bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Potential Applications of the Microtox Toxicity Test Within the Offshore Oil and Gas Industry
Authors: Whale G. F.
Published: December 2007

The Microtox* toxicity test is based upon the inverse relationship between the light output of a marine luminescent bacterium Photobacterium phosphoreum and the concentration of a toxic chemical. Although this test may lack environmental relevance and hence has often been considered only suitable to be used as a screening test, it does have some advantages over many other aquatic toxicity tests. For example, it is relatively portable, sensitive, easy and quick to perform and the test organisms can be stored frozen until required for testing. These features have led to the increasing use of this test to support a variety of activities ranging from monitoring effluent discharges to assessing the toxicity of specific chemicals and contaminated sediments. Similar considerations also make the Microtox test appear a potentially attractive system to use on offshore installations where limitations in space, facilities and technical support may make it difficult to conduct other well established marine toxicity test procedures.

Therefore, various possible applications of the Microtox test relevant to the offshore oil and gas industry have been examined and discussed in this paper. These indicate that:-

The Microtox test has potential to monitor discharges from offshore installations at source. This can be useful as an initial assessment of effects of changes in operational procedures on the toxicity of waste streams and, in some operational areas, predict compliance with discharge consent criteria. For the latter application the Microtox results should be calibrated for individual systems to data for other marine species. The Microtox test provides a useful screening tool for gaining a better understanding of the potential toxic interactions of oilfield chemicals which may be used as mixtures in oil and gas activities. On the basis of laboratory studies the Microtox test has potential to be used to monitor the performance of packages designed to provide antimicrobial protection (i.e. pipeline corrosion protection packages). The speed, simplicity and relatively low cost of the Microtox test may make it suitable as a quality control test for certain chemicals prior to their use offshore.
Slimhole Drilling in the Lake Izabal Area: A Minimum Impact and Maximum Safety Approach
Authors: Teurlai J-L. , Da Silva V. C. , Pinot L. E. Garcia
Published: December 2007

This paper discusses the approach taken by Shell Exploradora and Productora de Guatemala B.V. (SEPG) to drill a 1600 m slimwell on the eastern shore of Lake Izabal, in a cost effective manner, with maximum regard to safety and environmental protection, and still make such a small project attractive to the drilling contractor.

SEPG holds a production sharing contract (PSC) covering the Lake Izabal watershed, with the Government of Guatemala since end 1990. 500 km of seismic lines have been shot late 1991/early 1992, both in the lake and on land, and the contract calls for a well to be drilled to 1600 m before the end of 1993.

Most of the contract area is environmentally very sensitive and the need for environmental protection is very publicised in Guatemala. A complex web of environmental organisations (Governmental and nonGovernmental), with different roles, motivations and ultimate goals, exist in the country. The law requires approval by the National Environmental Commission (conama) of an Environmental Impact Assessment (eia) prepared by independent consultants registered in CONAMA, before the start of any potentially impacting project.

Smooth approval of the well eia was secured by establishing good communication with all environmental agencies, Governmental and non-Governmental, and by ensuring their involvement in (or at least their awareness of) the preparation of the EIA.

To carry out the activities with minimum disturbance to the environment and maximum safety it is essential (1) to evaluate all the actions required and clearly define objectives, scope of work and HSE requirements, both in the tender documents and in the contract documents, and (2) to supervise and manage the activities with strong emphasis on the HSE side of the business.
Environmental Management System for Oil and Gas Upstream Operations, Design, and Application
Authors: Bashat H. M.
Published: December 2007

Quality environmental management requires effective mechanisms and systematic approaches known as environmental management systems. These systems and their importance for ensuring compliance with stated environmental policies and continuous improvement of environmental performance have recently received a world wide recognition.

Being an environmentally responsive operating company, involved in oil and gas upstream activities, Shell Egypt, decided in 1990, to establish its own environmental management system based on its commitment to integrate environmental consideration into its activities and to adopt sustainable development as a policy objective. By 1991 an environmental management system was designed to incorporate three essential elements of quality environmental management; proactivity, life cycle integration and ongoing improvement. The system was completed, documented, adopted and field tested in 1992. In 1993 it was reviewed for compatibility with other environmental activities throughout the full life cycle of oil and gas exploration and production. This paper describes the characteristic features of this system and demonstrates, in general, its compatibility with other environmental management systems and in particular, its specific adaptability to oil and gas exploration and production activities. Successful integration of the system and examples of its implementation are also included to demonstrate its effectiveness in meeting environmental challanges.
Environmental Planning as an Essential Tool for Environmental Improvement
Authors: Tan G. T. , Lee G. P. C.
Published: December 2007

