HARDI: ASME Rule Change Reversal a 'Significant Victory'

COLUMBUS, Ohio — The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) has announced that it will not move forward with its proposed Section VIII rule change in the 2025 edition of its safety standard.

The decision marks a significant victory for the HVACR industry, a press release from Heating, Air-conditioning, and Refrigeration Distributors International (HARDI) said.

“This victory shows the power of industry collaboration,” said Todd Titus, HARDI’s director of state and public affairs. “Without the participation of our members and industry partners, this change could have had a sweeping impact on the HVACR industry nationwide.”

The proposal would have removed key exemptions for pressure vessels and water-heating vessels currently regulated by safety standards developed by Underwriters Laboratories. By removing these exemptions, ASME would have created confusion across the states where safety standards play a vital role in building codes, the press release said. Its withdrawal follows overwhelming opposition from industry stakeholders.

HARDI mobilized its members to submit written comments, testify in person, and rally companies to voice their concerns. The response was overwhelming — HARDI’s grassroots campaign generated more 200 submissions, making up 77% of the total 260 comments received by ASME, the press release said.

The proposal could resurface in future ASME code revisions, and HARDI's press release urges members to stay current on industry issues and continue engaging in future advocacy efforts.