bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Practical Approach to Operational Safety Programs
Authors: Berge B. K. , Landra T. K.
Published: December 2007

Most offshore safety programs are too overwhelming and complicated for the workforce to understand. The programs are usually developed onshore and look good on paper, but often forget that the offshore workforce uses them on a daily basis in an operational environment.

This paper gives a practical approach on how to build elements of a safety program with the workforce in mind. The subject is approached from the viewpoint of offshore operations in the oil and gas industry.

The key focus of any safety program is to get the workforce to become stakeholders and feel it owns the program. This paper describes how to get workforce buy-in, set specific goals that can be measured, and how to analyze specific events and statistics.

The paper expands on the following key areas for implementing a successful safety program: Leadership EngagementSafety VisionGoalsSafety RulesHousekeepingEvent Reporting and Analysis

The paper also presents the results from implementing a program like this where the H-value (number of Lost-Time- Accidents per million work hours) have been reduced from eight to zero.
Managing the Relationship Between the Offshore Oil Industry and Frontier Regions
Authors: Shrimpton M. , Storey K.
Published: December 2007

The oil industry is seen as presenting a number of opportunities and threats to the residents of frontier regions when it first shows an interest in exploring off their shores. Based on experience dealing with the socio-economic effects of such activity in such temperate frontier regions as Atlantic Canada, British Columbia, the Faroe Islands, the Falkland Islands and Saint-Pierre et Miquelon, this paper discusses the nature and reasons for initial responses, the learning process, and means of facilitating it. In doing this, it reviews the expectations and responses of various coastal state stakeholders and means by which they learn about the industry, its effects and their management.
Reaching out to the People of the Niger Delta in Time of Crisis: A Case Study
Authors: KPIASI Omatsola
Published: December 2007

Organizations operate to their optimal capacity in an environment that is stable. Social-economic instability or political violence can adversely affect the growth and productivity of an organization.

Chevron Nigeria Limited/Nigeria National Petroleum Company (NNPC) explores for petroleum in Niger Delta area of Nigeria, for about three decades. The past three years have recorded ethnic unrest and violence that have never been experienced.

Chevron's policy of maintaining a Mutually Beneficial Relationship with Host Communities has encouraged social development. In this regard, Chevron worked with communities to provide basic social amenities that were lacking in the area such as schools, educational equipment, hospitals, portable water and electricity.

The recorded inter-ethnic violence have made people homeless, villages burnt down, diminished food production, no logistics for food distribution, no potable water supply, properties lost, human suffering especially women and children, lives lost and problems of orphans now and in the future - the fabric for community participation severely disrupted. The war like situation has resulted in a crisis with people needing help, but assistance never came. Hostage taking is common.

Chevron, a neighbour, reacted to the emergency by providing shelter for the homeless, food, water, clothing, medical supplies and personnel to treat the wounded and illness. Spiritual and emotional support was made available to those in need. Displaced people whose homes and property have been burnt were airlifted from the disaster area to a safety. In a single operation 2,360 people (two thousand, three hundred and sixty) were evacuated from the disaster area to Warri.

This paper reveals how Chevron reached out to people in times of crisis and recommends and inter-sector collaboration between credible organizations in achieving peace and sustainable development in the area.
Health Impact Assessment for Forcados Terminal Integrated Project
Authors: DeValk R. , Ikuru E. B. , Omotosho O. E. , Akinmoladun O. J.
Published: December 2007

Health Impact Assessment (HIA) as part of Environmental Impact Assessment commenced in SPDC in 1998 with the pilot HIA of Forcados Terminal Integrated Project (FTIP). A review of the health status (with a focus on infectious diseases), hazards and services was made to set a baseline for monitoring changes over time, assess the impact and develop control strategies thereby contributing to sustainable development. Results indicate that monitoring, health surveillance and education, waste management and follow-ups are necessary to ensure effective health management through proactive impact elimination and or mitigation. The main findings of the study show that environmental health systems were poor. Health care is purely curative. The most prevalent infectious diseases are malaria, respiratory tract infections, sexually transmitted diseases, diarrhoea and skin infections. Positive health impacts include enhanced social economics, improved nutrition, water and electricity, improved quality of life and better medical care. The health impacts identified in this study are controllable, preventable or curable. Following this study, HIA's for 3 other projects were commenced in 1999 including assessment of possible physical and chemical exposures from the projects.

