each chair shall be capable of bearing a load of up to 110 kg for at least 40 hours per week. Chairs must also have clear markings to identify ISI Mark.
Key highlights for IS 17631
The IS 17631:2022 standard emphasizes several critical factors to ensure the production of high-quality work chairs:
- Ergonomics: Chairs must support natural body posture, featuring adjustable components to accommodate various user preferences and needs.
- Durability: Materials and construction techniques should ensure that chairs withstand regular use without compromising structural integrity or appearance.
- Safety: Design considerations must prevent accidents, such as tipping or collapsing, and materials used should be free from harmful substances.
- Aesthetics: While functionality is paramount, the visual appeal of the chair is also considered, ensuring that designs align with contemporary tastes and preferences.
ISI Mark Certification Benefits for Work Chairs
Obtaining the ISI mark for work chairs offers numerous advantages:
- Consumer Trust: The ISI mark is a symbol of quality and safety, enhancing consumer confidence in the product.
- Market Access: BIS certification is mandatory for selling work chairs in India, ensuring legal compliance and access to the Indian market.
- Competitive Advantage: Certified products stand out in the marketplace, providing a competitive edge over non-certified alternatives.
- Risk Mitigation: Adherence to established standards reduces the likelihood of product failures, recalls, and associated liabilities.
Applicable Tests Parameters for Indian Standard 17631
To ensure compliance with IS 17631:2022, work chairs are subjected to a series of tests under BIS Scheme-I, including:
- Stability Test: Assesses the chair's ability to remain upright under various conditions, preventing tipping hazards.
- Static Load Test: evaluates the chair's capacity to withstand a specified load without structural failure.
- Durability Test: Simulates extended use by applying repetitive loads to assess long-term performance.
- Seat and Backrest Strength Test: Measures the robustness of the seat and backrest under load to ensure they can support users safely.
- Tilt Mechanism Test: Verifies the functionality and safety of any reclining or tilting features incorporated into the chair's design.
BIS Certification Process for Work Chairs IS 17631
The journey to obtaining BIS certification for work chairs involves several structured steps:
- Application Submission: Manufacturers initiate the process by submitting a detailed application to BIS, including product specifications, manufacturing processes, and quality control measures.
- Product Testing: Samples of the product are sent to BIS-recognized laboratories for rigorous testing as per IS 17631:2022 requirements.
- Factory Inspection: BIS officials conduct an on-site inspection of the manufacturing facility to evaluate production capabilities, quality control procedures, and compliance with standard regulations.
- Assessment and Report Review: Test results and factory inspection reports are reviewed by BIS to determine whether the product meets the certification criteria.
- Grant of License: Upon successful verification, BIS issues the certification license, allowing the manufacturer to use the ISI mark on the work chairs
- Surveillance and Renewal: BIS conducts periodic surveillance audits and product testing to ensure continued compliance with the standard. Manufacturers must renew their certification as per BIS regulations.
Check BIS Certification Process for Indian Manufacturers
Check BIS Certification Process for Foreign Manufacturers
Why Choose ERCS Private Limited?
ERCS Pvt Ltd is a trusted name in BIS certification consulting, offering end-to-end support for manufacturers seeking compliance with IS 17631:2022. Choosing BIS consultant for BIS certification of work chairs comes with several advantages:
Expert Guidance: Our team of experts navigates you through the complex certification process, minimizing delays and ensuring compliance.
End-to-End Support: From documentation and application filing to product testing and factory inspections, we manage the entire process efficiently.
Accredited Testing Facilities: We collaborate with BIS-approved laboratories to conduct required tests with accuracy and reliability.
Faster Certification Process: With our industry experience, we streamline procedures to help manufacturers obtain certification within the shortest possible timeframe.
Regulatory Updates: We keep manufacturers informed about any changes in BIS regulations and Quality Control Orders, ensuring continued compliance.
Is BIS applicable to work chair furniture in India?
Yes, BIS certification is mandatory for work chair furniture. Manufacturers must obtain the ISI mark, which signifies adherence to BIS norms. Non-compliance can lead to penalties, product bans, or recalls. BIS certification also boosts market credibility, provides a competitive edge, and allows participation in government tenders and bulk orders.
Why is a BIS Certificate Required for IS 17631?
It ensures safety, durability, and ergonomic compliance as per the Furniture (Quality Control) Order, 2023. The certification prevents product failures, legal penalties, and market restrictions while enhancing consumer trust and brand credibility. The ISI mark helps manufacturers gain a competitive edge and access government tenders.
Conclusion
BIS certification under IS 17631:2022 is crucial for work chair manufacturers aiming to sell their products in India. Compliance ensures product safety, durability, and adherence to quality standards. Manufacturers must undergo product testing, factory inspections, and periodic audits to obtain and maintain BIS certification. Partnering with expert consultants like ERCS Pvt Ltd can streamline the process, ensuring a hassle-free certification journey.
By obtaining BIS certification, manufacturers not only meet legal obligations but also enhance brand reputation, gain consumer trust, and access broader market opportunities. Investing in certification is a strategic step toward ensuring product excellence and long-term business success in the competitive furniture industry.
