What is BIS Certification for Safety Footwear (IS 15298: Part 2–2016) And Its Process

Introduction

In today’s industrial landscape, ensuring the safety of workers is of paramount importance. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) plays a crucial role in safeguarding workers, and one essential component of PPE is safety footwear. To ensure the quality and effectiveness of safety footwear, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has formulated a certification process under the IS 15298 (Part 2):2016 standard. This blog aims to provide insights into the Bis Certification For Personal Protective Equipment Safety Footwear on the certification process.

BIS Certification for Safety Footwear — IS 15298 (Part 2):2016

The IS 15298 (Part 2):2016 standard focuses specifically on the safety performance requirements for safety footwear. It establishes the criteria that safety footwear must meet to provide protection to the wearer’s feet from potential workplace hazards. The BIS certification ensures that the safety footwear is designed, manufactured, and tested according to stringent safety standards, ensuring the well-being of workers.

Key Requirements for Safety Footwear Certification

1. Impact Resistance: Safety footwear must be capable of withstanding the impact of heavy objects or machinery falling on the foot, reducing the risk of injury.
2. Compression Resistance: It is crucial that safety footwear can endure compression forces, guarding against potential crushing hazards in the workplace.
3. Sole Strength: The sole of safety footwear needs to be robust enough to protect against punctures, reducing the risk of injury from sharp objects.
4. Slip Resistance: Safety footwear should have appropriate slip-resistant properties to prevent slips and falls, especially in slippery or wet conditions.
5. Electrical Resistance: For workers in electrical environments, safety footwear should provide protection against electrical hazards.
6. Sole Adhesion: The bonding of the sole to the upper part of the footwear should be strong, ensuring durability and longevity.

BIS Certification Process

1. Application Submission: The manufacturer applies for BIS certification by submitting an application along with the required documents.
2. Testing: The safety footwear is subjected to various tests to assess its compliance with the IS 15298 (Part 2):2016 standard.
3. Sample Submission: Samples of safety footwear are provided for testing at BIS-approved laboratories.
4. Evaluation: The samples undergo comprehensive evaluation and testing, including impact resistance, compression resistance, slip resistance, and other relevant parameters.
5. Factory Inspection: BIS representatives conduct an inspection of the manufacturing facility to ensure compliance with quality control and production processes.
6. Certification Issuance: Once the safety footwear passes all tests and inspections, BIS certification is granted, allowing the manufacturer to display the ISI mark on their products.

Benefits of BIS Certification for Safety Footwear

1. Enhanced Safety: BIS-certified safety footwear ensures a higher level of protection for workers, reducing the risk of workplace injuries.
2. Compliance: Manufacturers who obtain BIS certification demonstrate their commitment to adhering to national safety standards.
3. Consumer Confidence: The ISI mark on safety footwear instills confidence in consumers, assuring them of the product’s quality and safety.
4. Market Access: BIS certification opens doors to wider market opportunities, both domestically and internationally, as safety standards are globally recognized.

Conclusion

In a world where worker safety is paramount, BIS certification for safety footwear holds significant value. The IS 15298 (Part 2):2016 standard outlines stringent requirements that ensure safety footwear provides effective protection against workplace hazards. By following the BIS certification process, manufacturers not only ensure compliance with national standards but also enhance their products’ credibility in the market. As industries continue to prioritize the well-being of workers, BIS-certified safety footwear becomes an indispensable component of workplace safety measures.