2.

An RBI Program is based on the knowledge and experience of:

A) Engineers, inspectors, risk analysts, and other personnel in hydrocarbon & chemical industry
B) Engineers, inspectors & risk analysts in hydrocarbon & chemical industry
C) Engineers & inspectors in the hydrocarbon & chemical industry only
D) Engineers & inspectors in the Oil & Gas Industry

Answer: A … (Forward Section … API 580 Forward Statements)

7. API 580 provides information on using risk analysis to develop an effective:

A) Inspection plan
B) RBI program
C) PSM Program using RBI
D) None of these

Answer: A … (Introduction Section for API 580)

10. In RBI, what should be evaluated by considering all credible damage mechanisms that could be
expected to affect the facilities or equipment?

A) Root cause of Failure (RCOF) only

B) Possibility of Failure (POF) only
C) Both the RCOF & POF
D) Both the POF & COF

Answer: D … (Foreword Section for API 580)  POF = Probability, not possibility

14. RBI is synonymous with risk-prioritized/risk-informed inspection & inspection planning using:

A) Risk analysis methods

B) Risk-based methods
C) Risk management
D) None of these

Answer: B … (Introduction Section for API 580)

15. RBI is synonymous with which of these following elements?

A) Risk-prioritized inspection only

B) Both risk-prioritized and risk-informed inspection
C) Inspection planning using risk-based methods only
D) Risk-prioritized & risk-informed inspection & inspection planning using risk-based methods

Answer: D … (Introduction Section for API 580)

17. The purpose of API 580 is to provide its users with the basic elements necessary to:

A) Develop/implement/maintain RBI program & develop and implement an inspection program

B) Develop/implement/maintain RBI Program with risk-prioritized/informed inspection plans
C) Develop/maintain RBI Program with risk-prioritized/informed inspection plans
D) Develop/implement/maintain both RBI program and Inspection program

Answer: A … (Ref: Purpose Section, First Para.)

19. The API 580 (RBI) approach emphasizes safe and reliable operation through:
A) Risk Analysis
B) Risk assessment
C) Risk Management
D) Risk-prioritized inspection

Answer: D … (Ref: Purpose, First Para.)

22. The RBI process is capable of generating all of these except:

A) Expected risk levels of all equipment before the inspection plan has been implemented
B) A ranking by relative risk of all equipment evaluated and the identification of risk drivers
C) A detailed description of the inspection plan to be employed for each equipment item
D) A description of other risk mitigation activities (non-inspection items such as repairs)

Answer: A … (Ref: Purpose, Second Para.  Five RBI process outcome items) after

25. The RBI process is capable of generating which of the following:

A) A ranking by residual risk of all equipment evaluated
B) An overview of the inspection plan by unit
C) An overview of all risk mitigation plans
D) Identification of risk drivers

Answer: D … (Ref: Purpose, Second Para.  Five RBI process outcome items)

27. RBI equipment plans highlight risks from what perspectives and standpoints?
A) From a safety perspective only
B) From both a safety & health perspective only
C) From a safety/health/environment perspective only
D) From a safety/health/environment perspective and/or from an economic standpoint

Answer: D … (Ref: Purpose, Second Sentence  RBI Benefits & Limitations)

31. RBI is based on which of these principles?

A) Sound and proven risk analysis principles

B) Sound and proven risk management principles
C) Sound and proven risk analysis and risk management principles
D) Sound and proven risk assessment and risk management principles

Answer: D … (Ref: Purpose, Last Paragraph  RBI Benefits & Limitations)

34. As new data (such as inspection results and industry experiences with similar processes) becomes
available or when changes occur (e.g. operating conditions), what should be done that will provide a
refreshed view of the risks?

A) Adjustment of the inspection levels in the RBI program

B) Adjustment of the inspection intervals in the RBI program
C) Both adjustment of the inspection levels and intervals in the RBI program
D) Reassessment of the RBI program

Answer: D … (Ref: Purpose, Last page  Using RBI as a Continuous Improvement Tool)

37. Integration of other risk management efforts (PHA, IOWs, RCM) with RBI is the key to the
success of:
A) Risk Analysis
B) Risk Management Programs
C) Risk Mitigations
D) Risk-based Inspection Programs

Answer: B … (Ref: Purpose, Last page  RBI as an Integrated Management Tool)

38. RBI produces inspection and maintenance plans for equipment that identify the actions that
should be taken to provide:
A) Reliable and safe operation
B) Cost-effective mitigation
C) Environmental protection
D) Process Safety Management

Answer: A … (Ref: Purpose, Last page  RBI as an Integrated Management Tool)

40. API 580 specifically targets the application of RBI in what industry (or industries)?
A) Oil & Gas Industry
B) Hydrocarbon Industry
C) Hydrocarbon & Chemical Process Industry
D) Any industry using toxic substances that chooses to follow API 580 guidelines

Answer: C … (Ref: Sect 1.1 First Paragraph  Industry Scope)

