Introduction to Pressure-Relieving Devices

Session 1: Overview of Pressure-Relieving Devices

• Definition and purpose of pressure-relieving devices.
• Importance in safety and regulatory compliance.

Session 2: Types of Pressure-Relieving Devices

• Different types: safety valves, relief valves, and rupture disks.
• Discussion of design features and operational principles.

Session 3: Regulatory Standards and Guidelines

• Overview of API RP 576 and its relevance.
• Understanding other relevant standards (ASME, NFPA).

Session 4: Device Components and Functionality

• Detailed examination of components: seats, springs, and nozzles.
• Operational mechanics of pressure-relieving devices.

Session 5: Safety Considerations

• Safety implications of improperly functioning devices.
• Case studies of incidents due to device failures.

Inspection Procedures and Techniques

Session 1: API RP 576 Inspection Requirements

• Overview of the inspection process outlined in API RP 576.
• Understanding inspection intervals and documentation.

Session 2: Visual Inspection Techniques

• Techniques for conducting visual inspections.
• Identifying signs of wear, corrosion, and other defects.

Session 3: Functional Testing of Pressure-Relieving Devices

• Procedures for performing functional tests.
• Equipment and tools required for testing.

Session 4: Calibration and Performance Testing

• Importance of calibration in maintaining device accuracy.
• Techniques for verifying performance against specifications.

Session 5: Hands-On Inspection Practice

• Participants will conduct visual inspections on sample devices.
• Discussion of findings and identification of potential issues.

Troubleshooting and Maintenance

Session 1: Common Issues with Pressure-Relieving Devices

• Discussion of typical problems and failure modes.
• Analyzing root causes of failures.

Session 2: Troubleshooting Techniques

• Approaches for diagnosing issues.
• Case studies on effective troubleshooting strategies.

Session 3: Maintenance Strategies and Best Practices

• Developing maintenance plans for pressure-relieving devices.
• Importance of preventive maintenance.

Session 4: Regulatory Compliance and Record Keeping

• Requirements for maintaining inspection records.
• Documentation practices for compliance audits.

Session 5: Group Activity: Troubleshooting Scenarios

• Team-based exercises to analyze and resolve hypothetical issues.
• Presentations of group findings and solutions.

Advanced Topics in Pressure-Relieving Devices

Session 1: Recent Developments and Technologies

• Overview of advancements in pressure-relieving device technology.
• Emerging trends in inspection techniques.

Session 2: Risk Assessment and Management

• Understanding risk assessment in relation to pressure-relieving devices.
• Methods for conducting risk assessments.

Session 3: Integration with Safety Management Systems

• Role of pressure-relieving devices in overall safety management.
• Best practices for integrating inspection into safety programs.

Session 4: Regulatory Updates and Industry Trends

• Discussion of recent changes to regulations impacting pressure-relieving devices.
• Implications for compliance and operational practices.

Session 5: Case Studies and Lessons Learned

• Review of real-world incidents and the lessons learned.
• Group discussions on improving practices based on case studies.

Final Assessments and Course Wrap-Up

Session 1: Review of Key Concepts

• Recap of critical information covered throughout the course.
• Q&A session for clarification of concepts.

Session 2: Final Assessment

• Written or practical assessment to evaluate participant understanding.
• Feedback on performance and areas for improvement.

Session 3: Developing an Action Plan

• Participants will create a personal action plan for applying course knowledge.
• Sharing of action plans and group discussion.