Virginia Law

Part II. Administration

16VAC25-50-20. Minimum construction standards for boilers and pressure vessels.

A. Boilers and pressure vessels to be installed for operation in this Commonwealth shall be designed, constructed, inspected, stamped and installed in accordance with the applicable ASME Code including all addenda and applicable code cases, other international construction standards which are acceptable to the chief inspector, and this chapter.

B. Boilers and pressure vessels shall bear the National Board stamping, except cast iron boilers and UM vessels. A copy of the Manufacturers' Data Report, signed by the manufacturer's representative and the National Board commissioned inspector, shall be filed by the owner or user with the chief inspector prior to its operation in the Commonwealth.

C. Pressure piping (including welded piping). Piping external to power boilers extending from the boiler to the first stop valve of a single boiler and to the second stop valve in a battery of two or more boilers is subject to the requirements of the current edition of the ASME Code, Section I and the design, fabrication, installation and testing of the valves and piping shall be in conformity with the applicable paragraphs of the current edition of the ASME Code, Section I. Applicable ASME data report forms for this piping shall be furnished by the owner to the chief inspector. Construction rules for materials, design, fabrication, installation and testing both for the boiler external piping and the power piping beyond the valve or valves required by the current edition of the ASME Code, Section I are referenced in ASME B31.1, Power piping, and the ASME Code.

D. Boilers and pressure vessels brought into the Commonwealth and not meeting ASME Code requirements shall not be operated unless the owner or user is granted a variance in accordance with § 40.1-51.19 of the Act.

The request for variance shall include all documentation related to the boiler or pressure vessel that will provide evidence of equivalent fabrication standards, i.e., design specification, calculations, material specifications, detailed construction drawings, fabrication and inspection procedures and qualification records, examination, inspection and test records, and any available manufacturers' data report.

In order to facilitate such a variance approval, the submission of documentation, in the English language and in current U.S. standard units of measure would be helpful. The following list of documents, while not all inclusive, would be useful in providing evidence of safety equivalent to ASME Code construction:

1. List of materials used for each pressure part;

2. The design calculations to determine the maximum allowable working pressure in accordance with the ASME Code, applicable section, edition and addenda;

3. The design code used and the source of stress values for the materials used in the design calculations;

4. The welding procedures used and the qualification records for each procedure;

5. The material identification for each type of welding material used;

6. The performance qualification records for each welder or welding operator used in the construction of the boiler or pressure vessel;

7. The extent of any nondestructive examination (NDE) performed and the qualification records of NDE operators;

8. Record of final pressure test signed by a third party inspector;

9. Name and organization of the third party inspection agency;

10. A certification from a licensed professional engineer stating that the boiler or pressure vessel has been constructed to a standard providing equivalent safety to that of the ASME Code. A signature, date and seal of the certifying engineer are required;

11. Where applicable, a matrix of differences between the actual construction of the boiler or pressure vessel for which a variance is requested and a similar boiler or pressure vessel that is ASME Code stamped; and

12. Where applicable, a letter from an insurance company stating that it will insure the boiler or pressure vessel.

After notification of a violation of this chapter, an owner or user desiring a variance shall submit a request for variance within 30 days.

The chief inspector shall respond to any request for a variance within 30 days of receipt of all required documentation and shall submit a recommendation to the commissioner, who will make the decision on the variance.

E. Before secondhand equipment is installed, application for permission to install shall be filed by the owner or user with the chief inspector and approval obtained.

F. Electric boilers, subject to the requirements of the Act and this chapter, shall bear the Underwriters' Laboratories label on the completed unit or assembly by the manufacturer. This label shall be in addition to the code symbol stamping requirements of the ASME Code and the National Board.

Statutory Authority

§ 40.1-51.6 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from VR425-01-75 § 2.1, eff. July 1, 1974; amended, eff. November 1, 1978; July 1, 1991; September 1, 1993; Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 5, eff. January 1, 1999; Volume 19, Issue 19, eff. July 2, 2003; Volume 35, Issue 2, eff. November 1, 2018.

16VAC25-50-30. Frequency of inspections of boilers and pressure vessels.

A. Power boilers and high-pressure, high-temperature water boilers shall receive an annual internal inspection for certification. Such boilers shall also receive, where possible, an annual external inspection, given while under representative operating conditions.

B. Heating boilers shall receive a certificate inspection biennially.

1. Steam boilers shall receive an internal inspection where construction permits.

2. Water boilers shall receive an external inspection with an internal inspection at the discretion of the inspector where construction permits.