This paper illustrates the main elements of the Environmental Care Plan which is an essential tool for improvement. Performance is measured against set goals and targets. These targets are being continually reviewed against technological development and application. Its implementation has helped successful address of environmental matters, increased staff and contractor environmental awareness besides improving environmental performance. This enables Sarawak Shell Berhad/Sabah Shell Petroleum Company to proactively respond to increasingly stringent global environmental demands.
Rehabilitation of Offshore Based Employees – A Cost Effective Approach
Authors: Gillett Robert J
Published: December 2007

This paper will outline the experience of a cost effective Rehabilitation Policy for Offshore based workers. The Policy focuses on Alternative Duties and Early Intervention as key components.

This approach has enabled Woodside to reduce the average cost of Offshore claims from $26 993 in 1986 to $6043 in 1992.

Days lost have been reduced from 61.1 days per lost time claim in 1986 to 26.2 days in 1992.
Occupational Health Management Training for Seismic and Drilling Personnel Working in Remote Areas
Authors: Kraatz S. L. , Clyde J. D.
Published: December 2007

As the petroleum industry explores in the more remote corners of the world, standards of performance in safety and occupational health management of seismic and exploratory drilling operations must be set in unregulated environments. One example of our efforts to partner with contractors is a specifically tailored occupational health training course. Attendees have been company employees and contractors, thus enabling interaction between various operational aspects.

In these operations we face not only unique stressors particular to each environment but also the presence of traditional stressors to a degree unparalleled in the typical industrial setting. For example, biohazards is a recurrent theme woven throughout the four-day version of this course. Hygiene, food and water provisions, and design of a functional camp are examples of discussions, led by company medical personnel, involving control of biohazards.

Life Safety is a practical discussion of logistics pertaining to accommodations, modes of transportation and security.

Traditional training areas such as chemical hazards and noise are also covered although some of the scenarios which present these various stresses can be very different from what is seen in large fixed facilities. For example, chemical handling is often required to be more hands on with a large number of relatively small containers because of space and transportation limitations.

Illness classification in remote areas deserves special consideration in this program. Employees who live in low-risk areas for certain diseases and who must travel to high-risk areas for company business have an increased risk of contracting infectious diseases from environmental exposures including malaria, hepatitis, filariasis and cholera.

On the last day participants divide into four groups (arctic, jungle, marine and desert) to identify the stresses in a camp setting and determine appropriate means to address them. This case study exercise generates many excellent, practical ideas. The hazards and scenarios discussed in the course offer a unique opportunity for participants to expand their knowledge and take the information gained back to the field.
Proposed Method for Testing Drinking Water on Rigs and Remote Seismic Camps
Authors: Barbey Alexander , Bobillier Arnaud , Hansen Hans
Published: December 2007

Diarrhea and gastro-enteritis are a frequent problem on board rigs and in remote seismic crews all over the world.

To date, there is no rapid and easy solution to this problem except to bring water samples back to sophisticated laboratories in large cities for analysis.

Schlumberger has supported development of an on-the-spot, easy-to-use, convenient and efficient method of testing water in order to ensure its bacteriological sterility. This technique can be performed rapidly and precisely by any rig or camp personnel after a short 15 minute video training session.
Development of an Industrial Hygiene Program in the Oilfield Servicing Industry
Authors: McCrary J. B. , Sanders J. R.
Published: December 2007

In recent years, employee health and safety has become an extremely important issue the petroleum industry has had to face. Rising costs of health insurance and medical expenses, and debilitating occupational diseases have brought about the need for aggressive measures of prevention. The science of Industrial Hygiene has been developed to help prevent occupational exposures to physical, chemical, and biological agents. This prevention is performed through the concepts of anticipation, recognition, evaluation, and control.

This paper will discuss many of the necessary elements of an effective industrial hygiene program and how Halliburton has implemented many of these programs.
Introduction of an Occupational Personal Hygiene Monitoring Programme in Indonesia
Authors: Cunningham G. A. , Tabaluyan Thomas
Published: December 2007

This paper describes the evolution of an Occupational Personal Hygiene Monitoring programme for Unocal Indonesia under the direction of the Unocal Corporate Industrial Hygiene Department. The results of the programme and the remedial actions taken, are described. The further development and approximate costings of such a programme are outlined. This review should be of interest and benefit to other organisations working in this field.
Chemical Hazard Information Made Available to Employees Through Mainframe Computer System
Authors: Sanders J. R. , Finley P. J.
Published: December 2007

In recent years the number of chemicals used in the petroleum industry has increased. Unfortunately, some of these chemicals are toxic. Therefore, it is important for industry to inform their employees about the hazards of the chemicals they use. The purpose of this information is to educate employees on how they can protect themselves from chemical hazards.

