by Michael Hurley, 3/27/2026
Tags: Asset Performance Management Data Analysis Data Management Data Validation HSE Human Factors Mechanical Integrity Process Safety Management Regulation Risk Risk Analysis Risk Management System Implementation Value Work Process
This document outlines a unified approach to risk management through a formal acceptable risk policy. It defines risk tolerance, assigns decision authority by risk level, and requires escalating approvals for higher-risk decisions. The framework improves consistency, transparency, auditability, and resource prioritization across operations, engineering, and safety functions.by Michael Hurley, 3/24/2026
Tags: API 580 API 581 Asset Performance Management Data Analysis Data Management HSE Mechanical Integrity Process Safety Management Regulation Reliability Risk Risk Analysis Risk Based Inspection Risk Management System Implementation Technology Value Work Process
This document presents a unified risk framework integrating MI, RCM, PHA, and SIL/SIS into a single, risk-based system. It emphasizes a common risk matrix, shared failure modes, and centralized action management to eliminate fragmented governance. By linking equipment strategies, SIL validation, and MI data with closed-loop feedback and MOC, it enables consistent prioritization, aligned decision-making, and effective, real-world risk reduction.by Michael Hurley, 3/17/2026
Tags: Asset Performance Management Consequence Corrosion CUI Damage Mechanisms Data Analysis Data Management Data Validation HSE Human Factors Mechanical Integrity Process Safety Management Regulation Risk Risk Analysis Risk Management System Implementation Work Process
Management of Change (MOC) under OSHA PSM is often poorly executed not due to lack of knowledge, but because it conflicts with operational realities. Production pressure, unclear definitions of change, weak field ownership, and procedural focus reduce effectiveness. Temporary and digital changes bypass controls, cumulative risk goes untracked, and approvals lack rigor. Without aligned incentives, clear boundaries, and post-implementation verification, MOC becomes a formality rather than a true risk control.by Michael Hurley, 3/11/2026
Tags: API 580 API 581 Asset Performance Management Consequence Corrosion CUI Damage Mechanisms Data Collection Data Management Data Validation HSE Inspection Integrity Operating Windows Mechanical Integrity Process Safety Management Regulation Reliability Risk Analysis Risk Based Inspection Risk Management System Implementation Technology Work Process
This document presents a practical framework for implementing Risk-Based Inspection (RBI) and Mechanical Integrity (MI) programs for U.S. oil and gas production, gathering, and midstream facilities. It outlines lifecycle asset management practices aligned with API 510/570/653, API 580/581, PHMSA pipeline safety rules, and OSHA PSM to prevent loss of containment, detect degradation early, and maintain safe, reliable operations.by Michael Hurley, 3/3/2026
Tags: API 580 API 581 Corrosion CUI Damage Mechanisms HSE Inspection Mechanical Integrity Process Safety Management RBMI Regulation Risk Risk Based Inspection Risk Management Technology Work Process
Confirm equivalent inspection via a 10-step, 8-gate process aligned with API 580/581 to ensure defensible RBI risk reduction.by Michael Hurley, 2/25/2026
Tags: API 580 API 581 Asset Performance Management Consequence Corrosion CUI Damage Mechanisms Data Analysis Data Management HSE Inspection Integrity Operating Windows Mechanical Integrity Process Safety Management Risk Risk Based Inspection Risk Management Safe Operating Limits System Implementation Value Work Process
Reliability improves when priorities are truly enforced: safety first, environmental protection second, production third.by Michael Hurley, 2/8/2026
Tags: API 580 API 581 Asset Performance Management Data Management HSE Human Factors Mechanical Integrity Process Safety Management RBMI Reliability Risk Risk Management Technology Training Value Work Process
In the refining industry, "culture" is often only analyzed after a failure occurs. However, a robust culture is defined by observable, repeatable behaviors and daily decisions made under pressure. This article outlines the seven practical attributes of high-performing refining organizations and demonstrates how alignment between leadership values and technical integrity creates a safer, more profitable operation.
by Michael Hurley, 11/20/2025
Tags: HSE Process Safety Management Regulation Risk Management
Despite OSHA's 1992 Process Safety Management (PSM) standard, refinery and chemical plant fires continue to make headlines. This post breaks down the seven systemic reasons why these incidents persist. We explore how mere compliance, aging infrastructure, weak safety culture, and reactive risk management prevent the elimination of catastrophic risks.
by Paul Sheriff, 5/26/2021
Tags: HSE Mechanical Integrity Risk Based Inspection Value
The prime objective of a Site's Mechanical Integrity programme should be to eliminate any unintentional releases of stored energy. Most Sites implement Risk Based Inspection for three obvious reasons. However, as well as these reasons other less obvious but still positive benefits can be achieved through the implementation. These less obvious reasons could be equally valuable to the efficient operation of the Site.