In a significant move towards improving industrial safety and regulatory oversight, the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry has notified the Boiler Accident Inquiry Rules, 2025, through G.S.R. 616(E) dated 10th September 2025. These rules come in the wake of the recently enacted Boilers Act, 2025 and supersede the previous Boiler Accident Inquiry Rules, 2021.
With boiler accidents posing serious risks to life, property, and industrial operations, the revised rules aim to streamline the inquiry process, enhance accountability, and ensure that incidents—especially those resulting in fatalities—are thoroughly investigated and addressed.
Key Features of the Boiler Accident Inquiry Rules, 2025
- Comprehensive Inquiry Mechanism
Upon receiving a report of an accident under Section 23 of the Boilers Act, a preliminary inquiry is to be conducted immediately by the Chief Inspector of the concerned state. If the accident results in any fatality, the Chief Inspector must submit a report using Form A to the Technical Adviser appointed by the Central Government.
- Central Government-Led Inquiries for Fatal Accidents
Going beyond preliminary inquiries, any accident involving death must also be investigated at the central level. The Central Government will constitute an Inquiry Committee within 15 days of receiving the report, and the inquiry must be completed within 45 days.
- Composition of the Inquiry Committee
The inquiry committee reflects a multidisciplinary approach:
- Technical Adviser – Chairperson
- Chief Inspector or Director of Boilers – Member
- Representative of a boiler manufacturer, user, or a member of the Central Boilers Board – Member
- The government may also co-opt independent experts if their involvement is deemed useful and they have no conflict of interest.
- Procedure and Reporting
The inquiry committee is required to:
- Examine the damaged parts, conduct measurements, take photographs, and gather all necessary evidence.
- Determine the cause of the accident, including the extent of damage, injuries, and deaths.
- Submit a detailed inquiry report to the Central Government.
- Once approved, the Technical Adviser forwards the report to the Chief Inspector of the state, who is responsible for implementing the recommended corrective actions.
- Restriction on Boiler Use Post-Accident
To ensure safety, any boiler involved in an accident resulting in death cannot be used until the inquiry is concluded. Based on the findings, the Chief Inspector will decide whether the boiler can resume operation, either at its original capacity or under altered conditions (e.g., lower pressure or post-repair).
A Step Towards Safer Industrial Operations
The Boiler Accident Inquiry Rules, 2025 mark a progressive step towards a safer industrial ecosystem. By strengthening the inquiry framework, introducing central oversight in fatal accidents, and formalizing timelines and responsibilities, these rules enhance both safety and transparency.
For industries reliant on boiler systems—such as power plants, chemical factories, and manufacturing units—compliance with the new rules is not optional. It is a matter of life, safety, and legal responsibility.
As India moves towards greater industrial growth, ensuring the safety of infrastructure and people must remain a top priority—and the new Boiler Accident Inquiry Rules are a step in that direction.