Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Labor & Workforce Development Committee

SSB 6290

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Brief Description: Regarding miniature hobby boilers.

Sponsors: Senate Committee on Commerce & Labor (originally sponsored by Senators Sheldon, Roach and Hill).

Brief Summary of Substitute Bill

  • Exempts currently certified miniature hobby boilers from inspection requirements and other provisions under the boiler and unfired pressure vessels laws.

  • Exempts miniature hobby boilers not yet certified, once the boiler receives certification prior to being placed in service.

Hearing Date: 2/25/14

Staff: Trudes Tango (786-7384).

Background:

Certain boilers and unfired pressure vessels are subject to regulation by the Board of Boiler Rules (Board) and inspection by the Department of Labor and Industries (Department). The Board develops rules based on nationally or internationally accepted engineering standards. The Board also adopts standards such as the American Society of Mechanical Engineers' (ASME) code. The Director of the Department approves rules, appoints the Chief Inspector, and assesses penalties against persons who violate safety standards for boilers and unfired pressure vessels.

The Chief Inspector issues "inspection certificates" for boilers and unfired pressure vessels that comply with the Board's rules. Generally, inspections occur annually or biennially, depending on the type of boiler or unfired pressure vessel. An inspection certificate may be granted for a miniature hobby boiler that does not comply with the ASME code if the miniature hobby boiler is: (1) not operated for commercial use; (2) upon inspection, the operation of the boiler is not unsafe; and (3) the boiler does not exceed any of the following limits:

Certain boilers and unfired pressure vessels are exempt from regulation. These include some water tanks that operate at 130 degrees or less, and small unfired pressure vessels and hot water heaters. Other boilers and unfired pressure vessels are exempt from inspection requirements, but subject to regulations governing construction, installation, and repair.

Summary of Bill:

Miniature hobby boilers that are currently certified are exempt from the boilers and unfired pressure vessels regulation, including inspection requirements. A miniature hobby boiler that has not been certified as of the effective date of the bill is exempt once the boiler receives certification prior to being placed in service.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.