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IS 6070:1990 is the Indian Standard (BIS) for precast concrete manholes - specification. This standard specifies the requirements for materials, dimensions, manufacturing, finishing, and testing of precast concrete manholes. It covers the components like chamber sections, tapers, and cover slabs used in underground sewerage and drainage systems.
Covers requirements for precast concrete manholes including materials, dimensions, manufacture and testing.
Overview
Status
Current
Usage level
Frequently Used
Domain
Water Resources — Precast and Prefabricated Concrete
BIM-relevant code. See the BIM Hub for ISO 19650, IFC, and LOD/LOIN frameworks used alongside it.
Practical Notes
! Ensure proper handling during transportation and installation to avoid damaging the spigot and socket ends, which are critical for a watertight joint.
! Always verify the manufacturer's test certificates for proof load and hydrostatic tests before accepting the supply on site.
! The code provides dimensions for different manhole types (A, B, C); ensure the correct type is selected based on the depth and anticipated traffic loads as per project design.
Consolidated list per BIS. For the text of each amendment, refer to the BIS portal link above.
precast concretecementsteel reinforcement
International Equivalents
Similar International Standards
ASTM C478/C478M-23ASTM International, USA
HighCurrent
Standard Specification for Precast Reinforced Concrete Manhole Sections
Specifies design, materials, and manufacturing of precast reinforced concrete manhole sections.
BS EN 1917:2002BSI (UK) / CEN (Europe)
HighCurrent
Concrete manholes and inspection chambers, unreinforced, steel fibre and reinforced
Covers requirements for precast concrete manholes, including unreinforced and fibre-reinforced types.
AS 4198-1994Standards Australia, Australia
MediumCurrent
Precast concrete access chambers for sewerage
Details requirements for precast concrete access chambers specifically for sewerage applications.
Key Differences
≠IS 6070 specifies a minimum concrete grade of M20 (20 MPa), whereas ASTM C478 requires a minimum of 4000 psi (approx. 27.6 MPa), and EN 1917 uses performance-based strength classes often starting higher (e.g., C35/45).
≠The approach to reinforcement cover in IS 6070 is prescriptive (25 mm minimum), while modern standards like EN 1917 link cover requirements to environmental exposure classes, providing a more durability-focused design.
≠International standards like ASTM C478 provide more detailed specifications for flexible jointing systems and rubber gaskets (referencing ASTM C443), whereas IS 6070 is less prescriptive regarding joint materials and performance.
≠While both IS 6070 and ASTM C478 specify a three-edge bearing test for structural strength, the load requirements and failure criteria differ. ASTM C478 defines a specific 'D-load' cracking load based on diameter and wall thickness.
Key Similarities
≈All standards are fundamentally based on a modular system of precast concrete components (risers, cones, slabs) designed for vertical assembly to form a complete manhole structure.
≈All standards specify the use of Portland cement concrete and steel reinforcement as the primary materials of construction.
≈Core quality control tests are common across the standards, including concrete compressive strength testing, checks on dimensional tolerances, and some form of water tightness or absorption test.
≈All standards mandate clear marking on each precast section, typically including the manufacturer's identification, date of manufacture, and the standard to which it complies.
Parameter Comparison
Parameter
IS Value
International
Source
Minimum Concrete Compressive Strength
M20 Grade (20 N/mm² at 28 days)
4000 psi (approx. 27.6 MPa)
ASTM C478/C478M
Minimum Clear Cover to Reinforcement
25 mm
1 inch (25.4 mm) for interior/exterior surfaces
ASTM C478/C478M
Maximum Water Absorption (by mass)
10% after 10-minute boiling test
9% after 5-hour boiling test (as per ASTM C497)
ASTM C478/C478M
Minimum Wall Thickness (for 1200mm dia.)
100 mm
5 inches (127 mm)
ASTM C478/C478M
Hydrostatic Test Pressure Requirement
Head of 6 m of water (approx. 0.6 bar)
10 psi (approx. 0.7 bar or 7 m head) for 10 minutes
ASTM C478/C478M
Tolerance on Internal Diameter
± 5 mm
± 1% of the nominal diameter
ASTM C478/C478M
Joint Type
Spigot and socket type (materials not specified in detail)
Flexible watertight joints with rubber gaskets meeting ASTM C443
ASTM C478/C478M
⚠ Verify details from original standards before use
Key Values5
Quick Reference Values
Minimum grade of concreteM20
Minimum clear cover to reinforcement25 mm
Maximum water absorption6.5 percent by mass
Minimum hydrostatic test pressure0.075 N/mm² (equivalent to 7.5 m head of water)
Minimum proof load (Type A, 1200mm dia)158 kN/m
Tables & Referenced Sections
Key Tables
Table 1 - Dimensions of Manhole Components
Table 2 - Details of Reinforcement
Table 3 - Three-Edge Bearing Test - Minimum Proof Load