Background
The electrical programmes maintenance team, conducted a comprehensive inspection of instrumentation within a hazardous area using FAT FINGER’s advanced digital workflows. Their focus was to ensure the equipment’s compliance with safety standards and identify potential defects that could compromise safety.
This case study outlines the inspection process, findings, and actions taken to improve the safety and compliance of the equipment using FAT FINGER.
Inspection Details
- Location: Inside SN-A-209 SAMPLE SYSTEM, analyzer house SN-AH-01
- Equipment Inspected: KROHNE H250 Variable area flowmeter (FIC 01)
- Equipment Type: Instrumentation
- Area Classification: Zone 2, Gas Group IIA, Temperature Class T3
- Inspection Type: Visual
- Defect Identification Method: 10% Inspection – Survey
How The Inspection Team Used FAT FINGER
The team used FAT FINGER to streamline and enhance the inspection process. They created structured workflows, assigned clear responsibilities, and communicated among team members.
Key Features Utilized:
- Digital Workflows: The team leader created detailed digital workflows to guide the inspection process. This ensured consistency and thoroughness.
- Task Assignment: Responsibilities were assigned to team members through the app, allowing for clear accountability and efficient task management.
- Real-time Collaboration: Team members collaborated and communicated in real-time via FAT FINGER. Everyone could view inspection notes, images uploaded, and dashboard reports in real time.
- Pre-Inspection Planning: Using FAT FINGER’s preventive maintenance workflow, the team prepared and scheduled inspections, ensuring all necessary equipment and documentation were ready.
- Post-Inspection Actions: The team utilized FAT FINGER to document findings, assign corrective actions, and track their completion.
Key Findings
The visual inspection revealed several non-compliances and defects in the equipment. Key findings are summarized below:
- Equipment Suitability: The equipment did not meet the EPL/Zone requirements of the location.
- Temperature Class: The equipment temperature class was incorrect.
- Degree of Protection: The degree of protection (IP) was inadequate for the level of protection/group/conductivity required.
- Documentation and Identification: Equipment circuit identification was present, but there was no ATEX rating.
- Physical Condition:
- Enclosure, glass parts, and glass-to-metal sealing gaskets/compounds were satisfactory.
- There was no evidence of unauthorized modifications.
- Bolts, cable entry devices, and blanking elements were of the correct type.
- No damage to cables and adequate protection against corrosion, weather, vibrations, and other adverse factors.
- No undue accumulation of dust and dirt.
Deficiencies Identified
- Temperature Class Compliance: The equipment’s temperature class was not aligned with the zone requirements.
- Protection Level: The degree of protection (IP) was not suitable.
- Documentation: Lack of ATEX rating on the equipment.
Corrective Actions Taken
The problem was identified as: Risk Category: RC3 (moderate risk). The team took the following corrective actions:
- Equipment Replacement: Identify and replace the equipment that does not meet the temperature class and IP requirements.
- Re-evaluation: Re-assess the equipment’s suitability for the hazardous area to ensure compliance with the specified standards.
- Documentation Update: Update the documentation to include the necessary ATEX rating.
Using FAT FINGER, the team documented these actions, tracked their progress, and ensured timely completion.
Outcome
By addressing the deficiencies identified in the inspection, the electricals maintenance team, enhanced the safety and compliance of the equipment in the hazardous area.
The proactive approach ensured that the equipment met the required safety standards, thereby reducing the risk of incidents and improving overall operational safety.
Conclusion
This case study highlights the importance of regular inspections and adherence to safety standards in hazardous areas.
Using FAT FINGER significantly streamlined the inspection process, facilitated effective communication, and ensured thorough documentation and follow-up on corrective actions. The Maintenance – Electrical Programmes team demonstrated a commitment to maintaining high safety standards and ensuring the integrity of operations within hazardous environments.
About FAT FINGER
FAT FINGER provides a range of solutions designed to improve safety, compliance, and efficiency in various industrial settings. Our safety solutions ensure robust compliance with HSEQ standards, while our preventive maintenance workflows facilitate efficient planning and execution of maintenance tasks.
For more information, visit FAT FINGER Safety Solutions and FAT FINGER Preventive Maintenance.
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