NBIC Interpretations
Role of interpretations
NBIC interpretations answer questions about the intent of existing code text. They do not create new requirements and they do not replace the code. An interpretation is tied to the edition and paragraph it addresses, so the first step is to confirm that the cited text is still the governing text. Interpretations are official National Board responses, but a verbal opinion or an informal email is not an interpretation.
Using one correctly
- Identify the question, the code edition, and the paragraph.
- Read the interpretation’s answer and its basis; do not quote the answer out of context.
- Apply it only to the edition and facts described. A later edition may have changed the text.
- If the interpretation conflicts with clear code text, the code text controls; seek clarification through the proper channel.
Worked example
An inspector asks whether a particular welded repair requires postweld heat treatment. The published interpretation cites a Part 3 paragraph and states the condition under which heat treatment is required. The AI applies that reasoning to the actual repair, confirms the material and thickness, and verifies the edition. The AI does not treat the interpretation as a blanket rule for every weld of that type, because the answer was limited to the stated facts.
Traps
Treating an interpretation as a code revision; applying a case-specific answer to a different configuration; ignoring the edition cited; and accepting a contractor’s summary of an interpretation instead of the published text.