Which agency must approve pressure relief devices?

The approval of pressure relief devices falls under the jurisdiction of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME). This organization is known for establishing standards and codes related to mechanical engineering, including the design, manufacture, and certification of pressure vessels and their associated components, such as pressure relief devices.

ASME’s Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code (BPVC) outlines rigorous requirements that ensure the safety and reliability of pressure relief devices, which are crucial for preventing excessive pressure buildup in systems. These devices must be designed to operate within specified parameters, and their compliance with ASME standards ensures they will function correctly under those parameters, providing safe operation for pressure piping systems.

While OSHA plays a role in workplace safety regulations and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) focuses on environmental compliance, and the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) develops standards for various industries, it is ASME that has the specific responsibility for the technical certification of pressure relief devices. This distinction is essential for ensuring that these safety-critical components meet the necessary safety and performance standards.