The Central Government has introduced the Boiler Accident Inquiry Rules, 2025 under the authority of the Boilers Act, 2025 (Act No. 12 of 2025) on September 10th, 2025. These Rules replace the earlier Boiler Accident Inquiry Rules, 2021, and provide a clear and detailed process for investigating boiler accidents, especially those causing fatalities. The Rules aim to improve safety, ensure transparency, and hold stakeholders accountable in boiler operations throughout India.
Purpose and Scope
The Boiler Accident Inquiry Rules, 2025, are enacted to regulate inquiries into boiler accidents or failures reported under Section 23(Report of Accident) of the Boilers Act, 2025. The Rules seek to:
- Protect human life,
- Reduce damage to property, and
- Prevent similar accidents in the future by establishing a proper investigation process.
Inquiry Procedure
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Preliminary Inquiry
When a boiler accident is reported, the Chief Inspector of Boilers must immediately conduct a preliminary inquiry in the state where the accident happened. The purpose is to collect essential facts about the incident. -
Accidents Involving Death
If the accident results in one or more deaths, the Chief Inspector must send a detailed preliminary report (Form A) to the Technical Adviser. The Central Government will then form an Inquiry Committee to conduct a full investigation. -
Formation of the Inquiry Committee
The Inquiry Committee must be formed within 15 days of receiving the accident report and will consist of:- Chairperson: Technical Adviser,
- Members: Chief Inspector or Director of Boilers, and
- A representative from the boiler manufacturing or user industry or the Central Boilers Board.
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Conduct of Inquiry
The committee will thoroughly examine the damaged boiler, including taking measurements, photographs, and sketches. It will investigate the cause of the accident, the nature of injuries or deaths, and the extent of property damage. The committee must complete its report and send recommendations to the Central Government within 45 days.
Once the report is accepted, the Technical Adviser forwards it to the Chief Inspector of the state, who will take necessary actions.
Use of Boiler After Accident
Boilers involved in fatal accidents must not be used until the inquiry is complete. After the inquiry, the Chief Inspector will decide whether the boiler can operate at the same pressure, reduced pressure, or only after repairs or modifications.
Comparative Table: Boiler Accident Inquiry Rules, 2021 vs Boiler Accident Inquiry Rules, 2025
| Aspect | Boiler Accident Inquiry Rules, 2021 | Boiler Accident Inquiry Rules, 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| Governing Act | Boilers Act, 1923 | Boilers Act, 2025 |
| Objective | To standardize accident investigations and ensure accountability | To modernize the inquiry process, improve safety enforcement, and close procedural gaps |
| Procedural Changes | Basic format for reporting and investigation steps | Revised forms, clearer instructions for inspectors, and enhanced documentation requirements |
| Trigger for Inquiry | Initiated upon report of an accident involving a boiler or component | Same as Rules, 2021, but extends scope slightly to cover associated systems |
| Handling of Fatal Accidents | Mandatory central-level inquiry for accidents resulting in death | Continues the same requirement with streamlined procedures |
| Inquiry Committee | Composed of Technical Adviser, Chief Inspector, and a manufacturer/user representative; others may be co-opted | Same structure, but with improved guidance on qualifications of co-opted members |
| Timelines for Inquiry | Committee to be set up within 15 days; report to be submitted within 45 days | Deadlines remain the same, but stricter enforcement mechanisms are introduced |
Conclusion
The Boiler Accident Inquiry Rules, 2025 provide a clear and effective legal framework for investigating boiler accidents. They enhance safety, ensure proper investigation of fatal incidents, and impose operational safeguards. All industries using boilers must comply with these Rules to protect life and property and uphold safety standards under the Boilers Act, 2025.
Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. The content of this article is not intended to create and receipt of it does not constitute any relationship. Readers should not act upon this information without seeking professional legal counsel.
