scope:

The National Board Inspection Code (NBIC) - NB23 - was first published in 1946 as a guide for chief inspectors. It has become an internationally recognized standard, adopted by most US and Canadian jurisdictions. The NBIC provides standards for the installation, inspection, and repair and/or alteration of boilers, pressure vessels, and pressure relief devices. 

The NBIC is organized into four (4) Parts to coincide with specific post-construction activities involving pressure-retaining items.

         Part 1, Installation - This Part provides requirements and guidance to ensure all types of pressure-retaining items are installed and function properly. Installation includes meeting specific safety criteria for construction, materials, design, supports, safety devices, operation, testing, and maintenance.

         Part 2, Inspection - This Part provides information and guidance needed to perform and document inspections for all types of pressure-retaining items. This Part includes information on personnel safety, non-destructive examination, tests, failure mechanisms, types of pressure equipment, fitness for service, risk-based assessments, and performance-based standards.

         Part 3, Repairs and Alterations - This Part provides information and guidance to perform, verify, and document acceptable repairs or alterations to pressure-retaining items regardless of code of construction. Alternative methods for examination, testing, heat treatment, etc., are provided when the original code of construction requirements cannot be met. Specific acceptable and proven repair methods are also provided.

         Part 4, Pressure Relief Devices - This Part provides information and guidance to perform, verify, and document the installation, inspection, and repair of Pressure Relief Devices, including a supplemental section that contains specialized information, such as pressure margins, recommended repair practices, and test stand design details. 

The NBIC is developed and maintained by a consensus committee, the NBIC Main Committee, composed of industry experts. 

 The NBIC Main Committee updates the NBIC every other year. The updates are presented on the National Board's website for public review in August of the year prior to the Edition date. The NBIC is published as a new edition in July of odd numbered years (2017, 2019, 2021, etc.).