bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A New Monitoring Tool for Assessing Environmental Impact of Offshore Drilling Activities: Benthic Foraminifera
Authors: Duchemin G. , Mojtahid M. , Bicchi E. , Gaultier M. , Jorissen F. J. , Durrieu J. , Galgani F. , Cazes L. , Camps R.
Published: April 2008

Since 2003 we have tested the use of benthic foraminiferal faunas as bio-indicators of highly biodegradable oil-based drill fluids and cuttings. In this paper we present data for 4 sites off western Africa (Angola, Congo and Gabon), with water depths varying from 30 to 670 m. A very similar faunal response to environmental perturbation is found in these different environmental settings. In the close vicinity of the oil drill mud and fluids disposal, the combination of lowered bottom water oxygenation, the presence of toxic compounds and a general ecosystem enrichment leads to strongly impoverished faunas. More sensitive taxa become very rare in these areas. Moderately impacted sites are characterized by high to very faunal densities, and a strong dominance of opportunistic taxa, that are favored by the increased amount of organic matter in the benthic environment, resulting from the introduction of hydrocarbons. Beyond 500 m of the disposal sites, the faunas progressively become similar to the natural faunas; the relative frequency of opportunistic and stress-tolerant taxa drops to background values.

Two foraminiferal indices are proposed that allow a quantitative evaluation of the impact of the oil drilling activities. A first foraminiferal index, that is based on the cumulative percentage of opportunistic and stress-tolerant taxa, is very effective in continental shelf settings. Severely polluted sites contain more than 70% index species, moderately impacted area between 50 and 70%. In slightly to non impacted sites, the percentage of index species drops from 50 to 20%. A shallow, 30 m deep, area in front of the Ogooué estuary reveals a high percentage of marker species at all investigated stations. This elevated percentage is caused by the presence of naturally eutrophicated conditions due to the supply of important amounts of nutrients and continental organic matter by river outflow. In this a particular setting, oil exploration activities appear to have only a minor environmental impact. At the 670 m deep upper slope site, the impacted stations are characterized by the progressive disappearance of the taxa that are most sensitive to ecosystem perturbation. The cumulative percentage of these taxa strongly decreases at the most impacted areas, which provides a very useful additional quantitative monitoring tool. The present data show that foraminiferal faunas are extremely powerful in monitoring the environmental impact of oil exploration activities. In the near future, the proposed foraminiferal indices will be tested in other areas, and the selected marker species will be formalized for different types of environmental settings, with different water depths and climatic conditions.
Sustainable Water Management in the Oil and Gas Industry: Use of the WBCSD Global Water Tool to Map Risks
Authors: Dell J. J. , Meakin S. , Cramwinckel J.
Published: April 2008

This paper describes an innovative new World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD) offering, the Global Water Tool, and its use by and value to international oil and gas companies in identifying, prioritizing, and managing their portfolio global risks related to water acquisition, use, and disposal. The Global Water Tool is a free and easy-to-use tool for companies to map their industrial and non-industrial sites to view a picture of their water uses and risks relative to water availability in their global operations and supply chains. It was created through collaboration between numerous non-governmental organizations and business water experts including several global oil and gas companies.

Organizations operating or wishing to operate in multiple jurisdictions will find this tool invaluable for informing strategic decision making at the corporate and business unit level. Additionally, while water challenges and opportunities occur at the local level, there are advantages for companies in employing a comprehensive, strategic approach to evaluating and addressing water risks across their asset portfolio.

Tool metrics and mapping results and implications for global oil and gas companies are described in the paper.
A Successful Stakeholder Partnership—The Dolphin Energy Experience Coral Reef Habitats of the Arabian Gulf
Authors: Alkendi Marwan Y. , Chandler Marcus
Published: April 2008

Coral reef habitats of the southern Arabian Gulf are some of the most extensive and biologically important marine ecosystems in the region. These habitats are also of outstanding international scientific significance in the predictive study of world wide coral ecosystem responses to the effects of global warming. In recognition of their importance, Dolphin Energy has sponsored and taken an active role in a three year project to assist in the scientific understanding of this endangered habitat, throughout the 86,400 km2 study area that lies within joint Qatari/UAE maritime waters. One of the principal outcomes is the development of a robust, culturally appropriate, scientifically based, regional coral conservation and management strategy.

At the core of the project is a unique regional partnership for environmental conservation and management in the Arabian Gulf, involving coordination between two government organizations in two different countries, an energy sector sponsor, local and international NGOs and a renowned international scientific institute.

