If you manage a factory in Maharashtra, two statutory certificates are non-negotiable: Form 11 for hoists and lifting machines, and Form 13 for pressure vessels. Failure to obtain and maintain these certificates is a criminal offence under the Factories Act, 1948.

Yet many factory managers are unclear about exactly what these forms cover, who can issue them, and what the inspection process involves. This guide answers all those questions.

What Is Form 11?

Form 11 is the Certificate of Examination of Hoist or Lift issued under Rule 65 of the Maharashtra Factories Rules, 1963, which implements Section 28 of the Factories Act, 1948.

It certifies that a hoist or lifting machine has been thoroughly examined by a Competent Person and is safe to operate at the specified Safe Working Load (SWL).

Equipment Covered by Form 11

Form 11 applies to all hoists and lifting machines used in a factory, including:

• Electric Overhead Travelling (EOT) cranes
• Jib cranes and pillar cranes
• Gantry cranes
• Chain pulley blocks and electric chain hoists
• Goods lifts and service lifts
• Hydraulic and pneumatic hoists
• Monorail hoists

How Often Is Form 11 Required?

Every hoist and lifting machine must be thoroughly examined at least once every 12 months. After any substantial alteration or repair, a fresh examination and Form 11 is required before the equipment is returned to service.

What Is Form 13?

Form 13 is the Certificate of Examination of Pressure Vessel issued under Rule 68 of the Maharashtra Factories Rules, 1963, implementing Section 31 of the Factories Act.

It certifies that a pressure vessel has been examined and is safe to operate at the specified Maximum Allowable Working Pressure (MAWP).

Equipment Covered by Form 13

Form 13 applies to all pressure vessels in a factory, including:

• Air receivers and compressed air vessels
• Steam boilers and steam receivers
• Hydraulic accumulators
• Process pressure vessels (reactors, heat exchangers, separators)
• Autoclaves
• Gas cylinders and manifolds (in some cases)

How Often Is Form 13 Required?

Pressure vessels must be examined at least once every 24 months (two years). However, if the vessel is used for a hazardous process or shows signs of deterioration, more frequent examination may be required.

Who Can Issue Form 11 and Form 13?

This is where many factory managers make a critical mistake. These certificates can only be issued by a Government-Approved Competent Person (GACP) — an engineer specifically authorized by the Directorate of Industrial Safety and Health (DISH), Maharashtra.

A GACP is not simply any engineer or any inspection company. The authorization is specific to:

• The individual engineer (not the company)
• The category of equipment (lifting machines, pressure vessels, or both)
• The state (Maharashtra authorization is not valid in other states)

Always verify that the person issuing your Form 11 or Form 13 holds a valid GACP authorization from DISH Maharashtra.

The Inspection Process

Pre-Inspection Preparation

Before the Competent Person arrives, the factory should:

1. Ensure the equipment is accessible and safe to inspect
2. Have the previous Form 11/13 and maintenance records available
3. Arrange for a qualified operator to demonstrate the equipment
4. Prepare test weights (for load testing of cranes)
5. Ensure the equipment has been cleaned and any covers removed for inspection

During the Inspection

The Competent Person will:

1. Review previous inspection records and maintenance history
2. Conduct a visual examination of all structural, mechanical, and electrical components
3. Perform non-destructive testing (NDT) if required (dye penetrant, ultrasonic, etc.)
4. Conduct a functional test under rated load
5. Verify safety devices (limit switches, overload protection, pressure relief valves)
6. Record all findings and deficiencies

After the Inspection

If the equipment passes inspection:

• The Competent Person issues the Form 11 or Form 13
• The certificate is valid for the specified period (12 months for Form 11, 24 months for Form 13)
• The factory must maintain the original certificate on site

If deficiencies are found:

• The equipment must be taken out of service
• Repairs must be completed by a qualified person
• A re-inspection is required before the certificate can be issued

Penalties for Non-Compliance

The Factories Act provides for serious penalties for non-compliance:

• First offence: Imprisonment up to 2 years, or fine up to ₹2 lakh, or both
• Continuing offence: Additional fine of ₹1,000 per day
• Accident resulting from non-compliance: Enhanced penalties and personal liability for the occupier and manager

In addition, the Factory Inspector has the power to:

• Issue a prohibition notice stopping use of the equipment
• Order the factory to be closed until compliance is achieved
• Refer the matter for prosecution

Maintaining Your Compliance Register

Every factory should maintain a Statutory Compliance Register that tracks:

• All equipment requiring Form 11 or Form 13
• Due dates for the next inspection
• Name and authorization number of the Competent Person
• Certificate numbers and validity periods

This register should be reviewed monthly by the factory manager and presented to the Factory Inspector during routine inspections.

Conclusion

Form 11 and Form 13 compliance is not optional — it is a legal obligation that protects your workers, your business, and your personal freedom. The cost of a proper statutory inspection is minimal compared to the consequences of non-compliance or, worse, an accident.

Maysar Services is authorized by DISH Maharashtra to conduct statutory inspections and issue Form 11 & Form 13 certificates for lifting equipment and pressure vessels. Contact us to schedule your next inspection or to discuss your compliance requirements.