How often should all pressure relief valves be inspected?

How often should all pressure relief valves be inspected?

• A. Daily
• B. Weekly
• C. Monthly
• D. Annually

Answer: (B)

The key idea is keeping safety devices ready to protect the system by catching issues before they cause overpressure. Pressure relief valves can drift in set pressure, stick from debris or corrosion, or leak if seals are compromised, so they need regular attention. A weekly check is the best balance because it allows you to verify the valve moves freely, isn’t leaking, and will relieve at the correct pressure, while also confirming the discharge path is clear. Daily checks would be excessive for a valve that’s not in constant service, monthly checks could miss issues developing in a week, and annual checks are too infrequent to ensure reliability.

The key idea is keeping safety devices ready to protect the system by catching issues before they cause overpressure. Pressure relief valves can drift in set pressure, stick from debris or corrosion, or leak if seals are compromised, so they need regular attention. A weekly check is the best balance because it allows you to verify the valve moves freely, isn’t leaking, and will relieve at the correct pressure, while also confirming the discharge path is clear. Daily checks would be excessive for a valve that’s not in constant service, monthly checks could miss issues developing in a week, and annual checks are too infrequent to ensure reliability.