41. Regarding Material deterioration that could lead to loss of containment, the Scope of API 580 is
intended to promote:
A) Consistency & quality in the identification, assessment, & management of risks
B) Cost-effective solutions to reduce risk using inspection
C) Understanding of RBI and management of risk
D) None of these are correct

Answer: A … (Ref: Sect 1.2 First Paragraph  Flexibility in Application)

46. RBI also is complementary to RCM programs (because) both programs are focused on all of the
following except:
A) Understanding failure modes
B) Addressing the failure modes
C) Focusing on the process unit design & operating conditions
D) Improving the reliability of equipment and process facilities

Answer: C … (Ref: Sect 1.3 First Paragraph  Mechanical Integrity Focused)

49. The primary audience for API 580 is:

A) Inspection/engineering personnel responsible for equipment mech. integrity & operability
B) Inspection/engineering/materials personnel responsible for equipment mech. integrity
C) Inspection/engineering personnel responsible for equipment mech. integrity
D) None of these, because the audience is the total operating organization

Answer: A … (Ref: Sect 1.6 First Paragraph  Target Audience)

50. RBI requires involvement of various segments of the organization such as engineering,
maintenance and operations, and requires the commitment and cooperation of:

A) The entire RBI team

B) The entire Operating organization
C) The entire Engineering organization
D) The entire Engineering & Inspection organizations

Answer: B … (Ref: Sect 1.6 First Paragraph  Target Audience)

 19 Questions in Part 1
DEFINITIONS

1. The combination of the probability of an event and its consequence is called:

A) Absolute risk B) Estimated risk

C) Relative risk D) Risk

Answer: D … Definitions  Para. 3.1.42

5. An ideal and accurate description and quantification of risk is called:

A) Absolute risk B) Acceptable risk

C) Relative risk D) Residual Risk

Answer: A … Definitions Para. 3.1.1

10. Systematic use of information to identify sources and to estimate the risk is called:

A) Risk Mitigation B) Risk Estimation

C) Risk Assessment D) Risk Analysis

Answer: D … Definitions  Para. 3.1.44

15. A risk assessment and management process that is focused on loss of containment of pressurized
equipment in processing facilities, due to material deterioration is called:.

A) Risk-based Management B) Risk-based Inspection

C) Risk Analysis D) Risk Estimation

Answer: B … Definitions  Para. 3.1.47

23. Coordinated activities to direct and control an organization with regard to risk.

A) Risk Estimation B) Risk Management

C) Risk-Based Inspection D) Risk identification

Answer: B … Definitions  Para 3.1.54

26. Actions taken to lessen the probability, negative consequences, or both associated with a
particular risk is called:

A) Risk mitigation B) Risk reduction

C) Risk avoidance D) Risk management

Answer: B … Definitions  Para 3.1.56

29. The acronym QRA is short for:

A) Qualitative risk analysis B) Quantitative risk analysis

C) Semi-Quantitative risk analysis D) Qualitative risk assessment

Answer: B … Definitions  Par 3.2  Acronyms and Abbreviations

32. An analysis that quantifies the probabilities and consequences of the probable damage
mechanisms is called:

A) Risk analysis B) Qualitative risk analysis

C) Quantitative risk analysis D) Semi-Quantitative risk analysis

Answer: C … Definitions  Par 3.1.38  Definition of Quantitative Risk Analysis

48. Termination of the ability of a system, structure, equipment or component to perform its
required function of containment of fluid (i.e. loss of containment) is called:

A) Deterioration B) Degradation C) Failure D) Damage

Ans: C … Definition  Par 3.1.18  Know the difference between deterioration & failure!

Failure = termination of the ability (Q#48)…Deterioration = reduction of the ability (Q#47)

49. By API 580 definition, an unannounced failure is one that is:

A) Undetected at the instant of occurrence

B) Detected at the instant of occurrence by any number of methods
C) Either undetected or detected at the instance of occurrence by any number of methods
D) None of the above are correct

Answer: A … Definitions  Par 3.1.18  Two types of failures (announced/unannounced)

50. By API 580 definition, an announced failure is one that is:

A) Undetected at the instant of occurrence

B) Detected at the instant of occurrence by any number of methods
C) Either undetected or detected at the instance of occurrence by any number of methods
D) None of the above are correct

Answer: B … Definitions  Par 3.1.18  Two types of failures (announced/unannounced)

51. By API 580 definition, examples of an unannounced failure include all of these except:

A) Slow leak under insulation not detected (until someone notices a drip or wisp of vapor)
B) Slow leak under insulation not detected (until a pool of fluid forms on the ground)
C) Small leak in a heat exchanger tube or a small leak in a buried piping system
D) Slow leak under insulation in an H2S line detected by a plant alarm

Answer: D … Definitions  Par 3.1.18  Two types of failures (announced/unannounced)

54. By API 580 definition, an “event” is the occurrence of a particular set of:

A) Circumstances B) Initiated actions

C) Consequences D) Scenarios

Answer: A … Definitions, Section 3.1.14  Must know all the types of events
55. Which of the following statements is false regarding the API 580 definition of an event?