C. Except as provided for in subsection E of this section, pressure vessels subject to internal corrosion shall receive a certificate inspection biennially. This inspection shall be an internal inspection conducted at the discretion of the inspector where construction permits.

D. Except as provided for in subsection E of this section, pressure vessels not subject to internal corrosion shall receive a certificate inspection biennially. This inspection shall be an external inspection, with an internal inspection conducted at the discretion of the inspector where construction permits.

E. Pressure vessels that are under the supervision of an authorized owner-user inspection agency shall be inspected at intervals in a manner as agreed upon between the commissioner and that agency.

F. Boiler and pressure vessel components of nuclear power plants that are included in the Act shall be inspected as provided by the ASME Code, Section XI.

G. Based upon documentation of such actual service conditions by the owner or user of the operating equipment, the commissioner may permit variations in the inspection requirements as provided in the Act.

Statutory Authority

§ 40.1-51.6 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from VR425-01-75 § 2.2, eff. July 1, 1974; amended, eff. November 1, 1978; July 1, 1991; September 1, 1993; Volume 35, Issue 2, eff. November 1, 2018.

16VAC25-50-40. Notification of inspection.

A. Certificate inspections shall be scheduled in accordance with the frequency established in § 40.1-51.10 of the Act and at a time mutually agreeable to the inspector and owner or user.

B. External inspections may be performed by the inspector during normal working hours and without prior notification.

C. When, as a result of external inspection or determination by other objective means, it is the inspector's opinion that continued operation of the boiler or pressure vessel constitutes a menace to public safety, the inspector may require an internal inspection or an appropriate pressure test to evaluate conditions. In these instances the owner or user shall prepare the boiler or pressure vessel for an internal inspection or appropriate pressure test as the inspector designates.

Statutory Authority

§§ 40.1-22 and 40.1-51.5 et seq. of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from VR425-01-75 § 2.3, eff. July 1, 1974; amended, eff. November 1, 1978; July 1, 1991; September 1, 1993.

16VAC25-50-50. Examination for an inspector's certificate of competency.

A. Examination for an inspector's certificate of competency in accordance with the requirements of § 40.1-51.9 of the Code of Virginia shall be held at the office of the commissioner or at any other location selected by the commissioner, four times each year, on the first Wednesday and Thursday of March, June, September and December.

B. An applicant for an examination shall have a minimum of five credit points accumulated under the following subdivisions:

1. Education (1 credit minimum, 4 credits maximum)

2. Experience (1 credit minimum, 4 credits maximum)

Credit as shown for each full year's technical experience associated with boilers and pressure vessels in the categories listed below.

C. Applications for examination shall be in writing on a form furnished by the commissioner stating the education of the applicant, a list of his employers, his period of employment and position held with each employer.

D. Applications containing willful falsifications or untruthful statements shall be rejected.

E. If the applicant's education and experience are acceptable to the examining board, he shall be given a written examination dealing with the construction, installation, operation, maintenance and repair of boilers and pressure vessels and their appurtenances, and the applicant shall be accepted or rejected on the merits of this examination.

F. If the applicant passes the written examination, a certificate of competency may be issued by the commissioner, when the inspector is employed by an authorized inspection agency as defined in 16VAC25-50-10.

G. After 90 days, an applicant who fails to pass the examination will be permitted to take another written examination and his acceptance or rejection will be determined on the basis of this examination. Applicants who fail to obtain a passing grade on the examination after three attempts shall not be permitted to take the examination for at least one year following the last attempt.

Statutory Authority

§ 40.1-51.6 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from VR425-01-75 § 2.4, eff. July 1, 1974; amended, eff. November 1, 1978; July 1, 1991; September 1, 1993; Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 5, eff. January 1, 1999.

16VAC25-50-60. Examination fees.

A fee of $50 will be charged for each applicant taking the examination for a certificate of competency. In the event an applicant fails the examination, the applicant may be re-examined within one year of the initial test date without additional charge. Checks or money orders for examination fees shall be made payable to the Treasurer of Virginia and sent to the chief inspector.

Statutory Authority

§§ 40.1-22 and 40.1-51.5 et seq. of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from VR425-01-75 § 2.5, eff. July 1, 1974; amended, eff. November 1, 1978; July 1, 1991; September 1, 1993.

16VAC25-50-70. Certificate of competency and identification card.

A. Upon request and subject to subsection B of this section, a certificate of competency and an identification card shall be issued by the commissioner to:

1. An inspector who is employed full time by a governmental authority having an authorized inspection agency as defined in 16VAC25-50-10.

