Piping Risk Assessments - A Key Component for Improving Reliability and Compliance

In South Africa, the Pressure Equipment Regulations (PER) govern the initial certification of pressure equipment as well as the in-service requirements for continued operation.  In the preceding legilslation the focus was centred around Steam Generators (Boilers) and Pressure Vessels.   The PER includes requirements for piping in the form of Piping Risk Assessments.  Users are required to undertake the assessments following a Risk-Based approach in accordance with national and international standards.  The assessments must be aligned to the User's maintenance and inspection program and the associated records form part of the statutory records required under the Regulations.  With the historical focus on Steam Generators and Pressure Vessels (where the PER is more prescriptive), there is a risk that Users overlook the Piping Risk Assessment.  Industry trends conifirm that the majority of Loss-of-Containment (LOC) incidents stem from piping systems, so it stands to reason that a well-developed Piping Risk Assessment, coupled to appropriate inspection and test plans, will support improved plant reliability (reduction in unplanned maintenance or breakdowns) as part of the overall asset integrity management program.  Users are therefore encouraged to enage with an Approved Inspection Authority (AIA) to assist them in verifying the completeness and applicabilty of their Piping Risk Assessments and the associated inspection and test plans as part of their efforts to support regulatory compliance.