bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of Fractal Geostatistics to Miscible Flood Performance in Heterogeneous Reservoirs
Authors: Taggart I. J. , Pitkin M. , Gray T. A.
Published: December 2007

This work outlines an improved method of generating anisotropic fractal property maps using Fourier techniques. These maps are used as input data to enable the numerical prediction of large scale dispersivity behaviour of miscible flooding in vertical cross sections. By varying the ratio of inter-layer as opposed to intra-layer variation, the impact of layering can be assessed. Results suggest that when the ratio of horizontal to vertical variance of property values is low, that the benefit of fine scale conditional simulation is often due to the improved resolution of layering alone.
Marangoni Flooding With Water Drives: A Novel Method for EOR?
Authors: Pratt H. R. C.
Published: December 2007

Trapped solvent droplets within a water-filled column packing can be liberated by injection of a partitionable solute which induces coalescence to form larger, easily-deformable droplets. This result, an outcome of the Marangoni effect, is normally much more marked when the solute transfers from solvent into aqueous phase; however, some solutes can be effective in both directions of transfer. A proposal is made for a novel method of utilising the Marangoni effect to achieve EOR by solute flooding, followed by a repeated water (or gas) drive; unlike a previously reported, unsuccessful study, this takes advantage of the non-equilibrium nature of the effect.
The Potential Benefits of Remote Intervention Technology for Australasian Subsea Developments
Authors: Wayman S. J.
Published: December 2007

There are two main motives which prompt an Operator to consider diverless technology for installing and maintaining subsea production systems – namely, physical and economic. This paper traces the history of subsea production in the Australasian region, and evaluates worldwide progress in remote intervention by reference to several landmark projects. Present trends indicate a growing preference towards diverless intervention, especially where this is favoured by local physical and economic factors such as those in the Australasian province. A comparison of typical life cycle costs for manned and unmanned intervention systems illustrates the long term potential benefits of remote technology for this area.
A Continuum Approach to Contemporary Shaly Sand Evaluation
Authors: Worthington P. F.
Published: December 2007

The electrical behaviour of fully electrolyte-saturated reservoir rocks has been represented through verified type curves as a continuum across a range of electrolyte resistivity. The type curves can be used with core and log data to infer whether a reservoir rock is behaving as effectively clean or shaly. In the case of effectively shaly sands, a single-point value of excess conductivity can be evaluated from log data alone.

More generally, the type curves allow different reservoirs to be compared in terms of their electrical behaviours. Where these are similar, it is reasonable to assume that the petrophysical interpretation procedures will be similar. Thus, the type curves allow a given reservoir-rock to be evaluated within the "big picture" of electrical behaviour. This, in turn, allows experience gained elsewhere to be brought to bear on the current appraisal, especially in terms of the suitability of available interpretation models.
Application of a Layered Resistivity Model for Deriving True Resistivity of Thin Dipping Sands in the Asia Pacific Region
Authors: Gill S. , Brink K. , Patterson D. , Hitchcock S.
Published: December 2007

The application of a one foot layered resistivity model that includes apparent dip magnitude and produces a solution of Rt in dipping beds is presented. This approach is numerically simulated to illustrate the problems and confusion created over conventional devices with various depths of investigation which are magnified by the effects of dip. A field example from the Asia Pacific Region is presented.
The Effect of Reservoir Conditions and Wettability on Electrical Resistivity
Authors: Sondenaa E. , Bratteli F. , Normann H. P. , Kollveit K.
Published: December 2007

Archie saturation exponents have been determined on sandstone core plugs from three North Sea reservoirs from capillary pressure measurements using the porous plate method.

Traditionally, restored or native state samples are compared with cleaned samples in studies of the effect of wettability on the electrical properties of porous media. In this study cleaned samples were restored during a capillary pressure drainage test. This is supposed to be more similar to the process taking place during migration of the oil in the reservoir.

Archie saturation exponents, from experiments where brine was displaced with refined oil at reservoir and ambient temperature, both with ambient pressure and reservoir conditions, (reservoir temperature and pressure), are presented.

Next saturation exponents, crude oil displacing brine, at reservoir and ambient temperature both with ambient pressure are presented.

Finally saturation exponents, live crude oil displacing brine, at reservoir conditions are presented.

The wettability preference of the samples were determined both prior to and after the electrical resistivity tests.

The results from the electrical resistivity measurements at reservoir temperature, show that the relationship between the resistivity index and water saturation is as expected from Archie's equation, when water were displaced with refined oil.