The main source of chemical hazard information is Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS). MSDSs provide employees information on chemical health effects, fire hazards, reactivity, protective measures, and disposal procedures.

In the petroleum industry employees often work in remote locations, making it difficult to make MSDSs available.

This paper describes an image computer system that can be used to store and retrieve vendor supplied MSDSs for remote locations.
Monitoring of Atmospheres Associated With Oil-Based Drilling Fluids
Authors: Hendriks R. V.
Published: December 2007

In the latest years there has been a growing concern about the environmental aspects of the oil & gas industry activities. This awareness has been expressed not only by the public and the authorities but also by the industry itself. Concern was also expressed on the working atmosphere for the workers in the oil & gas industry.

Drilling fluids are employed in exploratory drilling for oil and gas, and in the subsequent development of successful finds. In the early 1980's a requirement was identified to conduct monitoring of airborne hydrocarbons generated during the use of oil based drilling fluids in mud handling areas. Traditionally diesel oil was used as the base oil. However, with the increased use of oil based drilling fluids several companies focused attention on the development of environmentally acceptable "low toxicity" based oils. Low toxic base oils are refined products with reduced content of watersoluble aromatic hydrocarbons. The aromatics are considered to be the major contributor to acute toxicity.

Adverse health effects have occurred during the use of oil based drilling fluids; cases of eye and respiratory tract irritation and dizziness have been reported confirming the potential for exposure.

This paper describes the health hazards associated with this change in the fluid technology, a method for monitoring airborne contaminants in the working environment and results of a survey on several drilling rigs operating in the Dutch part of the North Sea, ie the Dutch Continental Shelf (DCS).
Disposal of Naturally Occurring Radioactive Materials in Oil Production
Authors: Diyashev R. N. , Takhautdinov S. F. , Antonov G. P. , Diyashev I. R. , Zaitsev V. I. , Sattarova F. M.
Published: December 2007

Chemical and hydrodynamic processes leading to accumulation of radioactive scales on technological equipment as well as their chemical, radiochemical and isotope composition are considered. Radioactive wastes that accumulate in a considerable volumes in the oil-field objects such as gathering and sedimentation tanks as well as sand collectors are also investigated. Principal ways of radioactive contaminated materials treatment are offered.

Radio-active scales on technological oil producing and desalting - dewatering equipment and radioactive wastes are represented with insoluble sulfates of Ra226, Ra228 isotopes and products of their decay. As the larger radioactive contaminated wastes volumes, the higher their disposal costs the technologies goal is to minimize waste volume. The technological processes includes two stages: separation of hydrocarbons and water for further use, from the mineral part,extraction of radioactive elements compounds from the mineral part.

This part of radioactive wastes should be disposed and its volume is not higher than 1.0 - 1.5 % of the initial waste volume. Specific activity of recovered hydrocarbons, water and remaining mineral part does not exceed safe level.
Medical Evacuations From Oil Fields in the North Sea, Norway
Authors: Arne M. C. E. , Andreassen Dag
Published: December 2007

Medical evacuations from the oilfields Statfjord, Gullfaks and Veslefrikk represent a considerable part of the workload of the Occupational Health Department. In our paper, we will describe the number of evacuations, the diagnoses in groups and the total expenses connected.

During the last two years, we have systematically analyzed the data on medical evacuations comparing them to other parametres (consultations, ergonomic surveys, working environment etc.)

The main cause for evacuations is diseases or injuries in the musculo-skeletal system, followed by other injuries and by diseases in the respiratory and gastro-intestinal tracts. Musculo-skeletal disorders are by far the most common cause, and are increasing in number. Conditions like climate, heavy doors, heavy lifts, badly adjusted man-machine relations are responsible for this, together with general stress-at-work (12 hrs. work, 12 hrs. off). We have also registered a marked rise in the number of cardiovascular diseases, although the number is small.

Increasing age in the population and low turnover are contributing factors.

The Department of Occupational Health is actively working with these problemes, trying to improve the working conditions, increase the knowledge of the workers on how diseases and injuries occur and how to avoid them.

We also try to enter new projects in an early stage in order to complement our experience through advices to the construction engineers.
Reversing the Trend? A Health Care Program
Authors: Simpson S. R.
Published: December 2007

Oil companies have shed jobs as a result of current competitive pressures. Core activities have been protected but many service functions have been eliminated or contracted to external providers. Provision of medical care is a classic example of a service function.