As a policy, HIA is now an integral part of EIA.
Downhole Production Testing, a Cost Effective, Safe and Environmentally Friendly Well Test Method.
Authors: Woie R. , Hegre T. M. , Gravem T. , Berger P. E.
Published: December 2007

Well testing is important for reservoir formation and fluid characterisation. Well testing is, however, omitted in many instances due to the high cost, risks and environmental restrictions associated with a well test. The Downhole Production Testing (DPT) method1 will have a significant impact on safety, environment and cost aspects compared to conventional production testing or drill stem testing (DST).

The Downhole Production Test method allows all the produced reservoir test fluid to be re-injected into another zone within the well bore while flow rate, pressure and temperature data are monitored and controlled from surface. In situ fluid samples are taken during the flow period. After penetration of a zone of interest, an injection zone is selected at a depth which allows a sufficient injection rate. The drilling fluid acts as the primary pressure barrier during the test. The production and injection zones are isolated from the drilling fluid by a packer arrangement.

No fluid flows to surface during the test, so the entire surface processing equipment normally associated with well testing is no longer required. This significantly reduces the onshore and offshore logistics operation. Even more important is that hydrocarbons will not flow to surface under high pressure during the test. This significantly improves the risk and safety aspects of conducting a well test. High-risk operations in deep water related to discharge during emergency disconnect or hydrate formation during testing are also eliminated.

A "zero emission" goal is achieved by no burning and no hydrocarbon flows to surface.

This paper describes the method and the environmental implications of this new testing method. Included also is a detailed discussion of the safety and risk elements involved in different operating scenarios. Furthermore, this paper discusses some of the preliminary design parameters and possible implementation of the concept. It describes potential cost benefits for various applications and demonstrates that this new technology reduces cost and improves the environment, safety and risk while allowing test objectives to be met.
Gravel-Pack Shutoff Using Deep Penetrating Squeeze Cement System in the Gullfaks Field
Authors: Johannessen Rolf , Karlstad Simen , Piot Bernard
Published: December 2007

Excessive water production is an increasing environmental problem in mature oil fields in the Norwegian sector of the North Sea. Throughout the past 10 years, several mechanical and chemical water-shutoff solutions have been developed and implemented with variable success. For chemical water shutoff, the two major challenges have been placement optimization and choice of a technically feasible system. A cement squeeze is traditionally the most usual means for permanent isolation of a naturally perforated section. Cement is often the preferred solution because of its well-established properties and proven performance. An increasing problem has been water production in gravel-packed wells. Chemical shutoff in a proppant pack cannot easily be achieved with standard cement slurries or specialized squeeze slurries because of the risk of bridging and incomplete placement. A polymeric system can be easily placed in a proppant pack, but there is a concern regarding the systems ability to withstand high differential pressure following onset of production.

A water-shutoff treatment utilizing deep penetrating squeeze cement slurry is presented for the isolation of a highly permeable gravel pack. The objective of the treatment was to eliminate the negative impact on the environment caused by production from a formation with 100% water cut and to initiate new production from an oil-saturated layer immediately above the producing formation. To access the desired interval, one would have to perforate through a section of blank pipe in the existing gravel pack. The perforation could be easily achieved; the challenge was to prevent continued production influx from the gravel pack producing with 100% water cut prior to the water-shutoff treatment.

The evaluation of the treatment has provided valuable information and qualified a new technique for water shutoff in gravel-packed completions. Benefits from this treatment are reduced negative impact on the environment through reduction in the volume of produced water and increased oil recovery.
Europipe II Natural Gas Pipeline - The Importance of the EIA in Route Selection and Approval
Authors: Eldøy Steinar
Published: December 2007

Environmental impact assessments (EIAs) played an important role both in the Statoil internal planning and route selection process, and in achieving the necessary authority approvals for Europipe II pipeline. The EIA process was an integral part of the project development from the very beginning of the pipeline planning. Early dialogue with fishery authorities and organisations and nature conservation and cultural history authorities were essential for a successful EIA process. Potential conflicts with fishery interests were identified at an early stage, and the EIA process was used actively to find an acceptable compromise. Furthermore, Statoil proposed a change of the routing to avoid an area of high priority for landscape protection and archaeological interests (Ognøy) as a result of the public hearing of the EIA document. When approving the Plan for Installation and Operation (PIO), the Norwegian Parliament commented positively on this change in routing. However, at a later stage the coastal authorities denied to accept the modified route, arguing that the new routing would cross an area which they considered suitable for future establishment of a regional anchoring area (Falkeidflæet). A supplemental EIA document was prepared considering six different alternatives, including the route crossing the potential anchoring area. This additional EIA clearly documented that the modified main route was the preferable alternative both from a technical, economical and environmenal point of view, and the EIA was an important instrument in achieving the final approval for this route. The EIAs contributed significantly in reducing investment costs by several hundred million NOK.
Internal CO2 Emission Trading – Arrangements and Recent Experience
Authors: Fjellså Olav
Published: December 2007