The Archie saturation exponents obtained at reservoir temperature are equal to the Archie saturation exponents obtained at reservoir conditions but lower than the Archie saturation exponents obtained at ambient conditions.

The saturation exponents obtained with crude oil displacing brine are higher than the saturation exponents obtained with refined oil displacing brine, for the measurement at ambient temperature.

The results from the electrical resistivity measurements with live crude oil at reservoir conditions, (reservoir temperature and pressure) and the measurement with crude oil show that the relationship between the resistivity index and water saturation is not as expected from Archie's equation. The saturation exponents (n*) increased with decreasing brine saturations. The increase of the saturation exponents can be related to a wettability change.
Large-Scale Integration of Core and Logging Data at the Ocean Drilling Program
Authors: Meyer W. M.
Published: December 2007

An effort is currently in progress at the Ocean Drilling Program to integrate downhole logging data with the core analyses performed in the laboratory. This process is intended to take place in near real-time during routine drilling operations. The results of this process are tables containing all measurements related to the borehole which are correlated to a single common reference depth. This matrix can be loaded into spreadsheets and other software packages for detailed examination by shipboard scientists. Because the data are correlated to a common depth scale, cross plots across the numerous data types are easily accomplished.

This paper will describe the progress made in the following areas:

– Data sharing via a networked fileserver. – Common reference depths for core and logging data. – Strategies for correlating core and logging data. – Exploratory data analysis on integrated datasets.
Erb West: An Oil Rim Development With Horizontal Wells
Authors: van der Harst A. C.
Published: December 2007

Following a pilot horizontal well completed in November 1988, five horizontal wells were drilled in the Erb West field off-shore East Malaysia by Sabah Shell Petroleum Company (SSPC) during 1990. Another three horizontal wells are planned to be drilled in 1991. The objective of the wells is to develop a 40 m thick oil rim, maximising the oil recovery and offtake rates, while delaying gas and water breakthrough.

Drilling short pilot holes at the entrance of the horizontal section to establish accurately the depth of the fluid contacts is important to achieve optimum placement of the horizontal hole with respect to the contacts. It is preferred to drill wells perpendicular to the strike of the formation rather than parallel to the strike in order to penetrate and drain several stacked sands. Removal of the TCP guns after perforation allowing for diagnostic surveys and remedial work is preferred. Flowing build-up surveys yield good results when performed using a down hole shut-in device.

The horizontal wells produce at substantially higher rates than comparable conventional wells and PIF's range from 2 to 8. The horizontal wells seem to be more prone to gas than to water breakthrough, which indicates that tonguing is predominant over cresting phenomena in the Erb West environment. Drilling horizontal wells in a thin oil rim distributed over several stacked sands is an attractive alternative to a conventional development and can increase the ultimate recovery of the field. Small and poor reservoirs can be developed which would remain undrained with a conventional development.
Boosting Deliverability in the Giant Arun Gas Field
Authors: Aiadyrus M. U. , Bordelon T. P.
Published: December 2007

The giant Arun gas field located in Aceh province on the island of Sumatra in Indonesia has been producing gas and condensate since 1977. Average annual gas production has increased since start-up to the current level of 3,260 million standard cubic feet per day (MMSCFD). Of this total average daily volume; 2,250 MMSCFD is transported to the LNG plant for liquefaction and export, 125 MMSCFD is sold to local industries, 45 MMSCFD is used for fuel in the field and 840 MMSCFD is reinjected into the reservoir to maximize condensate recovery. The field is now at a level where new challenges must be addressed. This paper discusses Mobil Oil Indonesia Inc.'s (Mobil) efforts and strategies in maintaining field production in the face of declining well deliverability, pressures and surface temperatures.

Arun field development plans are focused on increasing or maintaining field deliverability through processing facility improvements and additions. Well facilities are being modified to lower wellhead pressures. Major new projects in this area include facility debottle-necking, well stream dehydration and booster compression. For improved well performance, Mobil is implementing projects on stimulation, additional drilling and big bore (9-5/8"tubing) well completions based on comprehensive reservoir simulation studies.
Investigation and Remediation of Groundwater Contaminated by Oil Products
Authors: Burden R. J.
Published: December 2007

Significant advances have been made in recent years in developing approaches and technologies for the investigation and remediation of soil and groundwater contaminated by oil products. The approaches require a detailed knowledge of both site hydrogeology and the physicochemical properties of the oil product This paper describes three case histories that illustrate state-of-the-art methods for investigation and remediation of soil and groundwater contaminated by oil products. The first case history describes an investigation of an oil product leak including delineation of the area of contaminated groundwater, the likely rate of movement of the oil products in the subsurface and the possible impacts on marine shellfish beds. The extent of contaminated groundwater was determined by a combination of soil vapour measurements and groundwater sampling. The investigation showed that oil contamination had not moved offshore but that offshore migration was likely to occur in the future. A computer contaminant migration model was used to show that significant adverse impacts on the shellfish beds were unlikely to occur if further oil was prevented from entering the groundwater system.

