The main aim of a Mechanical Integrity audit is to detect any possible defects which would seriously hinder the safe performance of your mechanical system. The SMIs of a mechanical integrity audit include an examination of both the mechanical systems and the applications to which they are exposed, and a direct comparison with recommended performance standards, specifically defined in the Standard Mechanical Elements (SME) as those elements which minimise the risk of mechanical failures. The mechanical integrity compliance audit also involves an assessment of personnel skills and their training, as well as their knowledge of current workplace standards. This will form part of the pre-authorisation inspection report and a management review when deciding whether to licence the business or not. Once a business has been accredited it must maintain at least one Mechanical Integrity Auditor on staff at all times to ensure that all assessments and compliance reviews are carried out according to UK law and by competent and qualified personnel. Get more helpful tips on the benefits of Mechanical Integrity audit below.
Compliance audits are performed mainly by a SMI assessment team, consisting of one or two independent mechanical integrity auditors, and two supporting staff. SMIs are not set out as strict criteria for assessing mechanical integrity, although some companies may choose to use a pre-approved SMI format. In addition, some assessments may be limited to particular components or locations, while others may look at the whole plant level. As a result of their more detailed nature, mechanical integrity audits are usually undertaken within a relatively short period of time.
The most common mechanical integrity audits relate to the testing of mechanical integrity equipment, such as: Couples, shaft seals, bearings, pump seals, drive mechanisms, and so forth. If a given component fails to comply with the recommended SMIs, it will be tested using a non-destructive testing program, to see if the failing component can be detected before it does damage. If non-destructive testing is successful, the inspected part will need to undergo a mechanical integrity program. If this is successfully completed, the part will need to be redesigned.
The primary benefit of this mechanical integrity program audit is that they provide a tool for identifying weak spots in your manufacturing system, enabling you to quickly reduce risk and improve efficiency. The primary disadvantage is that a SMI review requires a trained personnel, specialized equipment, and training. The inspection has been shown to be more effective when conducted by an independent mechanical integrity management consultant who can also manage the program, as well as train personnel.
For many SMIs, there is a tiered approach to inspecting and evaluating mechanical integrity programs. At the top of the hierarchy is a hazard identification & control (HIC) process safety program. It is designed to ensure the safe storage, transportation, servicing, and disposal of your products. This program involves proactive processes like quality assurance tests, when a new product is introduced into a facility. It then extends to cover all aspects of production environments, from the field site through shipping to the warehouse.
Another approach is to perform an hazard analysis & control on newly manufactured or redesigned hazardous chemicals. Manufacturers and process operators are expected to use HAC training for hazard analysis and design. When contractors apply for HAC licenses, they must complete a mechanical integrity audit that includes a review of their entire process safety program. Hazard analysis & control audits are performed periodically to assess progress on the companies' part, and to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements. For more understanding of this article, visit this link: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Integrity_engineering .