A) An event is the occurrence of a particular set of circumstances

B) The event may be certain or uncertain, and can be singular or multiple
C) The probability of an event occurring within a given period of time can be estimated
D) Events can result from forces of nature, acts of God, sabotage, electrical power failures

Answer: D … Definitions, Section 3.1.14 & 3.1.16  Must know all the types of events

56. An analytical tool that organizes and characterizes potential occurrences in a logical and
graphical manner is called:

A) Event Risk Analysis B) Event tree

C) External Event D) Event Analysis

Answer: B … Definitions, Sect 3.1.15  Event tree … Must know event types

57. Which of these statements is not true regarding the API 580 definition of an event tree?

A) An event tree begins with the identification of potential initiating events

B) The process is to develop pathways or scenarios from initiating events to potential outcomes
C) Analytical tool that organizes & characterizes past occurrences in a logical and graphical way
D) Subsequent possible events resulting from initiating events are shown in a 2nd level of the tree

Ans: C … Definitions, Section 3.1.15  Must know!  Potential occurrences!

58. Which statement is false regarding the API 580 definition of an external event?

A) An event resulting from forces of nature, acts of God, sabotage, terrorism, & power failures
B) An event resulting from intrusions of external transportation vehicles (ships, trains, trucks)
C) An event resulting from neighboring fires, explosions, or even hazardous material releases
D) An event that can usually be controlled by persons employed at the facility

Ans: D … Definitions, Section 3.1.16  Must know!  Cannot be controlled!

59. Assumptions made during the design (e.g., design life, corrosion allowance) are called a:

A) Risk estimation B) Design estimation

C) Risk premise D) Design premise

Answer: D … Definitions  Para 3.1.11

1. Risk is the combination of the probability of some event occurring during a time period of interest
and the:
A) Consequences associated with the event
B) Likelihood of a failure
C) Probability of a failure
D) Consequence of a failure

Answer: A … (Basic Risk Assessment Concepts … What is Risk?)  Section 4.1

10. In process plants, inspection & testing programs & process monitoring are established:
A) To detect and evaluate deterioration caused by calendar-based damage mechanisms
B) To detect and evaluate deterioration due to the effects of in-service operation
C) To detect and evaluate deterioration affecting a percentage of remaining life
D) None of these are correct

Answer: B … Evolution of Insp. Intervals/Due Dates  Section 4.3

15. RBI represents the next generation of inspection approaches and interval/due date setting,
recognizing that the ultimate goal of inspection is:
A) Safety & reliability of operating facilities
B) To locate damage mechanisms
C) To cost effectively perform inspection
D) To effectively reduce all facility risks

Answer: A … Evolution of Insp. Intervals/Due Dates  Section 4.3  Must Know!!!

22. The first step in a logical progression for a risk analysis is: (There are 8 logical steps)
A) Determine damage susceptibility and rates
B) Collect and validate the necessary data and information
C) Identify DMs & determine damage mode(s) for each mechanism
D) Determine the POF over a defined timeframe for each damage mechanism

Answer: B … Overview of Risk Analysis  Section 4.4  B is the first of 8 logical steps!

24. The logical progression after completing the risk analysis is to:
A) Develop an inspection plan & if needed, perform other mitigation actions
B) Follow an effective inspection plan & if needed, perform other mitigation actions
C) Develop an inspection plan & if needed, other mitigation actions, & evaluate residual risk
D) Follow an effective inspection plan & if needed, other mitigation actions, & evaluate the risk

Answer: C … Overview of Risk Analysis  Section 4.4  Only C is the most correct!

26. When the risk associated with individual equipment items is determined & the relative
effectiveness of different inspection techniques and process monitoring in reducing risk is estimated
or quantified, adequate information is available for:
A) Planning an RBI program
B) Planning and implementing an RBI program
C) Planning, implementing, and optimizing an RBI program
D) Planning, implementing, optimizing, and evaluating an RBI program

Answer: C … Inspection Optimization  Section 4.5  C is the best answer!

33. As shown in Figure 1, risk cannot be reduced to zero solely by:
A) Mitigation plans
B) RBI Programs
C) Risk management efforts
D) Inspection efforts

Answer: D … Inspection Optimization  Section 4.5  D is the best answer!

35. Many residual risk factors are strongly influenced by which of the following:
A) The PSM system in place at the facility
B) The PHA system in place at the facility
C) The RCM system in place at the facility
D) None of these is correct

Answer: A … Inspection Optimization  Section 4.5  A is the best answer!

39. RBI is focused on a systematic determination of this type of risk so that facilities, units, systems,
equipment or components can be ranked & risk management efforts can focus on the higher ranked
risks:
A) Residual risk B) Absolute risk
C) Relative risk D) None of these types of risk

Answer: C … Relative Risk versus Absolute Risk  Section 4.6  C is the best answer!

