FAQ

The following Frequently Asked Questions offer general guidance regarding the requirements for design registration in Australia. It’s important to note that registration requirements may change, and for the most current information, refer to the relevant state authority website (e.g., https://www.worksafe.qld.gov.au/licensing-and-registrations/plant-design-registration).

Plant Design Registration vs. Plant Registration:

Plant Design Registration: Completed for a ‘design,’ represented by engineering drawings documenting design conditions, materials, codes, etc. One registration can cover multiple vessels of the same design.

Plant Registration: Done by the owner/operator for each vessel instance, referencing the design registration number. Registered plant requires periodic inspection.

Consistency in Registration Rules:

All states, except Western Australia (WA) and Victoria, share similar registration requirements. WA accepts designs complying with specific codes, while other states recognize codes from recognized standards organizations.

When is Registration Required?

Guided by AS4343, a vessel with a hazard rating of A, B, C, or D must be design-registered. If the hazard rating is A, B, or C, plant registration is also required before use.

Difference Between Design and Plant Registration:

Design registration precedes plant registration. A design can cover multiple vessels, while plant registration is unique to each instance, requiring inspection by a qualified inspector.

Designer vs. Verifier:

Little difference between a Designer and a Verifier; both are experienced pressure vessel designers. The Verifier is the final check, ensuring independence from the initial design activity.

Design Codes for Pressure Vessels:

Except for WA, vessels can be designed based on good engineering principles. WA requires compliance with specific codes, and other states expect recognized international design codes.

Mixing Design Codes and Fabrication Codes:

While not mandated, if a vessel is declared to be designed to a specific code, it must also be fabricated to the associated fabrication codes.

U-Stamp for ASME BPVC Section VIII:

The U-stamp is usually relevant during plant registration, not design registration. Most states, except Victoria, require full compliance with the U-stamp for vessels designed to ASME BPVC Section VIII.

Nationality or Location of Designer/Verifier:

Not required to be Australian. However, for legal implications, it’s preferable for the Verifier to be based in Australia.

Applicant as Designer or Verifier:

The Designer can be the applicant for design registration, but the Verifier cannot be the applicant.

Applicant’s Nationality or Location:

The applicant must have an office in the state where registration is sought, ensuring distribution throughout all states.

Recognition of Design Across States:

Any pressure vessel design registered in one state will be recognized by all other states, except WA, which may have specific considerations.

Disclaimer:

The information provided is based on the author’s best knowledge, and specific queries should be directed to the relevant state authority for vessel registration.