2. An inspector who is employed by an insurance company which is authorized (licensed) to write boiler and pressure vessel insurance in this Commonwealth.

3. An inspector who is employed by a company which operates unfired pressure vessels in Virginia and has a valid owner-user inspection agency agreement as provided in 16VAC25-50-120.

4. A contract fee inspector.

B. The applicant must pass the examination as set forth in 16VAC25-50-50 and pay the application fee of $50; or hold a valid commission or certificate of competency from a state that has a standard of examination substantially equal to that of Virginia, and a valid commission and identification card issued by the National Board.

C. Requests for a certificate of competency, identification card and endorsements shall be completed on forms provided by the chief inspector and shall be accompanied by, when applicable, a facsimile of the applicant's commission, certificate of competency and identification cards, named above, and a processing fee of $20 payable to the Treasurer of Virginia. An endorsement of the Virginia identification card is required for inspecting repairs or alterations. Inspectors holding a valid "A" or "B" national qualification or passing a written examination given by the department shall apply on forms provided by the chief inspector.

D. The Virginia valid identification card shall be returned to the chief inspector when the certificate holder is no longer employed by the organization employing him at the time that the certificate was issued or, in the case of a self-employed contract fee inspector, has ceased inspection activities.

E. Each person holding a valid Virginia certificate of competency and who conducts inspections as provided by the Act shall apply to the chief inspector on forms provided by the chief inspector and obtain an identification card biennially, not later than June 30 of the year in which the card is due for renewal. A processing fee of $20 for each card, payable to the Treasurer of Virginia, shall accompany the application.

F. An inspector's certificate of competency may be suspended by the chief inspector after due investigation and recommendation by the commissioner, for incompetence or untrustworthiness of the holder of the certificate, or for willful falsification of any matter or statement contained in his application, or in a report of any inspection made by him. Written notice of any suspension shall be given by the chief inspector to the inspector and his employer. Persons whose certificate of competency has been suspended shall be entitled to an appeal to the board as provided for in the act and to be present in person or to be represented by counsel at the hearing of the appeal.

Statutory Authority

§ 40.1-51.6 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from VR425-01-75 § 2.6, eff. July 1, 1974; amended, eff. November 1, 1978; July 1, 1991; September 1, 1993; Virginia Register Volume 11, Issue 20, eff. August 1, 1995; Volume 15, Issue 5, eff. January 1, 1999 and April 1, 1999.

16VAC25-50-80. Inspectors to have no other interests.

Inspectors shall not engage in the sale of any article or device relating to boilers, pressure vessels or their appurtenances. Contract fee inspectors shall not have a direct financial interest in any repairs conducted on boilers, pressure vessels, or their appurtenances which they inspect.

Statutory Authority

§ 40.1-51.6 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from VR425-01-75 § 2.7, eff. July 1, 1974; amended, eff. November 1, 1978; July 1, 1991; September 1, 1993; Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 5, eff. January 1, 1999.

16VAC25-50-90. Inspection reports to be submitted by special inspectors.

A. Special inspectors shall submit first inspection reports to the chief inspector on Form BPV-5 for each boiler and pressure vessel subject to registration and inspection in this Commonwealth.

B. Except as provided in subsection E of this section, subsequent inspections of both standard and nonstandard boilers and pressure vessels shall be reported on Forms NB-6 and NB-7 of the National Board Inspection Code or Commonwealth Form BPV 6-7.

C. Inspection reports, as required in subsections A and B of this section, shall be submitted within 30 days from date of inspection.

D. When hazardous conditions are found in a boiler or pressure vessel which would present an immediate threat to life or property, the owner or user shall immediately take action to correct the hazardous conditions or remove the object from service. The inspector shall notify the office of the chief inspector immediately by telephone followed by a written report. A complete and thorough inspection shall be conducted to evaluate the hazardous conditions and to make recommendations for necessary corrective measures. The boiler or pressure vessel shall not be returned to service until it has been restored to a safe operating condition under the requirements of this chapter.

E. Owner-user inspection agencies may report subsequent inspections of both standard and nonstandard pressure vessels on Form NB-7 or at their option, upon forms approved by the board. The report shall be filed as provided in 16VAC25-50-120.

Statutory Authority

§ 40.1-51.6 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from VR425-01-75 § 2.8, eff. July 1, 1974; amended, eff. November 1, 1978; July 1, 1991; September 1, 1993; Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 5, eff. January 1, 1999.

16VAC25-50-100. Insurance companies and contract fee inspectors to notify Chief Inspector of contractual changes.

