History
From Bavarian Steam Boiler Inspection Association to Modern Service Provider
TÜV SÜD’s history dates back to the mid-19th century, a time when heavy
steam boiler explosions caused many fatalities and major damage to buildings.
As a result, confidence in technology waned slowly but steadily. People
longed for safety and protection. The idea of founding an association
for the testing and inspection of steam boilers in Bavaria was born.
The Steam Boiler Inspection Association Baden, today TÜV SÜD AG, was established
on 6 January 1866. Then as today, the company’s statutes defined its
purpose as being "to protect people, the environment and property against
the adverse effects of technology".
The rapid advance of steam boilers in Bavaria resulted in a growing number of
members and inspectors. Soon the association was also inspecting pressure vessels
in addition to steam generators, and specializing in issues of materials and
welding technology. The association’s year of foundation even saw its engineers
preparing a first environmental protection report on the subject of "flue-gas
pollution".
