Inspection Organizations and Data Report Registration
Roles
The NBIC separates inspection from repair. An Authorized Inspection Agency (AIA) employs Authorized Inspectors (AIs); an Authorized Inspector Supervisor (AIS) supervises AIs and reviews their technical work. An Owner-User Inspection Organization (OUIO) is a different route for an owner to perform inspection duties within its scope. The AI does not work for the repair organization, and the supervisor’s review is not a substitute for the AI’s own signature.
Data reports
- A repair is documented on the applicable NBIC repair report; the R-1 is the common repair report, and the R-2 is used for pressure relief valve repairs.
- An alteration requires alteration documentation and design review, not a repair report alone.
- The report must be signed by the AI and the responsible organization, and registered with the National Board as required by the NBIC and the jurisdiction.
- Registration is not a substitute for jurisdictional acceptance; both may be required.
Worked example
A repair organization completes a welded repair to a pressure vessel. The AI verifies the repair procedure, welder qualification, NDE, and pressure test, then signs the R-1. The AIA registers the report with the National Board. If the scope had changed the design pressure, the job would be an alteration, requiring design review and alteration documentation before the AI signs. The AIS reviews the AI’s file for completeness, but the AI remains responsible for the inspection judgment.
Traps
Using an ASME construction data report for an NBIC repair; signing before NDE results are reviewed; failing to register; confusing AIA and OUIO authority; and letting the supervisor’s review become an undocumented rubber stamp.