Serving Colorado's Counties

Technical Update vol. 30 no. 31 - Boiler & Pressure Vessel Inspections

August 4, 2026

Boilers and pressure vessels are critical to many county facilities, but they also present significant safety risks if not properly maintained and inspected. Because these systems operate under pressure, routine inspections help identify issues before they result in equipment failure, property damage, injury, or service interruptions.

The Colorado Boiler Inspection Section, part of the Division of Oil and Public Safety, enforces nationally adopted standards for the installation, operation, maintenance, and repair of boilers and pressure vessels. Depending on the equipment's BTU input, inspections are typically required annually or every two to three years.

Initial inspections after installation must be completed by a Colorado Boiler Section Inspector and are subject to applicable state inspection and certificate fees. Subsequent inspections may be performed by a commissioned special inspector, including those employed by an authorized insurance carrier such as Liberty Mutual.

WHAT DOES AN INSPECTION INCLUDE?

A boiler or pressure vessel inspection evaluates key components that help ensure safe operation, including:

  • Nameplate and equipment identification
  • Relief and safety valves
  • Control safety devices
  • Boiler room piping
  • Combustion air
  • Flue pipe connections
  • Expansion tanks
  • Overall boiler room condition

PREPARING FOR AN INSPECTION

A little preparation can help inspections proceed safely and efficiently. Before the inspector arrives, counties should:

  • Gather maintenance records, repair history, operating logs, and previous inspection reports.
  • Discuss any outstanding recommendations from prior inspections.
  • Determine whether an internal or external inspection is required.
  • Ensure boilers are properly shut down, cooled, and locked/tagged out before internal inspections.
  • Clean inspection areas and provide safe access to equipment.
  • Verify required confined space procedures have been completed when applicable.

Preparing equipment in advance not only supports a smoother inspection but can also reduce delays if additional follow-up inspections are needed.

NO-COST INSPECTIONS

CAPP Members may schedule jurisdictional boiler and pressure vessel inspections through Liberty Mutual as part of the Equipment Breakdown coverage included with the program. While equipment owners remain responsible for ensuring inspections are completed, Liberty Mutual provides these inspection services at no additional cost to eligible Members.

To schedule an inspection, contact Liberty Mutual at 877.526.0020 or email 

LMEBInspections@LibertyMutual.com. Be prepared to provide:

  • Company name
  • Facility address
  • Contact person and phone number
  • Liberty Mutual policy number

WHAT THIS MEANS FOR COUNTIES

CAPP Members do not pay an additional fee for jurisdictional boiler and pressure vessel inspections through Liberty Mutual's Equipment Breakdown Program. Counties should schedule required inspections promptly and prepare equipment in advance to support a safe, efficient inspection and identify potential issues before they become costly repairs or equipment failures. For assistance scheduling an inspection or questions regarding equipment breakdown coverage, please contact CTSI at 303.861.0507.

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