In a significant move to strengthen industrial safety and accountability, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, through the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), has notified the Boiler Accident Inquiry Rules, 2025, . These rules supersede the 2021 version and lay down a structured mechanism for the inquiry of boiler-related accidents across India.
The notification was issued in exercise of powers under the Boilers Act, 2025 (12 of 2025) and aims to streamline and formalize the process of accident investigation, especially those leading to fatalities.
🔍 Key Provisions of the Rules:
✅ 1. Immediate Effect:
The rules came into force immediately upon their publication in the Official Gazette.(SEPTEMBER 10TH,2025)
✅ 2. Preliminary State-Level Inquiry:
Upon any reported boiler accident, a preliminary inquiry must be carried out in the concerned state jurisdiction.
✅ 3. Reporting of Fatal Accidents:
If an accident leads to death, the Chief Inspector of the state must immediately submit a detailed report (Form A) to the Technical Adviser.
✅ 4. Central Inquiry for Fatal Accidents:
In cases of death, the Central Government is required to conduct an independent inquiry in addition to the state-level probe.
✅ 5. Inquiry Committee Formation:
A special inquiry committee must be formed within 15 days of receiving the fatal accident report. It will comprise:
- Technical Adviser (Chairperson)
- Chief Inspector or Director of Boilers
- Representative from boiler manufacturers/users or Board member
- Optional co-opted experts (with no conflict of interest)
✅ 6. Completion Timeline:
The inquiry must be completed within 45 days from the date the fatality report is received.
✅ 7. Inquiry Scope:
The committee will:
- Examine damaged components
- Take photos, sketches, or measurements
- Investigate cause, extent, and damages
- Report back to the Central Government
✅ 8. Boiler Usage Post-Accident:
If the accident results in death:
- The boiler cannot be used until the inquiry concludes.
- Post-inquiry, the Chief Inspector will decide on safe resumption, possibly at reduced pressure or after repairs.
🧾 Impact and Implications:
These rules mark a shift towards stricter safety enforcement in industries using boilers, ensuring accountability, timely investigation, and central oversight in case of serious accidents. It also addresses the gap in delayed or informal reporting of fatal boiler incidents.