The two (2) terms sound similar and will conjure up similar images when we hear them, but they are used in the ASME B31 piping standards in very different ways and apply to different groups. To state it very simply, the EXAMINATION is what the owner/operator does to pass the INSPECTION, which is what the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) does. In summary
- EXAMINATION is a thorough examination of components or systems to identify flaws or potential failures
- INSPECTION focuses on ensuring compliance with established standards and regulations
Examination applies to quality control functions performed by the manufacturer (for components only), fabricator, or erector. Reference in this Code to an examiner
is to a person who performs quality control examinations.
It is the owner’s responsibility, exercised through the owner’s Inspector, to verify that all required EXAMINATIONS and TESTING have been completed and to inspect the piping to the extent necessary to be satisfied that it conforms to all applicable EXAMINATION requirements of the Code and of the engineering design.
For many of you managing a PSM/RMP covered process, the actual work/requirements of B31.3 are inside the “examination bubble,” which is where the heart and soul of the Quality Assurance measures come to life, such as:
340 INSPECTION
340.1 General
340.2 Responsibility for Inspection
340.4 Qualifications of the Owner’s Inspector
341 EXAMINATION
341.1 General
341.2 Responsibility for Examination
341.3 Examination Requirements
341.4 Extent of Required Examination
342.1 Personnel Qualification and Certification
343 EXAMINATION PROCEDURES
344 TYPES OF EXAMINATION
344.2 Visual Examination
344.2.2 Method
345 TESTING
345.1 Required Leak Test
345.2.2 Other Test Requirements
345.2.7 Test Records
345.3 Preparation for Leak Test
345.4 Hydrostatic Leak Test
345.5 Pneumatic Leak Test
345.5.5 Procedure
345.7 Initial Service Leak Test (ONLY for Cat D fluids!)
345.9 Alternative Leak Test
346 RECORDS