Title 815 | Chapter 015 | Regulation 025REG
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PUBLIC PROTECTION CABINET
Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction
(Amended at ARRS Committee)
815 KAR 15:025.New installations, general design, construction, and inspection criteria for boilers, pressure vessels, and pressure piping.
Section 1.
Minimum Standards.(1)
(a)
Boilers and pressure vessels. All new boilers and new pressure vessels shall comply with applicable provisions of 815 KAR Chapter 15 and the applicable ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, as established by KRS 236.040(2)(b)
All pressure vessels for human occupancy shall comply with the ASME Safety Standard for Pressure Vessels for Human Occupancy, PVHO-1-2023 edition(c)
All blowdown and blowoff receivers shall comply with the applicable ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code(d)
All pressurized expansion tanks in closed heating systems that have a MAWP in excess of thirty (30)(2)
ASME stamping(3)
Installation standard. Installation of all boilers and pressure vessels shall conform to the National Board Inspection Code Part 1, 2025(4)
Pressure piping.(a)
All new pressure piping installations connected to the boiler or pressure vessel shall conform to the National Board Inspection Code Part 1, 20251.
2.
3.
4.
5.
(b)
The maximum allowable design temperature and pressure of the piping system and all of its component parts including flexible joints and hoses shall meet or exceed the operating control settings of the boiler or pressure vessel.(c)
If the maximum allowable design temperature or pressure of the boiler exceeds the maximum design limits of the piping system or any of its component parts including flexible joints and hoses, the pipe and its components shall not be used unless the following conditions are met:1.
The temperature and pressure controls on the boiler are permanently set to prevent operation in excess of the design limits of the piping system; and2.
Safety valve or valves shall be installed on the boiler, pressure vessel, or the piping system to protect the system from excess pressure or temperature.(d)(5)
Welded piping joints. Welded joints in pressure piping shall be installed by qualified welders in accordance with the ASME Code, Section IX, as required by the standards referenced in subsection (4) of this section.Section 2.
Manufacturer's Data Report.(1)
A manufacturer's data report on all boilers of steel construction and all pressure vessels constructed in accordance with the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code shall be registered(2)
The boilers and pressure vessels required to be filed with the National Board in subsection (1) of this section shall also haveSection 3.
Installation Inspection or First Inspection and State Registration of New Boilers and Pressure Vessels.(1)
Installation inspection. New installations of boilers, pressure vessels, and associated pressure piping shall be inspected by the department for compliance with applicable ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code requirements, the National Board Inspection Code, and this administrative regulation.(2)
Notification of inspection.(a)
If an inspection is required by this administrative regulation, the boiler and pressure vessel contractor(b)
The boiler and pressure vessel license holder or the license holder's representative(c)
Inspections shall be conducted within seven (7) days of the date of notification or at an agreed-upon time by the boiler and pressure vessel license holder or the license holder's representative(3)
Inspection times. Except as established in 815 KAR 15:027, inspections made by boiler inspectors shall be conducted during normal business hours of the department between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.(4)
Contractor availability. The boiler and pressure vessel(5)
State registration. Upon completion of the installation or at the time of first inspection, a Commonwealth of Kentucky registration number shall be assigned to the boiler or pressure vessel and shall be applied to the boiler or pressure vessel with a metal tag showing the registration number. This tag shall be securely affixed near the manufacturer's name plate or data plate.(6)
Non-registered boilers and non-registered pressure vessels. Boiler inspectors, special boiler inspectors, and owner-user inspectors shall notify the department within thirty (30) days of locating any non-registered boiler or non-registered pressure vessel.(7)
General welding.(a)
If welded assembly has been used, the installing boiler and pressure vessel contractor shall produce the following for the boiler inspector's, special boiler inspector's, or owner's piping inspector's review:1.
The welding procedures; and2.
Proof of qualification and continuity records for the welders and welding operators.(b)
The boiler and pressure vessel contractor shall be responsible for the quality of the welding.(8)
Welded piping joints. Welded joints in pressure piping shall be visually inspected for complete and full root penetration, soundness of the weld and freedom from undercutting, cracking, or other surface imperfections in accordance with the requirements of the applicable ASME B31 Code section. If the visual inspection reveals a potential defect, the boiler inspector, special boiler inspector, or owner's piping inspector may require other nondestructive tests, such as radiography, to be performed by the contractor to verify the soundness of the weld. All tests or retests required by the boiler inspector, special boiler inspector, or owner's piping inspector shall be at the owner's or boiler and pressure vessel contractor's expense.(9)
Hydrostatic pressure test for boilers and pressure vessels.(a)
A hydrostatic pressure test, when applied to a boiler or pressure vessel, shall conform to the testing procedures and pressures as specified in the original code of construction. The pressure shall be under proper control so that in no event shall the required test pressure exceed the testing requirements listed in the original code of construction.(b)
During the hydrostatic pressure test, the safety valve or valves shall be removed. If the safety valve or valves cannot be removed, then each valve disc shall be held down by means of a testing clamp and not by screwing down the compression screw upon the spring.(c)
The minimum temperature of the water used to apply a hydrostatic test shall not be less than ambient temperature, but in no case less than seventy (70) degrees Fahrenheit, and the maximum temperature shall not exceed 120 degrees Fahrenheit.(d)
If the only purpose of the test is to determine tightness, the test pressure shall be equal to the relieving pressure of the safety valve having the lowest relief setting.(10)
Inspection of(a)
1.
2.
3.
(b)
1.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
2.
3.
(a)
High Pressure Steam (above 15 psi). All boiler external piping shall be installed in compliance with ASME Section I and ASME B31.1. Non-boiler external piping shall1.
All boiler2.
All welded3.
Non-welded pipe shall be inspected in service. Small bore tubing 0.375(b)
Low Pressure Steam (fifteen (15)(c)
Steam condensate. Steam condensate piping that can be pressurized with live steam above fifteen (15)(d)
Anhydrous ammonia.1.