This paper describes the background, structure, achievements and strategies adopted to successfully optimize the political, technical and scientific benefits of the project for all stakeholders. Key project achievements include: ○Comprehensive mapping and marine resource databases for the joint Qatari/Abu Dhabi waters.○Developing marine habitat assessment methodologies, specific to the region, which are internationally compatible.○Providing regulators and coastal communities with scientifically based assessments of changes which may impact their livelihood, culture or customs to facilitate effective community/ stakeholder consultation and resource management.○Developing a regional coral reef conservation and sustainable development strategy involving input from local communities, environmental regulators, industry stakeholders, scientific communities, regional and international NGOs.○Assisting institutional development and capacity building within the environmental agencies responsible for plan implementation beyond the project.○Providing a template for successful cross sector collaboration and the integration and engagement of various stakeholders.
Sustaining an Excellent Workforce
Authors: Thompson Euan J.
Published: April 2008

The increasing of age of oil industry workers is concerning. This has been offset by recent influxes of younger workers, but there are still a significant number of older, more experienced workers within the industry.

This poses problems at different levels: Increasing likelihood of non-accidental, acute medical problems whilst offshore or overseas. In particular the average body mass index (BMI) of workers measured in our medicals is increasing year on year: this increases the risk of high blood pressure and diabetes, which can lead to heart attacks and strokes.Slower recovery back to full health from illnesses or accidents.Higher subsequent likelihood of retirement, voluntarily or through ill-health

The current workforce has developed and shaped the oil industry to the level that it is at today, and has the experience and expertise to carry it further forward. However, when they leave, no matter how efficient knowledge management measures might be, losses in expertise are inevitable.

Furthermore, there is clear evidence that work is good for people. As people retire, their health can deteriorate due to not being at work, due to a variety of factors. Moving to more flexible forms of employment, such as part-time or flexible working, can improve company productivity and indeed maintain health for individuals who might otherwise retire (taking their expertise with them).

This paper raises the awareness of health issues in the ageing workers in the oil industry, the subsequent loss of expertise that this can produce, and suggests measures to improve the health of existing employees and ways to retain the expertise of the people who might otherwise leave the industry- reference looking after workers health. It also details the findings of several years’ worth of medicals (totalling 50000 medicals) on the oil industry population focussing on ill-health in that population.
Environmental Requirements for New Projects: Systematic Processes and Performance Requirements Driving Better Environmental Outcomes
Authors: Rogers E. , Spence S.
Published: April 2008

For years, one of the biggest environmental challenges has been integrating the Environmental Impact Assessment process and findings into projects to deliver impact mitigations and better environmental performance. In response to this challenge, and stakeholder concerns regarding sensitive environments, BP introduced its Environmental Requirements for New Projects (ERNP) in November 2006. These require all new projects to follow a full life cycle process to identify, consult, mitigate and report environmental impacts. They also mandate Environmental Performance Requirements (EPR's) to achieve a consistent delivery of performance across BP. Unique in this process, is the governance for internal decision makers to be informed about significant environmental issues and risks prior to making key decisions.

The structured process of ERNP has helped engagement of project teams, who in turn are clear of what needs to be delivered and when. For example, the EPR's give very clear direction on what the minimum design and operations expectations are, and in turn the contractors undertaking the initial design layouts can progress design work more effectively. ERNP has also prompted projects to identify potential environmental impacts at a very early stage, thus shaping the choice or innovation of appropriate mitigative technology.

Such examples explained in this paper, from the first 12 months of implementation, cover a variety of activities including extraction of heavy oil from existing oil fields in Alaska, a pipeline replacement project in the UK and the expansion of Solar Panel manufacturing facilities in Spain and India.
HSE Holistic Approach to Azeri Chirag Gunashli PW Disposal in Azerbaijan
Authors: Wilson Roberta
Published: April 2008

The BP operated Azeri Chirag Gunashli (ACG) reservoir is the largest oil field under development in the Caspian basin. Production began in 1997 and it has estimated recoverable reserves of 5.4 bn bbl. The ACG Full Field Development (FFD) offshore facilities are designed to separate and reinject 95% of the Produced Water (PW) offshore and the remaining 5% comes onshore commingled with the oil. Onshore oil in water separation is processed at the BP operated Sangachal terminal, Azerbaijan, to meet the specification for export in the Baku -Tiblisi - Cheyhan (BTC) pipeline.

Produced Water (PW) profiling identifies that PW production will reach peak volumes in 2009 and a PW solution capable of handling these would be required to be operational. The BP Major Projects Common Process (MPCP) was the assessment tool used to assess potential project options. Twelve options were identified from studies to consider PW disposal. On further assessment five options were considered for further engineering development and assessment.

The project criteria used to conduct the assessments were; technical, safety, environmental, socio-economic, reputation and cost. Therefore ensuring Health, Safety and Environmental (HSE) considerations where included as a holistic part of project concept identification. Project options included two onshore sites for PW injection, a biological treatment plant and discharge to the Caspian Sea and offshore reinjection via a pipeline after onshore treatment.

