FINAL BILL REPORT
SB 6240
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. |
C 259 L 18
Synopsis as Enacted
Brief Description: Regarding miniature hobby boilers.
Sponsors: Senators Sheldon, Angel, Rolfes and Van De Wege.
Senate Committee on Labor & Commerce
House Committee on Labor & Workplace Standards
Background: State law requires the Washington State Board of Boiler Rules (board) to make the definitions and rules for the safe and proper construction, installation, repair, use, and operation of boilers and of unfired pressure vessels. The definitions and rules must be based on and follow the nationally or internationally accepted engineering standards, formulae, and practices. The board adopted the boiler and pressure vessel code of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers.
Installation or reinstallation permits are required before any new or existing boiler or unfired pressure vessel is installed, reinstalled, or moved in the state of Washington. The Department of Labor and Industries (L&I) performs inspections and investigations and issues permits and operating certificates.
Miniature locomotives, boats, tractors, and stationary engines are sometimes built and maintained as hobbies. They may use miniature boilers in their operation. Miniature hobby boilers are also subject to state boiler laws. Because of their size, miniature hobby boilers may not comply with the adopted code requirements.
An inspection certificate may be granted for certain miniature hobby boilers that do not comply with the adopted code requirements. To be granted the certificate, a miniature hobby boiler may not exceed:
16 inches inside the diameter of the shell;
20 square feet of total heating surface;
5 cubic feet of gross volume of vessel; and
150 pounds per square inch gauge (psig) maximum allowable working pressure.
In addition to the limits, to be granted the certificate, a miniature hobby boiler cannot be operated for commercial or industrial uses and must have a determination by L&I that the operation of the boiler is safe.
Summary: Miniature hobby boilers that have already been certified or that are certified prior to being placed into service are exempt from the inspection requirements and other provisions governing boilers and unfired pressure vessels. A miniature hobby boiler is defined using the same size, volume, and psig limits as current law.
Votes on Final Passage:
Senate | 48 | 0 | |
House | 96 | 1 |
Effective: | June 7, 2018 |