40. If a quantitative RBI study is conducted rigorously and properly, the resultant risk number
should be a fair approximation of the:
A) Residual risk B) Absolute risk
C) Relative risk D) None of these types of risk

Ans: D … Relative Risk vs. Absolute Risk  Sect 4.6  Actual risk of failure (loss of cont.)
 (API 580 Chapter 5 – Introduction to RBI)
1. Key elements of any RBI Program should include documented methods to determine:
A) Probability of Failure (POF) only B) Probability & Consequence of Failure (POF/COF)
C) Consequence of Failure (COF) only D) Cause of Failure (COF) only

Ans: B … Both POF & COF determination is correct & should be in every RBI Program

5. All items that fall on or very near an ISO-risk line (as illustrated in Figure 2) indicate:
A) Greater risk levels B) Lesser risk levels
C) Roughly equivalent risk levels D) None of these is correct (It depends upon number order)

Answer: C … Know what the number locations relative to ISO-risk lines means for RBI!

6. An ISO-risk line where items are separated (such as Items 2 and 10 above) indicates:
A) Roughly equivalent risk levels as they are an even distance away from the ISO-risk line
B) One item has an acceptable risk level and the other item has an unacceptable risk level
C) Greater risk levels for both items 2 & 10 as they are both similar distances away
D) None of these because lesser risk levels are indicated for items 2 & 10

Answer: B … Know what the number locations relative to ISO-risk lines means for RBI!

10. Each RBI procedural approach provides a systematic way to accomplish all of the following
except:
A) Screen for risk B) Identify areas of potential concern
C) Develop a prioritized list for mitigation D) Develop a prioritized list for more in-depth insp.

Answer: C … Develop a prioritized list for more in-depth inspection analysis (correct)

12. The spectrum of risk analysis should be considered to be a continuum with qualitative and
quantitative approaches being:
A) Two extremes of the continuum and everything in between is a semi-quantitative approach
B) Two extremes of the continuum and everything in between is a semi-qualitative approach
C) Equal in risk of failure
D) None of these are correct

Answer: A … Understand basics of Continuum of RBI approaches

16. Although the qualitative approach is less precise than more quantitative approaches it is effective
in screening out units and equipment with:
A) High risk B) Low risk
C) Medium risk D) Any risk level

Answer: B … Understand basics of Qualitative Approach

19. QRA using logic models will show (which of these):
A) Progression of accidents and the release of hazardous material to the environment
B) Combinations of events that could result in severe accidents
C) Progression of accidents only
D) Root Cause of accidents only

Answer: B … Understand basics of QRA

23. When performing QRA, “Event Trees” are used to delineate (outline):
A) Consequences associated with system failures
B) Initiating events responsible for system successes
C) Initiating events and combinations of system successes and failures
D) None of these are correct

Answer: C … Understand basics of QRA

24. When performing QRA, “Fault Trees” are used to depict (show):
A) Consequences associated with system failures
B) Initiating events responsible for system successes
C) Initiating events and combinations of system successes and failures
D) None of these are correct

Answer: D … Understand QRA … Fault trees depict ways in which system failures represented in
event trees can occur  None of the above = often the correct answer on API exams … Expect 4 to 5
questions to have “None of the above” & most are the answer!

32. Which of these statements are true regarding the QRA and an RBI analysis?
A) Both are generally performed by experienced risk analysts
B) There are never opportunities to link the less detailed QRA with the more detailed RBI study
C) The QRA typically involves a much more detailed evaluation than an RBI analysis
D) None of these statements are true regarding QRAs & RBI studies

Correct ans. For QRA.

1- Only a QRA is generally performed by experienced risk analysts
2- There are opportunities to link the detailed QRA with an RBI study
3- The QRA typically involves a much more detailed evaluation than an RBI analysis

Ans: C … Understand basics of QRA  C = true, A = Only a QRA is generally performed by

experienced risk analysts, B = There are opportunities to link the detailed QRA with an RBI study,
and D = Not correct because C was the only correct answer.
38. Which of the statements are true regarding Accuracy versus Precision in risk analysis?
A) Accuracy is a function of selected metrics & computational methods
B) Regarding risk analysis, there is little significant difference between accuracy & precision
C) Precision is a function of analysis methodology & quality of data & application consistency
D) RBI analysis accuracy depends on sound methodology/quality data/ knowledgeable personnel

Answer: D … Understand basics of Precision versus Accuracy

45. Regarding RBI & Managing Operational Risk, risk changes with time and is known to be:
A) Dynamic, so the inspection plan must be easily updatable when changes occur or new info is found
B) Certain, so any changes in operation are not outside of the IOW
C) Variable, so that operating variables are within the IOW
D) None of these are correct

Answer: A … Understanding how RBI can manage Operating Risk

46. To manage risk, the objective of RBI is to direct management’s decision process for prioritizing:
A) Inspections
B) Mitigation efforts
C) Resources
D) Analysis