The second case history describes the investigation and remediation of a 500,000 litre oil leak from a subsurface pipeline. The oil was found to have pancaked out on the water table and had migrated only about 200 metres down-gradient after about 2.5 months. The extent of the oil plume was determined by drilling. Oil recovery was carried out by two – stage skimmer units located in 10 strategically placed boreholes.

The third case history describes the design and operation of an innovative system for remediation of soil contaminated by oil product residuals. A combined vapour extraction/bioremediation system was designed to treat the contaminated soil in-situ. The design of the system was based on laboratory and field trials carried out over a period of three months. After two years of operation the system had reduced concentrations of petroleum hydrocarbons below a clean-up target of 100 mg/kg over an area of 3600 m2. The main advantage of the in-situ treatment system is that soil contamination was removed without disrupting above-ground operational activities.
Chemical Dispersant Use in Oil Spill Management: Kill or Cure? The Controversy Persists
Authors: Wardrop J. A.
Published: December 2007

The biological damage that resulted from the use of ‘dispersants’ during the ‘Torrey Canyon’ oil spill (1967) indicated that the early dispersants were highly toxic and, perhaps, caused more damage than the oil alone. Despite subsequent improvements in the formulation of dispersants considerable apprehension at their use has persisted, with a number of governments placing severe restrictions on their use.

This apprehension is based largely on concerns about the toxicity of dispersants and consequently this has been much researched. Unfortunately, interpretation of some of the resulting data is difficult This is due to the lack of uniformity in experimental procedures, and also to difficulties in using toxicity data to determine the effect that dispersants and oils may have on coastal or inshore communities.

There is little information on the effect, and behaviour, of dispersed oil in the marine environment and this is particularly true when we consider long term effects and community recovery.

This paper reviews the information that is available from field and laboratory studies and challenges the validity of some entrenched attitudes to dispersants. Decisions regarding dispersant use must be made in consideration of a range of priorities and protection of one sensitive habitat may entail additional risk to another. Site specific priorities must by identified and options for dispersion considered with reference to all possible spill control strategies.
Safety Management in Drilling Operations
Authors: Durrant J. H.
Published: December 2007

This paper discusses safety management in drilling operations both as a general philosophy and specifically as adopted by Atwood Oceanics Australia. The paper highlights the need for a structured safety management plan and shows the positive impact such a plan can have on the drilling operation.

It is probably appropriate to define Safety Management at the outset to better understand the concept. Although it is something of an imprecise discipline, it can perhaps best be described in these terms:

An effective safety management system is designed to reduce or eliminate all aspects of accidental loss in order to maximise the resources of the organisation. This is achieved through goal setting, planning, organising, staffing and controlling. As such, safety is managed like any other company function.

Clearly, some questions spring to mind! Why is it necessary? What's wrong with the way it is presently carried out? How much will it cost? Will it be worthwhile?

There are a number of reasons to focus on safety management – chief among them should be the very real concern for the pain and suffering of those who are unfortunate enough to be injured, maimed or even killed.
Pressure-Transient Response in Compartmentalised Gas Reservoirs: A South Australian Field Example
Authors: Malavazos M. , McDonough R. C. M.
Published: December 2007

The long-term, production tests of the Katnook gas field in the South-East of South Australia are analysed to enable a better understanding of the reservoir geometry.

The pressure-transient responses are interpreted to indicate a compartmentalised reservoir, comprising a series of high-permeability sand bodies in relatively poor communication. This is consistent with the geological model, which describes the stacked-channel reservoirs having been formed in a low-sinuousity, braided-stream palaeo-environment.

Estimates of channel width and reservoir permeability are made using the correlation of type curves with the measured pressure responses.