All insurance companies shall notify the Chief Inspector, within 30 days, of all boilers or pressure vessels on which insurance is written, cancelled, not renewed, or suspended because of unsafe conditions.

All contract fee inspectors shall notify the Chief Inspector, within 30 days, of all boilers or pressure vessels on which they contract to provide inspection services.

Statutory Authority

§ 40.1-51.6 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from VR425-01-75 § 2.9, eff. July 1, 1974; amended, eff. November 1, 1978; July 1, 1991; September 1, 1993; Virginia Register Volume 11, Issue 20, eff. August 1, 1995.

16VAC25-50-110. Special inspectors to notify Chief Inspector of unsafe boilers and pressure vessels.

If, upon inspection, a special inspector finds a boiler or pressure vessel to be unsafe for initial or further operation, he shall promptly notify the owner or user, stating what repairs or other corrective measures are required to bring the object into compliance with this chapter. Unless the owner or user agrees to make the repairs or adopt such other corrective measures promptly, the special inspector shall immediately notify the chief inspector. Until corrections have been made no further operation of the boiler or pressure vessel involved shall be permitted. If an inspection certificate for the object is required and is in force, it shall be suspended by the chief inspector. When necessary repairs have been made or corrective actions have been taken and the boiler or pressure vessel is determined to be safe to operate by the inspector, the chief inspector shall be notified. At that time a certificate of inspection, where applicable, may be issued.

Statutory Authority

§ 40.1-51.6 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from VR425-01-75 § 2.10, eff. July 1, 1974; amended, eff. November 1, 1978; July 1, 1991; September 1, 1993; Virginia Register Volume 11, Issue 20, eff. August 1, 1995.

16VAC25-50-120. Owner-user inspection agency.

A. Any person, firm, partnership or corporation operating pressure vessels in this Commonwealth may seek approval and registration as an owner-user inspection agency by filing an application with the chief inspector on forms prescribed and available from the department, and request approval by the board. Each application shall be accompanied by a bond in the penal sum of $5,000 which shall continue to be valid during the time the approval and registration of the company as an owner-user inspection agency is in effect.

B. The application and registration shall show the name of the agency and its principal address in this Commonwealth, and the name and address of the person or persons having supervision over inspections made by the agency. Changes in supervisory personnel shall be reported to the chief inspector within 30 days after any change.

C. Each owner-user inspection agency as required by the provisions of the Act and this chapter shall:

1. Maintain its own inspection group under the supervision of one or more individuals who have independent authority to effect resolution of technical problems or procedures;

2. Conduct inspections of boilers or unfired pressure vessels, not exempt by the Act, utilizing only qualified inspection personnel, certified pursuant to 16VAC25-50-50, 16VAC25-50-60 and 16VAC25-50-70; in the case of unfired pressure vessels which are covered by the American Petroleum Institute code API-510, and are in use in the petroleum or chemical process industries, the owner-user inspection agency may, at its option, inspect and maintain such vessels by the API-510 code;

3. Retain on file at the location where the equipment is inspected a true record or copy of the report of the latest of each inspection signed by the inspector who made the inspection;

4. Execute and deliver to the owner or user (management) a true report of each inspection together with appropriate requirements or recommendations that result from the inspections;

5. Promptly notify the chief inspector of any boiler or unfired pressure vessel which does not meet the requirements of safe operating conditions;

6. Maintain inspection records which will include a list of each boiler or unfired pressure vessel covered by the Act, showing a serial number and an abbreviated description as may be necessary for identification; the date of last inspection of each unit and approximate date for the next inspection, arrived at by applying the appropriate rules to all data available at the time the inspection record is compiled (re: frequency and type of inspection, see 16VAC25-50-30). This inspection record shall be readily available for examination by the chief inspector or his authorized representative during normal business hours; and

7. File a statement annually, on a date mutually agreed upon, with the chief inspector. This statement shall be signed by the individual having supervision over the inspections made during the period covered. The statement shall include the number of vessels, covered by the Act, inspected during the year and certifying that each inspection was conducted pursuant to the inspection requirements provided for by the Act and in a format acceptable to the chief inspector. The annual statement shall be accompanied by a filing fee in accordance with the schedule in § 40.1-51.11:1 of the Act as follows:

a. For statements covering not more than 25 vessels—$7 per vessel;

b. For statements covering more than 25 vessels but less than 101 vessels—$200;

c. For statements covering more than 100 but less than 501 vessels—$400; and

d. For statements covering more than 500 vessels—$800.

Statutory Authority

§ 40.1-51.6 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from VR425-01-75 § 2.11, eff. July 1, 1974; amended, eff. November 1, 1978; July 1, 1991; September 1, 1993; Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 5, eff. January 1, 1999.

