2027 Edition of NB-263, RCI-1: Strengthening Supervision, Training, and Accountability

The National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspectors (NBBI) has published the 2027 edition of NB-263, RCI-1, Rules for Commissioned Inspectors. This standard describes the requirements to become a National Board Commissioned Inspector and presents the duties of National Board Commissioned Inspectors and Inspector Supervisors.

Effective January 1, 2027, with mandatory compliance beginning July 1, 2027, the 2027 edition sharpens the rules governing how inspectors are trained, supervised, and held accountable for the work they sign. The standard is developed and maintained by NBBI's Committee on Qualifications for Inspection (CQI).

The National Board publishes the 2027 edition electronically on its website. The new edition also supports the 2028 commission and endorsement renewal cycle, which opens October 1, 2027.

CQI members represent jurisdictions and Authorized Inspection Agencies across North America and Europe. They meet twice a year, both in person and online, to develop and revise NBBI standards for inspector credentialing and qualification, with a primary focus on RCI-1. The committee presents revisions to NBBI's Board of Trustees for final approval; the Board approved the 2027 edition in August 2026.

Revisions for the 2027 edition can be viewed in the Implementation Plan.