Since documented field examples have been rarely published, three examples are presented and discussed.
Implementation of a Drilling Database System
Authors: Corless S.
Published: December 2007

This paper discusses the implentation and use of a drilling information personal computer database system. The system is a commercially available software package called DIMS (Drilling Information Management System) and has been in use by the West Australian Petroleum Pty. Limited (WAPET) Drilling Department since the beginning of 1990. The system is used to input drilling data at the wellsite using a portable computer. All information that would normally be entered in manual reports (daily reports, casing, cementing, daily costs, etc), is input into the wellsite computer. Each wellsite supervisor sends this information from his computer to a central computer in the head office each morning via the telephone network using modems. Daily reports for all wells can then be generated from the central computer.

At the same time a database of information relating to all wells drilled is gradually built up. This information can be used as the basis for various drilling engineering, time and cost analyses used in the planning of future wells.

This paper discusses:

– The reasons for purchasing such a system. – The benefits and drawbacks experienced in the office and the field. – Various aspects of implementation.
Safety Management in the Bass Strait Operations
Authors: Emslie D. A. , Borghesi G. R. , Parker G. J. , Savva S.
Published: December 2007

Esso Australia Ltd. has, over the last few years, implemented significant enhancements to the safety management program covering its Bass Strait operations. The program focuses on involvement by both line management and employees in operations and technical support areas.

This paper describes the actions Esso has taken to enhance employee's attitudes towards safety which have brought about a major and measurable improvement in personnel safety performance.

The key elements of the program have been senior management leadership, commitment and accountability, workplace ownership and involvement, contractor involvement, improved procedures and training, implementation of a risk management program, and an improved incident investigation and analysis system.

Coupled with this, Esso has embarked upon a significant program of facility upgrades to take advantage of new developments in technology. This paper also describes the controls we have implemented to ensure that these upgrades are designed and installed safely.
Oil Spill Contingency Planning in Tropical Areas
Authors: Castle R. W. , Owens E. H. , Sartor J. D. , Wardrop J. A.
Published: December 2007

Oil spills can result in significant environmental damages, particularly in highly sensitive and poorly accessible tropical regions. The overall effects of spills can, however, be significantly reduced through proper prespill planning. In addition to facilitating effective response prior to the incident becoming too large to manage, such planning reduces the potential for misapplication of technologies and resultant unnecessary damage. Planning concepts discussed include development of realistic planning objectives (probable spill scenarios), spill trajectory and fate modeling, identification of sensitive areas, interpretation of persistence and impacts, and identification of environmentally acceptable response technologies. Procedures for environmental data collection and information handling are also addressed.
An Integrated Approach to the Safety Assessment of Offshore Production Facilities
Authors: Carpenter S. J. , Fleming J. M.
Published: December 2007

This paper outlines a new procedure which has been developed to formally assess the safety of existing offshore oil and gas production facilities. It has been applied to a number of platforms enabling considerable savings to be made with respect to projected budgets.
Optimum Use of Computing Technology in Petroleum Operations
Authors: Chik Amran Nong
Published: December 2007

This paper describes the use of computing technology in Esso Production Malaysia Incorporated (EPMI) to enhance organizational productivity in petroleum operations. Key milestones of the Workplace Information Network (WIN) program, which resulted in the availability of electronic mail and technical programs at engineers' desk-tops as part of daily routine work, are discussed. EPMI has also embarked on the computerization of detail design drafting work using Computer Assisted Design and Drafting (CADD) and capturing operational data from offshore platforms using the Platform Data Capture (PDCAP) System.

This paper also discusses two other ongoing major computerization projects: the Production Volumes Management System (PVMS) currently being undertaken to enhance users productivity in analyzing production data, and the Materials Procurement Maintenance Management (MPMM) system, which provides full integration of functional activities such as materials, procurement, financial, and maintenance management. Finally, some insight into EPMI's future computerization plans will be reviewed.
The Advantages of Production Testing at Variable Rates
Authors: Filippi B. , Watson R. J.
Published: December 2007

Flow rates occurring during production and interference tests are seldom constant. This paper presents an analytical method of solving for pressure as a function of time for variable flow rates. The cases examined are for linear, exponential and harmonic production declines.

The analysis of a variable flow rate can provide more information than the analysis of a constant rate. The procedure is simple and does not require the the application of superposition. To force a well to produce at a constant rate or to assume that it produced in a step like manner may complicate the arithmetic, induce errors and often restrict the number of parameters that can be solved.

The variable rate technique is particularly useful where the flow rate is continuously monitored. A common case is a drill stem test where the production can be determined accurately as the fluid level rises in the string and the rate is continuously changing with time. In the case where a well dies during a test this technique has proved very useful.
Hydrocarbon Contamination Site Investigation
Authors: Esslinger B.
Published: December 2007

Site assessment through investigation is currently at the forefront of attention for many petroleum industry personnel. It is important to have a basic knowledge of investigation methods and procedures when directing a potential hydrocarbon contamination site assessment.

