What is the main purpose of IS 965?

It standardizes the equivalent metric units, dimensions, and drawing scales for construction works transitioning from or documented in imperial (FPS) units.

What is the recommended metric scale equivalent for 1/8 inch = 1 foot?

1:100 is typically adopted as the closest practical metric equivalent for general layout plans.

Are imperial dimensions still permitted in standard Indian construction contracts?

No, India officially adopted the metric system decades ago, and all modern BIS codes, CPWD specifications, and legal contracts strictly mandate SI (metric) units.

IS 965

: 1963

Equivalent Metric Units For Scales Dimensions And Quantities In General Construction Work

CurrentRareGuidelinesGeneral · Building Construction Practices incl. Painting, Varnishing

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This standard provides guidance on equivalent metric units, scales, dimensions, and quantities used in general construction work. It was historically introduced to assist engineers, architects, and quantity surveyors in standardizing the transition from the imperial (FPS) system to the metric system for civil engineering drawings, estimates, and measurements.

Equivalent Metric Units For Scales Dimensions And Quantities In General Construction Work

Quick Reference Values

1 Inch25.4 mm

1 Foot0.3048 m

1 Yard0.9144 m

1 Mile1.609 km

1 Square Foot0.0929 sq m

Practical Notes

This code is rarely used for new designs but is highly useful for heritage conservation, renovations, or interpreting legacy construction drawings and property deeds drafted before the full adoption of the metric system in India.

When converting drawing scales for modern CAD use, prefer rationalized metric scales (e.g., 1:50, 1:100) rather than exact mathematical equivalents of fractional imperial scales.