Ref: 2023/003

PSM BULLETIN
MECHANICAL INTEGRITY
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Mechanical Integrity

The mechanical integrity element's goal is to guarantee the

safety and reliability of process equipment through inspection,
testing, preventative maintenance, and quality assurance. The
preventative maintenance program must be proactive rather
than reactive, encompassing all equipment used to process,
store, or handle highly hazardous chemicals from installation
through retirement.

Process Defenses

Highly hazardous chemical-contact equipment is the first line of protection against catastrophic
discharges. This is backed up by the second line of defense which is to control the release of chemicals
through venting to scrubbers or flares, or to surge or overflow tanks designed to receive such
chemicals. Second line systems also include chemical detection systems and fire detection and
suppression systems. The mechanical integrity must ensure appropriate design, installation, and
operation of primary and secondary defensive components.

Program to ensure the mechanical integrity of process equipment should contain (Minimum
implementation Criteria):

 Written maintenance procedures

 Inspection and test procedures
 Trained process maintenance personnel
 Scheduled inspection, testing, and maintenance of process equipment
 Preventive maintenance program that includes
- Pressure vessels and storage tanks
- Relief and vent systems and devices
- Emergency shutdown systems
- Controls, such as monitoring devices, sensors, alarms, and interlocks
- Pumps

PSM Team