Anhydrous ammonia piping systems shall not have piping or piping joints painted nor covered until inspected.2.
Original mill stencil markings on piping shall be legible to the inspector. Anhydrous ammonia piping systems that are not connected to an existing live system shall be pressure tested with nitrogen to one and one tenth (1.1) times the MAWP of the system.3.
Anhydrous ammonia piping systems that are connected to an existing live ammonia system shall be pressure tested with ammonia gas. If an anhydrous ammonia system is tested with ammonia gas, the system shall be at working pressure and inspected with the sulfur stick or litmus paper method.(e)
Hot oil/thermal fluid.1.
Hot oil/thermal fluid piping systems shall be visually inspected and shall be pressure tested with nitrogen or thermal fluid. A nitrogen test shall be at least one and one tenth (1.1) times the MAWP of the system as protected by a safety valve. A thermal fluid test shall be at least one and one half (1.5) times the MAWP of the system as protected by a safety valve.2.
Hot oil/thermal fluid piping systems shall not have piping or piping joints painted nor covered until inspected.3.
Original mill stencil markings on piping shall be legible to the inspector.(f)
Compressed air.1.
Compressed air piping systems that supply air for general utility air, breathing air, instrument air, and similar applications shall be visually inspected.2.
Piping systems that contain pipe that is two (2) inches in diameter or fewer and operate at 200 psi or less may be painted prior to inspection.3.
Welded pipe joints in piping systems that operate above 200 psi and are over two (2) inches in diameter shall be pressure tested with air at one and one tenth (1.1) times the MAWP of the system as protected by a safety valve and shall not be painted prior to inspection.4.
Cross linked polyethylene (PEX) and thermoplastic materials, such as PVC, CPVC, and PVDF, that exhibit brittle failure as established(g)
Hydronic heating. Hydronic heating piping systems that operate at 100 psi or less shall be visually inspected while under normal operating pressure. Welded pipe joints in hydronic heating pipe systems that operate in excess of 100 psi shall be hydrostatically tested with water at 1.3 times the MAWP of the system as protected by a safety valve.(h)
Hoses and flexible connectors. All hoses and flexible connectors used in any pressure piping system shall be marked with the maximum allowable pressure and temperature that the hose or connector is rated. In the alternative, the department shall accept supporting documentation if the documentation is positively linked to the hose or flexible connector.(i)(c)
Code compliance. All piping systems provided by boiler and pressure vessel fabricators as part of the boiler or pressure vessel assembly, including skid assembled units, shall have supporting documentation from the fabricator that the pressure piping is in compliance with the applicable1.
The materials used and method of construction meets the manufacturer's procedures and specifications; and2.
The system is utilizing the materials and equipment specified within the temperature and pressure ranges set forth in the design and as required by this administrative regulation.(11)
Inspection by Owner's Piping Inspector.(a)
1.
Owner's piping inspectors shall inspect all new replacement piping for compliance to the applicable ASME piping code to which the piping is installed.2.
The owner's piping inspector shall sign the permit filed by the boiler and pressure vessel contractor performing the piping installation or repair and forward it to the Boiler Inspection Section.(b)
1.
The owner facility license and the independent inspection agency shall maintain copies of the material mill test reports and pressure test information including type of test, pressure at start and end of test, and duration of test for at least five (5) years pursuant to KRS 236.097(1)(h) and (3)(f).2.
If welded joints are utilized, the file shall contain the qualified welder identification, weld procedure, and procedure qualification used.(c)
If there is a disagreement as to the acceptance of any condition of the piping installation or repair by the owner's piping inspector and owner's user facility, the department shall make the final determination in accordance with the standards established in this administrative regulation.Section 4.
State Special.(1)
Boilers and pressure vessels of special design, which are equivalent to but are not eligible to be stamped to the ASME Code, shall meet the requirements of this section. The prospective owner or user who desires approval of the boiler installation or pressure vessel installation as a state special shall comply with the procedures established in this administrative regulation for each case.(a)
Prior to installation and operation of the boiler or pressure vessel, the proposed owner, user, or the owner's authorized agent shall make written application for permission to install the boiler or pressure vessel. The application shall be submitted to the commissioner.(b)
To establish ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code equivalency, the following data, material, and information shall be submitted with the application for state special approval:1.
Detailed shop drawings and welding details of the proposed construction. All materials shall be in the English language and United States units of measurements listed in the ASME Code;2.
Design calculations and supporting data, which shall include pressure (psi), temperature (deg. F.), use, and other service conditions;3.
Specifications for all construction materials shall conform to the applicable ASME Code standards or their suitable equivalent. If reference is made to a standard or specification of a country other than the United States, a copy shall be attached to indicate how the material is considered equivalent;4.
Copies of the welding procedures to be used and welding qualification test reports for each welding operator or welder to be used. The procedures and tests required in this paragraph shall be made in accordance with the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, Section IX, "Welding Qualifications;"5.
If the design exceeds ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code limitation, then API 579/ASME FFS-1, 2007 or later edition shall be used to determine equivalency of the submission;6.
Design drawings and calculations shall be certified by a mechanical engineer holding a professional engineer certification with a background in boilers and pressure vessels;7.
The manufacturer of the vessel shall identify the inspection agency responsible for the shop inspections and shall submit an equivalent ASME manufacturer's data report for the proposed vessel; and8.
The shop inspection agency shall furnish the qualifications of the authorized inspector assigned to make the shop inspections.(2)
Upon completion of the boiler or pressure vessel, a manufacturer's data report, signed by the manufacturer and authorized inspector, shall be submitted to the jurisdictional authorities containing the equivalent type data required by the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code. ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code data report forms shall not be used.(3)
Upon arrival in the Commonwealth of Kentucky, the boiler or pressure vessel shall be inspected before installation by a boiler inspector to verify compliance with this section.Section 5.
General Requirements.(1)
Boilers.(a)
Safety Valves and Safety Relief Valves.1.