The project ranked in first position after the criteria assessment will be delivered for PW management. This option includes onshore treatment and a 189 km PW pipeline offshore to tie into a BP operated water reinjection platform. The project selection process undertaken demonstrates a holistic HSE approach as part of the overall criteria assessment ensuring that the final option selected is consistent with the ACG HSE standards.
Using Saturation Campaigns to Effectively Communicate with Employees
Authors: Grant F. L. , Hay R. K.
Published: April 2008

Most organizations in the oil and gas industry will run at least one HS&E campaign during the year to communicate important HS&E information to employees. This paper uses a Driving/Vehicle Safety Campaign case study to demonstrate a new way to structure those campaigns to achieve maximum results.

The campaign methodology is based on the chemical basis of saturation where a solution becomes saturated when the substance being added no longer dissolves. In a similar manner, for a concentrated period, employees are "saturated" with the HS&E message using a variety of different media types.

This communication methodology means that employees will be more likely to retain the message and effect behavioral change.

The Hierarchy of Control Model is used to help identify controls and communication methods to include in the saturation campaign.

Eliminate/Substitute: Whilst driving cannot be totally eliminated, the risk exposure may be decreased by reducing the number of miles driven. Implementing a good Journey Management System will promote route planning that reduces trips and miles driven and, consequently, help to reduce fatigue. Engineering Controls: Minimum vehicle standards can be established in line with recognized standards. Company provided vehicles can receive annual maintenance checks. Some local garages offer free inspection of employee personal vehicles Communication: Seatbelt and cell phone signs may be posted in all vehicles. A poster campaign is used to reinforce key messages on fatigue; speed; distractions; visual awareness; and seasonal driving. An employee exhibition allows an informal time for hands on learning. There are a myriad of other communication types that may be used including radio advertising. Administrative Controls. Policies are developed to provide instruction. PPE. In-vehicle kits are provided that may include: ice-scraper; space blanket; water; spade; energy bars; first aid kit; sun shade
IMO-IPIECA's Global Initiative Managing and Implementing a Regional Oil Spill Preparedness and Response Programme for Central & West Africa (GI WACAF)
Authors: Martens Dirk , de Susanne Philippe
Published: April 2008

The GI WACAF programme is jointly led and funded by the IMO and a number of IPIECA members. Its purpose is to improve oil spill preparedness and response capability across 21 coastal States of West and Central Africa. Launched in 2006, this programme takes earlier IMO/IPIECA work forward in a newly focused, structured and sustained manner to progress tangible change.

The programme faces many challenges with rapidly increasing oil activities in the region and a generally low level of current preparedness; set against improvements necessary to suit individual country circumstances and the need to be consistent and coordinated across the entire region.

Reference is made in this Paper to the OPRC Convention 1990, IMO's strategy for oil spill preparedness and response. Drawing these together, the six Key Elements of Preparedness, which underpin the GI-WACAF programme, are summarised.

The GI-WACAF programme has a Project Coordinator, working under the guidance of the IMO and IPIECA's funding members. An action plan was developed after consultation with government and oil industry representatives from the countries in the region, taking the six Elements of Preparedness and translating them into a workable plan for action and improvement.

This Paper describes the programme management system and the key features critical to make tangible progress. These include Clarity of Purpose; Commitment from Key Stakeholders; a gap analysis on the Elements of Preparedness and measurable objectives; a Network of "Implementers" and "Influencers" at different levels of government and industry, follow-up and monitoring of results and achievement; and a Biennial Review to ensure process improvement and action planning. Through this refocused and business-like approach, tangible success is being achieved, as will be illustrated in the Paper.

Every country and region has unique circumstances but the underlying principles of oil spill preparedness and response are common. This Paper has relevance for any organisation involved in change/improvement processes, both in setting programme objectives and in the essential programme management and implementation.
Keeping the License to Operate Through Sustainable Community Environmental Education and Relationship Building Within the Oil and Gas Industry
Authors: Ragoonanan-Jalim Karen , Kalpee Tyrone
Published: April 2008

The twin-island states of Trinidad and Tobago are the two most southerly of the Caribbean chain of islands and is situated approximately 12 miles north of the Venezuelan Coast. The country's economy is very heavily reliant on the energy industry. Trinidad and Tobago is the fifth-largest exporter of LNG in the world and the single largest supplier of LNG to the U.S., supplying 70% of all LNG imported into the U.S. The energy sector experienced strong growth in 2006, estimated at 20.6%, and accounted for 41.5% of GDP at that year's end. It is estimated to be at 44.5% of GDP at the end of 2007 according to the US Department of States. Within recent times, these islands have experienced a rapid pace of development with mini-cities rising almost overnight, particularly in Trinidad and development taking place at a phenomenal rate, especially in what are deemed to be rural communities. It is no surprise therefore, that the second largest contributor to the GDP for Trinidad and Tobago at the end of 2006 was the Construction and Quarrying Industry at 14.5% of GDP.