16VAC25-50-130. Defective conditions disclosed at time of external inspection.

If, upon an external inspection, there is evidence of a leak or crack, sufficient covering of the boiler or pressure vessel shall be removed to permit the inspector to satisfactorily determine the safety of the boiler or pressure vessel. If the covering cannot be removed at that time, the inspector may order the operation of the boiler or pressure vessel stopped until the covering can be removed and proper examination made.

Statutory Authority

§ 40.1-51.6 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from VR425-01-75 § 2.12, eff. July 1, 1974; amended, eff. November 1, 1978; July 1, 1991; September 1, 1993; Virginia Register Volume 11, Issue 20, eff. August 1, 1995.

16VAC25-50-140. Owner or user to notify chief inspector of accident.

When an accident occurs which renders a boiler or pressure vessel inoperative, the owner or user shall immediately notify the chief inspector, and the authorized inspector shall submit a detailed report of the accident. In case of a serious accident, as in a personal injury or an explosion, notice shall be given immediately by telephone, telegraph, facsimile or messenger, and neither the boiler or pressure vessel, nor any parts of it, shall be removed or disturbed before an inspection has been made by the inspector, except for the purpose of conserving human life and limiting consequential damage.

Statutory Authority

§§ 40.1-22 and 40.1-51.5 et seq. of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from VR425-01-75 § 2.13, eff. July 1, 1974; amended, eff. November 1, 1978; July 1, 1991; September 1, 1993.

16VAC25-50-150. Inspection certificate and inspection fees.

A. Upon the inspection and determination that a boiler or pressure vessel is suitable and conforms to this chapter, the owner or user shall remit the payment for an inspection certificate in one of the following forms and amounts for each item required to be inspected under the Act.

1. Payment of $20 may be sent from the owner or user to the chief inspector by check, credit card or money order. Payment of inspection certificate fees should be made payable to the Treasurer of Virginia; or

2. Payment may be presented to a special inspector, where the inspector is authorized to collect and forward such fees on the department's behalf. The commissioner may authorize special inspectors to collect and forward to the chief inspector $16 for each inspection certificate. Pursuant to § 40.1-51.10:1 of the Code of Virginia, special inspectors may charge owners or users a fee not exceeding $4.00 for collecting and forwarding inspection certificate fees.

An inspection certificate will not be issued to the owner or user until payment is received by either the department or, if previously authorized, by a special inspector. A fee of $10 will be charged for each reprint of an inspection certificate.

B. The chief inspector may extend an inspection certificate for up to three additional months beyond a two month grace period following the expiration of a certificate. Such extension is subject to a satisfactory external inspection of the boiler or pressure vessel and receipt of a fee of $20 for each month of extension.

C. When the chief inspector determines that no contract fee inspectors are available to inspect a regulated uninsured boiler or pressure vessel in a timely manner, a commonwealth inspector may be directed to conduct a certification inspection. Contract fee inspection service shall be determined unavailable where (i) at least two contract fee inspectors contacted will not agree to provide inspection services to the owner or user within at least 21 days from the request and (ii) the owner's or user's inspection certificate will expire within that same period.

The following rates per inspected object, in addition to inspection certificate fees, shall apply for certification inspections conducted by a commonwealth inspector:

D. The review of a manufacturer's or repair organization's facility for the purpose of national accreditation will be performed by the chief inspector or his qualified designee for an additional fee of $1,000 per review or survey.

E. The owner or user who causes a boiler or pressure vessel to be operated without a valid certificate shall be subject to the penalty as provided for in § 40.1-51.12 of the Act.

F. Inspection certificates are not required for unfired pressure vessels inspected by an authorized owner-user inspection agency. However, the agency shall keep on file in its office in the establishment where the equipment is located a true record or copy of the report of the latest of each inspection signed by the inspector who made the inspection.

Statutory Authority

§ 40.1-51.6 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from VR425-01-75 § 2.14, eff. July 1, 1974; amended, eff. November 1, 1978; July 1, 1991; September 1, 1993; amended, Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 5, eff. January 1, 1999; Volume 19, Issue 19, eff. July 2, 2003; Volume 29, Issue 5, eff. December 12, 2012.

16VAC25-50-160. Validity of inspection certificate.

An inspection certificate, issued in accordance with Part II, 16VAC25-50-150, shall be valid until expiration unless some defect or condition affecting the safety of the boiler or pressure vessel is disclosed. The certificate issued for a boiler or pressure vessel inspected by an inspection agency of an insurance company shall be valid only if the boiler or pressure vessel for which it was issued continues to be insured by an insurance company authorized (licensed) to write boiler and pressure vessel insurance in this Commonwealth.