Safety valves and safety relief valves shall2.
The resetting of safety valves and safety relief valves shall be done by a National Board "VR" certificate holder.3.
Safety valves and safety relief valves shall be located and installed so that the device is readily accessible for inspection and repair.4.
Stop valves in inlet or discharge piping, and changeover valves shall not be allowed5.
Discharge Piping:a.
Discharge piping shallb.
Discharge Piping outlet for safety valves and safety relief valves shall be located to prevent injury to persons or property.c.
Discharge Piping for steam boilers that exceed 1,500d.
Discharge piping shalle.
Discharge piping shall have a pipe union or other joint close to the safety valve or safety relief valve to disconnect the discharge piping from the valve if directly connected to valve for maintenance.f.
Discharge piping shall(b)
Boiler external piping.1.
Boiler external piping shall be installed in accordance with ASME Section I and B31.1.2.
If a power boiler with a manway is connected to a common steam or high temperature water main or header supplied by other boilers, all welded external piping from the boiler out to the second stop valve shall be stamped with any one (1) of the ASME Code symbol stamps for pressure piping, power boilers, or assembly stamps.3.
Carbon Monoxide Detector.a.
Each boiler room containing one or more boilers from which carbon monoxide can be produced shall be equipped with a carbon monoxide detector with a manual reset. Boilers installed in open floor spaces without a defined boiler room shall have the carbon monoxide detector installed no more than three (3) feet away from the emergency shutdown switch and no more than six (6) feet above floor level. It is the installer's responsibility to install the carbon monoxide detector.b.
The carbon monoxide detector shall be interlocked with all boilers, audibly signal at fifty (50) ppm, andc.
The carbon monoxide detector shall disable the burners upon loss of power to the detector.d.
The carbon monoxide detector shall have an audible alarme.
The carbon monoxide detector shall be calibrated in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations or every two (2) years after installation of the detector. A record of calibration shall be posted at or near the boiler, or be readily accessible to a boiler inspector or special boiler inspector. It is the owner or user's responsibility to maintain the carbon monoxide detector.f.
The requirements of this subsection shall apply to boiler and mechanical rooms where new boilers are installed(c)
Boilers having direct ducted combustion air intakes and combustion discharge vents where birds and wildlife can make nests or obstruct these openings shall(d)
Inspection of flue and chimney.1.
When new boilers are installed in existing boiler rooms and ducted into existing masonry chimneys, an inspection of the chimney and flue shall2.
Condensing boilers shall not be ducted into masonry chimneys.(e)
1.
Small scale steam locomotives operating on track gauge less than twenty-four (24) inches2.
Non-traditional, noncode boilers shall:a.
Be hydrostatically tested to at least one and one half (1.5) times the normal working pressure;b.
Have at least one (1) spring type "pop" safety valve set at or below the normal operating pressure, which can relieve all the steam from the boiler during an accumulation test;c.
Have at least one (1) water glass to show the water level in the boiler;d.
Have at least two (2) means of introducing feedwater to the boiler. The failure of one (1) device shall not cause the disruption of the other device; ande.
Have a blowdown or drain valve.(2)
Pressure vessels.(a)
Safety valves, safety relief valves, discharge piping, and rupture discs.1.
Safety valves, safety relief valves, and rupture discs shall2.
The resetting of safety valves and safety relief valves shall be done by a National Board "VR" Certificate holder.3.
Safety valves and safety relief valves shall be located and installed so that the device shall be4.
A safety valve, safety relief valve, or rupture disc shall be placed on a heat exchanger or in the piping connecting to the heat exchanger before the first stop valve in the piping on the side of the heat exchanger receiving heat.5.
Discharge piping:a.
Discharge piping shallb.
The discharge piping outlet for safety valves and safety relief valves shall be located to prevent injury to persons or property.c.
Discharge piping shalld.
Discharge piping shall(b)
Omission or removal of a safety relief valve or pressure relieving device.1.
If a pressure relieving device is omitted or removed, the device shall be omitted or removed in accordance with ASME Section VIII, Division 1, UG-150 through UG-156.2.
3.
(c)
Leased pressure vessels.1.
Leased pressure vessels shall have the owner's name and telephone number visible to the inspector via paint or label.2.
If a vendor sells a leased vessel to a location where installed, the lessor or installer3.
The lessor shall(d)
DOT Cylinders. DOT cylinders, if(3)
Clearances. Except for Mobile Boiler Rooms, the following requirements established in paragraphs (a) through (g) of this subsection shall apply.(a)1.
All boilers and pressure vessels in new boiler rooms shall be installed in accordance with the National Board Inspection Code.(b)2.
Replacement boilers and pressure vessels in existing boiler rooms shall have a minimum of two (2) feet clearance horizontally on all service sides.(c)3.
Horizontal manway openings in boilers and pressure vessels shall have at least five (5) feet clearance between the manhole opening and any wall, equipment, piping, or other obstruction that will prevent a person from entering the boiler or pressure vessel. Consideration shall be given for additional clearance for emergency personnel attending to a person who has entered the vessel.(d)4.
A passageway at least twenty-four (24) inches wide by five (5) feet high through the boiler or mechanical room shall be provided and maintained for the free passage of a person to each exit, and around the boilers and pressure vessels within.(e)5.
6.
Autoclaves or sterilizers(f)6.7.
Piping, ducts, and vents and their supports shall be arranged so that the clearances required are not compromised.(g)7.8.
The clearances of this subsection(4)(3)
Mobile boiler units. Mobile boiler units shall:(a)
Provide for the general inspection and maintenance of the boiler or pressure vessel, including the removal and replacement of tubes;(b)
Include the manufacturer's data plate, which shall have at least two (2) feet of clearance to allow it to be read, or a suitable opening in the enclosure with a door or removable panel;(c)
Have at least eighteen (18) inches clearance between the top manway and roof of enclosure, or if less than eighteen inches, provide an access hatch in the roof of the enclosure centered over the manway. A roof access hatch shall be at least thirty-six (36) inches by thirty-six (36) inches;(d)
Have openings with doors or removable panels in the sides of the enclosure to access handholes if handholes are within twenty-four (24) inches of the enclosure wall. These(e)
Include that all safety valve discharge piping and gas and other vent piping shall exit the enclosure through the roof or sides; and(f)
(1)
(2)
(3)
(a)
(b)
(4)
(5)
(a)
(b)
(c)
(6)
(7)
(a)
(b)
1.
