What is Section 287 IPC? Negligent conduct with respect to machinery

Published on: Lawiz Team

Learn about Section 287 IPC: Negligent conduct with respect to machinery

Official Legal Text

Whoever does, with any machinery, any act in a manner so rash or negligent as to endanger human life, or to be likely to cause hurt or injury to any person, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to six months, or with fine which may extend to one thousand rupees, or with both.

What This IPC Section Means – Explained in Simple Words

Section 287 punishes anyone who acts negligently while handling or maintaining machinery, endangering human life or causing harm.

Purpose

To ensure safe operation of machinery and prevent accidents caused by negligence.

Bailable or Not Bailable & Punishment

Bailable: Bailable, Punishment: Imprisonment up to 6 months, or fine up to 1,000 rupees, or both.

Key Elements

1. The person must handle, maintain, or operate machinery. 2. The handling must be negligent. 3. It must endanger human life or cause harm.

Punishment Details

Imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to six months, or with fine which may extend to one thousand rupees, or with both.

Legal Defenses

If the person can prove they took all reasonable precautions while using the machinery.

Judicial Interpretation

Courts focus on whether the machinery was handled negligently and whether it caused harm.

Illustration

If a factory worker operates a machine without following safety procedures, causing an accident, they can be punished under Section 287.

FAQs

What does Section 287 IPC define?

Negligent conduct with respect to machinery.

When is Section 287 IPC applicable?

It applies to offences like negligent conduct with respect to machinery, fraud, negligence, or disruption of public safety.

Why is Section 287 IPC important?

It ensures accountability and prevents fraudulent, negligent, or dangerous activities.

Give an example involving Section 287 IPC.

Examples include counterfeit government stamps, adulterated food, negligent public danger acts, etc.

What is the punishment under Section 287 IPC?

Punishment may include imprisonment, fine, or both depending on the gravity of the act.

How do courts deal with Section 287 IPC violations?

Courts view these violations seriously to maintain public trust, health, and law and order.

How can offences under Section 287 IPC be prevented?

Awareness, regulatory compliance, and strict law enforcement can prevent such offences.