Registration of Building Workers as Beneficiaries under BOCW Act

Registration of Building Workers as Beneficiaries under BOCW Act. The Building and Other Construction Workers (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) Act, commonly referred to as the BOCW Act, was introduced with the objective of protecting the rights and welfare of workers involved in the construction sector. The Act provides a structured process for the Registration of Building Workers as Beneficiaries under BOCW and offers a wide range of benefits to ensure their social security and improve their standard of living. This article provides a detailed explanation of the eligibility, registration procedure, documentation, and the benefits provided to construction workers upon successful registration as beneficiaries under the BOCW Act.
Eligibility Norms for Registration of Building Workers as Beneficiaries
To qualify for the Registration of Building Workers as Beneficiaries, the worker must meet specific age and work duration criteria. A person must be at least 18 years old and should not have completed 60 years of age at the time of application. Additionally, the worker must have been engaged in construction-related work for a minimum of 90 days during the previous 12 months. The eligibility criteria are in place to ensure that only active and genuine workers involved in construction activities receive the benefits. This duration requirement helps authorities verify the consistency and authenticity of the applicant's engagement in the construction sector.
The registration is not open to all types of laborers but is strictly limited to those who are associated with specific construction-related activities. These activities include but are not limited to:

Welding, plumbing, masonry, and electrical work.

Tunnel construction and road building.

Interior decoration and installation of lifts.

Painting, rock breaking, and stone grinding.

Work related to fire fighting system installation and machinery repairs.

Workers performing clerical or accounting duties at construction sites are also eligible. This inclusive list ensures that a broad category of labor involved in infrastructure development is protected under the Act.
List of Recognized Activities Under BOCW Registration
The BOCW Act specifically mentions several job roles that are recognized for registration under the scheme. Here are some of them, each explained in more detail:

Welding and Electrical Work: Involves high-risk tasks essential in structural development. These workers often deal with heavy equipment and dangerous materials.

Well Digging and Sediment Removal: Includes manual labor with significant physical strain, often in hazardous conditions.

Painting and Tiling: Required for finishing works and aesthetics of buildings and often exposes workers to chemicals.

Interior Decoration and Modular Kitchen Installation: Skilled tasks that form part of the final stages of construction.

Security Work at Construction Sites: Workers who guard construction sites are included to ensure complete coverage of on-site personnel.

Fire Fighting System Installation: Involves both technical and physical work, which is important for the safety of buildings.

By covering such a wide range of activities, the BOCW Act ensures that the majority of hands-on labor involved in the construction ecosystem receives social protection.
Common Benefits After Registration of Building Workers as Beneficiaries
Once a worker successfully completes the Registration of Building Workers as Beneficiaries under BOCW, they become eligible for a variety of benefits. These include:

Maternity Benefits: Women workers are eligible for financial assistance during maternity, ensuring income support during crucial periods.

Pension Payments: After a certain age or completion of years of work, workers may receive a pension to support their livelihood post-retirement.

Work-Related Tool Assistance: The Board may assist in the procurement of tools needed for the worker’s occupation.

Medical Help for Workplace Injuries: Immediate and prompt medical support is ensured in case a worker suffers from an accident at the workplace.

Credit Support for Home Construction: Workers can access loans or financial support to build or renovate their homes.

Education Assistance for Children: Financial support is provided to help workers educate their children and improve their future prospects.

Major Illness Medical Reimbursement: Expenses for treating critical illnesses are often covered or reimbursed by the Board.

Death and Funeral Benefits: In case of the unfortunate death of a registered worker, their families receive financial assistance for funeral rites and other support.

These benefits collectively aim to provide social security and support to workers and their families, contributing to their well-being and stability.
Procedure for Registration of Building Workers under BOCW Act
The process for Registration of Building Workers as Beneficiaries has been made user-friendly through digital portals developed by respective state governments. Here’s a step-by-step explanation:
Step 1: Visit the State BOCW Portal
The worker must first visit the official website of the State Building and Other Construction Workers Welfare Board. Each state maintains a dedicated portal where registration services are offered online. Usually, the application form is available in the ‘Service’ or ‘Worker Registration’ section.
Step 2: OTP-Based Aadhaar Verification
The next step involves identity verification through Aadhaar. The applicant must enter their Aadhaar number and the state or district where they are residing. An OTP (One-Time Password) is sent to the registered mobile number for verification. Once verified, the applicant is directed to the digital application form.
Step 3: Filling the E-Form and Uploading Documents
The digital form will ask for detailed personal, employment, and financial information. The applicant must fill all the fields carefully. Uploading scanned copies of the necessary documents in the required format is mandatory at this stage.
Step 4: Application Review and Certificate Generation
After submission, the application is forwarded to the authorities for review. They cross-verify the details and documents. Once the verification is successful and no discrepancies are found, a registration certificate is issued online. This certificate officially marks the worker as a beneficiary under the BOCW Act.
List of Documents Required for Registration
For the successful completion of Registration of Building Workers as Beneficiaries under BOCW, the following documents must be submitted:

Proof of Age: A birth certificate or school leaving certificate is ideal. If these are unavailable, a self-declaration may be submitted.