Answer: C … Risk Management (Thru Inspection) This question may be seen in different ways

50. In-service inspection is primarily concerned with the detection and monitoring of:
A) Deterioration
B) DMs
C) POF
D) None of these

Answer: A … Risk Management (Thru Inspection)

54. The inspection plan should detail (what) related to the current operation?
A) POF
B) Mitigated risk
C) Unmitigated risk
D) None of these

Answer: C … Risk Management (Using RBI for Insp Plans/Priorities)

1. When planning an RBI assessment, which of these is done to focus the effort when just getting
started?
A) Aligning priorities
B) Identifying boundaries
C) Creating the team
D) Screening

Answer: D … Ref: Para 6.1 Getting Started  Screening is done to focus the effort

5. At the beginning of an RBI exercise, it is important to answer all these questions except:
A) What codes and standards are applicable?
B) When will the assessment be completed?
C) What will be the maintenance cost and loss of production?
D) How long will the assessment remain in effect and when it will be updated

Ans: C … Ref: Par 6.1 Getting Started  How results will be used & what is plan period!

8. An RBI assessment should be undertaken with clear objectives and goals that are:
A) Fully understood by all members of the RBI team only.
B) Fully understood by all members of the RBI team and management.
C) Followed by all members of the RBI team, operations and management.
D) Fully understood by all members of the RBI team, operations and management.

Answer: B … Ref: Para 6.2.1  Planning the RBI Assessment … General

11. An RBI assessment will determine the risk associated with:

A) The items assessed
B) The items for analysis
C) The items to be inspected
D) The items inspected and under analysis

Answer: A … Ref: Para 6.2.3  Planning the RBI Assessment … Define Risk Criteria

13. Who may judge if an individual equipment item & cumulative risks are acceptable?
A) The RBI Team Leader
B) The RBI team and the risk analyst
C) The RBI team and the management
D) The RBI team leader, the risk analyst and the management

Answer: C … Ref: Para 6.2.3  Planning the RBI Assessment … Define Risk Criteria
17. When the inspection program is optimized based on an understanding of risk, all of the following
cost reduction benefits may be realized except:

A) Noninvasive insp. methods may be substituted for invasive methods requiring equip shutdown
B) More effective infrequent inspection may be substituted for less effective frequent inspection
C) Ineffective, unnecessary or inappropriate inspection activities may be eliminated
D) Inspection of high-risk items may be eliminated or reduced

Answer: D … Ref: Para 6.2.5  Planning the RBI Assessment … Reduce Costs

21. The data within the RBI assessment can be useful in determining the optimum economic strategy
to:
A) Cut Inspection Costs
B) Reduce risk
C) Change Inspection Plans
D) Reduce inventories

Ans: B … Ref: Par 6.2.7  Plan RBI Assess. Identify Mitigation Alternatives

24. End of life strategies focus the inspection efforts directly on high-risk areas and:
A) Where the inspections will provide a reduction of risk during the remaining life of the plant
B) Efforts that do not impact risk during the remaining life are always eliminated or reduced
C) Efforts that do not impact risk during the remaining life are always eliminated
D) Efforts that do not impact risk during the remaining life are always reduced.

Answer: A … Ref: Para. 6.2.9  Plan RBI Assess. Facilities End of Life Strategies

28. During initial screening, the screening done at the facility level may be done by a:

A) Simplified Semi-Qualitative RBI assessment

B) Detailed Semi-Quantitative RBI assessment
C) Simplified Qualitative RBI assessment
D) Detailed Quantitative RBI assessment

Answer: C … Ref: Para. 6.3.3  Plan RBI Assess. Facilities Screening

30. If the scope of the RBI assessment is a multi-unit facility, the first step in the application of RBI is
screening of entire process units to:
A) Determine residual risk
B) Rank relative risk
C) Determine absolute risk
D) Rank risk by prioritizing inspections

Answer: B … Ref: Para. 6.3.4  Plan RBI Assess. Process Units Screening
3. The precision of the data collected should be consistent with the:
A) Approach selected (equipment, system, process unit, facility)
B) Inspection planning and assessment methodology
C) RBI method used
D) Level of the risk

Answer: C … Ref: Para. 7.1  Data & Information Collection  General

7. Generally, a qualitative analysis uses broad ranges that require which of the following from the
user when compared to a more quantitative approach?

