PSM General Awareness Training by Gary Whitmore - HTML preview

Chapter 9 – Mechanical Integrity

Many incidents occurred because the equipment of the process was not properly maintained.

Therefore, mechanical Integrity strives to ensure all equipment, piping, instrumentation, electrical systems and other items are designed, constructed and maintained to the appropriate standards thus decreasing the probability of failure.

Mechanical integrity applies to:

• Pressure vessels and storage tanks
• Piping systems including valves an other components
• Relief, vent systems and devices
• Emergency shutdown systems
• Controls
• Pumps

Written procedures must be established and implemented to maintain the on-going integrity of the equipment.

Treat mechanical integrity procedures like operating procedures to ensure they are accurate and current. Therefore it is highly recommended that mechanical integrity procedures are annually certified just like operating procedures.

Just like training for the operators of the process, employees involved in maintaining the equipment must also receive training. This training should include:

• The process and its hazards
• Maintenance procedures
• Safe work practices
• Proper use of equipment

Equipment must be inspected and tested and documented to include:

• Date
• Name of person performing the inspection or test
• Identification of equipment
• Test/Inspection description
• Test/Inspection results

There is nothing wrong with providing more data that required per OSHA.