Chevron Nigeria Limited took a strategic decision against this trend by significantly expanding its own established medical service. The reasons for this decision will be explored, and early results analyzed. Lessons learnt will be shared.

Provision of in-house medical services may not cut costs, but it can improve quality of care - at least in the developing world.
Comprehensive Health Care and Health Restructurisation Program
Authors: Harjono M. S.
Published: December 2007

Pertamina is a big integrated Oil Company with over 46.000 employees, in which 6.433 employees are working for E.P. Directorate. As Pertamina is the only one state Oil Company in the country, principally E.P. Directorate covers all Indonesian territory.

Health Service Department as one of essential supporting Units in the company performs comprehensive health care, not only for the employees but also for their dependents. Its existancy is very important to maintain prosperity and productivity, since availability, accessibility, and quality of public medical service in the country is questionable to meet the required standards of an oil company. By all company efforts especially comprehensive health care performed year by year since 15 years ago, health status and health problems among Pertamina society is just similar to condition in modern industrialised countries. Health restructurisation program performed since 7 years ago curtail the initial steep increasement of cost to just similar to the inflation rate in the society.

Besides the quality of health service is being better, since we always improve not only knowledge, skill, and attitude of health personnels, but also other health resources such as equipments, medicines, and others.
An Integrated Approach to Minimizing Risk While Drilling
Authors: Wand P. A. , Rasmus J. C.
Published: December 2007

There is increasing pressure on service contractors and operators in the oil industry to improve the ROI associated with drilling wells. At the same time, rigorous safety standards and procedures are necessary to improve the protection of personnel, equipment and the environment.

An integrated approach using state-of-the-art tools and experienced, qualified personnel allows us to minimize and monitor the operational risk associated with the drilling process on a well-specific basis.

We describe how well planning tools, pressure simulation software, drilling parameter monitoring and kick detection methods can be used to plan and drill a well.

An operational example is shown where a sensitive kick detection technique coupled with a real-time safety application yields an improved understanding of the pore pressure profile and lithology associated with a specific well.

The right combination of tools and techniques applied to a specific well is the key to conducting a safer, more cost-effective drilling operation.
A Field Defensive Driving School
Authors: Baizan R. M. , Raei Ghassan , Abcorabbo Azzam
Published: December 2007

Long straight desert roads with little or no traffic controls, lights, signs, or law enforcement creates a temptation to speed. Passing these same roads through occasional villages with unsupervised young children and farm animals having free access to the road make it a vehicle accident disaster area. This was the situation in the Euphrates River valley of Syria where Schlumberger Oil field companies were suffering a series of severe vehicle related accidents, to the extent that they became the companies’ greatest risk exposure.

After a fatality involving a Sedco Forex vehicle and communications between top management of Schlumberger and Al Furat Petroleum Company, the major operating company in the area, Schlumberger committed to starting a defensive driving school to train company drivers in Syria. It would be a joint effort by all Schlumberger companies in the area under the coordination of Sedco Forex.

A study was made of the operating area in Syria by Dowell's top driving expert to evaluate the driving conditions specific to the area and to design a trainer training course to address those conditions.

Trainer candidates were trained, costs sharing agreements made, training aids produced and translated to Arabic, driving policies issued, and classroom and driving range facilities set up. Use of VAPS (Vehicle Accident Prevention System), electronic driving parameter recorders, in vehicles was included in the plan to augment the defensive driving training and to follow progress of improvement in the drivers’ skills.

The school commenced training drivers in October of 1992 and has been training at a rate of 8 drivers per week. Results show a marked decrease in vehicle accident rates.
Group Unified Accident Reporting Database (GUARD)
Authors: Koene W. T. C. J. , Willink C. A. Tjeenk , Waterfall K. W.
Published: December 2007

A paper on the Group Unified Accident Reporting Database was already presented and published during the First International Conference on Health, Safety and Environment in Oil and Gas Exploration and Production, The Hague, 11th - 14th November 1991 1 (SPE 23211). This paper serves to summarise the main features of GUARD (for which some of the material of SPE 23211 will be repeated) and to highlight developments of the system since December 1991.
Information System for Exchange of Experiences From Accidents and Incidents Among Oil Companies and Contractors
Authors: Ynnesdal Harald , Bentsen B. A.
Published: December 2007

Work related accidents and incidents very often lead to harm to people, damage to property and consequential economical loss. Important measures in all kinds of loss prevention are the collection and processing of relevant data in order to provide "lessons learned" for the organization. Systems for handling of accident and incident information are quite usual among oil and gas industries, being either manually operated or computerized. However, such systems are mainly intended for internal use and hardly ever intended for the exchange of information among industries.