Investigation planning is important and is initiated by setting data collection objectives. Review of available existing data is used to optimise the investigation. Once the existing data are collected and assessed, the likely affected mediums and potential transport pathways important to the site can be identified. The appropriate investigation activities can then be selected to achieve the identified data collection goals.

Common and cost efficient methods of investigating the important mediums are outlined and discussed. Field screening and laboratory analytical data collection options and their relative uses/reliability must be assessed and selected. When used properly, one or a combination of data collection methods will provide the most effective investigation.

Field and analytical data quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) is one of the most important aspects to be considered during site assessment planning. The appropriate field and laboratory QA/QC procedures will assure high quality and valid data.
Medical Screening for Survival Training
Authors: Doig K. M. , Horsley H. D.
Published: December 2007

Objective - to analyse the results of the Survival Centre screening programme with respect to declared illness or disability, related to subsequent course modification.

Design - Analysis of retrospective results held on screening forms.

Setting - Robert Gordon's Institute of Technology Survival Centre, Occupational Health Unit.

Subjects - 1,698 survival course trainees.

Main outcome measures - Declaration of illness or disability and resulting course modification.

Results - The sensitivity of the screening questionnaire appears to be set at the correct level with 10% of the enrolling trainees requiring medical interview but 90% of those warranting no modification to their survival course.

The prevalance of back problems was high resulting in 56% of those trainees requiring a modified course.

Conclusions - Survival course screening is an effective measure of morbidity and provides a relevant base for course modification to protect the health of the trainee.
Exploration Site Medical Problems in a Remote African Country
Authors: Moore C. E. , Hudgins D. R.
Published: December 2007

Exxon's operations in Chad presented difficult medical and organizational challenges, leading to the installation of a full time company physician. This paper addresses the nature of these challenges, the procedures and training developed for the selected doctor, the working relationships with management/contractors, and the medical outcomes of the operation.

Among the medical concerns in Chad were: its remote?ness from Europe, serious inadequacies in the public medical care system, tropical diseases and resistant malaria. Major organizational concerns were the varied quality of the contractor medics/ doctors, and their lack of a coordinated approach to the medical and occupational risks to be faced in Chad.

The paper describes how the doctor was specially trained, and how he established his new role in Chad by working closely with his U.S.-based medical management and his local Chad-based exploration management. Among his major objectives were the development of quality standards for contractors' field medics/doctors, attention to environmental and industrial hygiene issues, and the building of a new clinic in the capital city.

Special problems faced included a malaria epidemic. The paper describes measures taken (including site analysis by a malaria consultant) to improve diagnosis, increase employee/contractor compliance with prophylactic regimens, and establish an environmentally-safe vector control program.

Conclusions include recommended: changes in medical management of remote exploration sites, methods to coordinate diverse contractor approaches to medical care, and improvements in field-based malaria diagnosis and control.
The Health and Safety Implications of Local Medical Support for Land Seismic Crews in Remote Locations in Southeast Asia
Authors: Win P. M. , Suter P. C.
Published: December 2007

The paper attempts to detail the benefits and drawbacks of hiring local doctors to support the medical services needed for land seismic acquisition crews in remote locations of South East Asia. The actual conditions prevailing among such seismic operations will be presented highlighting the problems and risks involved.

The management of these problems will be outlined in terms of prevention and actual diagnosis and treatment of disease and injuries including emergency stabilisation and evacuation of critically ill patients. The results and lessons learned will be evaluated and discussed including the economics of setting up a reasonably reliable medical facility.

The paper will conclude that local knowledge, high levels of training and low costs make this type of medical support beneficial for such operations and may well be applicable for similar operations in other parts of the world.
Ergonomic Acceptability Criteria for the Norwegian Offshore Industry
Authors: Westgaard R. H. , Wulff I. A.
Published: December 2007

A project to develop ergonomic guidelines and procedures for the Norwegian offshore industry has been initiated. It was established in the first part of the project, that working environment is perceived as an important issue both in the running of existing installations and the construction of new ones. However, existing work practices are not adequate to ensure that working environment receives the required attention in competition with other issues. A major shortcoming is the general character of many of the guidelines presently formulated, which renders the quality assurance (QA)-systems ineffective.

