Question & AnswerQ&A (DOLE DEPARTMENT ORDER NO. 74-05)
The purpose of DOLE Department Order No. 74-05 is to amend Rule 1162.02 of Rule 1160 on Boilers under the Occupational Safety and Health Standards, specifically governing the inspection, testing, and safety requirements for boilers to ensure safe operation.
The Regional Office concerned through its authorized technical safety inspectors is responsible for conducting both internal and external inspections of all boiler parts and appliances.
The boiler shall be hydrostatically tested at 1.5 times the design pressure after the completion of work.
The permit to operate the boiler shall be suspended if the owner/operator fails to notify the DOLE Regional Office prior to the scheduled shutdown.
Inspections must be conducted at intervals not exceeding eighteen (18) months and should coincide with the scheduled plant shutdown for purposes of overhauling or preventive maintenance.
The hydrostatic test shall be conducted at a minimum water temperature of not less than 21°C (70°F) and a maximum temperature not to exceed 71°C (160°F).
Any applicable non-destructive testing (NDT) methods such as radiographic, ultrasonic, thickness gauging, magnetic particle, liquid penetrant, or other equivalent non-destructive tests conducted by DOLE-accredited NDT organizations are allowed periodically not exceeding 18 months.
The industrial boiler shall be hydrostatically tested at 1.5 times the design pressure before being placed into service after installation.
Hydrostatic tests for industrial boilers must be conducted at an interval frequency of not more than 12 months.
The boiler shall not be allowed to operate and no permit to operate shall be issued until defects or unsafe conditions have been corrected and all fittings are in good condition to ensure safe operation.