This paper describes a pilot project named "Synergy" which; based on personal computer technology is aiming at the exchange of accident and incident data between different companies in order to increase the information base for loss prevention management.

The "Synergy" system is now being further developed into a common operational version which will take care of the exchange of information within industry and a "stand alone" version to be used within individual companies.
E&P Forum: Leak and Ignition Frequency Data Base
Authors: Priest M. J. , Grundt H. J.
Published: December 2007

One of the least reliable quantified risk assessment (QRA) data areas for the offshore oil and gas explo-ration and production business is hydrocarbon leak and ignition frequency data. The potential impact of this lack of reliable data is that large investments in risk reduction measures may be being made inappropriately in some areas whilst insufficient investments may be being made in others. E&P Forum members recognised this and set up a limited interest project (LIP) in 1991 to improve these data. The first phase of the project was completed in 1992 with the issue of a data base (in paper form) and guide-lines for data collection. The data base was prepared using only the limited amount of data readily available from E&P Forum LIP members, the project contractor's own records and the public domain. Although these are probably the best data available to date, it is considered that significant improvement is required.

The second phase of the project started with the signing of a contract between E&P Forum and DNV Technica early 1993 to set up a continuous worldwide data collection scheme and a computerised data base system. Eleven E&P Forum members have joined this LIP to date. World-wide data collection from offshore oil and gas fields is planned to commence in the fourth quarter of 1993.

The Offshore Safety Division of the UK Health and Safety Executive (HSE-OSD) is setting up a similar data base to collect data from the UK Continental Shelf (UKCS) in accordance with the Cullen report recom-mendation No. 39. The E&P Forum and the HSE-OSD are in close contact to ensure that these data bases are compatible. Other national governments are monitoring the development of the project with interest.

This project represents a unique opportunity for sharing experiences to reduce risk exposure and avoid costly incidents. This paper summarises the status of the project, gives information on the type of data which is planned to be collected and invites other companies to join the project for the mutual benefit of all.
Development of a Safety and Production Automation System Utilizing Open-System Philosophy
Authors: Godfrey C. W. , Perkins D. H. , Plunkett Joe , Olszewski Keith
Published: December 2007

The present climate of the oil and gas industry compels operators to seek greater operational efficiency. In addition, they are also experiencing increased emphasis on the protection of personnel, equipment, and the environment. A safety and production automation system for a producing field or battery can support both these needs by facilitating compliance to safety requirements for personnel and the environment as well as optimizing production and reducing maintenance. Experience gained from the automation that has benefitted processing plants, water treatment facilities, and manufacturing plants has enabled the oil and gas industry to apply the same technology to its operations, and thereby, reap the same benefits. These include streamlined automation of production testing and data collection, which in turn, frees manpower for other needs.
A Fundamental Reappraisal of Power Boats in Field Operations
Authors: Stowell John
Published: December 2007

The paper seeks to raise awareness of those persons responsible for organising exploration in tropical countries where powerboats are deployed for transporting personnel and equipment.

All the evidence used to produce the paper has been obtained by the first hand experience of the author, acquired during the last five years, while conducting structured training courses for Nigerian National boat drivers employed by seismic companies operating in Rivers State, Edo and Delta States - Nigeria. More recently, the author was fortunate to work in The Arabian Gulf, alongside Indian, Philippine and Expatriate boat drivers.

Emphasis will be placed on the potential costs of ignorance of basic safe operational practices afloat, specifying the problem areas and recommending appropriate methods to reduce "incidents" and increase production.
Accident Risk Reduction on the Back Deck of Seismic Vessels
Authors: Gjestrum Einar , Simon J-M.
Published: December 2007

A task force was established within Geco-Prakla to evaluate the back deck safety of our vessels, with the objective to reduce back deck accidents. This was done by collecting existing safety reports and preparing, distributing and analysing a safety questionnaire sent to 25 vessels. On the basis of the findings and evaluations various modifications and changes to the existing equipment and procedures were implemented. Certification and maintenance procedures for handling and towing appliances and for high pressure air systems were established. A uniform marking of back deck safety zones as well as standardisation of the mechanical seismic equipment were implemented.
Practical System for Identification of Potential Hazards and Performance of Risk Analysis in Oil and Gas Operating Environments: Norwegian Approach
Authors: Kile Hogne , Magnussen Terje
Published: December 2007

The evolution of structured safety management systems and the new regulations concerning implementation and use of risk analyses in the petroleum activities have created a new structure and framework for risk analyses in Norway. This structure and framework is discussed. The formulation of risk acceptance criteria caused quite a few headaches before practical oriented professionals finally set the foot down and got them in place. The structure for acceptance criteria is discussed both for life and health of personnel, pollution to the environment, and damage to assets.