2.
(8)
(a)
(b)
(9)
(a)
(b)
1.
2.
3.
(c)
(d)
(e)
(5)(4)
(a)
1.
Installation of automatically fired power boilers, heating boilers, hot water supply boilers, and fuel-fired or electrically heated pressure vessels shall have a remote boiler shutdown switch located near each boiler room exit door, inside or outside of the boiler room, and marked for easy identification.2.
A boiler room exit door is any door that can be used for personnel to enter and exit the boiler room. If there is more than one (1) exit door to or from the boiler room, a switch shall be located at each door. If access to a boiler room is via a ladder, then the stop switch shall3.
Machinery doors4.
Shutdown switches shall5.
Shutdown switches shall6.
The shutdown switch or switches shall7.
The shutdown switch shall8.
A transparent cover plate that is hinged or easily removable and not lockable may be used to prevent accidental activation of the shutdown switch. The cover plate shall9.
The shutdown switch shall cause the control display or indicator lights on a boiler to turn off if so equipped, to indicate that the boiler has been shut down.10.
Activation of the shutdown switch shall cause all new and existing boilers in the room to shut down.11.
If the boiler or boilers12.
Any interruption of power to the shutdown switches circuit shall cause the boilers to shut down.(b)
A power boiler or heating boiler installed prior to July 1, 2015 shall be exempt from paragraph (a) of this subsection unless the power boiler or heating boiler installed prior to July 1, 2015 is located in a hospital, rest home, school, day care, jail, health care facilities, or similar institutional facility. The replacement of a boiler in a boiler room containing boilers installed prior to July 1, 2015 shall trigger the requirements(c)
Paragraph (a) of this subsection shall not apply to manufacturing and power generating facilities.(a)
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
(b)
(c)
Section 6.
Incorporation by Reference.(1)
The following material is incorporated by reference:(a)
"National Board Inspection Code Part 1, Installation"(b)(2)
(c)(3)
(d)(4)
(e)(5)
(f)(6)
(2)(7)
FILED WITH LRC: August 11, 2026
CONTACT PERSON: Jonathon M. Fuller, Commissioner, Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction, 500 Mero Street, 1st Floor, Frankfort, Kentucky 40601, Phone: (502) 782-0617, Fax: (502) 573-1057, Email: max.fuller@ky.gov.
PUBLIC PROTECTION CABINET
Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction
(Amended at ARRS Committee)
815 KAR 15:025.New installations, general design, construction, and inspection criteria for boilers, pressure vessels, and pressure piping.
Section 1.
Minimum Standards.(1)
(a)
Boilers and pressure vessels. All new boilers and new pressure vessels shall comply with applicable provisions of 815 KAR Chapter 15 and the applicable ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, as established by KRS 236.040(2), except new boilers and new pressure vessels approved as state specials pursuant to Section 4 of this administrative regulation.(b)
All pressure vessels for human occupancy shall comply with the ASME Safety Standard for Pressure Vessels for Human Occupancy, PVHO-1-2023 edition.(c)
All blowdown and blowoff receivers shall comply with the applicable ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code[]and be stamped as established in subsection (2) of this section.(d)
All pressurized expansion tanks in closed heating systems that have a MAWP in excess of thirty (30) psi shall comply with the applicable ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code.(2)
ASME stamping. New boilers and new pressure vessels shall be stamped with the applicable certification mark and designator of the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code.(3)
Installation standard. Installation of all boilers and pressure vessels shall conform to the National Board Inspection Code Part 1, 2025 edition. Automatically fired boilers at or below 12,500,000 BTU input shall conform to the National Fuel Gas Code NFPA, NFPA 54 2024 edition, as established by the Kentucky Building Code and incorporated by reference in 815 KAR 7:120, if gas-fired, or Standard for the Installation of Oil Burning Equipment NFPA 31, 2024 edition, if liquid-fuel burning. If an automatically fired boiler is over 12,500,000 BTU input, then the automatically fired boiler shall conform to the Boiler and Combustion Systems Hazards CodeNFPA 85, 2023 edition.(4)
Pressure piping.(a)
All new pressure piping installations connected to the boiler or pressure vessel shall conform to the National Board Inspection Code Part 1, 2025 edition, and the applicable standards referenced in this subsection, as established by KRS 236.040(2):(b)
The maximum allowable design temperature and pressure of the piping system and all of its component parts including flexible joints and hoses shall meet or exceed the operating control settings of the boiler or pressure vessel.(c)
If the maximum allowable design temperature or pressure of the boiler exceeds the maximum design limits of the piping system or any of its component parts including flexible joints and hoses, the pipe and its components shall not be used unless the following conditions are met:1.
The temperature and pressure controls on the boiler are permanently set to prevent operation in excess of the design limits of the piping system; and2.
Safety valve or valves shall be installed on the boiler, pressure vessel, or the piping system to protect the system from excess pressure or temperature.(d)
Welded piping joints. Welded joints in pressure piping shall be installed by qualified welders in accordance with the ASME Code, Section IX, as required by the standards referenced in subsection (4) of this section.Section 2.
Manufacturer's Data Report.(1)
A manufacturer's data report on all boilers of steel construction and all pressure vessels constructed in accordance with the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code shall be registered with the National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspectors unless the boiler or pressure vessel is exempted by KRS 236.060 or the pressure vessel has an ASME "UM" certification mark. A pressure vessel with an ASME "UM" certification mark may be registered with the National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspectors.(2)
The boilers and pressure vessels required to be filed with the National Board in subsection (1) of this section shall also have the National Board registration number stamped on the manufacturer's data plate.Section 3.