The decision to pursue any development in Trinidad and Tobago is based on several factors, depending on where the decision is being made. For example, if the development is one done by the government of Trinidad and Tobago, it will depend on the long term plans for the country but can be affected by external factors such as inflation and market demands, causing these plans to change on short notice. If the decision to develop lies within a private enterprise, it will also depend on the organization's long term strategy but almost always be based on the Net Present Value (NPV) to be gained from such a decision.

In both cases however, the history shows that these projects are decided long before any public consultation is engaged. In many of these cases, too, it is found that some aspects of the project plans may change even after the project itself is decided, e.g. design, location, size, throughput, etc and this makes it difficult to engage the various stakeholders if all the information is not readily available.
The Shell Frequent Business Traveler Program: A Risk-Based Approach
Authors: Wendt Judy K. , Donnelly Robin Patrick , Berg Hans , Hinitt Steve
Published: April 2008

Business travel is an essential and growing element of the oil and gas industry as a whole. It is associated with many hazards of a various nature and management of these hazards is often characterized by a lack of standardization. Hence, this paper describes our effort to address this issue in a global and standardized way. This process required the development of a precise definition for a frequent business traveller, development of training material, a risk based screening method and a web application tool. Furthermore, logistical and data privacy issues needed to be addressed. Ultimately, we believe we have managed to successfully meet the objectives of the program according to the 4-S scheme (Standardize, Simplify, Share, and Speed-up) for achieving business success. Technical upgrades and exploration of the database information should further enhance the value of this program in the future.

Introduction

Despite advances in communication technologies and increased pressure to control travel budgets, international business travel continues to grow significantly. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) recently released passenger and freight traffic forecasts projecting that in 2011 the air transport industry will handle 2.75 billion passengers (620 million more passengers than in 2006) which corresponds to an annual average growth rate of 5.1%. The strongest international passenger demand growth is forecast for the Middle East, Asia and Africa.1 Oil and gas exploration spans the globe and often mandates travel to remote areas, making the growth in business travel an issue of particular importance to this industry.

Frequent business travel can be associated with multiple health, safety and security hazards. The health hazards may be of a biological, psychological, physical, chemical and/or ergonomic nature.2–4 Following several serious health incidents in our business traveller population in recent years, it was decided to comprehensively address the health and safety hazards faced by business travellers. The benefits of developing a standard approach for business travel is even more compelling in view of the variety of potential hazards, in comparison to other job tasks associated with one or only a few hazards. Hence, the goal was to develop a standardized tool, which also met all criteria of the so-called 4-S scheme (Standardize, Simplify, Share, and Speed-up) for achieving business success.

In this paper, we will describe the design and implementation of the Frequent Business Traveller (FBT) application, rolled out globally within Shell companies in 2006 and 2007. We will include discussion of the process rollout, data privacy and security measures, and travel focal point training, as well as the resulting challenges encountered.
Security and Human Rights Training: One Company's Central African Experience
Authors: Chaouch Adel , Curlee Charles , McCabe Bernard , Turner Ima
Published: April 2008

Oil companies with global operations typically embrace a range of codes endorsing the inherent value of human rights. These include the UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights, UN Global Compact and the Voluntary Principles on Security and Human Rights. Global oil companies also frequently work in frontier areas that may have past histories of alleged human rights abuses. Successful management at the local operations level can be critical to meeting the potential human rights challenges posed in many increasingly important petroleum producing areas of the world. This paper relates the steps taken to educate key company and contract employees regarding the fundamental value of human rights, as well as their responsibilities to ensure compliance with company codes, accepted principles and laws that pertain to human rights and security provisions for operations in Central Africa.

The paper will outline the broad scope of the detailed training program developed in association with implementing participation in the Voluntary Principles on Security and Human Rights: ▪Commitment to company codes and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR);▪Commitment to the Voluntary Principles on Security and Human Rights (Voluntary Principles);▪Overview of the Voluntary Principles, including participants, components, best practices and value of open dialog;▪Framework for Voluntary Principles implementation, emphasizing risk assessment; and▪Group work on a case study/scenario.