In addition the new Norwegian national standard for performance of risk analyses is establishing a cook-book approach to the risk analysis process itself, and this approach is described.

This paper also discusses an efficient and structured way of initial identification of hazards (in a system or activity), and the evolution of the Hazard and Operability (HAZOP) method, in order to adapt it to new areas of application, and tailor making each analysis process.

Risk analyses, used correctly, can have great effects in improving the safety and economy of any operation, especially where several technical systems and activities are managed by the interaction of men and procedures. However, risk analyses are not the ultimate solution, and a "code of ethics" for risk analyses, both performance and results, have been developed, and is summarised.

A systematic approach for the implementation of safety management systems and risk analyses is described, including some viewpoints on the duration of such an implementation process.

Experiences, results, examples and conclusions from the active use of these techniques during the last two years is presented in "neutralised" form. The immediate results of most of these techniques are to do things differently, improve plans, improve procedures, involve experienced operations personnel, and increase the emergency preparedness awareness and systems reliability. In the end the important results are less fatalities, less accidents, less pollution and less money spent on non-productive activities.
Risk Evaluation of South East Asian Offshore Complexes
Authors: Heels R. G.
Published: December 2007

Over the last year, comprehensive Hazard Evaluation exercises have been performed on two multi-platform offshore oil and gas complexes in the South East Asian region. The programme of Evaluations will now continue to address further manned installations in the same area.

The Evaluations have been performed outside any specific legislative environment which allowed a greater freedom in both the methodology and the presentation of results. This has necessitated a somewhat different approach to that which could now be called ‘classical’ in the European arena.

The programme for the work was very short requiring that the phenomenological, Hazard, studies proceeded in parallel with Quantitative Risk Analysis (QRA) modelling. The software package which was used for the QRA was created to overcome the auditability problems which have previously existed in other computerised methods of performing the work, but was found to have limitations in the mass of data which could be easily handled.

Multi-platform complexes are normally considered safer than the monolithic structures found in the deeper waters, because personnel can escape across linking bridges and then muster and evacuate with ease. The overall finding of our work so far is that the risk to life posed by the structures examined is comparable with the North Sea environment, because of (1) the different approach to protection systems and (2) the ‘evolutionary’ mode in which the complexes expand and incorporate more plant and platforms.
Tools for Identifying Truly Cost-Effective Risk-Reduction Measures for Offshore Facilities
Authors: Lewis S. J. , Alderman J. A.
Published: December 2007

Quantitative risk analysis and cost-benefit analysis are two primary tools available to risk managers to help identify the most cost-effective risk-reduction options for their facilities. The tools enable the risk managers to justify an optimal strategy for the allocation of their company's valuable financial and manpower resources.

Even then, other more unquantifiable factors such as meeting industry best standards and incorporating workforce suggestions need to be considered in a systematic manner before a proposed engineering upgrade may receive internal approval by the business manager.

Experience indicates that the cost of the analysis may be less than ten percent of the potential savings generated by avoiding ineffective and costly improvement measures.
Emergency Resource Management Training
Authors: Grinde T. A.
Published: December 2007

Over a period of more than 10 years ELF PETROLEUM NORGE AS has developed an Emergency Resource Management (ERM) training course.

The main aim has been to establish an emergency response training program that will train our Offshore Management as a team on the respective installation.

The three-day initial and (every second year) two-day refresher courses are run onshore. Compared with offshore, this gives greater flexibility in choice of more complex scenarios as we can simulate production problems. Additionally, this gives sufficient dedication by the offshore management for training and debriefing as they are not disturbed by the ongoing offshore-operation

The development of this course has been a success and we feel today that we have arrived at a very well structured course that is demonstrating its usefulness.

The border line between Norway and UK passes more or less through the middle of our Frigg Field. We therefore have a special situation as regards legislation. We operate in accordance with the legislation in two countries.
Conducting Field Emergency Response Drills as a Method of Evaluating an Emergency Response Plan
Authors: Ritchie C. J.
Published: December 2007

Recent catastrophic events in the petroleum industry and the subsequent regulations governing personnel and facility safety have made it necessary to evaluate emergency response capabilities. A method is presented for evaluating an existing emergency response plan and facility exposure. A team approach to planning and conducting emergency response drills is recommended. A sample drill scenario and results are presented in a work sheet format. Comparisons of emergency response drill results are compared to actual emergencies.
An Emergency Escape System for an Elevated Workplace
Authors: Maddox S. D. , Smith Elbert
Published: December 2007

Elevated workplaces such as those often required for the performance of oilfield services should provide emergency escape systems that allow quick escape if a hazardous condition develops. This paper describes a new purpose-designed system, the Emergency Escape Pod (EEP), that serves this need and solves many of the problems inherent in earlier systems. Incorporated into this new system are provisions for injured personnel, automatic activation, ease of deployment, fire protection, reliability, economical manufacturing, and general application versatility.