Installation Inspection or First Inspection and State Registration of New Boilers and Pressure Vessels.(1)
Installation inspection. New installations of boilers, pressure vessels, and associated pressure piping shall be inspected by the department for compliance with applicable ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code requirements, the National Board Inspection Code, and this administrative regulation.(2)
Notification of inspection.(a)
If an inspection is required by this administrative regulation, the boiler and pressure vessel contractor shall prepare each boiler, pressure vessel, and pressure piping system for inspection.(b)
The boiler and pressure vessel license holder or the license holder's representative shall prepare for and apply a hydrostatic pressure or other pressure test on the date of inspection if requested by the boiler inspector, or owner-user inspector.(c)
Inspections shall be conducted within seven (7) days of the date of notification or at an agreed-upon time by the boiler and pressure vessel license holder or the license holder's representative and the inspector.(3)
Inspection times. Except as established in 815 KAR 15:027, inspections made by boiler inspectors shall be conducted during normal business hours of the department between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.(4)
Contractor availability. The boiler and pressure vessel license holder or the license holder's representative shall be available to the boiler inspector, physically or electronically, at the time of the inspections.(5)
State registration. Upon completion of the installation or at the time of first inspection, a Commonwealth of Kentucky registration number shall be assigned to the boiler or pressure vessel and shall be applied to the boiler or pressure vessel with a metal tag showing the registration number. This tag shall be securely affixed near the manufacturer's name plate or data plate.(6)
Non-registered boilers and non-registered pressure vessels. Boiler inspectors, special boiler inspectors, and owner-user inspectors shall notify the department within thirty (30) days of locating any non-registered boiler or non-registered pressure vessel.(7)
General welding.(a)
If welded assembly has been used, the installing boiler and pressure vessel contractor shall produce the following for the boiler inspector's, special boiler inspector's, or owner's piping inspector's review:1.
The welding procedures; and2.
Proof of qualification and continuity records for the welders and welding operators.(b)
The boiler and pressure vessel contractor shall be responsible for the quality of the welding.(8)
Welded piping joints. Welded joints in pressure piping shall be visually inspected for complete and full root penetration, soundness of the weld and freedom from undercutting, cracking, or other surface imperfections in accordance with the requirements of the applicable ASME B31 Code section. If the visual inspection reveals a potential defect, the boiler inspector, special boiler inspector, or owner's piping inspector may require other nondestructive tests, such as radiography, to be performed by the contractor to verify the soundness of the weld. All tests or retests required by the boiler inspector, special boiler inspector, or owner's piping inspector shall be at the owner's or boiler and pressure vessel contractor's expense.(9)
Hydrostatic pressure test for boilers and pressure vessels.(a)
A hydrostatic pressure test, when applied to a boiler or pressure vessel, shall conform to the testing procedures and pressures as specified in the original code of construction. The pressure shall be under proper control so that in no event shall the required test pressure exceed the testing requirements listed in the original code of construction.(b)
During the hydrostatic pressure test, the safety valve or valves shall be removed. If the safety valve or valves cannot be removed, then each valve disc shall be held down by means of a testing clamp and not by screwing down the compression screw upon the spring.(c)
The minimum temperature of the water used to apply a hydrostatic test shall not be less than ambient temperature, but in no case less than seventy (70) degrees Fahrenheit, and the maximum temperature shall not exceed 120 degrees Fahrenheit.(d)
If the only purpose of the test is to determine tightness, the test pressure shall be equal to the relieving pressure of the safety valve having the lowest relief setting.(10)
Inspection of pressure piping. Pressure piping systems installed in association with a boiler or pressure vessel shall be inspected for proper materials, adequate pressure, and temperature ranges for the boiler or pressure vessel operation and for adequate support and tightness as established in this subsection. Pressure piping systems shall be inspected as follows:(a)
High Pressure Steam (above 15 psi). All boiler external piping shall be installed in compliance with ASME Section I and ASME B31.1. Non-boiler external piping shall comply with ASME B 31.1.1.
All boiler piping shall not be painted or covered prior to inspection and shall have mill stenciling legible to the inspector.2.
All welded piping shall be hydrostatically tested with water to one and one half (1.5) times the MAWP of the piping system as protected by a safety valve. If a hydrostatic test cannot be performed, other non-destructive examination shall be performed on all welds.3.
Non-welded pipe shall be inspected in service. Small bore tubing 0.375 inches or less in diameter as used for heat tracing of process piping systems shall not be inspected.(b)
Low Pressure Steam (fifteen (15) psi or less). Boiler external piping and field assembled cast iron boilers shall be hydrostatically tested with water to at least forty-five (45) psi. Non-boiler external piping shall be visually inspected at operating pressure and no hydrostatic test or pressure test is required. Welded joints shall remain uncovered until inspected.(c)
Steam condensate. Steam condensate piping that can be pressurized with live steam above fifteen (15) psi or that leads to a pressure vessel shall comply with the same inspection requirements as established in paragraph (a) of this subsection. Steam condensate piping for low pressure (fifteen (15) psi or less) systems and pumped condensate leading to a vented condensate receiver shall not be inspected.(d)
Anhydrous ammonia.1.
Anhydrous ammonia piping systems shall not have piping or piping joints painted nor covered until inspected.2.
Original mill stencil markings on piping shall be legible to the inspector. Anhydrous ammonia piping systems that are not connected to an existing live system shall be pressure tested with nitrogen to one and one tenth (1.1) times the MAWP of the system.3.
Anhydrous ammonia piping systems that are connected to an existing live ammonia system shall be pressure tested with ammonia gas. If an anhydrous ammonia system is tested with ammonia gas, the system shall be at working pressure and inspected with the sulfur stick or litmus paper method.(e)
Hot oil/thermal fluid.1.