Results from the training sessions conducted in 2006 and 2007 will be summarized. The benefits of interactions with government representatives and government security officials will also be highlighted. In addition, specific examples based on actual occurrences will illustrate how training on human rights principles and maintaining local awareness can help achieve improved human rights in frontier areas.
Prevention and Management of Food and Waterborne Diseases
Authors: Lund Shammus Eva Elizabeth , Balge Marci Z. , Krieger Gary R.
Published: April 2008

The presentation aims to introduce the audience to the upcoming OGP/IPIECA guideline on Prevention and Management of Food and Waterborne Diseases. Food and Waterborne diseases are a major contributor to the global disease burden and as such, have a large potential health and economic impact on oil and gas projects and operations, from frontier E&P locations to retail operations and C-stores. In view of the health risks to project personnel and the public, a need for an industry specific document providing updated guidance on the prevention and mitigation was identified.

Ethics, economics and social responsibility drive the need for the awareness of public health issues and communicable diseases that impact the oil and gas industry, particularly in frontier locations where the health infrastructure is likely to be extremely weak and in developing countries where the food preparation and supply chain may be informal. Food and water safety is of paramount importance to the effective functioning of the integrated oil industry businesses. The guidance document presents information that should reduce risk and exposure, save time and money, and provide a consistent, updated insight into these major health issues that can significantly impact upstream and downstream oil and gas projects and operations.

This guide is aimed at corporate and project level HSE managers, operations managers, company physicians, clinic medical staff, occupational health and hygiene supervisors, and company, contractor and franchisee retail site managers and staff. The guidelinedocument describes the main diseases related to food and water, their modes of transmission, clinical presentation, strategies for illness prevention, and short and long-term treatment of those affected. Where good practice guidelines and programs are already established by industry, these programs will be referenced.

The guideline will be an evidence based reference that scientifically and systematically describes: ➣Preventive measures➣The process for developing potential mitigation strategies

The Guideline will aim to include generic programme templates, checklists, audit protocols, lay person guidance documents, web based resources, and evidence-based technical and scientific articles..
Creating a Sustainable Step Change in Safety From an Innovative Self Evaluation Programme
Authors: Allan D. , Lang Kenneth A.
Published: April 2008

As part of the process of meeting and sustaining accident free operations it has been widely suggested that culture change is a key. As the maturity of the organization increases, it builds on the existing safe plant and equipment as well as the safe systems that hitherto have been the mainstay of safety improvements creating a change in our safety behaviour and ultimately performance.

The dilemma is how to make this culture change occur and sustain it. This paper addresses this challenge of moving from a theoretical system to a practiced set of behaviours exhibited by the leaders.

Whilst there are many different models that the individual and the organization can assess their performance against there are few models of how to create the desire to change. All such assessments will only drive change when they lead to recognition of the need for change within the group. Self evaluation must be seen as valid for self improvement to occur. Such change cannot be a short term programme but must be undertaken as a continuing long term process.

The methodology employed used an innovative combination of live theatre and reflection. Through this the leadership team was introduced to their own behaviours and the opportunities for improvement of the behavioural change model. Participants were invited to self evaluate their behaviour and actions before being given independent assessment based on a specific model that was believed to show cultural Safety maturity.

This assessment led to reflection on the participant's part and engendered the recognition of need for change. This change was then sustained using simple psychological process tools. More traditional approaches of engagement had been previously rejected as they were not believed to be effective enough in communicating and involving the appropriate staff.

A number of important lessons can be learnt from this process regarding the success of the engagement process and the participant's own preconceptions of their performance versus the independent assessment. These will be of value and are shared for those wanting to stimulate change in their organisation.
The journey towards world class safety performance - bpTT
Authors: Kalpee Tyrone
Published: April 2008

BP Trinidad and Tobago (bpTT) operations include 2 drilling rigs, platforms in construction, seismic programmes, 11 offshore platforms, an onshore gas processing facility and a loading terminal and marine base. In 2003 the Day Away from Work Case Frequency (DAFWCF) was 0.12 and the Recordable Incident Frequency (RIF) was 0.78. This relatively poor safety performance was reflected in the BP E&P Safety Matrix where bpTT was the lowest ranked Business Unit of 24 E&P Businesses. This led to a deep introspection and re-emphasis on a proactive safety culture. The following three years, bpTT changed focus and embarked on a rigorous plan to deliver proactive safety performance.

The following three years, bpTT changed focus and embarked on a rigorous plan to deliver proactive safety performance. This plan focused on:

▪Building safety leadership for risk reduction - Formal monthly safety leadership discussions with CEO and operational leaders; leadership site visits; leadership delivery of Quarterly Safety Reviews with workforce

▪Investing in Safety Leading Indicators trends - Eight areas of proactive safety interventions identified and tracked weekly for each team; team performance targets set; weekly leadership reviews

▪BP Group Standards - Implementation of the Control of Work, Integrity Management and Driving Safety standards

▪Building and Improving HSSE Competency - Building HSSE professional competency; gap analysis performed and training plans developed and actioned; supervisors accountable for delivery of development plans

▪Proactive Safety Communication - Employees stand-down for Quarterly Safety Reviews to discuss trends observed in leading indicators