This paper will present the history of some of the past systems, the compromises of each, the important criteria for an escape system, and the development and testing of the new EEP system.

The specifics of the design are being presented so that these concepts and techniques can be placed into public domain for the oilfield industry's use without patent restrictions.
Risk Perception and Safety in the Offshore Oil Industry
Authors: Flin R. H. , Mearns K. J.
Published: December 2007

This paper describes a project (sponsored by six operating companies and the Offshore Safety Division, HSE) which is designed to assess risk perception in offshore workers on the UKCS. The aim. of the study is to develop a measure for assessing workers’ perceptions of risk and to identify the factors which influence their feelings about risk on a given platform.

Following a review of the risk literature and consultation with a Norwegian psychologist who had carried out a similar project for NPD, a special questionnaire is being developed. In draft form, this was used as the basis for a series of semi-structured interviews which were carried out with 60 personnel on six UKCS platforms. Details of the instrument and preliminary findings are presented. The final questionnaire will be distributed to several hundred workers on the six platforms involved.
Practical Examples of Human Error Analysis in Operations
Authors: Pennycook W. A. , Danz-Reece M. E.
Published: December 2007

A new analysis tool, designed for self-help, is being tested by Exxon operating personnel to reduce the potential for human errors in their work. The tool, its field tests, and specific examples of its use are described. The scope of the analysis tool includes the interfaces among people, facilities they operate and management processes that influence those interfaces. Factors incorporated in the tool include, among other things, equipment design and individual and group work processes.

The examples illustrate the importance of operator involvement in the identification of issues and implementation of solutions, and describe the experiences gained from the field tests. Recommended actions to reduce the error potential are also described to provide examples of the general findings in a typical operation.
The Effects of Shift Schedules on the Performance of Control Room Operators: Implications for a Fitness-for-Duty Test
Authors: Attwood D. A. , Nicolich M. J. , Muise E. C.
Published: December 2007

Twelve control room operators at an oil-recovery operation performed a battery of three computer-based tasks over a period of 95 days. While on day shift the operators performed the task twice, at the beginning and end of each twelve-hour shift; while on night shift the operators performed the task three times, at the beginning, middle and end of the shift. Before performing the computer-based task, each operator completed a fatigue assessment scale. During the 95 day period each operator worked two different shift schedules, each with a 28-day major cycle time. One schedule consisted of 3-days, 3-off, 7-nights, 4-off, 4-days, 7-off. The second schedule consisted of 7-days, 7-off, 7-nights, 7-off. The dependent measures consisted of latency and percent-correct factor scores from approximately 62 measures of speed and accuracy derived from an eighty-trial test battery. Results suggest that (1) on a four day shift schedule, on the 4th day reaction time improves relative to the previous three days, and when the operators are on day shift their accuracy declines on the 3rd and 4th day, (2) reaction time performance during seven consecutive night shifts becomes poorer on nights six and seven, and (3) the placement of testing equipment in close proximity to the control room leads to distracted test takers.
Rotational Work Patterns: Implications for Work, Health, and Safety in the Offshore Oil and Gas Industry
Authors: Storey Keith , Shrimpton Mark
Published: December 2007

Offshore work systems, by virtue of location and the practice of continuous operation, are characterised by shiftwork and rotational work arrangements. Shiftwork is common to many industries and has received considerable attention. Rotational work arrangements are not, and there has been relatively little study of their implications for work, health and safety. Based on a review of existing information and a survey of UK North Sea operators and contractors, this paper examines some of these implications and indicates a number of areas that deserve attention.
Competency-Based HSE Training for All Employees
Authors: White J. J. , Henderson Grahaeme , Walters K. B.
Published: December 2007

The development of BSP's Safety Management System identified areas for improvement in HSE training, traditionally seen as an important yet marginalised activity which "anybody can do". This paper describes the company's HSE training initiatives, their design and development, implementation and the results achieved.

The first step in the development process was to bring together the findings and conclusions of an HSE Training Needs Analysis Study1 and an audit of HSE training2. This confirmed the need to improve the quality, appropriateness (objectives and methodology) and supply of training.