Hot oil/thermal fluid piping systems shall be visually inspected and shall be pressure tested with nitrogen or thermal fluid. A nitrogen test shall be at least one and one tenth (1.1) times the MAWP of the system as protected by a safety valve. A thermal fluid test shall be at least one and one half (1.5) times the MAWP of the system as protected by a safety valve.2.
Hot oil/thermal fluid piping systems shall not have piping or piping joints painted nor covered until inspected.3.
Original mill stencil markings on piping shall be legible to the inspector.(f)
Compressed air.1.
Compressed air piping systems that supply air for general utility air, breathing air, instrument air, and similar applications shall be visually inspected.2.
Piping systems that contain pipe that is two (2) inches in diameter or fewer and operate at 200 psi or less may be painted prior to inspection.3.
Welded pipe joints in piping systems that operate above 200 psi and are over two (2) inches in diameter shall be pressure tested with air at one and one tenth (1.1) times the MAWP of the system as protected by a safety valve and shall not be painted prior to inspection.4.
Cross linked polyethylene (PEX) and thermoplastic materials, such as PVC, CPVC, and PVDF, that exhibit brittle failure as established in ASTM F412 shall not be used for compressed air service. Pipe size one (1) inch in diameter or less shall not be inspected.(g)
Hydronic heating. Hydronic heating piping systems that operate at 100 psi or less shall be visually inspected while under normal operating pressure. Welded pipe joints in hydronic heating pipe systems that operate in excess of 100 psi shall be hydrostatically tested with water at 1.3 times the MAWP of the system as protected by a safety valve.(h)
Hoses and flexible connectors. All hoses and flexible connectors used in any pressure piping system shall be marked with the maximum allowable pressure and temperature that the hose or connector is rated. In the alternative, the department shall accept supporting documentation if the documentation is positively linked to the hose or flexible connector.(i)
Code compliance. All piping systems provided by boiler and pressure vessel fabricators as part of the boiler or pressure vessel assembly, including skid assembled units, shall have supporting documentation from the fabricator that the pressure piping is in compliance with the applicable ASME B31 Code and 815 KAR Chapter 15. Pressure piping inspections shall include determining compliance with applicable ASME B31 Code including material specifications for the piping and component parts. The boiler and pressure vessel contractor shall provide documentation to the boiler inspector, special boiler inspector, owner's piping inspector, or owner-user inspector showing that:1.
The materials used and method of construction meets the manufacturer's procedures and specifications; and2.
The system is utilizing the materials and equipment specified within the temperature and pressure ranges set forth in the design and as required by this administrative regulation.(11)
Inspection by Owner's Piping Inspector.(a)
1.
Owner's piping inspectors shall inspect all new replacement piping for compliance to the applicable ASME piping code to which the piping is installed.2.
The owner's piping inspector shall sign the permit filed by the boiler and pressure vessel contractor performing the piping installation or repair and forward it to the Boiler Inspection Section.(b)
1.
The owner facility license and the independent inspection agency shall maintain copies of the material mill test reports and pressure test information including type of test, pressure at start and end of test, and duration of test for at least five (5) years pursuant to KRS 236.097(1)(h) and (3)(f).2.
If welded joints are utilized, the file shall contain the qualified welder identification, weld procedure, and procedure qualification used.(c)
If there is a disagreement as to the acceptance of any condition of the piping installation or repair by the owner's piping inspector and owner's user facility, the department shall make the final determination in accordance with the standards established in this administrative regulation.Section 4.
State Special.(1)
Boilers and pressure vessels of special design, which are equivalent to but are not eligible to be stamped to the ASME Code, shall meet the requirements of this section. The prospective owner or user who desires approval of the boiler installation or pressure vessel installation as a state special shall comply with the procedures established in this administrative regulation for each case.(a)
Prior to installation and operation of the boiler or pressure vessel, the proposed owner, user, or the owner's authorized agent shall make written application for permission to install the boiler or pressure vessel. The application shall be submitted to the commissioner.(b)
To establish ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code equivalency, the following data, material, and information shall be submitted with the application for state special approval:1.
Detailed shop drawings and welding details of the proposed construction. All materials shall be in the English language and United States units of measurements listed in the ASME Code;2.
Design calculations and supporting data, which shall include pressure (psi), temperature (deg. F.), use, and other service conditions;3.
Specifications for all construction materials shall conform to the applicable ASME Code standards or their suitable equivalent. If reference is made to a standard or specification of a country other than the United States, a copy shall be attached to indicate how the material is considered equivalent;4.
Copies of the welding procedures to be used and welding qualification test reports for each welding operator or welder to be used. The procedures and tests required in this paragraph shall be made in accordance with the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, Section IX, "Welding Qualifications;"5.
If the design exceeds ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code limitation, then API 579/ASME FFS-1, 2007 or later edition shall be used to determine equivalency of the submission;6.
Design drawings and calculations shall be certified by a mechanical engineer holding a professional engineer certification with a background in boilers and pressure vessels;7.
The manufacturer of the vessel shall identify the inspection agency responsible for the shop inspections and shall submit an equivalent ASME manufacturer's data report for the proposed vessel; and8.
The shop inspection agency shall furnish the qualifications of the authorized inspector assigned to make the shop inspections.(2)
Upon completion of the boiler or pressure vessel, a manufacturer's data report, signed by the manufacturer and authorized inspector, shall be submitted to the jurisdictional authorities containing the equivalent type data required by the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code. ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code data report forms shall not be used.(3)
Upon arrival in the Commonwealth of Kentucky, the boiler or pressure vessel shall be inspected before installation by a boiler inspector to verify compliance with this section.Section 5.
General Requirements.(1)
Boilers.(a)
Safety Valves and Safety Relief Valves.1.
Safety valves and safety relief valves shall carry the ASME Code and National Board Certification stamp suitable for the service intended.2.
The resetting of safety valves and safety relief valves shall be done by a National Board "VR" certificate holder.3.