The new guidelines may function on three levels: procedural, functional and technical, the latter level providing recommendations regarding the development of specific operational definitions for the functional guidelines.
Biological Risks in Exploration Activities in Argentina
Authors: Segura N.
Published: December 2007

This paper analyses two medical endemic problems in Argentina: American Trypanosomiasis or Chagas Disease and snake bites.

Both of them have been dealt with Shell CAPSA's Occupational Health Team while performing exploration activities in two Argentinian work areas.

Description of both risks, their prevalence, characteristic symptoms, preventive measures taken and medical results are described.
Industrial Hygiene Program Audit Manual
Authors: Thayer E. C. , Smith W. S.
Published: December 2007

It Is important for multi-national companies to control health hazards through the application of consistent health standards at operating sites throughout the world. To aid in this effort, an industrial hygiene program audit manual has been developed which lists criteria for a comprehensive industrial hygiene program, and includes specific questions to assess the compliance of site programs with the criteria. The manual is suitable for site self-audits or site audits by an external person/ team. This papef will describe in more detail the manual format including discussion of specific sections/topics of special interest, and some methodology considerations in performing an audit. In addition, findings from an audit of a remote drilling platform are interspersed in the appropriate sections.
Noise Survey in Offshore Operations
Authors: Rahman M. N. Abdul , Abdullah H.
Published: December 2007

A first comprehensive noise exposure survey was conducted in 1987 by Esso Production Malaysia Incorporated (EPMI). Since then noise surveys are routinely conducted in EPMI's operations, both on-shore and offshore. The noise exposure guidelines EPMI has adopted are based on the Malaysian noise exposure regulations which are similar to United State's 0SHA Noise Regulations. Even though the regulations are not applicable offshore, EPMI has utilized the standards as guidelines for its offshore operations, as we believe such guidelines provide for personnel hearing protection.

This paper discusses the noise surveys in EPMI operations conducted at the onshore terminal, production platforms, and drilling rigs (during exploration and development drilling). The equipment used, methodology, criteria and strategies adopted for noise surveys are described. The results and findings of the surveys conducted, such as personnel dosimetry, noise sources, area noise levels, noise characteristics, and noise control recommtendations, are presented.
The Exploration and Production Forum Chemicals Data Base
Authors: de Jong G. , de Ligny W. , Read A. D.
Published: December 2007

The Oil Exploration and Production Industry represented in the E&P Forum is establishing a Chemicals Data Base for the benefit of Operators, Suppliers and Governments. It will collate data relevant to environmental and health hazard assessment of the chemicals used in oil exploration and production in a consistent form based on a Minimum Data Set. Suppliers of chemicals and chemical products will be asked to submit the data by filling out of a questionnaire, the so-called "Minimum Data Set (MDS)".

Operator members of the E&P Forum will have access to the data in the data bank on the products which they use or intend to use, and may provide data to Governments as required for their operations in a particular country. This procedure will ensure that adequate, good quality information will be available and readily accessible to Operators and Governments to support decisions about acceptance of use and eventual disposal of chemicals and wastes containing chemicals in the offshore (or onshore) environment.

To this purpose the MDS comprises data on bioaccumulation potential, toxicity to aquatic life and biodegradability, as well as toxicological data relevant to human health hazard assessment. The environmental and toxicological data are also in line with data required in the OECD and EEC for chemical hazard assessment and classification procedures. This will have the added advantage to chemical suppliers of minimising duplication of effort in satisfying Government requirements for marketing products.

The progress of the project to date will be presented.
Benefits of a Relational Database for Computerized Management of Environmental and Health Information
Authors: Shepherd W. W.
Published: December 2007

A computerized relational database is the basis for a hazardous materials information management system which is comprehensive, effective, flexible and efficient. The system includes product information for Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs), labels, shipping, and the environment and is used in Dowell Schlumberger (DS) operations worldwide for a number of programs including planning, training, emergency response and regulatory compliance.
Employee Assistance Programme in the Offshore Environment
Authors: Cooper J. R. B.
Published: December 2007

An Employee Assistance Programme has a lot to offer in the offshore environment, and represents excellent value for money. To be successful though it must be thoroughly explained to the workforce as a beneficial resource for their own use, and be supported by a committed Management group.
Accident Analysis: A Tool for Safety Management
Authors: Azambre J.
Published: December 2007

Occupational Accident Analysis and Reporting system (OCAAR) is a computerised system used by those responsible for any activity on sites to identify: –origins of any accident/incident when it occurs–chain of events leading to accident/incident.

