Background
The Boiler Operation Rules, 2021 were notified under the Boilers Act, 1923 to ensure safe and efficient operation of boilers across India. These rules replaced the older Boiler Operation Engineer’s Rules, 2011 and streamlined the regulatory framework governing the appointment, qualification, and duties of Boiler Operation Engineers. They also prescribe clear responsibilities for boiler owners in terms of supervision, record-keeping, and reporting
Applicability
These rules apply to all industries, establishments, and organizations in India where boilers are installed and operated. They are particularly relevant to manufacturing, processing, energy, and heavy industries where boilers form an essential part of operations. Owners of single boilers, multiple boilers, or boiler batteries falling under the heating surface criteria must comply with these provisions.
Compliance requirement under the Rules
The owner of a single boiler or two or more boilers connected in a battery or of many separate individual boilers situated within a radius of fifty meters having a total heating surface exceeding one thousand square meters in any of the cases shall not use the same or permit the same to be used unless the boiler or boilers are placed in direct charge of a competent person having proficiency as a Boiler Operation Engineer.
Person who possess a certificate of proficiency as a Boiler Operation Engineer under the Boiler Operations Rules, 2021, shall only be deemed to be a fit and proper person to hold the charge of any boiler or boilers.
A person in-charge of a boiler or boilers for which a certificate of competency is required under boiler attendant rules, 2011 may be relieved of charge in any one day for not more than 2 periods, which when combined do not exceed 2 hours, in duration by a person holding a first class certificate of competency as an attendant.
The holder of a first class certificate of competency as a boiler attendant may with the consent in writing of the Chief Inspector or Director of Boilers, relieve a person holding a certificate of proficiency as a Boiler Operation Engineer for a period which may extend to 10 consecutive days which, in special circumstances, the Chief Inspector or Director of Boilers may extend to any length of time not exceeding 30 days at a time.
The owner of a boiler who engages any person to be in-charge thereof, shall within 7 days of such engagement furnish to the Chief Inspector or Director of Boilers with full particulars of such person including the serial number, date and place of issue of his certificate.
The owner of a boiler who engages any person to hold charge of such boiler, in the event of such person leaving his employment or in the event of the death of such person, report that fact within seven days to the Chief Inspector or Director of Boilers.
Penalty & Punishment
General Penalty under Boiler’s Act 1923: U/s 30: Any regulation or rule made under section 28 or section 29 may direct that a person contravening such regulation or rule shall be punishable, in the case of a first offence, with fine which may extend to one thousand rupees, and in the case of any subsequent offence, with fine which may extend to one lakh rupees
Conclusion
The Boiler Operation Rules, 2021 ensure that boilers are operated only by competent and certified personnel, thereby reducing risks of accidents, ensuring compliance with safety standards, and promoting efficient boiler operations. Proper engagement, supervision, and reporting obligations under these rules are crucial for organizational safety and legal compliance.
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