▪Understanding and Taking action on the organization's Safety Culture

▪Improving the reporting, investigation and lessons learned processes for all incidents

▪Improving the bottom's up feed of risks from operations

The results showed bpTT moving to the top quartile of HSSE performance in the top three of the BP E&P Safety Matrix with a RIF ranging from 0.32 to 0.4 and a DAFWCF of 0.00. This radical approach to improving safety performance is changing the way we operate and continuously showing BPTT continuous commitment to making the workplace a safer place to work.
Our Safety Culture: Our Behaviour is the Key
Authors: Hayes A. , Novatsis E. , Lardner R.
Published: April 2008

The occupational safety literature increasingly focuses on the organizational nature of health and safety performance and the concept of safety culture is widely discussed under this banner. It is now commonly accepted that a strong safety culture is fundamental to an organisation's ability to achieve excellent safety performance. Moreover, research concurs that strong safety leadership, effective supervision and workforce involvement play a critical part in fostering safety culture (e.g. HSE, 1999; HSE 2001; Flin, Mearns, O'Connor & Bryden, 2000; Zohar, 2002).

Various approaches have been employed to improve safety culture. A typical approach is to conduct a safety culture diagnosis at the site or organisation level and develop and implement improvement plans based on the results. In such approaches, the improvement plan usually targets a need for change in behaviours and practices at different levels of the organisation. Another common method for enhancing safety culture is interventions that target one occupational level—for example, implementing an observation and feedback program at the workforce level, or a development program at the leadership level.

Although these approaches are appropriate in some circumstances, they do not describe the behaviours required at different occupational levels to foster a strong safety culture, nor specify how these behaviours relate to each other and are mutually supportive across different levels of the organisation. Furthermore, such methods do not readily lend themselves to integration into the organisation's safety management and human resource systems. This need is particularly important in light of recent safety research demonstrating that organizational characteristics influence safety climate (Novatsis, 2004; Wallace, Popp & Mondore, 2006), a concept commonly recognised as providing an indicator of the underlying safety culture of a site or organization. In addition, effective human resource systems have been shown to relate positively to safety climate and safety outcomes (Zacharatos, Barling, & Iverson, 2005), suggesting that safety culture improvement initiatives should be linked to broader organisational systems designed to enhance the performance of people. Such an approach provides reinforcement to foster sustainable change.
OGP Exploration and Production Waste Management Guidelines
Authors: Garland E. , Kerr J. M. , Mundy K. J. , Mason M. J. , Young S. , Pegors S. R. , Sedlock E. , Barrett J. , Campbell J. , Eygun C.
Published: April 2008

As part of its mission to promote best practice sharing amongst its members and in the wider upstream industry, the International Association of Oil & Gas Producers (OGP) has set up a task force which developed a waste management guidance publication with a particular focus on areas where supporting infrastructure or regulatory frameworks are poorly developed or lacking.

The paper presents the publication which is based on the experience of OGP members. It emphasizes and provides guidance on some of the most fundamental principles and practices of effective waste management, as well as information on waste streams and technologies typically applicable in exploration and production (E&P) operations. Recommendations include:

Taking a life cycle approach to waste management in oil and gas projects, and incorporating a systematic waste management planning framework. Applying a hierarchy of pollution-prevention elements to most effectively minimize waste production. Principles of the waste management hierarchy are provided, and practical examples of reduction at source, re-use, recycling/recovery, and residue treatment are discussed. Also included is a basic list of materials to avoid procuring or using in order to limit management of wastes with potentially higher risk factors. Applying a risk-based approach to waste management. When entering a new area, evaluating existing waste management capacity early, and using a risk-based approach. Collecting, segregating, storing, and transferring waste in a way that reduces risk of escape to the environment. When evaluating new waste management facilities, taking into account critical site environmental characteristics, regulatory environment, logistical challenges, and community outreach. Considering waste metrics and performance reporting as valuable tools to manage environmental performance and to help others understand our industry.

In addition, the report contains appendices that provide examples and detailed information on some of these issues.
Accuracy of Bulk Electrical Conductivity Measurements with Time Domain Reflectometry
Authors: Huisman J. A. , Lin C. P. , Weihermüller L. , Vereecken H.
Published: April 2008