The origins of an accident/incident are split into the following four categories –human factors–procedural factors–technical defects–others

One accident/incident can involve several categories. The causes of all accidents and incidents are ranked from the most frequent to the less frequent ones for a given period.

The methodology will identify and quantify the origins of accidents and incidents.

Accordingly to define and to implement specific actions such as training programme, procedural improvement, and even modifications of a safety concept are a consequence of the OCAAR System (shown in Table 1).

By analysing OCAAR data, the Company safety policy and performance can be evaluated and areas requiring attention are highlighted.
Achieving a Four-Fold Reduction in Vehicle Accidents in the Oil Field
Authors: Pousset M. , de Fleurieu R. , Williams J. A.
Published: December 2007

An innovative vehicle accident prevention system, VAPS, has been used to reduce vehicle accidents in the African-Mediterranean oilfields. The system records various parameters of vehicle movement which are related to defensive driving skills. This information is then used to target management and training efforts to achieve an impressive reduction in vehicle accidents.

Each vehicle is fitted with a microprocessor and various sensors from which speed, acceleration, braking, etc., are determined. These parameters are recorded on a memory card which must be inserted into the microprocessor before the vehicle can be operated. Driving information is obtained for individual drivers by assigning each driver a personal memory card. Each driver is then able to retrieve valuable information regarding his/her driving habits by using a PC-based cardreader back at the office.

Vehicle accidents are reviewed showing the need for the benefits this system can provide. The VAPS hardware is then described to show which parameters can be measured. The majority of the paper focuses on the analysis of these measurements and how they are applied to improve defensive driving habits. Real case histories are used to illustrate the effectiveness of the system.
A Comprehensive Road Safety Program
Authors: Messier S. R. , Hart R.
Published: December 2007

The Shell Canada Road Safety Program was developed to address the diversified operating needs of employees who were expected to drive as part of their job, and who were exposed to various hazards, both rural and urban. The intent of this program is to produce more aware drivers who enter the driving environment with a positive, constructive mindset rather than a negative, confrontational one. The new approach relies on the more descriptive term "proactive" to convey the need to think ahead and think about others. The Shell Canada Road Safety Program encompasses a wide range of issues from a comprehensive policy to specific requirements relating to the driver, vehicle and the environment. A major activity was die development of new training modules. The program focuses on the reduction of injuries to our employees and damage to our vehicles. The emphasis on road safety is intended to create a significant shift in driving attitudes. The program demonstrates management's commitment to road safety and stresses the need for continued leadership by management and supervisors for both employees and contractors. This paper discusses the development, implementation and monitoring stages of the Road Safety Program.
Safety in Waterborne Operations in Nigeria: Shell Nigeria Experience
Authors: Asini M. I.
Published: December 2007

The exploration and production of hydrocarbons in the sprawling swamps of the Niger Delta of Nigeria present certain unique safety challenges to the operator. This paper presents the safety problems associated with the extensive waterborne operations of Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria (SPDC). It reviews programmes which have been developed to safeguard personnel, facilities and equipment, and the effectiveness of these initiatives.

SPDC is the Operator of the Joint Venture established by Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and Shell, Agip and Elf in Nigeria. The Company maintains a production availability of over 1.0 million barrels per day.

The waterborne operations cover an area of some 100,000 sq. kms. which is accessible only by boats and helicopters. A total of about 30,000 persons (5,000 company staff and 25,000 contractors staff) are employed in these activities, a large percentage of whom are waterborne operators. These are supported, apart from land transport fleet, by 9 helicopters and some 300 water craft for personnel and equipment transportation.

All facets of E and P operations ranging from seismic data acquisition through drilling and engineering construction to established production activities are conducted in the swamps.

With the large number of persons working in the swamp each day, travelling to and from the Company’s main bases and central accommodation points, there is the need to monitor the movement of personnel and to communicate over considerable distances for control of work and for quick response in an emergency. For these, there has been a continual review and enhancement of related safety measures and training. These measures include swimming training and certification of all waterborne personnel, provision and use of floatation aids and rescue drills.

Over the years, the record of work related deaths by drowning of Company and Contractors staff has been of great concern. Are the measures instituted yielding results? An evaluation of these and plans for the future will conclude the paper.
Halon Firefighting Agents: A Guide To Minimising Use and Losses
Authors: Pope P. R. , Dalzell G. A.
Published: December 2007

This paper examines the current state of the International agreements on the use of halons and thesubsequent National and industry approaches to the subject. It examines the definition of "Essential Use" and gives particular examples to clarify its interpretation.

