A rupture disc is best categorized as which type of safeguard?

A rupture disc is best categorized as which type of safeguard?

• A. Passive safeguard
• B. Active safeguard
• C. Administrative safeguard
• D. Personal protective equipment

Answer: (A)

Rupture discs relieve overpressure automatically without any energy input or operator action, so they are a passive safeguard. Passive safeguards are built into the system and function automatically as part of the design, providing protection without needing signals, power, or human intervention. Active safeguards, by contrast, require energy or action to operate, such as valves or interlocks that must be actuated. Administrative safeguards are procedures or policies, and personal protective equipment is worn by people. Therefore, a rupture disc fits the definition of a passive safeguard because it automatically vents pressure when a set limit is reached.

Rupture discs relieve overpressure automatically without any energy input or operator action, so they are a passive safeguard. Passive safeguards are built into the system and function automatically as part of the design, providing protection without needing signals, power, or human intervention. Active safeguards, by contrast, require energy or action to operate, such as valves or interlocks that must be actuated. Administrative safeguards are procedures or policies, and personal protective equipment is worn by people. Therefore, a rupture disc fits the definition of a passive safeguard because it automatically vents pressure when a set limit is reached.