(1)  The competent authority shall be an institution recognised in such manner as may be specified by regulations, for grant of certificate to the welders for welding of boiler and boiler components.

   (2)  Any person who intends to undertake any welding work connected with or related to a boiler or a boiler component, or both, shall apply to the competent authority for the grant of such welders certificate as may be specified by regulations.

   (3)  On receipt of an application under sub-section (2), the competent authority shall follow such procedure for examination and grant of welders certificate as may be specified by regulations.

   (4)  The competent authority may, if satisfied that the person applying for welders certificate under sub-section (2) has complied with the conditions for the grant of the welders certificate, grant such certificate, subject to such other conditions and on payment of such fee, as may be specified by regulations:

   Provided that the competent authority shall not refuse such certificate to any person unless the person is given an opportunity of being heard.