BP Amoco has set a target of reducing its greenhouse gas emissions of some 30 million tonnes over the period to 2010 on a business as usual projection.The target is a commitment which must be met. How it is met, is left open in order to encourage individuals and businesses throughout the BP Amoco Group to use their ingenuity and experience to deliver the commitment in the most effective way possible. This is where emission trading comes in. It offers the incentive and the opportunity to fulfil the obligation in a commercial and efficient manner. That is why BP Amoco has decided to use a system of group-wide emissions trading as a central tool to deliver this target in the most cost-effective way possible. The system started on January 1st 2000. This paper explains current thinking on the application of the emission trading system within BP Amoco and the lessons learned so far for the implementation of the emission trading system.
Assessing Risk in the Selection of Drilling and Production Concepts in the Caspian
Authors: Holgate M. J. M. , Davies G. J. , de Meyer T.
Published: December 2007

A number of different engineering and operational options are available to an operator when starting a new project or modifying an existing development. Each option will generate different disturbances, waste streams and pollutants to different environmental compartments such as the air, sea, rivers, seabed and land.

However, for example, an option that reduces the amount of pollution to the sea at the expense of increasing air emissions should not be supported if there is an overall increase in the level of environmental harm. To be successful at managing risk, operators need to identify the main sources of risk as early as possible in the life of the project and to manage the individual elements that contribute to risk in a way that optimises overall performance. The assessment of the Best Practicable Environmental Option (BPEO) is a process that aims to achieve this optimal approach.

This paper will demonstrate how a BPEO methodology has been applied to the evaluation of environmental issues in the planning of two developments in the Caspian. The first example is taken from a project to expand an existing production facility, the second is from the evaluation of concepts for possible appraisal drilling for Offshore Kazakhstan International Operating Company (OKIOC) in Kazakhstan.

The methodology uses predefined categories to describe the levels of risk associated with different factors and concentrates on using monetary values wherever possible. Routine environmental impacts and health, safety and environmental risks from accidental events are ranked alongside other issues such as compliance with future regulation, reputation, lifecycle costs, project scheduling and technical feasibility.

This approach can be used as a risk-screening tool to:

highlight the most important issues that need to be addressed during the design process; assist in selecting the best overall option.
Nenets Environmental Database - A Tool for Regional Environmental Management
Authors: Kotsepalov A. P. , Dahle S. , Bambulyak A. N.
Published: December 2007

Nenets Autonomous Area in Russia houses vast areas of untouched Arctic nature, which supports a unique flora and fauna. Large hydrocarbon deposits are discovered here and exploitation has begun. The initiative to create "Nenets Environmental Database" (hereafter "NED") arose from worries of nature protection institutions and local population about possible negative environmental influence and impacts from the increasing activities of oil and gas industries in the region, both on land - the largest tundra in Europe, and offshore - the Pechora bay of The Barents Sea. The main goal for creating NED is to make a tool to be used by the local authorities responsible for environmental management, as well as research and industrial institutions in their daily work. NED is one of the first Russian experience on creating a regional environmental database, which is linked to available environmental data from different sources, and oriented to help authorities, industry and population to minimise the environmental impact of future resource exploitation and avoid conflicts between growing up petroleum industry and fragile Arctic nature.
Seismic Acquisition in Sensitive Desert Environment
Authors: Peach Mark
Published: December 2007

Deserts, often seen as ideal places to explore for oil, have sensitive eco systems, which require protection. Petroleum Development Oman's (PDO) concession area covers a number of areas of ecological importance. Special attention is required while conducting seismic acquisition in such areas. The issues to be considered include minimising disturbance, preventing damage to sites of archaeological importance, minimising (visual) pollution and maintaining communication with the authorities. Special management and operational controls are sometimes required to ensure that environmental concerns are addressed and surveys are conducted with minimal environmental damage.

This paper describes the environmental aspects of seismic surveys executed in parts of PDO concession area. 3 case studies are shown which highlight some of the issues, operational controls applied, and the resulting impacts.
Fluid Leak-off Under Dynamic and Static Conditions Utilizing the Same Equipment
Authors: Sinha B.K.
Published: December 2007

American Institute of Mining, Metallurgical, and Petroleum Engineers, Inc.

Previous studies have indicated a substantial difference in fluid leak-off behavior of fracturing fluids under dynamic and static conditions. The present study is an attempt to determine the factors that contribute to this difference and to improve the ability to predict fluid leak-off behavior of well predict fluid leak-off behavior of well completion fluids. This paper describes two equipment designs developed and results obtained by using this equipment to test several types of fracturing fluids.