Alternative methods of loss control are reviewed. It does not address alternative active firefighting agents but examines the need for protection in particular areas. It addresses reduction of thehazards and consequences so that the need for protection can be minimised.

Practical measures to minimise the installed quantities of halon are described. This covers specifications for new, essential, systems and the short term reduction of inventories in existing systems. The causes of leakage and accidental releases are studied and preventive measures are proposed.

The paper concludes with an overview of the current research into replacement agents and the future outlook.
Education and Training in the Seismic Environment
Authors: Thonger R. C. , Cave N. M. J.
Published: December 2007

As the formal approach to training in the sesimic environment has become more common, it is apparent that our particular circumstances require careful thought to get the best long term results.This paper looks at the generally accepted principles and applies them to field operations.
Gas Astray: Education and Training To Understand and Deal With Gas Leakages and Gas Fires
Authors: Velde B. , Tveit O. J.
Published: December 2007

"Gas Astray" is a safety education programme with a theoretical and a practical training module complementing each other.

The objective is to provide operating personnel with knowledge about hydrocarbons and the consequences of a release, especially emphasi-zing on natural gas under high pressure.

A training field is being built at the Karst0 termi-nal on the west coast of Norway, where releases of various hydrocarbons can be made. Gas relea-ses from storage pressure of 100 bar will be made unignited as well as ignited, producing vertical or horizontal flames up to about 60 m or more.

Various types of releases will be demonstrated and fire fighting training on different objects will be available.
A Computer Monitoring System Improves Rig Safety
Authors: White D. B. , Weishaupt M. , Kent D. J.
Published: December 2007

Improvements to safety on a drilling rig must cover all aspects of its operations. Safety awareness of the crew is clearly an important area, but careful set up of drilling equipment and monitoring of the operation is another. A computer system for real time monitoring of rig status, problem detection and controlling rig operations is described. This is the first step towards control, and then automation which will bring further safety and environmental benefits.

It is important for the driller to have the capability to follow activities on the rig to ensure that they are appropriate to current rig operations and consistent with safe conditions. A computer system can also help by being continuously vigilant, watching for the earliest signs of potentially catastrophic events, detecting them before they become critical and alerting the driller. This includes monitoring pressure and flow data to check for washouts that can result in a twist off, and checking flow rates and tank volumes for early kick detection. The system can also be used for post analysis of problems to help develop new procedures to avoid re-occurrence.

In this paper we briefly review the event detection capability of the system with intelligent alarms for washout and kick detection. Early kick detection reduces the problem of circulating out the kick, but it is still a hazardous procedure requiring close monitoring. A new display has beenintroduced to monitor kill procedures and has led to better control.

The operation and experience with this system in terms of safety benefits are discussed and illustrated with field examples. Finally we discuss the way forward and how such systems are currently being developed to include process control and automation for the rig of the future.
Implementation of Corporate Contractor Safety Guideline
Authors: Craft M. L.
Published: December 2007

Contractor safety is an issue of major importance in the petroleum and petrochemical industry both in the United States and worldwide. Management, as well as employees, have a vested interest in addressing the contractor safety issue. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration of the United States, in both the Office of General Industry and the Office of Construction, has taken steps to analyze the use of contractors in the petroleum/petrochemical industry. Legislation of contractor safety issues is likely to result from these analyses. In light of this increased concern and attention, many major oil companies have taken a proactive stance and implemented contractor safety programs.

This paper addresses one major oil company who has adopted a corporate contractor safety guideline and how their exploration and producing company has implemented the guideline.

Recent catastrophic incidents within the petroleum and petrochemical industry have led to concern about the use of contractors to perform routine maintenance work at plant, platform, and facilities. These catastrophic incidents include the explosion and fire on the Piper Alpha Platform in the North Sea, the explosion and fire at the Phillip’s Chemical Plant in Pasadena, Texas, and the explosion and fire at the Arco Chemical Plant in Channelview, Texas. Each of these incidents resulted in the loss of lives and extensive property damage.
Contractor Safety Performance Significantly Improves
Authors: Simon J. M. , Piquard P.
Published: December 2007

ESSO REP, EXXON's upstream affiliate in France has made significant progress in improving both employee and contractor safety performance as the result of an enhanced safety management program. This program, initiated in 1984 has resulted in no company employee lost time accidents since 1985 and in contractor lost time accident [LTA] frequency being reduced from 53 LTA's per million hours worked in 1984 down to 11 LTA/MH in 1990. This paper will review the key elements of this program and its results in the area of contractor safety performance.