Boilers Bill, 2024 Introduced to Modernise Safety & Compliance
The Boilers Bill, 2024 was introduced in the Lok Sabha today by Union Minister for Commerce & Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal. It seeks to replace the century-old Boilers Act, 1923, bringing modernised regulations that prioritise safety, streamline compliance, and enhance ease of doing business. The Bill was passed by the Rajya Sabha on 4 December 2024 and will be sent for Presidential assent after approval from the Lok Sabha.
The new Bill aligns with current industry needs, ensuring clarity, improved enforcement, and updated safety protocols. Key highlights include:
Modernised legal framework: Provisions have been grouped into six chapters for better readability and clarity. Clear role definitions: Functions of the Central Government, State Governments, and the Central Boilers Board have been detailed to avoid ambiguity. Decriminalisation of minor offences: Out of seven offences, three have been decriminalised, replacing fines with executive penalties for non-criminal violations. Retaining penalties for safety violations: Four serious offences that may result in loss of life or property will continue to attract criminal penalties. Improved Ease of Doing Business (EoDB): The new provisions will particularly benefit MSMEs and industrial boiler users, removing obsolete compliance hurdles.
Additionally, the Bill mandates strict safety protocols by requiring that boiler repairs be carried out only by qualified professionals. The Government has reviewed pre-constitution laws to ensure their relevance and suitability, leading to the removal of redundant provisions.
The Boilers Act, 1923, was last amended in 2007, allowing third-party inspections for certification. However, following further review, the need arose for comprehensive reform to align with modern safety standards and the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2023. As a result, obsolete provisions have been removed, new definitions introduced, and existing ones refined for greater legal clarity.
This initiative marks a significant step forward in ensuring workplace safety, regulatory efficiency, and industrial growth
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