For a given fluid there appears to be an optimum fluid velocity along the core surface for minimum leak-off. Contrary to previous studies, fluid leakoff under dynamic conditions is usually less than or approximately equal to that obtained under static conditions. This may be attributed to the quick, effective sealing or plugging of pores on the core surface by the correct size of particles. Particles that may cause bridging (thus, Particles that may cause bridging (thus, inefficient sealing) are removed from the core surface by gravity action or fluid motion in the equipment described.

Leak-off behavior of fluids in the two equipment designs described depends upon whether the test fluid falls under the category of gel, suspension, or colloid.

Introduction

The phenomenon of fluid leak-off through porous media occurs in the process of drilling, cementing and process of drilling, cementing and stimulating a well. The standard procedures recommended by API for evaluating fluid leak-off characteristics of fracturing fluids, drilling fluids and cement slurries are basically static in nature, although the actual phenomenon takes place under dynamic conditions. Here place under dynamic conditions. Here the term dynamic refers to fluid motion along the core surface and static refers to the lack of motion along the core surface. The validity of the static leak-off test is often questioned. But the reasons for continuing a static test are its simple operational features and procedures. Also, lack of a simple and procedures. Also, lack of a simple and better standardized dynamic fluid leakoff device that can be used on a routine basis is another reason for continued usage of the static test.

Several studies have been published related to static and dynamic behavior of fracturing fluids and drilling fluids. Significant differences in the results have been reported, depending upon the nature of fluid tested and the particular dynamic equipment used. particular dynamic equipment used. This paper describes two separate equipment layouts, each of which can be used to study static and dynamic fluid leak-off characteristics of different fluids.
Environmental Priorities of Re-Injection and Land Based Handling of Drilled Cuttings and Affiliated Fluids
Authors: Saasen A. , Paulsen J. E. , Holthe K.
Published: December 2007

Re-injection of drilled cuttings into a subsurface formation has become a common practice for handling oil wet cuttings during drilling operations in the North Sea areas. Currently, re-injection is technically a straightforward process both on fixed installations and subsea developments. Furthermore, it is feasible to re-inject cuttings into the same well as being drilled.

Environmentally, cuttings re-injection is currently considered as an optimum solution. Emission of CO2 and further unfavourable environmental effects associated with the introduction of heavy and sophisticated equipment on the rigs compromises the priority. The paper outlines the emissions of CO2 from offshore re-injection operations and onshore treatment in the North Sea area. The rationale behind the priorities governing best handling option is critically addressed. It is shown that emissions to air are significantly reduced when cuttings is re-injected as opposed to treatment on land. This is even more expressed when 12 ¼"-sections are drilled since these operations require additional boats to handle increased volumes of drilled cuttings. If seabed deposition of oil wet cuttings was an accepted alternative, it is shown that the CO2 emissions would be significantly reduced.
Oily Drill Cuttings - From Waste to Resource
Authors: Sørheim R. , Amundsen C. E. , Kristiansen R. , Paulsen J. E.
Published: December 2007

Discharge of drill cuttings generated offshore while drilling with oil-based drilling fluids in the North Sea areas was banned in 1994. This paper outlines how oily drill cuttings may be used in soil, and presents results of a meso-scale growth experiment where fresh oily cuttings were used in plant growth media.

Growth experiments were performed at meso-scale. A standard test species, Rye gras, was grown in pots containing oily cuttings mixed with different soils, and peat in varying ratios. The physical conditions of the oily drill cuttings were generally within current accept criteria for soil meant for agricultural purposes. Measured concentrations of heavy metals and organic components complied with current environmental standards. Analyses included crop yield, assimilation of heavy metals, soil chemistry, and toxicological tests in selected blends of materials. The collected data provide a basis in evaluation of alternative applications of the technology, and issues that should be addressed when environmental impacts in general are discussed.