A) A higher level of judgment, skill and understanding from the user

B) An equal level of judgment, skill and understanding from the user
C) A lesser level of judgment, skill and understanding from the user
D) None of these are correct, despite the simplicity of the approach

Answer: A … Ref: Para. 7.2.2  Data & Info Collection  Qualitative RBI Data Needs

8. QRA uses logic models depicting:

A) Progression of accidents and the transport of a hazardous material to the environment

B) Combinations of events that could transport hazardous material to the environment
C) Progression of events and the transport of a hazardous material to the environment
D) Combinations of events that could result in severe accidents

Answer: D … Ref: Para. 7.2.3  Data & Info Collection  Quantitative RBI Data Needs

15. In any inspection program, data validation is essential and the reasons for inspection data quality
errors include all of the following except:
A) Baseline inspections performed
B) Outdated drawings & documentation
C) Inspection error, clerical and data transcription errors
D) Measurement equipment accuracy, incorrect assumptions on equipment history

Answer: A … Ref: Para. 7.3  Data & Info Collection  Data Quality

16. Information for RBI can be found in many places within a facility. It is important to stress that
the precision of the data should match:

A) The complexity of the RBI method used

B) The sensitivity of the data that is needed
C) Any data that overlaps the analysis
D) None of these is correct

Ans: A … Ref: Para. 7.5  Data & Info Collection  Sources of Site-Specific Data/Info
2. Per API 580, Damage mechanisms (DMs) include which of the following:

A) Corrosion, cracking, and metallurgical damage

B) Corrosion, cracking, mechanical/metallurgical damage
C) Corrosion, cracking, mechanical/metallurgical/environmental damage
D) Corrosion, cracking, mechanical/metallurgical/environmental damage, and stress rupture

Answer: B … Ref: Para. 8.1.1  DMs & Failure Modes  Introduction General

5. Understanding failure modes is important for all of the following reasons except:
A) The analysis of the COF
B) The selection of repair techniques
C) The ability to make run-or-repair decisions
D) The selection of appropriate inspection intervals/due dates, locations and techniques

Ans: D … Ref: Para. 8.1.2  DMs & Failure Modes  General … D = correct answer when we are
discussing “Damage” Modes

10. Once a credible damage mechanism(s) has been identified, what else should also be identified?
A) The associated damage modes
B) Any other associated damage mechanisms
C) The failure modes associated with the damage mechanism
D) Any associated potential damage modes and failure modes

Answer: C … Ref: Para. 8.3  DMs & Failure Modes  Failure Modes

12. Examples of failure modes include all of the following except:

A) Leakage (pinhole leak, small to moderate leak, large leak) B) Ductile rupture
C) Brittle fracture D) Cracking

Answer: D … Ref: Para. 8.3  DMs & Failure Modes  Failure Modes

15. When tabulating results of a damage mechanisms and failure modes analysis for RBI, which of
the following should NOT be indicated?

A) A list of credible damage mechanism(s)

B) A list of credible damage mode(s) resulting from damage mechanisms(s)
C) A list of credible failure mode(s) resulting from the damage mechanisms(s)
D) A ranking of credible failure mode(s) that are resulting from the damage mode(s)

Answer: C … Ref: Para. 8.5  DMs & Failure Modes  Tabulating Results (DMs & FMs)
3. The POF analysis should address all of the following items except:
A) All damage mechanisms to which the equipment being studied is susceptible
B) All damage mechanisms to which the equipment being studied can be susceptible
C) Situations where equipment is or can be susceptible to multiple DMs (thinning, creep, etc.)
D) Failure due to loss of containment occurring from any number of reasons due to failure modes

Answer: D … Ref: Para. 9.1  Assessing POF  Introduction to Probability Analysis

4. The POF analysis should have all of the following characteristics except:
A) It should be measurable
B) It should be repeatable
C) It should be credible
D) It should be documented

Answer: A … Ref: Para. 9.1  Assessing POF  Introduction to Probability Analysis

6. Regarding POF analysis, frequency is expressed as a:

A) Number of events
B) Fraction or Percentage
C) Number of events occurring during a specific time frame
D) None of these are correct

Answer: C … Ref: Para. 9.2  Assessing POF  Units of measure in the POF Analysis

10. What is the basis for a Qualitative POF assessment using knowledge of the operating history,
future inspection and maintenance plans and possible materials deterioration?
A) Expert opinion
B) Inspector judgment
C) Engineering judgment
D) None of these

Answer: C … Ref: Para. 9.3.2  Assessing POF  Qualitative POF Analysis

15. Deterioration rate can be expressed in terms of:

A) Loss rate in mils per year & high/med/low probability for environmental cracking (SCC)
B) Loss rate in mils per year & active/aggressive probability for environmental cracks (SCC)
C) Corrosion rate (for thinning) or Susceptibility (for DMs having unknown deterioration rates)
D) High, medium or low based on environmental conditions/construction material combinations

Ans: C … Ref: 9.4.2  Assessing POF  Determine Deterioration, Susceptibility & Rate
16. Susceptibility can be expressed in terms of:
A) Loss rate in mils per year & high/med/low probability for environmental cracking (SCC)
B) Loss rate in mils per year & active/aggressive probability for environmental cracks (SCC)
C) Corrosion rate (for thinning) or Susceptibility (for DMs having unknown deterioration rates)
D) High, medium or low based on environmental conditions/construction material combinations

Ans: D … Ref: 9.4.2  Assessing POF  Determine Deterioration, Susceptibility & Rate

