Analysis

Topic: Boiler Operator Registration
SPONSOR: LaForge
COMMITTEE: Regulatory Affairs

Position: The Department does not support the bill.

Background: The operation of boilers can be hazardous. In 1995 there were over 2,600 boiler related accidents in the United States and Canada, resulting in 76 injuries and 13 deaths. Approximately 30 percent of the total accidents and 70 percent of the deaths were the result of operator error or poor maintenance. All Canadian provinces and territories, eight states and many cities, including Detroit and Dearborn in Michigan, require boiler operators to be licensed.

Content of Bill: The bill amends the Boiler Act of 1965 to add provisions for the voluntary registration of boiler operators and stationary engineers.

Arguments:
Pro: State registration should help reduce the risk of serious injuries and death in this hazardous occupation.

Con:The bill is not needed. The accident statistics do not demonstrate a need for such legislation, nor do the statistics demonstrate that licensure or registration prevents accidents. Furthermore, the act already contains requirements for safety controls to be installed on all boilers to provide for safe operation. It further requires annual or biennial inspections of boilers for the purpose of determining the operational and structural integrity of the unit and its safety controls.

Fiscal Information: Costs would be imposed on the state to establish a voluntary registration system, develop and administer examinations and promulgate administrative rules.