The experiments suggest that oily drill cuttings is applicable as a constituent of growth media, preferably used for cultivation of plants used for other purposes than consumption. Cuttings may be added in significant proportions to natural soils. Thus it should be considered as a viable alternative for final disposal of oily drill cuttings.
Perfluoroelastomer For Seals In Natural Energy Production Applications
Authors: Asti Francis J.
Published: December 2007

As the natural energy industry proceeds to produce oil, gas, and geothermal steam from increasingly hostile sources, most of the usual elastomeric materials used for seals in drilling,. downhole, and well-head equipment will not survive. The increasing temperatures and pressures and higher concentrations of wet H2S, CO2, and/or steam have a destructive effect on many materials, especially organic polymers. Elastomers lose their resilience (sealability, polymers. Elastomers lose their resilience (sealability, "fight-back") due to embrittlement or reversion (putty-like state) which is caused by thermal and/or chemical degradation. Further, the higher pressure differentials combined with normal thermal weakening at these higher temperatures makes it more difficult to keep the soft sealing member from extruding out of position. This problem is well recognized by the material suppliers, the equipment manufacturers and their customers, the production companies. A recent report on this subject was written by D. H. Ender of Shell Development Company and presented at NACE's Corrosion '75 (Ref. 1) This study showed that 1) relatively few polymeric materials have the inherent chemical resistance to withstand the naturally occurring sour environment at temperatures above 350 deg. F as well as possible well treatment fluids (acids, corrosion inhibitors, aromatic flushes) and 2) seals must be designed to eliminate extrusion of the thermally weakened sealing member, especially with increasing pressure differentials in the offing. The only elastomeric material that met most of the test objectives in D. H. Ender's study is a relatively new polymer trademarked KALREZ* perfluoroelastomer. polymer trademarked KALREZ* perfluoroelastomer.
Chemical and Toxicological Characterisation of Water Accommodated Fractions Relevant for Oil Spill Situations
Authors: Hokstad J. N. , Faksness L. -G. , Daling P. S. , Buffagni Melania
Published: December 2007

The laboratory methodology and main findings from a characterisation study of Water Accommodated Fraction (WAF) from crude oil / oil products are presented.

The study emphasises a tight connection between chemical and toxicological characterisation of WAF. The WAF solutions were prepared in standardised, closed, low energy systems with oil/seawater. WAF is of special interest because it has a high bioavailability to marine organisms, and is relevant both in connection with accidental oil spills and release of produced water.

The results have identified large variations in the composition and toxicity of WAF solutions, depending on the type of oil, oil loading rate and weathering degree of the oils.
Operating Company's (HSE) Management System (Guidlines, Practises & Results)
Authors: Madkour Atef Ahmed
Published: December 2007

This paper will introduce the (HSE) Management Program guidelines prepared for Agiba petroleum company to protect People, Equipment, Material & the Environment throughout the practical implementation of proactive & reactive programs. These programs are designed in order to maintain our company compliance with the Egyptian (HSE) regulations & the related policies of EGPC, EEAA & ENNI-AGIP corporate.

Agiba is operating in one marine & five land areas producing crude oil and associated gas. These fields are far from each other & span a distance of 2000 Km. Hence, implementing a dynamic & comprehensive (HSE) program is considered very important in order to keep operations running smooth & with minimum loss. The implementation of this program in the scope of Loss Control & Waste Management resulted in safe operations for the past five years. The dynamic application will be demonstrated in the paper along with future plan of actions for continuo improvement.
Biodegradation of Oil Spills under United Arab Emirates Conditions
Authors: Zekri Abdulrazag Y. , Chaalal Omar
Published: December 2007

An active strain of anaerobic thermophilic bacteria was isolated from the environment of the United Arab Emirates. The stain identified as Bacillus species consist of rounded and rod shape type of bacteria. The rounded type of bacteria exhibit a great tendency to resist the heat and have its maximum growth rate varied between 50°C and 85 °C. The rod type of bacteria can not tolerate heat beyond 50°C. This project studied the possibility of using these bacteria for bioremediation of oil spills under United Arab Emirates ex situ condition. A computer Image analyzer was used in this study to track the bacteria growth and capability to survive under different environmental conditions. The performance of the bacteria was tested in a specially developed bioreactor that uses continuous mixing through a flat stirrer. Oil weight loss, microbial growth and the changes of the crude oil asphaltene concentration are used as criteria for oil degradation by this strain. A series of batch experiments were performed to study the effect of bacteria on the degradation of UAE crude oil obtained from AH oil field. The effect of oil concentration, bacteria concentration, temperature and salinity on the biodegradation was investigated.

The temperatures of the studied systems are varied between 35°C and 75°C and the salt concentration varied between 0- weight % and 10-weight %. The temperature selected to include the typical ambient temperature and reservoir temperature of the gulf region. The bacteria concentration ranged from 1×105 to 4×105 cells /ml and oil concentration are ranged from 5 to 50 volume. Experiments showed the bacteria are capable to survive in saline environment. The bacteria at a cell density of 30×103 cells/ml and salt concentration of 5- weight % at 50°C was capable of degrade the crude oil at concentration ranged from 5 to 15 weight percent. At a temperature of 50°C, salinity of 6-weight %and oil concentration of 50% bacteria was more effective in degrading the Abu Hasu crude oil. Increasing temperature increases the rate of bacteria oil degradation. Increasing the oil concentration decreases the rate of bacteria oil degradation.
Experiences in field decommissioning
Authors: Peball Ulrich , Köhazy Robert , Dietler Andreas
Published: December 2007

One of the most sensitive environmental activities includes doubtless decommissioning of production facilities.

