The National Board also offers seminars developed specifically for boiler operators. Equipment brought on line without proper safety checks of control and safety devices promotes a dangerous situation. Prior to automatic operation, all controls and safety devices must be checked for proper operation. The operator must observe at least three normal cycles prior to independent operation to ensure the boiler is running properly. Finally, if repairs are needed, use a competent repair organization.
Preventive maintenance is probably the most important strategy.
This includes reporting all accidents, even small ones that seem insignificant, to the local chief boiler inspector. After a maintenance worker noticed water dripping from the steam valve, the boiler was shut down for inspection. During theinspection, insulation was removed. The boiler inspector concluded that water had been leaking into the insulation for so long that corrosion had developed completely around the boiler. The inspector could actually penetrate the boiler with a pocket knife.