The Indian government has enacted the Boilers Act, 2025, a legislation aimed at enhancing the safety and standardization of boilers and boiler components across the country. The Act which was published on April 4, 2025, will come into force on future dates to be notified by the Central Government.
The new Act repeals the Boilers Act, 1923 and introduces regulations for manufacturing, inspection, repair, and operation of boilers.
Key Provisions of the Boilers Act, 2025
The Act applies to all boilers and boiler components, including those owned by the Central and State Governments, unless explicitly exempted. Exemptions include locomotive boilers belonging to railways, boilers in steam-propelled vessels, boilers under the control of the armed forces, and small sterilizers/disinfectors in hospitals.
The Central Government will establish a Central Boilers Board to oversee the implementation of the Act. State Governments will appoint Inspectors to enforce the Act within defined local limits.
Welders Certification
A competent authority, recognized through regulations, will grant certificates to welders working on boilers and boiler components. Welding work on boilers requires certified welders.
Manufacturing Standards
Boiler and component manufacturers must have specified design and construction facilities. Manufacturing requires a certificate for design and drawings, materials meeting regulations, and certified welders.
Manufacturers must engage inspecting authorities at specified stages. These inspectors will certify compliant designs and erections. Owners registering boilers must have erection inspections.
Boiler repairs require specified facilities, compliant materials, certified welders, and certified boiler repairers. Competent persons must approve repairs. Safety of workers inside boilers must be ensured.
Structural alterations require Chief Inspector authorization or supervision by a competent person. Repairs to steam-pipes and boiler components require specified procedure.
Boilers must be registered before use. Owners must apply for registration with specified documents. Inspectors will assess boilers, and Chief Inspectors will grant registration certificates. Boiler registration numbers must be permanently marked.
Certificates expire after a specified period, upon accidents, during unauthorized movement, or after unauthorized alterations/repairs. Certificates can also be terminated if the boiler is deemed dangerous.
Transfers between states must be reported. Owners must possess a certificate authorizing boiler use. Boilers must be operated within certified pressure limits and operators must hold proficiency certificates where required.
Inspectors can issue provisional orders pending Chief Inspector decisions. Structural alterations require Chief Inspector authorization or supervision by a competent person.
Impact and Significance
The Boilers Act, 2025, is expected to significantly improve boiler safety and operational standards in India. By implementing these regulations for manufacturing, inspection, repair, and operation, the government aims to minimize accidents and ensure the reliable and safe functioning of boilers across various industries. This legislation marks a crucial step in modernizing and strengthening the regulatory framework for boiler safety in the country.