Safety valves and safety relief valves shall be located and installed so that the device is readily accessible for inspection and repair.4.
Stop valves in inlet or discharge piping, and changeover valves shall not be allowed.5.
Discharge Piping:a.
Discharge piping shall be metal and suitable for the pressure and temperature potentially encountered.b.
Discharge Piping outlet for safety valves and safety relief valves shall be located to prevent injury to persons or property.c.
Discharge Piping for steam boilers that exceed 1,500 pounds of steam per hour shall exit the building to the outside or outdoors.d.
Discharge piping shall be anchored or secured against movement while discharging.e.
Discharge piping shall have a pipe union or other joint close to the safety valve or safety relief valve to disconnect the discharge piping from the valve if directly connected to valve for maintenance.f.
Discharge piping shall be increased by one (1) pipe size after every three (3) elbows in the piping system.(b)
Boiler external piping.1.
Boiler external piping shall be installed in accordance with ASME Section I and B31.1.2.
If a power boiler with a manway is connected to a common steam or high temperature water main or header supplied by other boilers, all welded external piping from the boiler out to the second stop valve shall be stamped with any one (1) of the ASME Code symbol stamps for pressure piping, power boilers, or assembly stamps.3.
Carbon Monoxide Detector.a.
Each boiler room containing one or more boilers from which carbon monoxide can be produced shall be equipped with a carbon monoxide detector with a manual reset. Boilers installed in open floor spaces without a defined boiler room shall have the carbon monoxide detector installed no more than three (3) feet away from the emergency shutdown switch and no more than six (6) feet above floor level. It is the installer's responsibility to install the carbon monoxide detector.b.
The carbon monoxide detector shall be interlocked with all boilers, audibly signal at fifty (50) ppm, and disable the burners if the measured level of carbon monoxide rises to or above 200[ ppm.c.
The carbon monoxide detector shall disable the burners upon loss of power to the detector.d.
The carbon monoxide detector shall have an audible alarm and be interlocked with the fire alarm system, if the building is equipped with one.e.
The carbon monoxide detector shall be calibrated in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations or every two (2) years after installation of the detector. A record of calibration shall be posted at or near the boiler, or be readily accessible to a boiler inspector or special boiler inspector. It is the owner or user's responsibility to maintain the carbon monoxide detector.f.
The requirements of this subsection shall apply to boiler and mechanical rooms where new boilers are installed or existing boiler rooms where boilers are replaced.(c)
Boilers having direct ducted combustion air intakes and combustion discharge vents where birds and wildlife can make nests or obstruct these openings shall have suitable screens or caps to prevent obstructions. Gas fuel train vents shall have screens to prevent obstruction at their terminal point.(d)
Inspection of flue and chimney.1.
When new boilers are installed in existing boiler rooms and ducted into existing masonry chimneys, an inspection of the chimney and flue shall be done by the installing contractor or a company that performs the inspections on behalf of the installing contractor. A letter stating that the chimney is safe and suitable for the service intended shall be given to the inspector and shall be kept on file at the boiler section office.2.
Condensing boilers shall not be ducted into masonry chimneys.(e)
]Historic Boilers.1.
Small scale steam locomotives operating on track gauge less than twenty-four (24) inches shall be inspected as non-traditional, noncode historic steam boilers.2.
Non-traditional, noncode boilers shall:a.
Be hydrostatically tested to at least one and one half (1.5) times the normal working pressure;b.
Have at least one (1) spring type "pop" safety valve set at or below the normal operating pressure, which can relieve all the steam from the boiler during an accumulation test;c.
Have at least one (1) water glass to show the water level in the boiler;d.
Have at least two (2) means of introducing feedwater to the boiler. The failure of one (1) device shall not cause the disruption of the other device; ande.
Have a blowdown or drain valve.(2)
Pressure vessels.(a)
Safety valves, safety relief valves, discharge piping, and rupture discs.1.
Safety valves, safety relief valves, and rupture discs shall carry the ASME Code stamp and NBIC Certification stamp.2.
The resetting of safety valves and safety relief valves shall be done by a National Board "VR" Certificate holder.3.
Safety valves and safety relief valves shall be located and installed so that the device shall be readily accessible for inspection and repair.4.
A safety valve, safety relief valve, or rupture disc shall be placed on a heat exchanger or in the piping connecting to the heat exchanger before the first stop valve in the piping on the side of the heat exchanger receiving heat.5.
Discharge piping:a.
Discharge piping shall be metal and suitable for the service intended.b.
The discharge piping outlet for safety valves and safety relief valves shall be located to prevent injury to persons or property.c.
Discharge piping shall be anchored or secured against movement while discharging. Discharge piping shall have a pipe union or other joint close to the safety valve or safety relief valve to disconnect the discharge piping from the valve. Piping shall be arranged for proper drainage.d.
Discharge piping shall be increased by one (1) pipe size per every four (4) elbows in the piping system.(b)
Omission or removal of a safety relief valve or pressure relieving device.If a pressure relieving device is omitted or removed, the device shall be omitted or removed in accordance with ASME Section VIII, Division 1, UG-150 through UG-156.(c)
Leased pressure vessels.1.
Leased pressure vessels shall have the owner's name and telephone number visible to the inspector via paint or label.2.
If a vendor sells a leased vessel to a location where installed, the lessor or installer shall apply a label that states that the vessel has been sold to the location, give the new owner's name and date of sale, and this label shall cover the original owner's name.3.