First production in the Vienna basin started in 1934 and the life cycle of a production well lasted up to 50 years or more. Currently OMV operates about 1,100 oil production and 340 gas production and storage wells. Seventy wells have been abandoned during 1998.

Procedures in decommissioning of production facilities are demanding environmental care because of the agricultural use of these sites afterwards.

We acquired considerable experience while the decommissioning of production plants and wells in Piberbach, Wels and Wirnzberg, an environmentally sensible part of Austria.
Developing Core Health Services Organizations "Blowing Your Horn or Starting the Engine"
Authors: Simpson Jerry G.
Published: December 2007

Progress through Sharing Values is pivotal to providing health services for the oil and gas exploration and production industry. The subtle and eventual characteristics of most health services needs easily jeopardize effective health-risk analysis. Health services organizations and the involved health professionals must be proficient in sharing their values with others that have completely different perspectives and intentions. Additionally, this sharing must occur in an environment of competition for resources including financial. Core health services organizations capable of sophisticated health services that are realistically cost-managed are the future paradigm.

The demands and complexities of providing health services to industry have increased exponentially in the last decade. The very nature of health services that effectively responds to industry's needs and expectations has dramatically changed. These trends are acutely experienced in the oil and gas exploration and production business in which there must be a low tolerance for the lack of essential support services, a rapid pace to get the work done and wide-spread operations (often in remote locations). All of these factors are further complicated by the imperative core-business focus of the oil and gas E&P industry and, most critically, close scrutiny of the financial resources. The health services needs and expectations of the oil and gas E&P industry must be served by organizations capable of quality services and realistic cost management.

This paper presents a plan for the design, development and operation of core health services organizations. Starting with the conceptual foundation on which the effort must depend, the paper discusses the essential elements of creating and operating a core health services organization. Predictable experiences, including successes and failures, are presented. The financial issues with supporting data are discussed.
Health Challenge: Malaria in West Africa
Authors: Ani Samuel
Published: December 2007

Malaria poses an important threat to oil and gas exploration in West Africa. Malaria-related loss of life and productivity among the workforce surpasses all other occupational and non-occupational illness combined. Although an entire workforce may be infected by malaria parasites in an endemic work-site, the burden of disease in foreign migrant workers who lack anti-malarial immunity greatly exceeds that on indigenous employees. This disease constitutes a medical emergency in expatraite employees workforce and frequently is life-threatening. Africans who are Duffy blood group negative are refractory to Plasmodium vivax infection, and acquired immunity in holoendemic parts of tropical Africa largely limits severe disease to pre-school children. These considerations have important implications for the development of rational antimalaria interventions that are designed to sustain productivity among a workforce of foreigners and nationals in frontier operating environments. Chemoprophylaxis reduces or eliminates the risk of malaria infection among the foreign workforce but depletes the natural immune capacity of the national workforce and creates a dangerous rebound phenomenon. A basic understanding of malaria epidemiology is essential to an understanding of the disease, and locally derived ecological concepts are critical for the design of malaria awareness and prevention programs. Vector populations depend on the suitability of local breeding sites. A warm climate favors parasite development within the vector mosquito. Risk dependends mainly on the life expectancy of the vector mosquito after it has become infectious. Control measures should be aimed at reducing vector density and blocking access to human hosts. Applications of residual insecticide reduce mosquito survival; but outdoor feeding and resting of some African vectors reduces their susceptibility to insecticides and erodes the confidence placed on this very effective anti-malaria measure. Adequate water management or source reduction modifies or eliminates aquatic breeding habitats and reduces mosquito abundance.
Explosion, Fire and Structural Response Analysis
Authors: Johnsen R. , Ryum S. R.
Published: December 2007

New knowledge about gas explosions and fires in offshore modules have resulted in the development of more detailed models for assessing the explosion and fire risk at the installations in the North Sea.

