An inspector wearing a hard hat and holding a tablet
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The value of an HSB inspector

For over 145 years, HSB Canada’s inspectors have set the standard for boiler and machinery inspections for the insurance industry.

Their primary focus is to conduct a complete and thorough in-service inspection of insured boiler and pressure vessel equipment to ensure compliance with applicable jurisdictional regulations.  

These inspections help prevent avoidable losses, assist with meeting the requirements of the jurisdiction, and support business owners with the safe operation of equipment.

What is a Jurisdictional Inspection?

Pressure vessel equipment
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Jurisdictional inspections are conducted in Ontario and Quebec. After a boiler or pressure vessel has been installed and put into service, jurisdictional inspections are required by provincial authorities on a periodic basis to verify that equipment is being operated and maintained in accordance with recognized standards. 

These recognized standards have been developed by Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA), CSA B51 Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, Régie du bâtiment du Québec (RBQ), National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspectors (National Board), National Board Inspection Code (NBIC), and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME). 

As an example, a jurisdiction may require an annual internal and external inspection of high-pressure boilers. These in-service inspections may involve a visual assessment of conditions with regard to materials, operating conditions, leaks, corrosion, water chemistry, controls, overpressure, and low water protection, as may be required by law.

The inspector may, as applicable, also verify that adequate logs are maintained or observe the testing of applicable controls and safety devices during an operating inspection. Once the inspection is complete, the inspector will submit a written report to the jurisdiction either requiring corrective action or recommending issuance of an operating certificate.

How we deliver value to our clients

Inspectors holding a tablet and wearing safety equipment
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HSB Canada leads the industry in jurisdictional inspection activity. Our team of around 40 inspectors and engineers across Canada provides prompt, high-quality inspection services to a variety of clients. The team also offers underwriting and loss control support through risk identification and loss mitigation. 

HSB supports its inspectors with modern technology to improve operational efficiency. Inspectors are equipped with tablets for mobile computing, which enables more efficient inspections, real-time database updates, and instant access to jurisdictional rules. 

HSB inspectors and engineers provide quality jurisdictional inspections, identification, and reporting of potential property loss risks, and incorporate technological advances into our existing processes. By delivering a consistently high-quality service in these four key areas, HSB inspectors continue to demonstrate their value to policyholders, brokers, MGAs and primary insurers. We believe technology and data analytics will continue to accelerate the evolution of the role of inspector and engineer, and strengthen the relationship between HSB and our clients. 

This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to convey or constitute legal advice. HSB makes no warranties or representations as to the accuracy or completeness of the content herein. Under no circumstances shall HSB or any party involved in creating or delivering this article be liable to you for any loss or damage that results from the use of the information contained herein. Except as otherwise expressly permitted by HSB in writing, no portion of this article may be reproduced, copied, or distributed in any way. This article does not modify or invalidate any of the provisions, exclusions, terms or conditions of the applicable policy and endorsements. For specific terms and conditions, please refer to the applicable insurance form. Posted on June 28, 2021