API RP 576

This recommended practice (RP) describes the inspection and repair practices for self-actuated pressure-relieving devices commonly used in the oil/gas and petrochemical industries. As a guide to the inspection and repair of these devices in the user’s plant, it is intended to ensure their proper performance. This publication covers self-actuated devices such as direct-acting spring-loaded valves, pilot-operated pressure-relief valves, rupture disks, pin-actuated devices, and weight-loaded pressure vacuum vents.

The recommendations in this publication are not intended to supersede requirements established by regulatory bodies. This publication excludes tank weak seams and/or sections or tank thief hatches, explosion doors, fusible plugs, control valves, pressure-regulating devices, integral rotating equipment components, other devices that either depend on an external source of power for operation or are manually operated, or devices not designed to be inspected or recertified. Inspections and tests made at manufacturers’ plants, which are usually covered by codes or purchase specifications, are not covered by this publication.

This publication does not cover training requirements for personnel involved in the inspection and repair of pressure-relieving devices. Those seeking these requirements should see API 510 and API 570, which give the requirements for a quality control system and specify that the repair organization maintain and document a training program ensuring that personnel are qualified.