Platforms that have been out of service for 12 or more consecutive months must receive which type of inspection prior to use?

Platforms that have been out of service for 12 or more consecutive months must undergo a periodic inspection before being put back into use. A periodic inspection is a thorough assessment that is typically required for equipment with extended downtime. This type of inspection ensures that all components are evaluated for safety and functionality, taking into account that extended periods of disuse may lead to deterioration or malfunction of the equipment, which would not be evident in less rigorous checks. The goal is to confirm that the platform meets all safety standards and is in good working condition before it is reintroduced to service, thus ensuring the safety of all personnel who may utilize it.

In contrast, routine and frequent inspections are generally less comprehensive and are designed to monitor ongoing use rather than assess equipment that has not been operational for a significant duration. Comprehensive inspections are typically more detailed than periodic inspections, but the specific requirement after a long period of disuse is to conduct a periodic inspection.