3 entries found for "December, 2025"
Replacing Internal Visual Inspection with Non-Intrusive Techniques in Refineries: Practical Recommendations
by Michael Hurley, 12/17/2025
Tags: API 580 API 581 Damage Mechanisms Inspection Mechanical Integrity Risk Risk Based Inspection
While Risk-Based Inspection (RBI) promised to reduce intrusive vessel entries, corporate risk aversion and rigid API standards have hindered progress. This post examines why internal visual inspection (IVI) remains the standard despite its human-factor limitations. We analyze the Probability of Detection (POD) for advanced NII technologies - including PAUT, PEC, and Corrosion Mapping - to propose a roadmap for achieving technical and regulatory equivalency in refinery asset integrity.
Why Companies Prioritize Other PSM Elements Over Mechanical Integrity
by Michael Hurley, 12/10/2025
Tags: Mechanical Integrity Process Safety Management Regulation
Mechanical Integrity (MI) is one of the most critical elements for preventing catastrophic events, yet it is routinely identified as one of the weakest in Process Safety Management (PSM). This article details 10 realistic reasons - from economic pressure and production bias to leadership knowledge gaps and the invisibility of degradation - why organizations chronically deprioritize MI work over other, more administrative PSM elements. Discover why companies focus on paper compliance instead of asset integrity.
Why is Mechanical Integrity So Important to Process Safety Management?
by Michael Hurley, 12/3/2025
Tags: API 580 API 581 Damage Mechanisms Mechanical Integrity Process Safety Management Regulation Risk Management
Mechanical Integrity (MI) is the crucial foundation of Process Safety Management (PSM). Major accidents overwhelmingly result from equipment failures like ruptured vessels or corroded piping. This post details eight essential reasons why a robust MI program is vital, including preventing loss of containment , ensuring safeguards function as designed , and meeting mandatory OSHA and EPA compliance.
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