Statutory Authority

§ 40.1-51.6 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from VR425-01-75 § 2.15, eff. July 1, 1974; amended, eff. November 1, 1978; July 1, 1991; September 1, 1993; Virginia Register Volume 11, Issue 20, eff. August 1, 1995.

16VAC25-50-170. Restamping boilers and pressure vessels.

When the stamping on a boiler or pressure vessel becomes indistinct, the inspector shall instruct the owner or user to have it restamped. Request for permission to restamp the boiler or pressure vessel shall be made to the chief inspector and proof of the original stamping shall accompany the request. The chief inspector may grant the authorization. Restamping authorized by the chief inspector shall be done only in the presence of an inspector, and shall be identical with the original stamping, except that it will not be required to restamp the ASME Code Symbol. Notice of completion of restamping shall be filed with the chief inspector by the inspector who witnessed the stamping on the boiler or pressure vessel, together with facsimile of the stamping applied.

Statutory Authority

§§ 40.1-22 and 40.1-51.5 et seq. of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from VR425-01-75 § 2.16, eff. July 1, 1974; amended, eff. November 1, 1978; July 1, 1991; September 1, 1993.

16VAC25-50-180. Penalty for operation of unsafe boilers and pressure vessels.

If, upon inspection, a boiler or pressure vessel is found to be unsafe to operate, the inspector shall notify the chief inspector as required in Part II, 16VAC25-50-110, and the inspection certificate shall be suspended by the chief inspector. Any person, firm, partnership or corporation causing a boiler or pressure vessel to continue to be operated shall be subject to the penalty provided in the Act.

Statutory Authority

§§ 40.1-22 and 40.1-51.5 et seq. of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from VR425-01-75 § 2.17, eff. July 1, 1974; amended, eff. November 1, 1978; July 1, 1991; September 1, 1993.

16VAC25-50-190. Condemned boilers and pressure vessels.

A. Any boiler or pressure vessel having been inspected and declared unsafe by the chief inspector or commonwealth inspector shall be stamped by the inspector with the letters "XXX" on both sides of the postal abbreviation of this Commonwealth, as shown by the following facsimile, which will designate a condemned boiler or pressure vessel:

XXX VA XXX

B. Any person, firm, partnership, or corporation using or offering for sale a condemned boiler or pressure vessel for operation within this Commonwealth shall be subject to the penalties provided by the Act.

Statutory Authority

§ 40.1-51.6 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from VR425-01-75 § 2.18, eff. July 1, 1974; amended, eff. November 1, 1978; July 1, 1991; September 1, 1993; Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 5, eff. January 1, 1999.

16VAC25-50-200. Reinstallation of standard boilers or pressure vessels.

If a standard boiler or pressure vessel located in this Commonwealth is to be moved to another location for temporary use or repair, application shall be made by the owner or user to the chief inspector for permission to reinstall the boiler or pressure vessel.

Statutory Authority

§§ 40.1-22 and 40.1-51.5 et seq. of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from VR425-01-75 § 2.19, eff. July 1, 1974; amended, eff. November 1, 1978; July 1, 1991; September 1, 1993.

16VAC25-50-210. Installation or reinstallation of nonstandard boilers or pressure vessels.

A. Installation and operation of nonstandard boilers and pressure vessels in the Commonwealth is prohibited without permission from the commissioner.

B. A nonstandard boiler or pressure vessel which is moved outside the boundaries of the Commonwealth cannot be reinstalled in the Commonwealth without the owner or user securing permission from the commissioner.

Statutory Authority

§§ 40.1-22 and 40.1-51.5 et seq. of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from VR425-01-75 § 2.20, eff. July 1, 1974; amended, eff. November 1, 1978; July 1, 1991; September 1, 1993.

16VAC25-50-220. Installation of used or secondhand boilers or pressure vessels.

Before a used or secondhand boiler or pressure vessel can be shipped for the purpose of installation in this Commonwealth, an inspection must be made by an inspector qualified by an examination equal to that required by this Commonwealth or by an inspector holding a valid National Board commission. Data submitted by the inspector shall be filed by the owner or user of the boiler or pressure vessel with the chief inspector for his approval. Boilers and pressure vessels when installed in this Commonwealth shall be equipped with fittings and appliances that comply with this chapter for new installations.

