The American Petroleum Institute (API) recently updated API Recommended Practice (RP) 584, the leading RP for integrity operating windows (IOWs) used in refining and petrochemical industries worldwide.

API RP 584, Integrity Operating Windows, provides users with crucial information and guidance for the development and implementation of IOWs, which help strengthen the mechanical integrity (MI) program for each process unit. It is used globally to increase user’s understanding of established limits of process variables that affect the integrity of equipment.

RP 584 is included in API Energy Excellence® and supports the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) process safety management regulation 29 CFR 1910.119 and other similar international regulations by creating a standard measure of performance.

The 2nd Edition of API RP 584 provides detailed descriptions for the development and implementation of IOWs. The RP provides concrete examples of personnel that would benefit from a comprehensive list of IOWs and details IOW levels, types and goals. Notable updates include adding:

  • 14 tables with IOW examples for various units;
  • Appendix D Barriers to Successful IOW Implementation;
  • IOW levels, types and goals;
  • Recommendations for alarm limit rationalization and prioritization; and
  • IOW update evaluation in incident investigations.

The development of the 2nd Edition of API RP 584 came out of API’s drive for continuous improvement, with worldwide implementation highlighting the need for increased clarification of this RP. It references 26 API standards with the majority included in the 500 series on “Mechanical Integrity”. 

Additionally, RP 584 is referenced as part of the API Process Safety Site Assessment Program (PSSAP®). IOW management is referenced in both the operating practices and mechanical integrity protocols.

For more information on the 2nd Edition of API RP 584, and API’s more than 700 world-class standards developed to drive safety, operation performance improvements and sustainability, visit www.API.org.