Exam
Module 1: Regulatory Framework & Licensing (Questions 1-20)
1. Which Michigan statute currently establishes the licensing classifications and
requirements for boiler installers?
A. Michigan Boiler Act (Act 290 of 1965)
B. Skilled Trades Regulation Act (2016 PA 407)
C. ASME Section IV
D. Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Act (MIOSHA)
Answer: B
Rationale: While the Michigan Boiler Act (Act 290) established the initial safety
framework, the Skilled Trades Regulation Act (2016 PA 407) is the modern statute that
consolidated and defined the specific licensing classes (like 1B through 6B) and
regulatory requirements for boiler installers in Michigan .
2. What is the primary, overarching purpose of the Michigan Boiler Act (Act 290 of
1965)?
A. To establish environmental protection guidelines for boiler emissions
B. To regulate the energy consumption efficiency of all heating systems
C. To ensure the safe design, installation, operation, and maintenance of boilers
D. To standardize the manufacturing costs of boiler components
Answer: C
Rationale: Act 290 was enacted with the core mission of public safety. It sets the legal
framework to ensure that boilers are designed, installed, operated, and maintained to
strict safety standards, protecting life and property .
,3. Which state agency is primarily responsible for enforcing the Michigan Boiler
Act and overseeing licensing?
A. Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE)
B. Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA)
C. Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC)
D. Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO)
Answer: B
Rationale: The Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) is the
administrative body charged with enforcing the state's boiler laws, developing
administrative rules, and overseeing the licensing of installers and inspectors .
4. Under the Skilled Trades Regulation Act, how often must a Michigan boiler
installer renew their license?
A. Annually
B. Every two years (biennially)
C. Every three years
D. Every five years
Answer: B
Rationale: Michigan boiler installer licenses are not permanent. They must be renewed
on a regular basis to ensure continued competency. The standard renewal cycle for
these licenses is every two years .
5. According to the Michigan Administrative Code, who is legally defined as an
"installer"?
A. A person who manufactures boilers and pressure vessels
B. A person who designs boiler systems and creates engineering blueprints
C. A person who physically installs, replaces, or alters boilers in compliance with
applicable codes
D. A person who conducts annual inspections of in-service boilers
Answer: C
Rationale: The code makes a clear distinction between different roles. An "installer" is
specifically the individual or entity responsible for the physical acts of putting a boiler
,into place, replacing an existing unit, or making modifications to a system, all while
adhering to state and national codes .
6. A licensed boiler installer wants to expand their business to include the
maintenance and repair of existing boiler systems. What is required?
A. Nothing, a boiler installer license automatically covers repair work.
B. A separate "repairer" license or endorsement, as it is a distinct classification.
C. A general contractor's license is sufficient.
D. Only a written contract with the building owner is required.
Answer: B
Rationale: Michigan regulations often distinguish between an "installer" and a
"repairer." While there may be overlap, engaging in the trade of repairing boilers
typically requires a separate license classification or specific endorsement because it
involves different scopes of work and potential liabilities compared to new installations .
7. What is the maximum allowable pressure for a low-pressure steam boiler, which
falls under classifications like 1B and 2B?
A. 5 psi
B. 15 psi
C. 50 psi
D. 160 psi
Answer: B
Rationale: The definition of a low-pressure steam boiler is fundamental. By code (such
as ASME Section IV, which is adopted by Michigan), these boilers are limited to a
maximum operating pressure of 15 pounds per square inch (psi) .
8. For a low-pressure hot water boiler, what is the maximum pressure and
temperature limit?
A. 50 psi and 250°F
B. 100 psi and 200°F
, C. 160 psi and 250°F
D. 30 psi and 300°F
Answer: C
Rationale: While steam boilers are defined by pressure, hot water boilers are defined by
both pressure and temperature. The standard limit for a low-pressure hot water heating
boiler is 160 psi and/or 250° Fahrenheit .
9. A licensed installer is replacing a faulty thermostat on an existing residential
boiler. Is a permit required from the local authority having jurisdiction?
A. Yes, a permit is required for any work on a heating system.
B. No, a permit is typically not required for minor repairs and replacement of controls
like thermostats.
C. Yes, a permit is always required if the boiler is still under warranty.
D. No, but only if the installer is also the homeowner.
Answer: B
Rationale: Permits are generally required for the installation, replacement, or major
alteration of a boiler system. Routine maintenance and the replacement of minor
components, such as a thermostat or a pressure gauge, are usually considered repairs
and do not require a new permit, though local rules can vary .
10. Which document, provided by the manufacturer, contains the critical technical
specifications, design pressure, and minimum requirements for the installation of
a specific boiler?
A. The Installer's Business License
B. The Manufacturer's Data Report
C. The Building Owner's Insurance Policy
D. The Local Fire Department's Inspection Form
Answer: B
Rationale: The Manufacturer's Data Report is a key document. It is a formal record that
certifies the boiler was constructed in accordance with an ASME section and provides
the detailed specifications (like Btu input, horsepower, design pressure) that an installer
must follow to ensure a safe and code-compliant installation .