Free Practice Questions for API API-580 Exam

According to API 580, Section 3.1.28, the definition is clearly stated:

“Logic model: A tool used to depict the effectiveness in depicting a combination of events that could result in a loss of containment event.”

While a physical model (Option A) may represent the progression of release events, and other options (B and D) are not defined within API 580, only a logic model fits the definition used in RBI methodologies to evaluate event combinations leading to failure.

According to API 580, multiple API inspection codes include provisions for RBI. Section 4.3 of API 580 clearly states:

“The RBI methodology is recognized in the API inspection codes — API 510, API 570, and API 653 — as an acceptable method to determine inspection intervals.”

Each of these codes outlines both the requirements and limitations for using RBI in their specific contexts:

API 510 — for pressure vessels

API 570 — for piping systems

API 653 — for aboveground storage tanks

On the other hand:

API 573 is a recommended practice for the inspection of fired heaters and does not include formal RBI provisions.

API 578 focuses on Positive Material Identification (PMI) and is unrelated to RBI methodologies or requirements.

Therefore, the correct selection includes:

✔️API 510

✔️API 570

✔️API 653

Section 5.8 of API 580 states:

“The fact that some jurisdictions may have some prescriptive time-based rules on inspection intervals does not preclude the user from gaining significant benefits from the application of RBI as long as jurisdictional requirements are met and as long as the local regulations do not specifically prohibit the use of RBI planning.”

This confirms that unless explicitly prohibited, RBI may still be used effectively even in prescriptive jurisdictions.

According to Section 9.1 of API 580:

“The POF analysis shall address all credible damage mechanisms to which the equipment being reviewed is or can be susceptible. Further, it shall address the situation where equipment is or can be susceptible to multiple damage mechanisms (e.g. thinning and creep).”

Thus, C is the most accurate and complete choice. Option D is incorrect because the analysis is focused on equipment-specific mechanisms, not the entire site.

Section 15.1 of API 580 explicitly states:

“Generally one individual does not have the background or skills to single-handedly conduct the entire study effectively. Usually a team of people with the requisite skills and background is needed to conduct an effective RBI assessment.”

While options B and C are also true, D captures the primary reason for requiring a multidisciplinary team.

As defined in Section 3.1.59 of API 580:

“Risk assessment: The systematic use of information to estimate risk and conduct risk evaluation.”

Option A refers more closely to hazard identification, C is the definition of risk management, and D describes part of the risk analysis process, but not the full definition of risk assessment.

API 580 Section 14.3.2 clearly states:

“Users should set default maximum time periods for reassessments. The governing inspection codes (such as API 510, API 570, and API 653) and jurisdictional regulations, if any, shall be reviewed in this context.”

This means the codes and regulations are explicitly consulted to determine maximum allowable intervals between RBI reassessments. This ensures compliance with inspection frequency expectations across different jurisdictions and standards.

API 580, Section 4.2 defines risk reduction as:

“Risk reduction is the act of mitigating a known risk that is deemed to be too high to a lower, more acceptable level of risk with some form of risk reduction activity.”

Risk assessment and risk determination involve identifying and evaluating risk.

Risk management is the broader process that may or may not involve mitigation.

According to Section 5.2 of API 580:

“One objective of RBI is to determine what incident could occur (consequence) in the event of an equipment failure and how likely (probability) it is that the incident could happen.”

This is the foundational purpose of RBI: to determine both the likelihood and the consequence of a potential failure event, with specific emphasis on loss of containment.

While B, C, and D are partially true and are part of the broader RBI process, option A captures the exact phrasing and complete intent as outlined in the standard.

According to API 580, Section 16.1:

“A documented management system to implement and sustain an RBI program shall be developed and typically would include... procedures covering implementation, maintenance and reassessment, roles/responsibilities, documented assumptions, timeframe for applicability, and more.”

This is a minimum program requirement and foundational to RBI integrity.