Accurate determination of bulk electrical conductivity with time domain reflectometry (TDR) requires calibration or direct measurement of the probe constant and the cable resistance. The aims of this study were threefold. First, the accuracy of an analytical expression for the direct determination of the probe constant was evaluated for three TDR probe designs by comparing the analytical result with the probe constant obtained by calibration to TDR measurements in solutions with varying electrical conductivity. Second, the accuracy of direct measurement of cable resistance was compared with the accuracy that can be achieved by calibrating this resistance. The uncertainty in directly measured and calibrated probe and cable properties was determined in a Monte Carlo analysis. The results showed that the analytical expression for the probe constant and calibration of the probe constant do not provide significantly different estimates when the uncertainty in both approaches is considered; however, the uncertainty in the calibrated probe constants was lower than or similar to the uncertainty in the direct measurements. Directly measured and calibrated cable resistance differed, which was attributed to recording time issues. It was concluded that calibration of probe and cable parameters should be preferred over direct measurements to achieve accurate bulk electrical conductivity measurements. The final aim of this study was to quantify how the various sources of uncertainty identified in this study affect the accuracy of TDR bulk conductivity measurements. This uncertainty analysis showed that the accuracy of TDR ranges between 0.6 and 1.2% of the bulk electrical conductivity if the reflection coefficient varies between −0.75 and 0.75. Outside this range, the accuracy of the bulk electrical conductivity measurements made with TDR is lower.
Hopewell on the Sandusky: Analysis and Description of an Inundated Ohio Hopewell Mortuary-Ceremonial Site in North-Central Ohio
Authors: Redmond Brian G.
Published: April 2008

Northern Ohio has traditionally been placed at the “periphery” of Ohio Hopewell interaction. The recent discovery of an inundated mortuary-ceremonial site in Sandusky Bay with characteristic Hopewell artifacts, burial treatments, and deposits has stimulated a reexamination of the relationship between northern Ohio Middle Woodland societies and the Ohio Hopewell core. From this locality, known as the Pumpkin site, amateur archaeologists salvaged burials; Flint Ridge chert bifaces, Lowe cluster points and bladelets; a copper celt and beads; and other distinctive Hopewell funerary and ceremonial objects. Pumpkin site burial treatments and artifact forms also show considerable similarities to the Esch Mounds component located just to the east. A single AMS radiocarbon determination of 1840 ± 40 BP (Beta-221575) on human bone collagen places the Pumpkin component securely within the Middle Woodland period. Information from this unique site indicates that local Middle Woodland ties to the Ohio Hopewell heartland were more significant than previously perceived.
Seroprevalences of feline leukemia virus and feline immunodeficiency virus in cats with abscesses or bite wounds and rate of veterinarian compliance with current guidelines for retrovirus testing
Authors: Goldkamp Carrie E. , Levy Julie K. , Edinboro Charlotte H. , Lachtara Jessica L.
Published: April 2008

Objective—To determine the seroprevalences of and seroconversion rates for FeLV and FIV infection in cats treated for bite wounds and cutaneous abscesses and to evaluate compliance with recommendations to determine the retrovirus infection status of cats at acquisition and 60 days after a high-risk event.

Design—Prospective study.

Animals—967 cats from 134 veterinary practices in 30 states.

Procedures—Cats with bite wounds or abscesses were evaluated by use of a point-of-care immunoassay for blood-borne FeLV antigen and FIV antibody. Veterinarians were asked to retest cats approximately 60 days later to determine whether seronegative cats had seroconverted after injury.

Results—The combined FeLV-FIV status of only 96 (9.9%) cats was known prior to wound treatment. At the time of treatment, 187 (19.3%) cats were seropositive for 1 or both viruses. Age (adult), sex (male), history of cutaneous wounds, and outdoor access were significantly associated with seropositivity. At 73 of 134 (54.5%) veterinary practices, retesting of cats for retrovirus infection status was recommended to owners of 478 cats. Only 64 (13.4%) cats were retested; of these, 3 of 58 (5.2%) cats that were initially seronegative for FIV antibody seroconverted.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—A high proportion of cats with abscesses or bite wounds were seropositive for FeLV antigen or FIV antibody. Compliance with recommendations to test cats for retrovirus infection status at acquisition or after treatment for injury was low. The FeLV-FIV infection status of cats with potential fight wounds should be determined at time of treatment and again 60 days later.
Acquired pulmonary artery stenosis in four dogs
Authors: Scansen Brian A. , Schober Karsten E. , Bonagura John D. , Smeak Daniel D.
Published: April 2008

Case Description—4 dogs with acquired pulmonary artery stenosis (PAS) were examined for various clinical signs. One was a mixed-breed dog with congenital valvular PAS that subsequently developed peripheral PAS, one was a Golden Retriever with pulmonary valve fibrosarcoma, one was a Pembroke Welsh Corgi in which the left pulmonary artery had inadvertently been ligated during surgery for correction of patent ductus arteriosus, and one was a Boston Terrier with a heart-base mass compressing the pulmonary arteries.

Clinical Findings—All 4 dogs were evaluated with 2-dimensional and Doppler echocardiography to characterize the nature and severity of the stenoses; other diagnostic tests were also performed.

