Pricing a PSSR examination is less straightforward than most inspections, because a pressure system usually needs two distinct things: a Written Scheme of Examination that defines what gets examined and when, and the recurring examinations themselves. What it costs depends on the system, not a fixed rate, and this guide explains the factors involved so you can judge a quote.
What affects the cost of a PSSR examination
PSSR applies to pressure systems containing a relevant fluid, steam, compressed air, and other gases or pressurised liquids. The work scales with the system:
- Whether a Written Scheme already exists. By law a pressure system can't be operated without a current Written Scheme. If you don't have one, it must be drawn up and certified by a competent person before examinations can follow a defined plan. That's a genuine piece of engineering work, not a formality.
- Number and type of vessels. A single air receiver is a modest job. Steam boilers, multiple vessels, calorifiers, and interconnecting pipework each add to the scope.
- The fluid and its interval. Steam systems are typically examined on shorter intervals than air receivers, which means more visits over time.
- Access and preparation. Internal examination may need the vessel drained, cooled, opened up, and sometimes insulation removed or scaffolding provided. Preparation you arrange in advance keeps the examination efficient.
- Non-destructive testing. Where the Scheme calls for NDT, ultrasonic thickness checks, for example, that adds specialist work.
- Protective devices. Safety valves and other protective devices named in the Scheme are examined alongside the vessel, not as an afterthought.
What a proper quote includes
- A site survey to understand the system.
- Where needed, drafting and certification of the Written Scheme of Examination.
- The thorough examination itself, internal and external as the Scheme requires.
- Witnessing of any pressure tests the Scheme calls for.
- A written report identifying defects and classifying their urgency, with the next examination date.
Be wary of a quote that treats the Written Scheme as a free add-on. The Scheme is the substantive engineering judgement everything else depends on, if it's being thrown in for nothing, ask who is certifying it and on what basis.
Why the cheapest quote can cost more
- No PSSR-competent engineer. Pressure work requires specific competence; a general inspector may not be qualified to certify a Written Scheme.
- No professional indemnity insurance behind the certification.
- A vague vessel list, which often means something on site won't be examined, and an un-examined pressure vessel is exactly what PSSR exists to prevent.
- Skipping the protective devices or the pipework to keep the figure down.
How to compare quotes fairly
- Ask who certifies the Written Scheme and what their pressure-systems competence is.
- Check professional indemnity and public liability cover.
- Confirm the full vessel and pipework list the quote covers, in writing.
- Ask how defects are reported and how quickly.
Safe-Lee carries out PSSR work as an independent consultancy, with examinations and Scheme certification handled by Engineer Surveyor Lee Charnock (EngTech MSOE MBES) and reports typically issued within one to two working days. See our PSSR service or ask for a quote.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Written Scheme of Examination a one-off cost?
Largely, yes. Once a competent person has drawn up and certified the Scheme, it stands until the system changes materially, new vessels, altered operating conditions, or a change of fluid, at which point it must be reviewed and re-issued.
How often do schemes need updating?
A Scheme should be reviewed whenever the system is materially altered, whenever operating conditions change, or when an examination reveals deterioration that warrants a shorter interval. Otherwise it remains in force.
Can you take over an existing scheme?
Yes. If you already have a Written Scheme, a competent person can review it and continue the examinations it specifies. We'll check it's still appropriate for the system as it stands.
Is travel or VAT charged separately?
Ask every firm to confirm whether their figure includes travel and whether it's quoted inclusive or exclusive of VAT, so you're comparing the same thing. We make both clear on our quotations.
Who can legally examine a pressure system?
The Written Scheme must be drawn up or certified, and the examinations carried out, by a competent person with appropriate pressure-systems knowledge and enough independence to report defects without pressure to overlook them.