Deferred maintenance on pressure vessels can lead to serious safety risks, including the potential for catastrophic failures. API-510 mitigates these risks by setting strict guidelines for inspection and maintenance schedules based on the condition and service history of the vessels. The standard emphasizes the importance of adhering to these schedules and provides criteria for risk-based inspections that prioritize maintenance tasks based on the urgency and potential impact of defects. This proactive approach helps prevent the deterioration of vessel condition and ensures that maintenance is performed before any serious issues arise.