Australian Pressure Equipment Knowledge

GN 010 - PE Regulator Role In 1986

Details

Category: Use & In-Service Inspection

Developed for:  ACA, AICIP, AIES, AINDT, CAAA, Eng Aust, Met. Aust, NATA, Stds Aust, WTIA, & PE Industry & Regulators

1   Scope
This Note makes available the attached annual report by an Australian PE Regulator in 1986.

 2   Purpose of Note
This Note indicates:
 a) the huge change from Regulator actions up to 1990’s to post-1994 when the National Standard for Plant started to be implemented and replaced in 2012 with the WHS laws. This change transferred most inspection action from government to industry.
 b) the need for PE Industry to be responsive to all types of change.
 c) the type and extent of various controls then considered essential by laws often requiring annual inspection.
Note: At that time NSW differed from other States and Territories in that most in-service inspections of PE were performed by Licensed Boiler Inspectors (mostly Marine Engineers) who had to pass tough Boiler Branch examinations. LBI licence fees were $70 per year and their inspection fees were controlled by law. Department fees for PE registration was $1.30 per item of PE per inspection.
 d) it can help us to “look back to look forward” and remember “History is the prologue to the future”.

3   Comment
 .1  The above general practice of Regulator control (includes in-service inspection) had commenced in the late 1800s across the world. It has greatly increased with routine inspection by industry and many governments.
 .2  This shows there is often many ways of achieving a successful outcome. AU is now adapting to a new way.
 .3  PE Inspection in Australia has changed significantly in the last 25 years and is still adjusting to get optimum results – primarily by industry with modified practices. This is at a time of huge expansion in the PE numbers and diversity with major capital project developments in oil, gas, minerals and some closures of refineries.
 .4  The adaption is now a challenge to the AU PE Industry which is being tackled by many on many fronts.
 .5  Note the presentation of the report ie one font (typewriter), no colour, no photos, and only “roneod” with distribution by mail or hand. This shows the huge impact of computer, mobile (with camera) and the internet is getting information and knowledge to people who need it.

4   Acknowledgment
The foresighted view of WorkCover NSW (then Department of Industrial Relations) with such a public document is acknowledged.
Also thanks to Dave Dowling (AICIP SIS No 001) for making it available.

5   Enclosed Report
 .1  Activities of Boiler and Pressure Vessel Branch 1986 – 8pp
 .2  PE Inspection Activities Statistics 1976 – 1986 1pp

 To see the full Guidance Note Click Here

• < Prev
• Next >