Emergency Stop Switches for Boilers

During a life safety code survey in the month of February, a provider was cited for not having an emergency stop switch located outside of the boiler room door that stopped power and functionality to the boiler. This has not been cited previously on a survey, which prompted some investigation into the requirement.

According to the National Boiler Inspection Code Part 1 Section 3.5.2.1 it states “Steam heating, hot water heating, and hot water supply boiler(s). All wiring for controls, heat generating apparatus, and other appurtenances for the operation of the boiler(s) shall be installed in accordance with the provisions of national or international standards and comply with applicable local electrical codes. Additionally, A disconnecting means capable of being locked in the open position shall be installed at an accessible location at the boiler so that the boiler can be disconnected from all sources. This disconnecting means shall be an integral part of the boiler or adjacent to it.

A manually operated remote shutdown switch or circuit breaker shall be located just outside the equipment room door and marked for easy identification. Consideration should also be given to the type and location of the switch to safeguard against tampering. If the equipment room door is on the building exterior, the switch should be located just inside the door. If there is more than one door, there should be a switch located at each door of egress.

Here is a screenshot of the reference as cited on a boiler inspection report: