The Membrane System Safety and Reliability Guideline has been released by the American Membrane Technology Association (AMTA), providing a new industry framework to reduce operational risk and improve long-term asset performance in membrane separation and desalination facilities.
The publication, formally titled Guideline for Membrane System Safety and Reliability (G-002), addresses a recognised gap in industry guidance relating to membrane pressure vessels, housings and associated mechanical components. While existing codes cover general pressure vessel design and inspection, they do not specifically address the unique operating conditions of membrane systems.
The guideline was introduced at the Membrane Technology Conference in Myrtle Beach in February 2026 and is now available through AMTA.
Why the Membrane System Safety and Reliability Guideline Matters
As desalination and advanced membrane treatment systems age, facilities are facing increasing operational pressures, material fatigue, corrosion exposure and higher design complexity. The Membrane System Safety and Reliability Guideline responds to documented failure events involving membrane pressure vessels and grooved end couplings, including leaks, misalignment and mechanical failures.
The guidance provides:
- Documentation of historical membrane system failure modes
- Preventive and precautionary processes to mitigate safety risks
- Recommendations covering design, procurement, construction, operation and maintenance
- A risk-based framework to support inspection and equipment replacement decisions
- References to existing standards, while remaining non-mandatory guidance
Importantly, the document has been intentionally published as guidance rather than a formal standard, allowing facilities to apply recommendations based on site-specific risk, regulatory context and operational conditions.
Supporting Long-Term Asset Reliability in Desalination and Water Treatment
Membrane systems are widely deployed in municipal drinking water treatment, wastewater reuse and seawater desalination facilities. As installed capacity continues to expand globally, lifecycle management and mechanical integrity are becoming increasingly important to operators seeking to protect personnel, reduce downtime and extend asset life.
The guideline was developed by the AMTA G-002 Guideline Oversight Subcommittee with contributions from equipment manufacturers, utilities and service providers. According to AMTA, it reflects industry-wide experience in managing membrane system risks through practical engineering and informed operational decision-making.
The Guideline for Membrane System Safety and Reliability (G-002) is available directly from AMTA. Facilities interested in procurement details can visit the official AMTA website.
For further coverage on membrane and desalination technologies, visit our Water Treatment section.
