Cement
Low Heat Portland Cement
Strategic Recommendations for Low Heat Portland Cement
- Engage Early with BIS & Labs
Apply for BIS certification for IS 12600:1989 well in advance. Conduct hydration heat tests, setting time, and strength development tests at BIS-approved labs. - Partner with Compliance Experts
Collaborate with ERA compliance specialists for documentation, product testing, ISI marking, and regulatory approvals. - Contact ERA Support Team
📧 cs@eraglobal.co.in | 📞 +91 9599296331 | 💬 WhatsApp
Assistance for BIS licensing, testing schedules, and export exemptions. - Track Notifications & Circulars
Subscribe to ERA Newsletter for updates on Cement QCO amendments and BIS certification requirements for IS 12600:1989. - Do a Gap Assessment
Compare current product specifications with IS 12600:1989 requirements for chemical composition, strength performance, and marking obligations before certification.
| Section | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Low Heat Portland Cement (LHPC) |
| IS Standard | IS 12600:1989 |
| Title of IS | Low Heat Portland 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 ensure quality, durability, and safety of cement used in mass concreting and large structures by mandating conformity with IS 12600:1989 |
| Products Covered | Low Heat Portland Cement designed to release less heat during hydration, suitable for mass concrete works such as dams, retaining walls, foundations, bridge piers, and other heavy civil structures. |
| Exemptions | Cement manufactured exclusively for export, subject to overseas buyer specifications and Central Government approval. Temporary exemption (up to 150 days) may be granted while BIS license application is pending. |
| Industries Impacted | Cement manufacturers, importers, dealers, distributors, infrastructure companies, construction contractors, dam & irrigation project developers, and power sector projects. |
| Mandatory Compliance | - Conformance to IS 12600:1989 specifications- BIS certification under Scheme-I mandatory- ISI mark must be displayed on packaging and documents- Testing in BIS-approved labs- Records of production and test reports to be maintained |
| Next Steps for Stakeholders | Apply for BIS license, conduct product testing, update packaging with ISI mark, verify stock compliance, and seek export exemption where applicable. |
| Legal Framework & Enforcement | Enforced under the BIS Act, 1986 by the Bureau of Indian Standards and Appropriate Authority (Under Secretary to GoI or GM, DIC). Authorized officers empowered under CrPC, 1973 for inspection, search, seizure, and issuing directions. |
| Penalties for Non-Compliance | - Fine up to ₹2,00,000 for first offence- Additional fine of ₹5,000 per day for continuing offence- Imprisonment up to 2 years for serious violations- Seizure or destruction of non-compliant stock- Suspension or cancellation of BIS license |
| Conclusion | Low Heat Portland Cement under IS 12600:1989 must be BIS certified and ISI marked before sale in India. This ensures safe application in large-scale concrete works and prevents structural risks caused by excessive heat of hydration. |
| References / Annexures | Cement (Quality Control) Order, 2003 – S.O. 191(E) [17 Feb 2003]- IS 12600:1989 Standard- BIS Certification Guidelines (Scheme-I) |
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Notification
The product Low Heat Portland Cement (LHPC) has been covered 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 Cement QCO for LHPC became effective on 17 February 2003 and continues to remain in force.
Overview
 Low Heat Portland Cement is formulated with reduced tricalcium aluminate (C₃A) and tricalcium silicate (C₃S) content to limit heat generation during hydration. It is ideal for mass concreting where thermal cracking due to heat buildup is a major concern.
Objective & Scope
 The objective is to ensure quality, strength, and durability of cement used in large-scale civil structures, thereby improving long-term performance and safety.
Products Covered
Low Heat Portland Cement with reduced tricalcium aluminate (C₃A) and tricalcium silicate (C₃S) content, specially formulated to release less heat during hydration. It is typically used in mass concrete works such as dams, large foundations, retaining walls, and water-retaining structures where thermal cracking must be minimized.
Exemptions Provided
 Cement manufactured exclusively for export is exempt if it complies with buyer specifications and has Central Government approval. Temporary exemption (up to 150 days) may be allowed if a BIS license application is under process
Industries Impacted
- Â Infrastructure developers, dam and irrigation projects, power plants, construction companies, cement manufacturers, and importers handling cement supply for mass concrete works.
Mandatory Compliance Requirements
- All LHPC must conform to IS 12600:1989.
- BIS license under Scheme-I is mandatory.
- ISI mark must be printed on packaging and invoices.
- Testing must be conducted in BIS-approved labs.
- Manufacturers must maintain test reports and production records.
Legal Provisions, Enforcement & Penalties
 Enforced under the BIS Act, 1986, through BIS and Appropriate Authorities with CrPC, 1973 powers. Non-compliance may result in:
- Fine up to ₹2,00,000 for first offence
- ₹5,000 per day for continuing violations
- Imprisonment up to 2 years
- Seizure or destruction of non-compliant cement
- Suspension or cancellation of BIS license
Conclusion
From 7 October 2023, BIS certification under IS 17286:2019 is mandatory for all waterproof multipurpose rain ponchos sold, manufactured, or imported in India. This ensures consistent product quality, weather resistance, and reliability for defense, tactical, and outdoor use.
Next Steps for Stakeholders
 Cement manufacturers and importers must obtain BIS licenses, ensure testing and certification, and update packaging with ISI marking. Exporters should apply for exemptions if cement is exclusively meant for international buyers.
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.