Risk-Based Inspection (RBI) is a systematic methodology that prioritizes inspection efforts based on the probability and consequence of failure for each pipeline segment or asset.

Risk-Based Inspection (RBI) is a systematic methodology that prioritizes inspection efforts based on the probability and consequence of failure for each pipeline segment or asset. Defined by API 580/581 and widely adopted in pipeline integrity management, RBI ensures inspection resources are focused where they deliver the greatest risk reduction.

RBI risk assessment considers:
• Probability of failure — corrosion rate, defect history, coating condition, CP effectiveness, operating conditions.
• Consequence of failure — product hazard, population density, environmental sensitivity, business impact.

By combining probability and consequence, RBI classifies pipeline segments into risk categories that determine inspection scope, method, frequency, and priority. High-risk segments receive more frequent and detailed inspection, while low-risk segments may have extended intervals.

EMPIT’s CMI technology supports RBI programs by providing comprehensive condition data for buried pipelines — including corrosion severity with active/passive classification, coating condition, and geometry anomalies. This data directly feeds probability-of-failure calculations, enabling more accurate risk rankings and optimized inspection planning.