661-LA Louisiana New Orleans Second Class Stationary Boilers Exam Guide

The 661-LA Louisiana (New Orleans) Second Class Stationary Boilers exam is associated with the City of New Orleans stationary engineer licensing system. The examination is used for the Second Class Stationary Boilers classification, which applies to operators working with boilers within the limits established by the city’s mechanical regulations.

For candidates preparing for this examination, understanding the license scope, experience requirements, examination subjects, and boiler-operation fundamentals can make preparation more organized and effective.

What Is the 661-LA Second Class Stationary Boilers Exam?

The 661-LA examination is the Louisiana (New Orleans) Second Class Stationary Boilers examination listed by the City of New Orleans for stationary engineer licensing. The city’s official licensing information identifies examination 661 as the Second Class Stationary Boilers test.

Under the New Orleans Code of Ordinances, a Second Class License is required to operate boilers with a capacity of up to 150 horsepower. The code also specifies circumstances in which a Second Class Engineer operates under the supervision and guidance of a First Class Engineer.

What Does a Second Class Stationary Engineer Do?

A Second Class Stationary Engineer is responsible for operating qualifying stationary equipment within the limits of the license classification. For boilers, the New Orleans code sets the Second Class operating limit at 150 horsepower.

The position can involve monitoring boiler operation, maintaining safe operating conditions, checking equipment, managing controls, and responding appropriately to operating problems.

Because boiler systems involve pressure, heat, combustion, water treatment, and mechanical equipment, operators need a strong understanding of both routine operation and safety procedures.

What Are the Requirements for the Second Class License?

New Orleans regulations establish experience requirements for applicants. A Second Class Engineer applicant must generally have at least three years of practical experience in the management, operation, or construction of steam engines, boilers, internal-combustion engines, refrigeration, or air-conditioning equipment.

For applicants who graduate from a recognized technical college, trade school, or U.S. Department of Labor-recognized apprenticeship training school, the required practical experience is reduced to one and one-half years.

The code also requires applicants to satisfy specified application requirements, including reference and personal request letters.

Candidates should confirm the current requirements with the City of New Orleans before submitting an application.

What Topics Should You Study?

A strong preparation program should cover the major areas involved in stationary boiler operation.

Important subjects include:

• Boiler types and components
• Boiler operation and startup
• Shutdown procedures
• Fuels and firing methods
• Water supply and feed systems
• Water treatment fundamentals
• Pumps, piping, and valves
• Boiler controls
• Control systems
• Maintenance and repairs
• Tests and inspections
• Boiler safety
• Operating procedures
• Applicable mechanical codes and regulations

An ICC examination bulletin identifies the 661 examination as part of the New Orleans Operating Engineer examinations and provides examination information and content references.

Why Is Boiler Safety Important?

Boiler operation requires careful attention because boilers operate under pressure and involve high temperatures and combustion systems. Incorrect operation or inadequate maintenance can create serious safety hazards.

Candidates should understand safe startup and shutdown, pressure controls, water levels, fuel systems, combustion, safety devices, and emergency procedures.

The New Orleans code also requires properly qualified personnel to be present when covered stationary equipment is operating.

How Can You Prepare for the 661-LA Exam?

Begin by reviewing the official City of New Orleans licensing requirements and the examination information available through the designated testing process.

Then divide your preparation into technical and regulatory subjects. Spend additional time on areas where your practical experience is limited.

A useful study routine includes:

1. Review the current 661-LA examination information.
2. Understand the Second Class license scope.
3. Study boiler components and operating principles.
4. Review fuels and firing methods.
5. Learn water-feed and treatment fundamentals.
6. Study piping, pumps, valves, and controls.
7. Review startup, shutdown, maintenance, and inspection procedures.
8. Practice identifying operational and safety problems.
9. Work through practice questions under timed conditions.
10. Revisit incorrect answers and review the underlying concepts.

Practice questions can help candidates measure their understanding, but they should complement official examination information, applicable codes, technical references, and practical training.

What Is the Passing Score?

The New Orleans Code of Ordinances states that the minimum passing grade for a stationary engineer examination is 70 percent. Candidates who do not achieve a passing grade may apply for re-examination at the next regularly scheduled examination date, and the code states that there is no limit on the number of examinations a candidate may take.

Always verify current examination procedures and fees before scheduling because administrative requirements can change.

What Is the License Fee?

The City of New Orleans currently lists the Second Class Operating Engineer’s Certificate at $40. The city’s licensing page also explains that stationary engineer licenses are renewed through the One Stop application system.

The license expires on the license holder’s birthday as shown on the issued Trade License card, with renewal beginning 90 days before the birthday.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the 661-LA exam?

661-LA is the examination identified by the City of New Orleans as Louisiana (New Orleans) Second Class Stationary Boilers.

What boiler capacity can a Second Class Engineer operate?

The New Orleans code states that a Second Class License is required to operate boilers of up to 150 horsepower.

How much experience is required?

Generally, applicants need three years of practical experience in relevant stationary-equipment work. Graduates of qualifying technical, trade, or apprenticeship programs may qualify with one and one-half years of practical experience.

What is the minimum passing score?

The New Orleans Code specifies a 70% minimum passing grade for stationary engineer examinations.

What subjects should I study?

Focus on boiler operation, fuels and firing, water-feed systems, piping, pumps, valves, controls, maintenance, inspections, startup and shutdown procedures, and safety.

Can I retake the examination if I fail?

The New Orleans Code permits candidates who do not pass to apply for re-examination at the next regularly scheduled examination date and states that there is no limit on the number of examinations a candidate may take.

Where can I verify the current requirements?

The City of New Orleans Department of Safety & Permits provides the current Stationary Engineer licensing information and application process.

Final Thoughts

Preparing for the 661-LA Second Class Stationary Boilers exam requires a combination of boiler-operation knowledge, safety awareness, equipment understanding, and familiarity with New Orleans licensing requirements. Candidates should study the technical fundamentals while also reviewing the regulations governing Second Class stationary engineers.

Practice questions can be useful for identifying weak areas and improving familiarity with examination-style problems. For the most accurate and current information, candidates should confirm licensing, examination, fees, and application requirements directly with the City of New Orleans before proceeding.