India's booming infrastructure – from skyscrapers to metro rails – faces unique fire risks in dense, urban environments, making cable selection a critical safety factor. The IS 694 and IS 7098 standards, set by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), govern low- and medium-voltage cables, with a strong push towards Flame Retardant Low Smoke Halogen (FR-LSH) variants. Updated in recent revisions (IS 694:2010 reaffirmed 2020; IS 7098 Part 1:1988 with amendments), these ensure reliability up to 1100V and beyond. This guide explores why FR-LSH cables dominate Indian projects, covering essentials for engineers, contractors, and exporters in India's $30B+ cable market.

1. The Core Standards: IS 694 and IS 7098 Overview

IS 694:2010 specifies PVC-insulated unsheathed and sheathed cables/cords with rigid/flexible conductors for voltages up to 1100V, ideal for household and light industrial wiring. It covers single/multi-core designs, emphasizing insulation integrity and flexibility.
IS 7098 (Parts 1-3) focuses on cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) insulated PVC-sheathed cables: Part 1 for up to 1100V, Part 2 for 3.3-33kV, and Part 3 for 66-220kV. These offer superior thermal endurance (90°C continuous) for power distribution.
Both align with IEC 60227/60502 but incorporate Indian needs like fire performance. BIS certification (ISI mark) is mandatory, with 2025 updates enhancing low-smoke requirements.

2. Why Indian Projects Prefer FR-LSH Cables

FR-LSH (Flame Retardant Low Smoke Halogen) cables, compliant with IS 5831 and IS 10810 tests, are favored in Indian projects for their life-saving properties amid rising urban fires (over 25,000 annually). Unlike standard PVC, FR-LSH uses modified compounds to self-extinguish flames (IEC 60332-1), emit <20% smoke, and release <0.5% halogens – reducing toxicity and visibility hazards during evacuation. In high-rises and metros, where smoke inhalation causes 70% of fire deaths, FR-LSH ensures circuit integrity and faster firefighting. Mandated in public buildings (NBC 2016), they cut risks by 40%, aligning with India's green building push (IGBC). Costlier upfront but cheaper long-term via safety and compliance.

3. Cable Sizing and Circuit Requirements

Sizing under IS 694/IS 7098 follows ampacity tables, voltage drop (max 3-5%), and derating for 40°C ambient. FR-LSH variants maintain ratings; min 1.5 mm² for lighting. XLPE (IS 7098) excels in heat-prone areas.

4. Cable Colour Coding Standards

Per IS 694/IS 7098 and IS 732: Red (phase), black (neutral), green (earth). Multi-phase: Red (L1), yellow (L2), blue (L3). Full-length coloring mandatory; FR-LSH variants retain codes for easy identification.

5. Installation Practices and Safety Rules

Radial circuits (no rings), conduits for walls (<50 mm deep protected). 30 mA RCDs for sockets; TT/TN-S earthing. FR-LSH preferred in public spaces; 2025: Enhanced seismic/fire zoning in metros.

6. Fire Safety and Cable Performance

FR-LSH meets IS 10810 (flame retardance, smoke density <60%, acid gas <0.5%). Benefits: Limits spread, aids visibility, reduces toxicity – crucial in India's crowded buildings. XLPE (IS 7098) adds 90°C tolerance.

7. Ensuring IS 694 & IS 7098 Compliance in 2025

1. Select BIS-marked FR-LSH cables.
2. Test to IS 10810; install by licensed pros.
3. Verify: Insulation (>100 MΩ/km), RCD trips.
4. Issue compliance cert; inspect every 5 years.
5. Align with NBC for public projects.

8. Final Thoughts

IS 694 & IS 7098's FR-LSH preference safeguards India's urban pulse – curbing flames, smoke, and toxins for safer lives. In a nation of megacities, these cables aren't optional; they're essential. For sustainable growth, prioritize them in every project.

Need IS 694/IS 7098-compliant FR-LSH cables? Contact Henan Province Jianyun Cable Co., Ltd. for tailored solutions and quotes.