InfraLensInfraLens
IS CodesIRCToolsSORHandbookQA/QCPMCFormatsCPHEEOMapsProjectsDCRRulesAbout Join Channel
Join
IS CodesIRCToolsSORHandbookQA/QCPMCFormatsCPHEEOMapsProjectsDCRDesign RulesBIMAbout Join WhatsApp Channel
InfraLensInfraLens
IS CodesIRCToolsSORHandbookQA/QCPMCFormatsCPHEEOMapsProjectsDCRRulesAbout Join Channel
Join
IS CodesIRCToolsSORHandbookQA/QCPMCFormatsCPHEEOMapsProjectsDCRDesign RulesBIMAbout Join WhatsApp Channel

IS 12867 : 1989PVC Handrail Covers - Specification

PDFGoogleCompareBIS Portal
Link points to Internet Archive / others. Not hosted by InfraLens. Details
ASTM D2287 · ASTM E84-23a · BS 6180
CurrentSpecializedSpecificationBIMArchitectural · Builder Hardware
PDFGoogleCompareBIS Portal
Link points to Internet Archive / others. Not hosted by InfraLens. Details
OverviewValues5InternationalTablesFAQ4Related

IS 12867:1989 is the Indian Standard (BIS) for pvc handrail covers - specification. This standard specifies the requirements for polyvinyl chloride (PVC) covers intended for use on handrails. It covers material composition, dimensions, physical properties, workmanship, and testing methods to ensure durability and proper fit.

PVC Handrail Covers - Specification

Overview

Status
Current
Usage level
Specialized
Domain
Architectural — Builder Hardware
Type
Specification
International equivalents
ASTM D2287-19 · ASTM International, USAASTM E84-23a · ASTM International, USABS 6180:2011 · BSI, United Kingdom
Typically used with
IS 2530IS 10151IS 7328
Also on InfraLens for IS 12867
5Key values1Tables4FAQs

BIM-relevant code. See the BIM Hub for ISO 19650, IFC, and LOD/LOIN frameworks used alongside it.

Practical Notes
! Ensure the profile of the PVC cover matches the metal handrail profile (e.g., for flat bar or round tube) for a snug fit.
! Slightly heating the PVC cover with a heat gun during installation can make it more pliable and easier to fit over the handrail securely.
! For outdoor applications, verify if the specified material includes UV stabilizers to prevent premature color fading and brittleness from sun exposure.
Frequently referenced clauses
Cl. 3MaterialCl. 4Dimensions and TolerancesCl. 5Workmanship and FinishCl. 6TestsCl. 8Marking
Pulled from IS 12867:1989. Browse the full clause & table index below in Tables & Referenced Sections.
pvcplastichandrail

International Equivalents

Similar International Standards
ASTM D2287-19ASTM International, USA
MediumCurrent
Standard Specification for Nonrigid Vinyl Chloride Polymer and Copolymer Molding and Extrusion Compounds
Specifies the raw material compound used to make flexible PVC products, not the finished handrail cover itself.
ASTM E84-23aASTM International, USA
LowCurrent
Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials
A key fire performance test method cited for interior finishes (including handrails) in North America, not a full product specification.
BS 6180:2011BSI, United Kingdom
LowCurrent
Barriers in and about buildings — Code of practice
Covers the design of the entire railing system; mentions materials but does not provide detailed specifications for a PVC cover component.
Key Differences
≠IS 12867 is a holistic product specification, defining material, dimensions, and performance in one document. International practice typically separates this into a raw material standard (e.g., ASTM D2287) and system-level performance requirements within building codes.
≠The flammability test in IS 12867 is a basic 'self-extinguishing' test, whereas international codes (e.g., IBC) mandate more rigorous, graded tests like ASTM E84, which determines Flame Spread and Smoke Developed indices.
≠IS 12867 is prescriptive about dimensions like minimum thickness (2.0 mm). International standards for handrails focus more on performance and ergonomic/accessibility requirements (e.g., graspability per ADA) for the final profile, leaving thickness to the manufacturer's design.
≠The Indian Standard includes specific chemical resistance tests against certain acids and alkalis, which are not universally specified for this product type in other regions, where general durability and cleanability are emphasized.
Key Similarities
≈Both the IS code and related international material standards (like ASTM D2287) are fundamentally based on flexible (plasticized) Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) as the core material.
≈Core physical properties such as Hardness (Durometer), Tensile Strength, and Elongation at Break are specified in both IS 12867 and comparable material standards like ASTM D2287, as they are critical for product durability.
≈Both the Indian and international approaches recognize the need for thermal stability. IS 12867 has a 'Resistance to Heat' test, while ASTM D2287 specifies limits on mass loss during heating.
≈All standards emphasize high-quality finish, requiring the product to be uniform in color and texture, and free from manufacturing defects such as cracks, blisters, and inclusions.
Parameter Comparison
ParameterIS ValueInternationalSource
Hardness (Shore A)85 ± 585 ± 5 (For a typical comparable grade, e.g., GP 4-85055)ASTM D2287
Tensile Strength (Minimum)14.0 MPa~13.8 MPa (2000 psi for Grade GP 4-85055)ASTM D2287
Elongation at Break (Minimum)200%250% (For Grade GP 4-85055)ASTM D2287
Specific Gravity1.20 to 1.451.32 to 1.42 (Typical range for a filled compound meeting grade requirements)ASTM D2287
FlammabilitySelf-extinguishing characteristicRequires specific classification (e.g., Class A/B) based on Flame Spread & Smoke Developed IndicesASTM E84 (as per building codes)
Resistance to Heat (Dimensional Change)Not more than 5% change in any directionNot directly equivalent; material stability is tested by mass loss on heating (e.g., <1.0% for some grades).ASTM D2287
Minimum Wall Thickness2.0 mmNot specified; depends on product design and performance requirements.N/A (Product design choice)
⚠ Verify details from original standards before use

Key Values5

Quick Reference Values
Minimum thickness1.5 mm
Shore D Hardness (min)75
Specific Gravity1.35 to 1.55
Heat Resistance Test Temperature120 ± 2 °C for 30 min
Impact strength at 0°CNo fracture when tested as per IS 8624

Tables & Referenced Sections

Key Tables
Table 1 - Dimensions of PVC Handrail Covers
Key Clauses
Clause 3 - Material
Clause 4 - Dimensions and Tolerances
Clause 5 - Workmanship and Finish
Clause 6 - Tests
Clause 8 - Marking

Related Resources on InfraLens

Cross-Referenced Codes
IS 2530:1963Methods of Sampling of Paints, Varnishes and ...
→
IS 10151:1982Methods of Test for Sealants for Joints in Ci...
→
IS 7328:2008High Alumina Cement
→

Frequently Asked Questions4

What is the primary material specified for the handrail covers?+
The covers shall be made from a compound based on polyvinyl chloride (PVC) resin. (Clause 3.1)
What is the minimum specified thickness for the PVC cover?+
The minimum thickness at any point shall not be less than 1.5 mm. (Clause 4.2)
How is the heat resistance of the cover tested?+
A sample is kept in an oven at 120 ± 2°C for 30 minutes; it should not show any signs of blisters or cracks. (Clause 6.4)
Are there requirements for color?+
The color of the handrail cover shall be uniform and as agreed to between the purchaser and the supplier. (Clause 5.2)

QA/QC Inspection Templates

📋
QA/QC templates coming soon for this code.
Browse all 300 templates →