Statutory Authority

§ 40.1-51.6 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from VR425-01-75 § 2.21, eff. July 1, 1974; amended, eff. November 1, 1978; July 1, 1991; September 1, 1993; Virginia Register Volume 11, Issue 20, eff. August 1, 1995.

16VAC25-50-230. Reinstalled boiler or pressure vessel.

When a boiler or pressure vessel is moved and reinstalled, the attached fittings and appliances shall comply with this chapter for new installations.

Statutory Authority

§§ 40.1-22 and 40.1-51.5 et seq. of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from VR425-01-75 § 2.22, eff. July 1, 1974; amended, eff. November 1, 1978; July 1, 1991; September 1, 1993.

16VAC25-50-240. Factor of safety for existing installations.

Any inspector may increase the factor of safety on any existing installation if the condition of the boiler or pressure vessel warrants it. If the owner or user does not concur with the inspector's decision, the owner or user may appeal to the commissioner who may request a joint inspection by the chief inspector or the commonwealth inspector and the special inspector. The chief inspector shall make a report to the commissioner and the commissioner shall make the final decision, based upon the data contained in the inspector's reports. The decision of the commissioner may be appealed to the board pursuant to § 40.1-51.16 of the Code of Virginia.

Statutory Authority

§ 40.1-51.6 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from VR425-01-75 § 2.23, eff. July 1, 1974; amended, eff. November 1, 1978; July 1, 1991; September 1, 1993; Virginia Register Volume 11, Issue 20, eff. August 1, 1995; Volume 15, Issue 5, eff. January 1, 1999.

16VAC25-50-250. Repairs or alterations.

When repairs or alterations are to be made, permission shall be obtained from an inspector with an appropriate endorsement, and the repairs shall be done in accordance with the National Board Inspection Code and this chapter.

Statutory Authority

§ 40.1-51.6 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from VR425-01-75 § 2.24, eff. July 1, 1974; amended, eff. November 1, 1978; July 1, 1991; September 1, 1993; Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 5, eff. April 1, 1999.

16VAC25-50-260. Removal of safety appliances.

A. No person shall attempt to remove or do any work on any safety appliance prescribed by this chapter while a boiler or pressure vessel is in operation, except as provided in applicable sections of the current edition of the ASME Code. Should any of these appliances be removed for repair during an outage of a boiler or pressure vessel, they must be reinstalled and in proper working order before the object is again placed in service.

B. No person shall load the safety valve or valves in any manner to maintain a working pressure in excess of that stated on the inspection certificate.

Statutory Authority

§ 40.1-51.6 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from VR425-01-75 § 2.25, eff. July 1, 1974; amended, eff. November 1, 1978; July 1, 1991; September 1, 1993; Volume 35, Issue 2, eff. November 1, 2018.

16VAC25-50-270. Review fees.

Reviews and emergency inspections other than certificate inspections conducted by the chief inspector or commonwealth inspectors, including but not limited to consultations, data reviews, engineering evaluations, or quality control reviews, shall be billed at the following rates:

Statutory Authority

§ 40.1-51.6 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from VR425-01-75 § 2.26, eff. July 1, 1974; amended, eff. November 1, 1978; July 1, 1991; September 1, 1993; Virginia Register Volume 11, Issue 20, eff. August 1, 1995; Volume 15, Issue 5, eff. January 1, 1999.

16VAC25-50-280. Requirements for new installations.

A. No boiler or pressure vessel shall be installed in this Commonwealth unless it has been constructed, inspected and stamped as provided in Part II, 16VAC25-50-20 except:

1. Those exempt by the Act;

2. Those outlined in Part II, 16VAC25-50-20 D; and

3. Those existing boilers and pressure vessels that are to be reinstalled.

B. All new boiler and pressure vessel installations, including reinstalled and secondhand boilers and pressure vessels, shall be installed in accordance with the requirements of the current edition of the ASME Code and this chapter.

C. A boiler or pressure vessel constructed equivalent to ASME Code standards, or having the standard stamping of another state that has adopted a standard of construction equivalent to the standard of this Commonwealth, may be accepted by the chief inspector. The person desiring to install the boiler or pressure vessel shall make application for the installation prior to construction and shall file the Manufacturers' Data Report for the boiler or pressure vessel with the chief inspector following construction and prior to installation.

D. The stamping shall not be concealed by insulation or paint and shall be exposed at all times unless a suitable record is kept of the location of the stamping so that it may be readily uncovered at any time this may be desired.

Statutory Authority

§ 40.1-51.6 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from VR425-01-75 § 2.27, eff. July 1, 1974; amended, eff. November 1, 1978; July 1, 1991; September 1, 1993; Volume 35, Issue 2, eff. November 1, 2018.

