Boilers Bill, 2024

The Boilers Bill, 2024 was introduced in the Rajya Sabha for consideration and was passed. It will now be moved for consideration in the Lok Sabha.

About the Bill

• This Bill aims to replace the old Boilers Act, 1923, a pre-constitution law, to ensure the safety of life and property in relation to boilers.
• It addresses the need for reviewing outdated provisions, and aligning the law with the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2023 which aims to decriminalize certain offenses.
• The existing Boilers Act was last amended in 2007, introducing third-party inspections, but further changes are necessary to improve its relevance and clarity.

Key Changes in the Boilers Bill, 2024:

• Simplification and Reorganization: The new Bill has been divided into six chapters, unlike the old Act which had no chapters, making it easier to understand.
  • Redundant provisions from the original 1923 Act have been removed, including applicability to feed-pipes and economizers, and a section on the applicability of the Act to the whole of India.
• Definitions and Clarifications: New definitions have been added, such as terms for "notification," "regulations," and "State Government." Some existing definitions have been updated for clarity, including those for "boiler components," "competent authority," and "inspecting authority."
• Decriminalization and Penalties: The Bill introduces decriminalization provisions in line with the Jan Vishwas (Amendment) Act. Some offenses, instead of leading to criminal prosecution, will now incur a penalty that is imposed through an executive mechanism (instead of court proceedings).
  • The Bill keeps criminal penalties for severe offenses, especially those that could lead to loss of life or property, but allows for penalties (rather than fines) for non-criminal offenses.
  • New provisions for appeals and adjudications (i.e., resolving disputes) have been added.
• Expanded Powers: The Bill grants more detailed powers to the Central Government, State Governments, and the Central Boilers Board to make rules and regulations. These powers have been clearly defined in the Bill.
  • It also allows for the removal of difficulties in implementing the new law over the next three years, and saves existing rules under the 1923 Act until new rules are framed.

Impact and Benefits:

• The reorganization into six chapters and clearer definitions will make the law easier to follow.
• The introduction of decriminalization provisions aligns the law with the goal of simplifying business processes and reducing legal burdens on the industry, especially for smaller businesses (like MSMEs).
• Enhanced safety measures ensure that boilers are operated and repaired only by qualified personnel, thus improving safety for those working with boilers.