The National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspectors was created in 1919 to protect people from unsafe boilers and pressure vessels. They accomplish this by ensuring consistency in the installation, repair, maintenance, and inspection of boilers and pressure vessels. The National Board oversees compliance to codes and regulations involving the construction and repair of boilers and pressure vessels.
The National Board is comprised of Chief Boiler Inspectors representing government agencies from across North America. Their functions include:
- Helping to maintain quality within the boiler and pressure vessel industry through third-party inspections during the manufacturing process as well as promoting the establishment of manufacturing, maintenance, and repair standards for boilers and pressure vessels.
- Offering an extensive training program for inspectors and other industry professionals, involving continuing education in various disciplines of the boiler and pressure vessel industry.
- The commissioning of inspectors who pass an extensive examination administered by the National Board, enabling the qualified inspection of boilers and pressure vessels.
- Maintaining detailed records of all National Board registered boilers and pressure vessels.
- Investigating accidents and code compliance problems involving boilers and pressure vessels.
- Educating the general public and government representation on the need for safety standards.
- Developing inspection, repair, and alteration standards including the National Board Inspection Code.
In accordance with their mandate for promoting safety and uniformity, the National Board originally published The National Board Inspection Code (NBIC) in 1946, establishing rules for inspection and repairs to boilers and pressure vessels. It is the only standard recognized worldwide for in-service inspection, repairs, and alterations of boilers and pressure vessels.
This American National Standard has been adopted by a number of states and provinces, as well as by U.S. federal regulatory agencies including the U.S. Department of Transportation. The purpose of the NBIC is to maintain the integrity of pressure-retaining items after they have been placed into service. It provides rules for inspection, installation, repair, and alteration, thereby ensuring that these objects may continue to be safely used.
