What is "Pressure Equipment?"

In theory, any piece of equipment that can contain pressures higher than normal atmospheric pressure could be considered "pressure equipment."

Under Alberta's Safety Codes Act and regulations, "pressure equipment" is defined in a more specific way, based on factors such as its intended purpose, size, and design pressure.

How Many Pressure Vessels are Registered in Alberta?

Over 400,000 boilers and pressure vessels are registered with ABSA. Thanks to a vibrant economy and an active oil and gas sector, this number continues to grow.

Has Pressure Equipment ever Failed in Alberta?

Alberta has one of the lowest incident rates in North America. However, failures do occur.

In most cases, failures happen when safety devices do not function when they should. Unfortunately, this can usually be traced back to poor maintenance or inadequate operator training. The message that "all pressure equipment accidents are preventable" is as important as ever.

Part of ABSA's mandate is to investigate all accidents and unsafe conditions that involve pressure equipment. ABSA also has the authority to shut down boilers or vessels that are deemed immediately hazardous.

Which Pressure Equipment ss Covered by the Safety Codes Act and Regulations?

All pressure equipment in Alberta is covered by the Safety Codes Act and Regulations, unless it is specifically exempted by the legislation.

What is a Boiler and Pressure Vessel Permit?

A "Certificate of Inspection Permit" is the permit that allows a boiler or pressure vessel to be placed into service in Alberta. The owner, installer, contractor, or vendor must obtain a Certificate Of Inspection Permit before placing a boiler or pressure vessel in service, unless it is specifically exempt from this requirement by the legislation.

Are Common Household or Shop Items Exempt?

Common items that are exempt from the requirements of the Safety Codes Act and regulations include:

• The propane tank on your barbecue (covered by the Federal Transportation of Dangerous Goods Act)

• The hot water heater in your house (if the internal diameter is not greater than 610 mm [24 inches]).

If you have questions about a specific item of pressure equipment, contact your local ABSA office.

The owner of a pressure vessel is responsible for its proper maintenance and safe operation. Should a vessel rupture and cause injury or death, the owner could face civil or criminal penalties.

Who Regulates Pressure Tanks used for Transport of Dangerous Goods?

Pressure vessels intended for the transport of dangerous goods are generally exempt from Alberta's Safety Codes Act. Instead, they are covered by Canada's Transportation of Dangerous Goods Act.

Who are ABSA Safety Codes Officers?

Safety Codes Officers in the pressure equipment discipline are ABSA employees, trained and certified to provincial and internationally recognized standards, with competencies verified to perform as Safety Codes Officers under the Safety Codes Act.

A Safety Codes Officer has the authority to enforce various aspects of the Safety Codes Act and Regulations dealing with pressure equipment. The Officer may conduct inspections, investigate accidents, and order a shutdown of pressure equipment.