1️⃣ Introduction

Ensuring the medical fitness of mine workers is essential for maintaining safety and efficiency in mines. The Mines Rules, 1955 provide comprehensive provisions regarding medical examinations and re-examinations. When a mine worker or candidate is declared unfit by the Certifying Surgeon, the individual has the right to appeal under Rule 29K to the Appellate Medical Board for a re-examination. This ensures fairness, transparency, and an opportunity for a second medical opinion before final disqualification.

2️⃣ Legal Provision: Rule 29K – Mines Rules, 1955

3️⃣ Constitution of the Appellate Medical Board

As per DGMS and Ministry of Labour notifications, the Appellate Medical Board is constituted by the State Government or Central Government (DGMS jurisdiction) and consists of:

1. Chairman – Senior Medical Officer of the Central Labour Institute or equivalent.
2. Member (Specialist) – Expert in occupational medicine or relevant specialty.
3. Member (DGMS Nominee) – Representative from Directorate General of Mines Safety.

The Board’s function is to review all medical reports, examine the applicant, and deliver a final verdict on fitness for mining employment.

4️⃣ Procedure for Applying for Re-examination

1. Step 1 – Application Submission: The candidate applies in Form M to the Chief Inspector (DGMS) or authorized officer. Must include the original medical certificate and fee receipt.
2. Step 2 – Verification: DGMS verifies application eligibility and forwards it to the concerned Appellate Medical Board.
3. Step 3 – Intimation to Candidate: The Board notifies the candidate of the date, time, and venue for re-examination.
4. Step 4 – Re-examination: Detailed medical assessment conducted by the Board (eyesight, hearing, chest, blood pressure, respiratory system, etc.).
5. Step 5 – Final Decision: The Board issues a final medical certificate — either declaring the candidate “FIT” or “UNFIT.” Decision communicated to DGMS, employer, and candidate.

5️⃣ Conditions for Medical Re-examination

• Application must be made within 30 days of original decision.
• Applicant should not have undergone any major treatment that may bias results.
• Re-examination fee paid as per notified rates.
• Board decision is final — no further appeal permitted.

6️⃣ DGMS Guidance and Common Cases for Re-examination

Common cases include:

• Disputed medical fitness in hearing or vision.
• Post-recovery from occupational disease (e.g., silicosis).
• Re-assessment after injury or accident recovery.
• Re-certification before returning to underground work.

DGMS ensures that the process is impartial, scientifically conducted, and free from employer influence.

⚡ Quick One-Liners (Revision Points)

• Rule 29K – governs medical re-examination by Appellate Board.
• Time limit – 30 days from declaration of unfitness.
• Application made in Form M.
• Decision of Board – final and binding.
• DGMS representative sits on the Board.
• Cost may be borne by applicant.
• Re-examination ensures fairness.
• Medical certificate issued after final examination.
• Appeals after 30 days are not accepted.
• Occupational health protection under Mines Rules, 1955.

🧠 Descriptive Model Question & Answer

🎯 25 MCQs – Medical Re-examination under Rule 29K