Address Proof: Any government-issued document like a ration card, electricity bill, or voter ID.

Aadhaar Card: Although optional in some states, Aadhaar is preferred due to its unique identification feature.

Bank Account Details: The applicant must submit their bank account number along with the IFSC code and name of the branch to receive benefits.

Employer’s Certificate: A document from the contractor or employer certifying that the applicant has worked for at least 90 days in the last 12 months.

Family Details: Information regarding family members and dependents.

Nomination Form: This helps determine who will receive benefits in case of the applicant’s demise.

What happens if a Registration Application is rejected?
If the application for Registration of Building Workers as Beneficiaries is rejected by the authority due to any error or insufficiency of documents, the applicant has the right to appeal. The appeal must be made to the Secretary of the Welfare Board or an officer nominated by the Board.
The appeal must be lodged within 30 days from the date the rejection order was passed. It is important to mention all valid points and submit any missing or corrected documentation along with the appeal. If the appeal is found genuine, the authorities may reconsider and approve the application.
Conclusion
The Registration of Building Workers as Beneficiaries under BOCW is an important step toward ensuring social and economic security for the unorganized workforce in the construction industry. The process is transparent, digital-friendly, and supports the inclusion of a wide range of workers. By registering under the BOCW Act, construction workers not only gain access to numerous welfare schemes but also receive recognition and protection under a statutory framework.
Workers and their families stand to benefit immensely from the timely registration under this Act. Anyone needing professional help to file for BOCW registration can approach Compliance Calendar LLP for end-to-end assistance.
Email: info@ccoffice.in
Call/Whatsapp: +91 9988424211
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Who is eligible to register as a beneficiary under the BOCW Act?
Ans. Construction workers aged between 18 and 60 years who have worked for at least 90 days in building or other construction work in the past 12 months are eligible to register under the BOCW Act.
Q3. What benefits can registered BOCW workers avail of?
Ans. Registered workers can access various welfare benefits, including maternity benefits, pension payments, medical assistance, tool procurement assistance, child education support, death and funeral benefits, and housing loans.
Q3. What documents are required for BOCW worker registration?
Ans. Key documents include age proof, address proof, Aadhaar card (if available), bank account details, family information, employer's certificate (proving 90 days of work), and a nomination form.
Q4. How can a construction worker register under the BOCW Act?
Ans. Workers can register through the official State BOCW Welfare Board portal by filling out an online form, submitting the necessary documents, and undergoing verification. Upon successful vetting, a registration certificate is issued.
Q5. What should a worker do if their registration application is rejected?
Ans. In case of rejection, the worker can file an appeal with the Secretary of the Building and Other Construction Workers' Welfare Board or a designated officer within 30 days of the rejection notice for reconsideration.

The Building and Other Construction Workers (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) Act, commonly referred to as the BOCW Act, was introduced with the objective of protecting the rights and welfare of workers involved in the construction sector. The Act provides a structured process for the Registration of Building Workers as Beneficiaries under BOCW and offers a wide range of benefits to ensure their social security and improve their standard of living. This article provides a detailed explanation of the eligibility, registration procedure, documentation, and the benefits provided to construction workers upon successful registration as beneficiaries under the BOCW Act.

Eligibility Norms for Registration of Building Workers as Beneficiaries

To qualify for the Registration of Building Workers as Beneficiaries, the worker must meet specific age and work duration criteria. A person must be at least 18 years old and should not have completed 60 years of age at the time of application. Additionally, the worker must have been engaged in construction-related work for a minimum of 90 days during the previous 12 months. The eligibility criteria are in place to ensure that only active and genuine workers involved in construction activities receive the benefits. This duration requirement helps authorities verify the consistency and authenticity of the applicant's engagement in the construction sector.

The registration is not open to all types of laborers but is strictly limited to those who are associated with specific construction-related activities. These activities include but are not limited to:

Welding, plumbing, masonry, and electrical work.
Tunnel construction and road building.
Interior decoration and installation of lifts.
Painting, rock breaking, and stone grinding.
Work related to fire fighting system installation and machinery repairs.

List of Recognized Activities Under BOCW Registration

The BOCW Act specifically mentions several job roles that are recognized for registration under the scheme. Here are some of them, each explained in more detail:

Welding and Electrical Work: Involves high-risk tasks essential in structural development. These workers often deal with heavy equipment and dangerous materials.
Well Digging and Sediment Removal: Includes manual labor with significant physical strain, often in hazardous conditions.
Painting and Tiling: Required for finishing works and aesthetics of buildings and often exposes workers to chemicals.
Interior Decoration and Modular Kitchen Installation: Skilled tasks that form part of the final stages of construction.
Security Work at Construction Sites: Workers who guard construction sites are included to ensure complete coverage of on-site personnel.
Fire Fighting System Installation: Involves both technical and physical work, which is important for the safety of buildings.

By covering such a wide range of activities, the BOCW Act ensures that the majority of hands-on labor involved in the construction ecosystem receives social protection.

