The Central Government has issued the Boiler Attendants’ Rules, 2025, superseding the Boiler Attendants’ Rules, 2011. These rules govern the qualifications, certification, duties, examination, and conduct of boiler attendants across India. They aim to ensure that only qualified personnel are in charge of boilers, enhancing safety and standardising competency requirements.

The Rules cover the following key aspects:

• Definitions & Preliminary: Defines “Boiler Attendant,” “Committee,” “Chief Inspector,” and other terms. Includes that references to boilers include economisers.
• General Requirements: Owners must ensure that boilers are in charge of qualified boiler attendants. First class certificate holders may supervise boilers of any size; second class holders have limited scope. Certificates must be produced on demand, and owners must notify the Chief Inspector or Director of Boilers about certificate holders.
• Committee of Examiners: Constituted for each State/UT, chaired by the Chief Inspector/Director of Boilers. Responsible for conducting examinations, granting certificates, reviewing misconduct, and maintaining registers. Meetings, quorum, terms of office, and examiner fees are defined.
• Examination & Certificate: Two classes of certificates exist:
  • First Class: Supervises large boilers (up to 1000 m² heating surface) or multiple boilers in a battery.
  • Second Class: Supervises a single boiler (up to 200 m² heating surface) or a small battery of boilers (max 3 connected).
    Eligibility criteria include age, academic qualifications, and practical experience. Syllabus covers practical boiler operation, management, safety measures, maintenance, and economiser handling. First class syllabus includes additional knowledge of combustion, fuel economy, and auxiliary equipment. Examination includes oral and practical tests.
• Application & Testimonials: Applications are submitted in Form A with testimonials, photographs, and fees. False or doubtful testimonials may lead to disqualification or debarment, with opportunity to appeal.
• Certificate Validity & Duplicates: Certificates (Form B & C) are valid across India until age 65. Duplicate certificates may be issued on proof of loss, with original becoming invalid.
• Enquiry & Suspension: The District Magistrate or Chief Inspector may conduct enquiries into incompetence, misconduct, or negligence. Certificates may be suspended or cancelled following due procedure.
• Fees: Fees specified for examination, endorsement, and issuance of duplicate certificates.