17. The deterioration rate in specific process equipment is often not known with certainty. The
ability to state the rate of deterioration precisely is affected by all of these items except:
A) Inspector’s expertise
B) Process and metallurgical variations
C) Equipment complexity and the type of damage mechanism
D) Inaccessibility for inspection, and limitations of inspection and test methods

Ans: A … Ref: 9.4.2  Assessing POF  Determine Deterioration, Susceptibility & Rate
Tricky question … Limitations in the Inspector’s expertise is a factor … Not his expertise!
An Inspector with “expertise” makes the right call! Expect to see this question on exam …

18. Sources of deterioration rate information include all of the following except:
A) Published data and unpublished company data, and previous inspection data
B) Laboratory testing, In-situ testing and in-service monitoring
C) Experience with similar equipment
D) Corrosion Specialist opinion

Ans: D … Ref: 9.4.2  Assessing POF  Determine Deterioration, Susceptibility & Rate

00000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000
19. Which of these statements linking the damage mechanism to the failure mode is false?
A) Stress corrosion cracking can develop into small through-wall cracks or catastrophic ruptures
B) Metallurgical deterioration and mechanical damage can vary from small holes to ruptures
C) Localized corrosion and pitting can lead to large hole-sized leaks or ruptures
D) General thinning from corrosion often leads to larger leaks or rupture

Answer: C … Ref: 10.4.3  Assessing POF  Determine Failure Mode

20. The effectiveness of future inspections can be optimized by:

A) Use standard NDE methods for all DMs B) Adjusting the inspection frequency only
C) Adjusting the inspection coverage only D) None of the above are correct

Ans: D  They are all limitations! Ref: 10.4.4  Quantify Effectiveness Past Insp Program
Adjusting inspection coverage, adjusting inspection frequency or some combination thereof
1. The consequence analysis in an RBI program is performed to provide discrimination between
equipment items on the basis of the:
A) Significance of a potential failure B) COF only
C) Both the COF and the POF D) POF only

Answer: A … Ref: Section 11.1  Assessing COF  Introduction to Consequence Analysis

3. COF analysis should be performed to estimate the consequences that occur due to:
A) Either a failure mode or deterioration typically resulting from an identified DM(s)
B) A failure mode typically resulting from an identified damage mechanism(s)
C) Deterioration typically resulting from an identified damage mechanism(s)
D) None of these are correct

Answer: B … Ref: Section 11.1  Assessing COF  Introduction to Consequence Analysis

6. The consequence analysis should address:

A) All credible estimates of details regarding DMs that can affect equipment
B) All credible failure modes to which the equipment item is susceptible
C) All realistic and significant DMs and failure modes
D) None of the above is correct

Answer: B … Ref: Section 11.1  Assessing COF  Introduction to Consequence Analysis

8. The consequence effects for loss of containment can be generally considered to be in all the
following categories except:

A) Safety, health, and environmental impact

B) Maintenance and reconstruction costs
C) Production losses
D) Inspection costs

Answer: D … Ref: Section 11.1.2  Loss of Containment

9. Although RBI is mainly concerned with loss of containment failures, other functional failures
could be included in an RBI study if a USER DESIRED. OTHER FUNCTIONAL FAILURES
COULD INCLUDE ALL OF THESE EXCEPT:

A) Functional or mechanical failure of pressure containing equipment (columns, tray towers, etc)
B) Rotating equipment failure such as seal leaks and impeller failures
C) Pressure-relief device failure
D) Heat exchanger tube failure

Answer: A … Ref: Section 11.1.3  Other Functional Failuress

10. The consequences of failure (safety, health, environmental and financial impacts) can be
estimated separately for each unit, system, equipment group or individual equipment item on the
basis of:

A) Engineering expertise B) Expert knowledge and experience

C) Risk analyst solicitations & input D) Total RBI Team assessment

Answer: B … Ref: Section 11.2.2  Qualitative Consequences Analysis

11. Quantitative models usually contain one or more standard failure scenarios or outcomes and
calculate COF based on all of the following except:

A) Type of process fluid in equipment & state of process fluid in the equipment (solid/liquid/gas)
B) Process operating variables (temp/press) & inventory available for release in event of a leak
C) Key properties of process fluid (boiling point, density, flammability, toxicity, etc.)
D) Failure mode and resulting deterioration

Answer: D … Ref: Section 11.2.3  Quantitative Consequences Analysis

12. Approach for assigning monetary values to safety/health consequences is included in:

A) API 579-1 FFS

B) API 580
C) API 581
D) ASME PCC-3

Answer: A … Ref: Section 11.3.2  Safety Consequences

13. Which of the following are the least developed among those currently used for RBI?

A) Safety and health consequence measures

B) Environmental consequence measures
C) Operational consequence measures
D) Economic consequence measures