The detailed models are capable of reflecting design changes and can therefore also be used in cost benefit analysis to rank any risk reducing measures. This paper presents the new methods in the form of a case study. In the case study the explosion and fire risk were established based on existing QRA, detailed FLACS dispersion and explosion simulations and detailed KAMELON fireex simulations. The structural response was assessed based on guidelines given in NORSOK and calculations by USFOS. A list of risk reducing measures was established. The cost benefit analysis resulted in cost benefit indicators on personnel risk and economical risk. This makes it possible to rank between the various risk-reducing measures.
Experiment using Scale Model of Cargo Tank to Estimate the Concentration of Benzene Gas Emitted from Chemical Tanker During Loading Operation
Authors: Majima T. , Yamaguchi K. , Yamanouchi H. , Fujii S. , Sakamoto S.
Published: December 2007

International Maritime Organization (IMO) recognized that chronic exposure to benzene vapors in air may cause leukemia even if the concentration is very low, such as a few parts per million. To predict the exposure level of crew, it is necessary to investigate the actual conditions of vapor emission from chemical tankers engaged in benzene transfer operation. Since it is difficult to realize experiments using actual chemical tankers in service, scale model experiment was conducted to estimate the concentration of benzene gas emitted during loading operation. The dimension of scale model tank used for experiments is 0.89m in length, 0.39m in breadth, 0.44m in depth and it is 1/10 scale of typical cargo tank integrated in the 499 Gross Tonnage chemical tanker which is usually used for benzene transfer in Japan.

Three factors to affect the concentration of benzene gas emitted during loading operation are found from scale model experiments. Primary diffusion mechanism is one-dimensional molecular diffusion advancing in the vertical direction. And the others are eddy diffusion above surface and advection in the vicinity of the tank ceiling.
Retrieving LWD Sources and Eliminating Environmental Impact of Radioactive Material in Norway's Highly Deviated Wells
Authors: Rygh Per-Thorbjørn , Bonifay Denis
Published: December 2007

Many factors contribute to the possibility of stuck pipe during drilling of highly deviated and horizontal wells. The bottomhole assembly often includes a logging-while-drilling tool with radioactive sources for measuring formation porosity and density. With the ADN* Azimuthal Density Neutron tool, it is possible to retrieve the radioactive source from within the tool if the tool should become stuck in the wellbore. This is the most economic and environmentally friendly method of dealing with radioactive sources inside a stuck bottomhole assembly.

In the Statfjord field in Norway, radioactive sources have been retrieved from ADN tools stuck in three horizontal wells. One source was retrieved with coiled tubing, and the other two were retrieved with wireline. This paper describes the methods used and the experiences gained from each fishing job. The last retrieval took only 12 hr and allowed the operator to abandon the string immediately without having to perform any fishing attempts on the string itself to comply with Norwegian regulations when a radioactive source is stuck downhole.

This paper gives recommendations for fishing operations in highly deviated wells, based on our experiences retrieving radioactive sources in the Statfjord field, fishing operations in the Visund field, and other similar fishing operations performed worldwide. These recommendations include type of fishing device, fishing assembly setup, and other parameters relevant to the operation.
The Impact of Transitions and Technologies on Strategic Health Management
Authors: Roa Hernan , Shaw Robert
Published: December 2007

Over the past two centuries, transitions have been underway which are now shaping the demand for, and structure of, health services throughout the world. These transitions resulted in something very significant which occurred on October 12, 1999. According to the World Health Organization, the world's population surpassed 6 billion on that day. And, during the 20th century, the world's population quadrupled from 1.5 billion to six billion.

The world's population is believed to have reached one billion in 1804. Since then, increases in one billion increments have come at intervals of 123, 33, 14, 13, and 12 years. The United Nation now projects that it will take 14 years for the world's population to reach 7 billion and another 15 years to reach 8 billion (1).
Merging Two HSE Programmes to Set a New Standard
Authors: Fuqua R. J. , Savoie G. P. , Shaughnessy J. M.
Published: December 2007

The BP Amoco merger brought together billions in assets and two cultures. The new company has committed to the highest HSE standard. Former Amoco employees had been part of a company that emphasized and valued safety and one that had been recognized by government agencies for safety performance. Thus, when the new company standard indicated a highly effective and recognized HSE program was not good enough, challenge arised for an entirely new way of thinking and approaching HSE issues.

This paper will present the standard and how a former Amoco business unit has accepted and is implementing the new standard. The standard increases the emphasis on the safety performance of our contractors and third party employees encouraging them to get involved and establish a higher HSE standard.
Log Evaluation In The California Miocene Formations
Authors: HEFLIN J.D. , Neill B.E. , DeVRIES M.R.
Published: December 2007

American Institute of Mining, Metallurgical, and Petroleum Engineers Inc.