Treatment and Outcome—The mixed-breed dog with valvular and peripheral PAS was euthanized, surgical resection of the pulmonic valve mass was performed in the Golden Retriever, corrective surgery was performed on the Pembroke Welsh Corgi with left pulmonary artery ligation, and the Boston Terrier with the heart-base mass was managed medically.

Clinical Relevance—Acquired PAS in dogs may manifest as a clinically silent heart murmur, syncope, or right-sided heart failure. The diagnosis is made on the basis of imaging findings, particularly results of 2-dimensional and Doppler echocardiography. Treatment may include surgical, interventional, or medical modalities and is targeted at resolving the inciting cause.
Analysis of prognostic factors associated with injection-site sarcomas in cats: 57 cases (2001–2007)
Authors: Romanelli Giorgio , Marconato Laura , Olivero Daniela , Massari Federico , Zini Eric
Published: April 2008

Objective—To identify prognostic factors in cats with injection-site sarcomas (ISSs).

Design—Retrospective case series.

Animals—57 cats with ISSs.

Procedures—Medical records of cats were reviewed with regard to sex, age, anatomic site of tumor, tumor size, histologic grade, excision of a primary tumor versus excision of a recurrent ISS, use of excision alone versus excision plus adjuvant therapy, local tumor recurrence, and development of distant metastasis to predict overall survival time (ie, time from tumor excision to death).

Results—In univariate analyses, local recurrence and development of distant metastasis were significantly associated with survival time in cats. On multivariate analysis, development of distant metastasis remained a significant prognostic factor. Histologic grade was associated with distant metastasis, with cats having grade 3 tumors being significantly more likely to develop metastasis than cats with grade 1 and 2 tumors. Factors associated with local recurrence of ISSs were not identified.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The development of distant metastasis, which may occur later during the course of the disease, was identified as a prognostic factor for overall survival time in cats with ISSs. In addition, cats with histologic grade 3 ISSs should be considered for further interventional studies with chemotherapy to prevent the high rate of distant metastasis.
Calculation of crystallographic texture due to displacive transformations
Authors: Bhadeshia H. K. D. H. , Abreu H. , Kundu S.
Published: April 2008

Displacive transformations involve the disciplined motion of atoms. As a result, there are clearly defined relationships between all aspects of the parent and product lattices. The theory for this is well established but has not been exploited in the calculation of transformation textures. This paper is a critical assessment of the methods for the estimation of crystallographic textures during the displacive transformation of austenite into martensite, bainite or Widmanstätten ferrite in steels. The discussion is limited to the case where austenite is not in a plastically deformed state prior to its transformation.
Direct observation of phase transformations in the simulated heat-affected zone of a 9Cr martensitic steel
Authors: Mayr Peter , Palmer Todd A. , Elmer John W. , Specht Eliot D.
Published: April 2008

An experimental test melt of a boron alloyed 9Cr-3W-3Co-V,Nb steel for high temperature applications in the thermal power generation industry was produced by vacuum induction melting. This grade of steel typically displays a homogeneous tempered martensitic microstructure in the as-received, i. e. normalised and tempered, condition. However, after welding, this microstructure is significantly altered, resulting in a loss of its desired properties. The phase transformations during simulated thermal cycles typical of those experienced in the weld heat-affected zone were directly observed by in-situ X-ray diffraction experiments using synchrotron radiation. Heating rates of 10 K s−1 and 100 K s−1 up to a peak temperature of 1300°C are investigated here. The final microstructures observed after both simulated weld thermal cycles are primarily composed of martensite with approximately 4% retained delta ferrite and 4% retained austenite, by volume. With the temporal resolution of the in-situ X-ray diffraction technique, phase transformations from tempered martensite to austenite to delta ferrite during heating and to martensite during cooling were monitored. With this technique, the evolution of the final microstructure through both heating and cooling is monitored, providing additional context to the microstructural observations.
Computational analysis of the precipitation kinetics in a complex tool steel
Authors: Sonderegger Bernhard , Kozeschnik Ernst , Leitner Harald , Clemens Helmut , Svoboda Jiri , Fischer Franz Dieter
Published: April 2008

A novel steel grade has been developed recently exhibiting superior thermal stability. This is attributed to the combined precipitation of secondary hardening carbides and intermetallic phases. However, the precipitation behaviour of this steel is not completely understood yet. In this study, computer simulations of the precipitation kinetics during heat treatment of this steel are performed and compared to a complementary experimental characterisation of the precipitate microstructure, which was carried out previously. The simulations employ a novel model for nucleation, growth and coarsening of precipitates in multi-component, multi-phase systems. It is shown that the combination of experimental investigation and computer simulation provides a most comprehensive picture of the complex processes occurring in these materials during thermo-mechanical treatment, which cannot be obtained by the use of one single technique, experiment or simulation, only.