16VAC25-50-290. Application of Commonwealth serial numbers.

A. Upon completion of the installation of a new boiler or pressure vessel or at the time of the initial certificate inspection of an existing installation each boiler or pressure vessel shall be stamped with a serial number of the Commonwealth, consisting of the postal abbreviation for the Commonwealth and a unique series of numbers not less than 3/16-inch in height and arranged as follows:

VA 0000

B. All cast iron, low-pressure heating boilers shall have securely attached to the front of the boiler a metallic tag of not less than one inch in height, which shall have the serial number of the Commonwealth stamped on it.

C. All pressure vessels constructed of cast iron, or of a material of such thickness or type that it should not be stamped, shall have securely attached a metallic tag not less than one inch in height, which shall have the serial number of the Commonwealth stamped on it.

Statutory Authority

§ 40.1-51.6 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from VR425-01-75 § 2.28, eff. July 1, 1974; amended, eff. November 1, 1978; July 1, 1991; September 1, 1993; Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 5, eff. January 1, 1999.

16VAC25-50-300. Return loop connection.

The return water connections to all low-pressure, steam heating boilers supplying a gravity return heating system shall be arranged to form a loop so that the water cannot be forced out of the boiler below the safe water level. This connection, known as a "return pipe loop connection," is shown in the current edition of the ASME Code, Section IV.

Statutory Authority

§ 40.1-51.6 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from VR425-01-75 § 2.29, eff. July 1, 1974; amended, eff. November 1, 1978; July 1, 1991; September 1, 1993; Volume 35, Issue 2, eff. November 1, 2018.

16VAC25-50-310. Ladders, platforms, and runways.

Where valves and other appurtenances require frequent manipulation and are located so that they cannot be reached or operated from the floor, a platform or other safe means of operation shall be provided. If a platform or runway is used it shall be at least 24 inches wide and be provided with standard handrails and toeboards and have at least seven feet six inches head room. All runways shall have at least two means of exit, each exit to be remotely located from the other and connected to a permanent stairway or inclined ladder leading to the floor level, or an alternate means of escape or exit as may be practical for the specific installation.

Statutory Authority

§§ 40.1-22 and 40.1-51.5 et seq. of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from VR425-01-75 § 2.30, eff. July 1, 1974; amended, eff. November 1, 1978; July 1, 1991; September 1, 1993.

16VAC25-50-320. Exit from boiler room.

All boiler rooms exceeding 500 square feet floor area and containing one or more boilers having a fuel burning capacity of 1,000,000 BTU per hour, or equivalent electrical heat input, shall have at least two means of exit. Each exit shall be remotely located from the other. Each elevation in a boiler room shall have two means of exit, each remotely located from the other.

Statutory Authority

§§ 40.1-22 and 40.1-51.5 et seq. of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from VR425-01-75 § 2.31, eff. July 1, 1974; amended, eff. November 1, 1978; July 1, 1991; September 1, 1993.

16VAC25-50-330. Operation.

The current edition of the ASME Code, Section VII, Recommended Rules for Care of Power Boilers, and the current edition of the ASME Code, Section VI, Recommended Rules for Care of Heating Boilers, shall be used as a guide for proper and safe operating practices.

Statutory Authority

§ 40.1-51.6 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from VR425-01-75 § 2.32, eff. July 1, 1974; amended, eff. November 1, 1978; July 1, 1991; September 1, 1993; Volume 35, Issue 2, eff. November 1, 2018.

16VAC25-50-340. Burner controls and safety devices.

Fired burner installations shall conform to the requirements of the following nationally recognized standards: the American Gas Association, Underwriters Laboratories, Part CG (General), Part CW (Steam and Waterside Control) of ANSI/ASME-CSD-1 or National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) No. 85 series as applicable.

Statutory Authority

§ 40.1-51.6 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from VR425-01-75 § 2.33, eff. July 1, 1974; amended, eff. November 1, 1978; July 1, 1991; September 1, 1993; Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 19, eff. July 2, 2003.

16VAC25-50-350. Repairs and renewals of boiler fittings and appliances.

Whenever repairs are made to fittings or appliances or it becomes necessary to replace them, the repairs or replacements shall comply with the requirements of the ASME Code or the National Board Inspection Code.

Statutory Authority

§ 40.1-51.6 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from VR425-01-75 § 2.34, eff. July 1, 1974; amended, eff. November 1, 1978; July 1, 1991; September 1, 1993; Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 5, eff. January 1, 1999.