By HSP (Ref: Chemical Process safety, Roy E. Sander)
What does mechanical integrity mean in a chemical plant? One definition would be using generally accepted and recognized good engineering practices to confidently contain all the hazardous chemicals within the equipment and piping systems. This is achieved via strong management support, written procedures, and practices:
- By designing to meet or exceed standards
- By fabricating with proper materials, using proper construction and installation techniques and confirming equipment suitability with tests
- By ensuring that the equipment remains fit for service.
It is elementary that the equipment can only remain fit for service through effective periodic inspection, testing, documentation and restoration programs. The Chemical Manufacturers’ Association defines mechanical integrity as “the establishment
and implementation of written procedures to maintain the ongoing integrity of the process equipment.” Mechanical integrity of process equipment is ensured though a documented program of procedures, training, inspections, and tests and through preventive/predictive maintenance based upon good engineering practice, applicable codes, standards,
specifications, and manufacturers’ recommendations.