Answer: B … Ref: Section 11.3.5  Environmental Damage

15. Consequences of releasing a hazardous material can be estimated in all of these steps below
except for one false statement (Not one of the six steps).
A) Estimate the release rate and the total volume of fluid that will be released from equipment
B) Determine if fluid is dispersed in a rapid manner (instantaneous) or slowly (continuous)
C) Determine if the fluid disperses in the atmosphere as a liquid or a gas
D) Estimate planned mitigation system impacts and estimated costs

Answer: D … Ref: Section 11.6  Determination of COF

1. Risk should be determined by combining the POF and the COF and the general form of the risk
equation should be:

A) Risk = Probability ÷ Consequence

B) Risk = Probability + Consequence
C) Risk = Probability – Consequence
D) None of these are correct

Answer: D … Ref: Section 12.1  Risk Determination/Assessment/Mgmt

2. Once probabilities of failure and failure mode(s) have been determined for the relevant damage
mechanisms, what should be the next item to be determined?
A) The consequence of each failure mode
B) The consequence of each potential failure
C) The probability of each credible consequence scenario
D) None of these are correct

Ans: C … Ref: Section 12.2.1  Risk D/A/M …Probability of a Specific Consequence

3. Probabilities of incidents generally:

A) Increase with the severity of each incident
B) Decrease with the severity of each incident
C) Remain the same with the severity of each incident
D) None of these are correct

Ans: B … Ref: Section 12.2.1  Risk D/A/M … Probability of a Specific Consequence

4. For a specific damage mechanism, what should be taken into account when considering the
probability of incidents in the aftermath of an equipment failure?
A) The expected mode of failure
B) The probability of each credible consequence scenario
C) The probability of each credible consequence scenario and the expected mode of failure
D) None of these are correct

Ans: A … Ref: Section 12.2.1  Risk D/A/M … Probability of a Specific Consequence

5. When calculating risk for each specific consequence, the risk equation can be stated as:
A) Risk of specific consequence = Probability of specific consequence ÷ specific consequence
B) Risk of specific consequence = Probability of specific consequence + specific consequence
C) Risk of specific consequence = Probability of specific consequence – specific consequence
D) Risk of specific consequence = Probability of specific consequence × specific consequence

Ans: D … Ref: Section 12.2.2  Risk D/A/M … Calculate Risk (Specific Consequence)
6. Risk-based inspection is a tool to provide:
A) A management strategy for the risks of loss of containment of equipment
B) An assessment of the risks of loss of containment of equipment
C) An estimate of the risks of loss of containment of equipment
D) An analysis of the risks of loss of containment of equipment

Answer: D … Ref: Section 12.3.1  Risk D/A/M … Risk Acceptance

7. Cost-benefit analysis is a powerful tool that is being used by many companies, governments and
regulatory authorities as one method in determining:
A) Risk
B) Absolute Risk
C) Risk acceptance
D) Items for Risk Management

Answer: C … Ref: Section 12.3.1  Risk D/A/M … Risk Acceptance

9. Understanding the value of each variable and how it influences the risk calculation is key to
identifying which input variables deserve closer scrutiny versus other variables which may not have
significant effects. This is more important when performing risk analyses that are:
A) Less detailed & semi-quantitative in nature
B) More detailed & quantitative in nature
C) More detailed & qualitative in nature
D) Less detailed & qualitative in nature

Answer: B … Ref: Sect 12.4  Risk D/A/M … Sensitivity Analysis

10. What type of analysis typically involves reviewing some or all input variables to the risk
calculation to determine the overall influence on the resultant risk value?

A) Qualitative risk analysis

B) Quantitative risk analysis
C) Semi-quantitative risk analysis
D) Sensitivity analysis

Answer: D … Ref: Sect 12.4  Risk D/A/M … Sensitivity Analysis

11. Assumptions or estimates of input values are often used when:

A) POF data are not available only

B) Consequence data is not available
C) Consequence and/or POF data is not available only
D) None of the above is correct and will affect an assumption or estimate of input values

Ans: C … Ref: Sect 12.5  Risk D/A/M … Assumptions

12. One goal of risk analysis is to communicate results in a common format that a variety of people
can understand. Which of the following is helpful in accomplishing this goal?
A) Using a risk matrix
B) Using a risk matrix or plot
C) Using a risk matrix or plot or schedule
D) Using a risk matrix, plot, graph or schedule

Ans: B … Ref: Sect 12.6.1  Risk D/A/M … Risk Presentation (general)

15. Which of these items (See the Risk Plot below) are indicative of unacceptable risk?

A) Item 2 only B) Items 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, & 10

C) Items 1 & 2 only D) None of these are correct

Ans: D … Ref: Sect 12.6.3  Risk D/A/M … Risk Presentation (Risk Plots)  Items 1, 2, 3

16. After risk analysis has been performed, and risk values plotted, what process begins?
A) Risk evaluation process begins
B) Risk management process begins
C) Risk assessment process begins
D) Risk estimation process begins

Ans: A … Ref: Sect 12.7  Risk D/A/M … Establishing Acceptable Risk Thresholds