Description
The MI element of a process safety management (PSM) program is intended to ensure equipment does not fail in a way that causes or affects a release of highly hazardous chemicals. Equipment is the hardware that helps contain the chemicals in the process. MI covers the proper design, fabrication, construction / installation, and operation of equipment throughout the entire process life cycle. Although maintenance is a major part of an MI program, MI is not just maintenance. Other activities are involved such as training and quality assurance. Sound MI programs typically cover these areas:
- Management system
- Identification and categorization of covered equipment
- Applicable codes and standards
- Maintenance tasks
- MI procedures
- MI training
- Inspection and testing (Preventive / Predictive Maintenance (PM))
- Correction of deficiencies in equipment
- Quality Assurance (QA) program
Why Address MI?
OSHA typically issues the most PSM citations for the MI element of PSM. This is undoubtedly due to its complexity. Many companies find MI to be the most difficult of the fourteen PSM elements to address, yet MI is one of the most important elements of PSM. Consequently, it is essential that it receives appropriate attention.
Why Primatech?
Primatech is experienced in developing MI programs for a variety of companies in the process industries. We provide a thorough understanding of applicable regulatory requirements and a proven and effective approach to addressing MI. Primatech can help you integrate MI into existing company maintenance procedures, safe work practices (SWPs), computerized maintenance management systems (CMMSs), etc. Primatech can help you establish a new MI program or refine an existing program to make it more effective and help ensure regulatory requirements are met.
Services Offered
- Mechanical Integrity Audits, Assessments and Program Improvement
We review or audit your MI program and provide recommendations for improvements in a report. If needed, we can help you implement the improvements. - Mechanical Integrity Program Development
We develop, document and help implement a full MI program for you and address these areas:
- Management System
Any activity important to an organization must be managed. This requires policies, procedures, work instructions and documentation. Primatech works with clients to ensure responsibilities are assigned, authority is given, supervision is provided, resources are made available, and people are held accountable for MI activities. - Covered Equipment
OSHA defines specific types of equipment that must be included in a MI program. However, this is not intended to be a complete list. Also, while the name of the element implies only mechanical equipment is covered, other equipment which might contribute to a catastrophic release must be included, for example, electrical equipment. Primatech helps clients determine what equipment should be included in their MI program. - Codes and Standards
There are many industry codes and standards that apply to MI, particularly for design and engineering and preventive maintenance. These must be identified and documented as Recognized and Generally Accepted Good Engineering Practices (RAGAGEP). Primatech assists clients with this process. - Maintenance Tasks
Facilities typically employ a combination of breakdown and preventive maintenance. Primatech helps clients to develop appropriate programs that balance these approaches to maintenance. - MI Procedures
Written procedures must be developed and implemented for key activities including maintenance. Primatech works with clients to develop procedures that emphasize usability. - MI Training
MI personnel must be appropriately trained for the tasks they will perform. Primatech helps design suitable training programs. - Inspection and Testing
OSHA emphasizes the use of preventive maintenance. Primatech helps companies develop procedures and schedules for inspection and testing of critical process equipment. - Controlling and Managing Deficiencies
Equipment deficiencies found during tests and inspections must be addressed before further use, or in a safe and timely manner when necessary means are taken to assure safe operation. Primatech helps companies to determine safe operating limits and to develop procedures for addressing deficiencies. - Quality Assurance (QA)
Primatech helps companies develop procedures for quality assurance for equipment procurement, fabrication, installation, repair, and spare parts, maintenance materials and equipment.
- Management System