The increasing demand for oil has extended the search for new sources into formations that in the past have proven difficult to evaluate and profitably past have proven difficult to evaluate and profitably produce. The depositional facies belonging to the produce. The depositional facies belonging to the Miocene epoch in California have historically posed difficult evaluation problems with the Monterey Shale causing the most difficulties. This formation is playing an important role in the development of California Offshore reserves.

It is characterized by thick siliceous and calcareous organic sediments: Vital to evaluating reservoirs located in this series is the location of fractured zones and the accurate determination of porosity. This can only be accomplished by identifying the lithologies encountered and by the proper interpretation of measurements made with available logging devices.

An open hole logging suite and a computer program tailored specifically to solving problems unique to this series has been developed and successfully used.

LOG EVALUATION IN THE CALIFORNIA MIOCENE FORMATIONS

Introduction

The Miocene formations of California have long been recognized as important sources of hydrocarbons. In the past, the geological complexities of the series made evaluation and identification of its productive intervals extremely difficult. With more readily identified reservoirs not able to supply our requirements for hydrocarbons, the search for new sources has necessitated better evaluation of this series.

GENERAL GEOLOGICAL CONSIDERATIONS

The Miocene has been extensively studied in the past because of its unique characteristics. It is considered to provide both source and reservoir for large quantities of hydrocarbons.

Many different theories on its origin have evolved. It is not within the scope of this paper to add new light to the theories on its origin, but it is concluded that only through a basic understanding of the lithologic complexities can the evaluation by logging methods be understood and appreciated.

Since the terminology of earlier workers is so entrenched in the geologic vocabulary, it will be used in this paper.

The stratigraphic units as designated by R. M. Kleinpell divided the Miocene into three parts: Lower, Middle and Upper. These were then divided into six stages and twelve substages and fourteen foraminiferal zones identified.
Where's the Business Value in External Verification?
Authors: Johnston Douglas , Wenman Paul
Published: December 2007

Of the oil & gas companies which feature in the top 100 companies in 11 industrial countriesi, 53% now produce an environment, health and safety (EHS) report.ii 1/3 of these reports are currently verified by an independent company.iii

The verification of EHS reports in the oil and gas sector is definitely growing with many oil and gas companies in the Americas now seeking verification. Is this a question of follow the leader (‘they’re doing it, so we’d better’) or are companies increasingly seeing the real value in third party challenge and review of EHS reports?

This paper provides an overview of the drivers for verification of EHS reports and provides some feedback from those who have been subject to it. We provide an outline of typical verification processes and highlight the main areas where value can be gained. We will also provide some considerations to help choose a verification process which delivers what you want.
Shaping a New Direction and Culture in a Merger Process
Authors: Skogen Sverre
Published: December 2007

This paper discusses how a newly merged large multinational company with diversified product's range has benefited from establishing and implementing a new company vision and new core values.

The newly developed company vision statement and core values had to be distinctive, inspiring and give direction. The corporate management team had to visibly lead the process of developing a new and better post merger company culture.

The success and failures, together with information on what was learned in the process are presented.
Wilmington Townlot Unit - Waterflood Implementation and Response
Authors: Nelson K.C.
Published: December 2007

American Institute of Mining, Metallurgical, and Petroleum Engineers Inc.

The 1700-acre Wilmington Townlot Unit is situated in the urban Wilmington area of the City of Los Angeles. In the early 1960's Exxon Company, U.S.A. evaluated the area for possible secondary recovery waterflood operations. Initial studies were encouraging, but also showed several obstacles to implementing a successful waterflood project. The Townlot area consisted of project. The Townlot area consisted of more than 300 leases with several thousand royalty owners and more than 30 operators. Reservoir sands were pressure depleted, unconsolidated, pressure depleted, unconsolidated, lenticular, and contained crude with viscosities up to 150 centipoise. This paper summarizes the reservoir study which led to unitization, describes the waterflood pattern selected and the facilities installed, and discusses reservoir response achieved after three years of injection.

Introduction

The Wilmington Townlot Unit became effective February 1, 1972, for the purpose of waterflooding the Ranger and Upper Terminal zones. Reservoir studies indicated that the project would increase oil recovery by an estimated 60 million barrels. The Ranger and Upper Terminal zones had been pressure depleted by 35 years of pressure depleted by 35 years of primary production and were approaching primary production and were approaching their economic limit. Waterflooding began in 1973 with oil production at 1700 barrels of oil per day, and after three years and 45 million barrels of water injection, oil production has increased to 8000 BOPD.

FIELD DESCRIPTION

The 1700-acre Wilmington Townlot Unit is a part of the Wilmington field which is located near the city of Long Beach, as shown on Figure 1.