The Board of Boiler Rules and the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries are reviewing potential updates to the state rules that govern boilers and pressure vessels. The review focuses on rules in chapter 296 104 of the Washington Administrative Code and aims to align state standards with national safety practices while clarifying and modernizing existing requirements.
The proposed updates would refine several parts of the rules. They include adding or revising definitions, clarifying inspection requirements for low pressure boilers, extending inspection intervals for organizations that operate and maintain their own equipment, and outlining new expectations for boiler operation and maintenance. Labor and Industries is also considering fee increases that would follow the fiscal growth factor for fiscal year 2027. A preproposal notice was filed in October and, if adopted, the final rules would take effect in July 2026.
Stakeholders are encouraged to follow and participate in the rulemaking process. Study and board meetings are scheduled for November 18 and 19 and additional opportunities for comment will follow after the proposed rules are filed in January. A public hearing is planned for late February, with final adoption expected in April. More information is available on the Labor and Industries website.
