IS 7956:1975 is the Indian Standard (BIS) for recommendations for selection of dairy floor finishes. This standard provides recommendations for the selection of suitable floor finishes for different areas within a dairy plant. It covers essential performance requirements like imperмеability, hygiene, slip resistance, and resistance to chemicals and thermal shock. The code guides users in choosing appropriate materials like tiles, stone, or resinous systems for specific zones such as milk processing halls, cold storage, and laboratories.
Recommendations for selection of dairy floor finishes
| Parameter | IS Value | International | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Recommended Floor Slope (General) | 1 in 40 to 1 in 60 (1.67% to 2.5%) | Minimum 1:100 (1%), with 1:80 (1.25%) preferred in wet areas. | AS 4674:2023 |
| Coving (Floor-to-Wall Joint) | Specifies 'rounded corners' but no mandatory radius dimension. | Must be coved with an internal radius of not less than 25 mm. | AS 4674:2023 |
| Recommended Finish for Milk Reception/Processing | Acid-resisting bricks or tiles. | Heavy-duty (6-9 mm) polyurethane (PU) concrete screed for superior thermal shock and chemical resistance. | Campden BRI Guideline No. 21 |
| Water Absorption (Vitreous Tiles) | Refers to IS 4457, which specifies a maximum of 2.0%. | Performance requirement: Floors shall be 'unable to absorb grease, food particles or water'. Material standard for tiles (ISO 13006 / EN 14411 Group BIa) is ≤ 0.5%. | AS 4674:2023 |
| Drainage Channel Material | Recommends cast iron or glazed stoneware. | Primarily stainless steel (Grade 304 or 316) for hygienic design and durability. | Campden BRI Guideline No. 21 |
| Joints in Tiled Floors | Recommends cement mortar or special acid-resisting cement for jointing. | Recommends high-performance, low-absorption grouts like epoxy or polyurethane grout; cementitious grouts are generally discouraged in wet process areas. | Campden BRI Guideline No. 21 |