The lessor shall provide a copy of the operating certificate to the location where the vessel is installed, and the operating certificate shall be displayed on or near the vessel or kept in a file at the lessee's office.(d)
DOT Cylinders. DOT cylinders, if used in manifolded and in stationary service (not transported) and filled onsite shall not be filled or installed indoors.(3)
Clearances. Except for Mobile Boiler Rooms, the following requirements established in paragraphs (a) through (g) of this subsection shall apply.(a)
All boilers and pressure vessels in new boiler rooms shall be installed in accordance with the National Board Inspection Code.(b)
Replacement boilers and pressure vessels in existing boiler rooms shall have a minimum of two (2) feet clearance horizontally on all service sides.(c)
Horizontal manway openings in boilers and pressure vessels shall have at least five (5) feet clearance between the manhole opening and any wall, equipment, piping, or other obstruction that will prevent a person from entering the boiler or pressure vessel. Consideration shall be given for additional clearance for emergency personnel attending to a person who has entered the vessel.(d)
A passageway at least twenty-four (24) inches wide by five (5) feet high through the boiler or mechanical room shall be provided and maintained for the free passage of a person to each exit, and around the boilers and pressure vessels within.(e)
Autoclaves or sterilizers that have dedicated electric steam boilers attached shall either have at least two (2) feet clearance on both sides of the cabinet or be installed in a cabinet capable of movement to reasonably accommodate inspection.(f)
Piping, ducts, and vents and their supports shall be arranged so that the clearances required are not compromised.(g)
The clearances of this subsection shall be maintained for the life of the vessel.(4)
Mobile boiler units. Mobile boiler units shall:(a)
Provide for the general inspection and maintenance of the boiler or pressure vessel, including the removal and replacement of tubes;(b)
Include the manufacturer's data plate, which shall have at least two (2) feet of clearance to allow it to be read, or a suitable opening in the enclosure with a door or removable panel;(c)
Have at least eighteen (18) inches clearance between the top manway and roof of enclosure, or if less than eighteen inches, provide an access hatch in the roof of the enclosure centered over the manway. A roof access hatch shall be at least thirty-six (36) inches by thirty-six (36) inches;(d)
Have openings with doors or removable panels in the sides of the enclosure to access handholes if handholes are within twenty-four (24) inches of the enclosure wall. These openings shall be at least twenty-four (24) inches by twenty-four (24) inches;(e)
Include that all safety valve discharge piping and gas and other vent piping shall exit the enclosure through the roof or sides; and(f)
Have an emergency stop switch located on the exterior of the enclosure that shall be easily accessible.(5)
Emergency shutdown switches.(a)
1.
Installation of automatically fired power boilers, heating boilers, hot water supply boilers, and fuel-fired or electrically heated pressure vessels shall have a remote boiler shutdown switch located near each boiler room exit door, inside or outside of the boiler room, and marked for easy identification.2.
A boiler room exit door is any door that can be used for personnel to enter and exit the boiler room. If there is more than one (1) exit door to or from the boiler room, a switch shall be located at each door. If access to a boiler room is via a ladder, then the stop switch shall be located the end of the ladder first reached upon entering the boiler room.3.
Machinery doors and doors exiting to rooftops where no rooftop exit exists, or doors opening below grade for machinery access with no access to grade, shall not require shutdown switches. A machinery door shall be considered an exit if no other exit door exists.4.
Shutdown switches shall be no less than thirty (30) inches and no more than forty-eight (48) inches above floor level, and no more than five (5) feet horizontally from the door frame unless obscured by the door in fully open position. Doors spaced no more than ten (10) feet apart shall not have more than one (1) switch, which shall be centrally located between the doors. Boilers located in large spaces shall have an emergency shutdown switch located no less than twenty (20) feet and no more than fifty (50) feet from the boiler.5.
Shutdown switches shall not be obscured by doors in the open position. If doors in the open position exceed five (5) feet from the door frame, the shutdown switch shall be placed as close as possible to the edge of the open door.6.
The shutdown switch or switches shall be marked with a sign that clearly states that the switch is an emergency shutdown switch.7.
The shutdown switch shall be a red color pushbutton switch, which shall be manually reset by pulling or twisting and pulling.8.
A transparent cover plate that is hinged or easily removable and not lockable may be used to prevent accidental activation of the shutdown switch. The cover plate shall allow the switch to be struck with the palm of the hand.9.
The shutdown switch shall cause the control display or indicator lights on a boiler to turn off if so equipped, to indicate that the boiler has been shut down.10.
Activation of the shutdown switch shall cause all new and existing boilers in the room to shut down.11.
If the boiler or boilers are located within five (5) feet of the boiler room exit door and have on – off switches easily identifiable and accessible, then the remote shutdown switch shall not be required.12.
Any interruption of power to the shutdown switches circuit shall cause the boilers to shut down.(b)
A power boiler or heating boiler installed prior to July 1, 2015 shall be exempt from paragraph (a) of this subsection unless the power boiler or heating boiler installed prior to July 1, 2015 is located in a hospital, rest home, school, day care, jail, health care facilities, or similar institutional facility. The replacement of a boiler in a boiler room containing boilers installed prior to July 1, 2015 shall trigger the requirements that the shutoff switches shall be installed and connected to all new and existing boilers.(c)
Paragraph (a) of this subsection shall not apply to manufacturing and power generating facilities.Section 6.
Incorporation by Reference.(1)
The following material is incorporated by reference:(a)
"National Board Inspection Code Part 1, Installation"2025 Edition;(b)
"National Board Inspection Code Part 2, Inspection" 2025 Edition;(c)
"National Board Inspection Code Part 3, Repairs and Alterations" 2025 Edition;(d)
"National Board Inspection Code Part 4, Pressure Relief Devices" 2025 Edition;(e)
"Standard for the Installation of Oil Burning Equipment NFPA 31," 2024 Edition; and(f)
"Boiler and Combustion Systems Hazards Code NFPA 85," 2023 Edition.(2)
This material may be inspected, copied, or obtained, subject to applicable copyright law, at the Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction, Division of Plumbing, Boiler Section, 500 Mero Street, Frankfort, Kentucky 40601, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.FILED WITH LRC: August 11, 2026
CONTACT PERSON: Jonathon M. Fuller, Commissioner, Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction, 500 Mero Street, 1st Floor, Frankfort, Kentucky 40601, Phone: (502) 782-0617, Fax: (502) 573-1057, Email: max.fuller@ky.gov.