Exhibit 24(i)(a)

CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS

We consent to the inclusion in this registration statement of The Hartford Steam
Boiler  Inspection and Insurance Company on Form S-8 of our report dated January
27, 1997, on our audits of the consolidated  financial  statements and financial
statements  schedules of The  Hartford  Steam Boiler  Inspection  and  Insurance
Company as of December 31, 1996, 1995, and 1994, which report is incorporated by
reference in this Annual Report on Form 10-K and 10-K/A.

/s/ Coopers & Lybrand L.L.P.
Coopers & Lybrand L.L.P.
Hartford, Connecticut
June 19, 1997



                                      -11-