A project definition was produced and the project formed an integral part of the Corporate HSE Plan. Provision for the expected benefits reflecting sustained and improved HSE performance, were built into the Corporate targets.

Work commenced in early 1992 and by mid 1993 more than 30 new competency based HSE training courses had been placed in the local market. Courses were developed in two categories, namely HSE induction (which is known in BSP as core training), for all BSP and contractor staff, and specialist which are related to the work type. In this later case, courses included management, supervisory, transport, offshore, materials handling, fire, etc.

This paper describes the key elements of the project, introduces some of the concepts and models used, the innovative training methodologies employed and reflects upon some of the issues and problems faced so far and some which have yet to be fully resolved.

One of the innovative methodologies now in place is the use of high quality multi-lingual graphics based on-the-job training packs which are being regularly presented by workplace supervisors to the 10,000 contractors’ employees.
Well Control Simulation Interfaced With Real Rig Equipment To Improve Training and Skills Validation
Authors: Bamford A. S. , Wang Zhihua
Published: December 2007

The importance of good well control training is well recognised. But in most cases, well control training is out of context in which the trainees do the job. To address this problem, the Software Pressure Upon Rig Simulator "SPURS" has been developed to make well control training more realistic and real rig based. The system is designed to improve the communications between crew members and competence in their working environment and provide validation of their training for such international standards as the European Well Control Forum.

The paper describes the basic concept where a mathematical well control model running on a portable PC is interfaced with real rig equipment, a choke and its control console. The choke console has been made to respond to the mathematical model as if it was connected to a live well.

The initial system has been developed and tested in the laboratory on the Cooper Oil Tools choke and choke control panel. The results from laboratory trials demonstrate the differences between the novice choke operator and the unproved performance with training on the system.

At the time of writing field trials are being planned for the system.
Individual Employees’ Involvement in Accidental Risk Reduction
Authors: Daenuwy George , Simpson David , Rande J- C. , Haddad Gabriel , de Fleurieu Robert
Published: December 2007

A widespread HSE strategy involves individual employees under the manager's full responsibility into the continuous reduction of the risks associated with operations. The employees provide a fine combing of the hazards, generate some innovative improvements and gain skills in risk avoidance.

This paper describes several processes used by a group of oilfield service companies to maximize employee involvement. The paper addresses:

– How employees and supervisory personnel track and correct unsafe acts and dangerous conditions at their particular worksite. – How a special HSE team helps employees track and correct the hazards observed in an organization of multiple teams, multiple worksites and irregular schedules. – How a computerized tracking system helps employees and supporting staff to deal with a widely dispersed organization similar to the preceding one. – How monitoring devices help to keep employees involved.

It is concluded that different methods, justified by different conditions, have led to a good involvement of employees into detecting and discussing hazards and that more progress is needed in the individuals’ contribution to overall risk reduction.
E&P Forum's Initiative To Improve Aviation Safety
Authors: Hollingsbee H. C. , Greenwood K. A. , Thorp Geoffrey
Published: December 2007

This paper reviews the action taken by members of the Oil Industry International Exploration and Production Forum (E&P Forum) to improve the industry's aircraft operations with a view to reducing incidents and accidents that lead to material losses and lost time injuries and fatalities.

Drawing on the Safety Management System being developed by the E&P Forum which incorporates:

Statement of policy and objectives Evaluation of scope of work Planning and provision of a structure Implementation Monitoring, audit and review

the E&P Forum's Aviation Sub-committee has provided its members with an Aircraft Management Guideline which covers the contents of planning and the provision of structure. The E&P Forum is now developing audit systems and the monitoring and reviewing of aircraft accidents to provide feed back to industry.
Safety in Cargo Handling
Authors: Jolly C. W. , Woodall-Mason N. W.
Published: December 2007

Shell Todd Oil Services Ltd in New Zealand encountered problems in the preparation, despatch and off-loading of cargoes both to and from offshore locations.

These problems manifested themselves into a variety of incidents which included incorrect manifest weights, inconvenient placing of cargoes on vessel decks, cargo movements with-in containers, and inadequate communication between parties. In addition, a series of accidents, in handling of cargo in several stages, at various locations of the cargo handling process were reported.

In response to the increasing frequency of these problems a multi functional meeting was held including all relevant contractors. This meeting addressed the problems in a manner unique to the local offshore environment.

The subsequent results justified the time and effort put in by all parties and the introductory use of a technique known as the Business Process Analysis was applied. This technique ensured that the problems were identified, solutions put into practice, procedures were written and put into place, with a resulting significant drop in the accidents. These positive results were achieved and ‘owned’ by all participants, and ensured full commitment to ongoing safety in the process.