Common Benefits After Registration of Building Workers as Beneficiaries

Once a worker successfully completes the Registration of Building Workers as Beneficiaries under BOCW, they become eligible for a variety of benefits. These include:

Maternity Benefits: Women workers are eligible for financial assistance during maternity, ensuring income support during crucial periods.
Pension Payments: After a certain age or completion of years of work, workers may receive a pension to support their livelihood post-retirement.
Work-Related Tool Assistance: The Board may assist in the procurement of tools needed for the worker’s occupation.
Medical Help for Workplace Injuries: Immediate and prompt medical support is ensured in case a worker suffers from an accident at the workplace.
Credit Support for Home Construction: Workers can access loans or financial support to build or renovate their homes.
Education Assistance for Children: Financial support is provided to help workers educate their children and improve their future prospects.
Major Illness Medical Reimbursement: Expenses for treating critical illnesses are often covered or reimbursed by the Board.
Death and Funeral Benefits: In case of the unfortunate death of a registered worker, their families receive financial assistance for funeral rites and other support.

These benefits collectively aim to provide social security and support to workers and their families, contributing to their well-being and stability.

Procedure for Registration of Building Workers under BOCW Act

The process for Registration of Building Workers as Beneficiaries has been made user-friendly through digital portals developed by respective state governments. Here’s a step-by-step explanation:

Step 1: Visit the State BOCW Portal

The worker must first visit the official website of the State Building and Other Construction Workers Welfare Board. Each state maintains a dedicated portal where registration services are offered online. Usually, the application form is available in the ‘Service’ or ‘Worker Registration’ section.

Step 2: OTP-Based Aadhaar Verification

The next step involves identity verification through Aadhaar. The applicant must enter their Aadhaar number and the state or district where they are residing. An OTP (One-Time Password) is sent to the registered mobile number for verification. Once verified, the applicant is directed to the digital application form.

Step 3: Filling the E-Form and Uploading Documents

The digital form will ask for detailed personal, employment, and financial information. The applicant must fill all the fields carefully. Uploading scanned copies of the necessary documents in the required format is mandatory at this stage.

Step 4: Application Review and Certificate Generation

After submission, the application is forwarded to the authorities for review. They cross-verify the details and documents. Once the verification is successful and no discrepancies are found, a registration certificate is issued online. This certificate officially marks the worker as a beneficiary under the BOCW Act.

List of Documents Required for Registration

For the successful completion of Registration of Building Workers as Beneficiaries under BOCW, the following documents must be submitted:

Proof of Age: A birth certificate or school leaving certificate is ideal. If these are unavailable, a self-declaration may be submitted.
Address Proof: Any government-issued document like a ration card, electricity bill, or voter ID.
Aadhaar Card: Although optional in some states, Aadhaar is preferred due to its unique identification feature.
Bank Account Details: The applicant must submit their bank account number along with the IFSC code and name of the branch to receive benefits.
Employer’s Certificate: A document from the contractor or employer certifying that the applicant has worked for at least 90 days in the last 12 months.
Family Details: Information regarding family members and dependents.
Nomination Form: This helps determine who will receive benefits in case of the applicant’s demise.

What happens if a Registration Application is rejected?

If the application for Registration of Building Workers as Beneficiaries is rejected by the authority due to any error or insufficiency of documents, the applicant has the right to appeal. The appeal must be made to the Secretary of the Welfare Board or an officer nominated by the Board.

The appeal must be lodged within 30 days from the date the rejection order was passed. It is important to mention all valid points and submit any missing or corrected documentation along with the appeal. If the appeal is found genuine, the authorities may reconsider and approve the application.

Conclusion

The Registration of Building Workers as Beneficiaries under BOCW is an important step toward ensuring social and economic security for the unorganized workforce in the construction industry. The process is transparent, digital-friendly, and supports the inclusion of a wide range of workers. By registering under the BOCW Act, construction workers not only gain access to numerous welfare schemes but also receive recognition and protection under a statutory framework.

Workers and their families stand to benefit immensely from the timely registration under this Act. Anyone needing professional help to file for BOCW registration can approach Compliance Calendar LLP for end-to-end assistance.

Email: info@ccoffice.in

Call/Whatsapp: +91 9988424211

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Who is eligible to register as a beneficiary under the BOCW Act?

Ans. Construction workers aged between 18 and 60 years who have worked for at least 90 days in building or other construction work in the past 12 months are eligible to register under the BOCW Act.

Q3. What benefits can registered BOCW workers avail of?

Ans. Registered workers can access various welfare benefits, including maternity benefits, pension payments, medical assistance, tool procurement assistance, child education support, death and funeral benefits, and housing loans.

Q3. What documents are required for BOCW worker registration?

Ans. Key documents include age proof, address proof, Aadhaar card (if available), bank account details, family information, employer's certificate (proving 90 days of work), and a nomination form.

Q4. How can a construction worker register under the BOCW Act?

Ans. Workers can register through the official State BOCW Welfare Board portal by filling out an online form, submitting the necessary documents, and undergoing verification. Upon successful vetting, a registration certificate is issued.

Q5. What should a worker do if their registration application is rejected?

Ans. In case of rejection, the worker can file an appeal with the Secretary of the Building and Other Construction Workers' Welfare Board or a designated officer within 30 days of the rejection notice for reconsideration.