Revised standard highlights boiler safety

Operators of boilers will be better protected following a revision of a key safety standards that sets out increased safety requirements for the operation of boilers and other pressure equipment devices. James Forbes, Chair and Drafting Leader for the new standard, said the revision was a huge task for the committee, with over 1000 updates and modifications made during the drafting process. The end result is an improved document to guide the industry.

“This new version is a standard of international quality that now focuses on the best criteria of any standard of any country — safety, the environment and technology,” Forbes said.

The revised standard (AS/NZS 2593:2021, Boilers – Safety management and supervision systems) addresses the significant technology advancements that have occurred in the industry since the standard was last published in 2004. For the first time, the standard also addresses the emission of greenhouse gases from boilers. The revision also improves testing requirements and controls for increased workplace and personal safety, and provides safer methodologies to address factors such as boiler controls, special lifting equipment, boiler access and other work health and safety (WHS) aspects.

Roland Terry-Lloyd, Head of Standards Development with Standards Australia, emphasised the importance of supporting safer work environments and safety for the public, particularly when dealing with hazardous equipment such as boilers. Terry-Lloyd added that the updated standard puts safety at the forefront with clear, concise testing methods and safety requirements.

“For the first time the inclusion of requirements aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions from boilers, as well as methodologies that address the vast array of new technology now deployed in the sector, has resulted in an internationally competitive standard,” Terry-Lloyd said.

Image credit: ©stock.adobe.com/au/dusanpetkovic1