bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Green Lighting the Way: Managing Impacts from Offshore Platform Lighting on Migratory Birds
Authors: Marquenie J. M. , Wagner J. , Stephenson M. T. , Lucas L.
Published: June 2014

Artificial illumination on offshore oil and gas installations has a variety of effects on migratory and non-migratory birds, especially at night during foggy or overcast conditions. Birds attracted to platform lighting during the autumnal migration can result in encirclement causing elevated avian mortality rates from bird strike, incineration in the flare (when the flare is in operation) and exhaustion. The problem has been documented for many years from areas as diverse as the North Sea, the Gulf of Mexico and Western Australia (Wiese et al., 2001). The impact of artificial light sources at night on migratory birds is a phenomenon not just linked to oil and gas platforms but also to other illuminated offshore and coastal structures such as wind farms, ships, harbors and lighthouses, all of which contribute to light pollution at night.

Following several years of detailed observations, the Dutch E&P company NAM (Nederlandse Aardolie Maatschappij), established that conventional lights on offshore installations were the critical factor in luring migratory birds to offshore installations and keeping them trapped flying in circles for prolonged periods of time, particularly during so-called ‘broad front’ migration in combination with fog or cloudy weather when all the platforms in the same region experience the encirclement phenomenon.

The following research with the lamp manufactory Philips Lighting, established that the red part of the spectrum in the emitted light was responsible for this circling phenomenon and that removing the long wavelength components of the spectrum reduces the visual and orientation impact on birds (Poot et al., 2008). On the basis of these studies, a light source (spectral modified lighting or green light) was developed that reduces this fatal bird attraction, creates safe working conditions and results in a highly positive public response. The only unresolved safety factor was conflicting opinions on helicopter approach and landing. Circumstantial evidence was found that window glazing with a UV-blue filter – as used in some helicopters - is the cause for this.

This paper reviews the experience regarding the use of spectral modified lighting (and related approaches) and puts them in a new perspective. It elaborates on safety factors, especially those related to helicopter approach and landing and discusses the potential application of the technology for new projects. Drawing on recent experience in Europe and North America to apply spectral modified lighting, the paper address certification and permitting issues and briefly discuss emerging regulatory trends affecting this technology.
Wetlands and Endangered Species Management
Authors: Rowbottom Ron , Kuykendall Dina , Clodfelter Chris
Published: June 2014

The requirements associated with identifying and managing wetlands and endangered species have expanded globally in the past ten years. The development of a system which enables companies to meet compliance requirements when selecting new facility locations is a necessary component of the due diligence process. Oftentimes, it is necessary to develop property that is adjacent to or includes areas of protected wetlands, endangered species and sensitive environments. The development can be achieved in a manner that meets the business operational needs and supports sensitive ecosystems.

This paper compares and outlines the emerging trends in regulatory approaches to wetlands and endangered species globally and describes methodologies that companies can utilize to identify sensitive areas and develop appropriate protection plans.

Specific case studies are reviewed for environmental impact assessments conducted in Iraq, Egypt along with a review of endangered species identification requirements for a facility in Colombia. The management plans are discussed with regard to components and integration into facility management. Wetlands identification in the United States is highlighted with case studies in Louisiana, Massachusetts and Ohio which are reviewed to demonstrate processes for identifying wetlands and developing wetlands maintenance and management plans.

The paper also discusses alternatives to wetlands management plans where business development necessitates the "taking" of wetlands and the implications for jurisdictional wetlands, wetlands offsets, and wetlands banks. The paper’s discussion of wetlands is expanded from just the United States to compare the developing trends in global regulatory approaches and requirements. The paper outlines the methodology for identifying sensitive environments and the necessity for corporations to adopt a comprehensive and systematic process for validating cost and impact while also meeting business needs that enhance and protect a corporation’s reputation and social responsibility.

To maintain their status as responsible corporate citizens, companies must continue to monitor global trends in this area, identify critical requirements and establish comprehensive and systematic management strategies. By employing effective management strategies for wetlands and endangered species as outlined in this paper, companies can protect sensitive environments while meeting their business needs in sustainable manner.
Re-Engaging With Local Stakeholders in the Mature Oil and Gas Mahakam Block on Kalimantan Island, Indonesia
Authors: Dimier Armeline , Hidayatallah Hidayatullah
Published: June 2014

Since the nineteen seventies, TOTAL E&P INDONESIE (TEPI) operates a block in the Mahakam River delta, where it coexists with local communities that live in a traditional way and get their livelihoods from agriculture and marine activities such as shrimp farming.

For ten years, the relationship with these communities has become more and more intense, occasionally leading to conflicts and reaching a peak where TEPI neighbors are getting unsatisfied with the company and have increasing societal expectations. Consequently, the societal strategy was in dire need of an update, to improve TEPI’s relationship with its stakeholders and ensure undisturbed operations.

To achieve this goal, TEPI used SRM+, a corporate tool by which the company compares its perception of the societal context in which it operates with that of its external stakeholders, with a view to better adapting its societal strategy. Usually used at subsidiary level, the innovation here was that it was adjusted to the operational needs. In the Mahakam block, operations are divided into 3 assets, which cover several sites and have a dedicated management. Therefore, four SRM+ surveys were conducted: one on each of the assets and one at Province level to listen to higher level stakeholders.

Internally, the survey consisted in workshops gathering around 50 people from societal and operations teams, in order to jointly identify the societal risks and to map the stakeholders. Externally, 45 stakeholders were interviewed, 27 at assets level and 18 at the level of East Kalimantan province.

The result was the delivery of a uniquely shaped action plan, made of 4 different plans: one common and one for each asset. Each of these plans aimed at answering local stakeholder’s expectations, which vary from one asset to another. The global action plan targeted general actions to improve impact management, redirect the community development strategy towards needs of local communities, while improving the quality of relationships with stakeholders.

Whilst this project strengthened ties between societal and operations teams, and triggered an opening of sites to local communities, it also enabled TEPI to improve its societal management practices and, most importantly, to better understand its neighbors.
Canada’s Oil Sands Innovation Alliance: Delivering Environmental Performance
Authors: Jajuee Babak Adam
Published: June 2014

Imperial Oil, an affiliate of ExxonMobil Corporation, along with other 12 major oil companies in Canada formed an alliance of oil sands producers named Canada’s Oil Sands Innovation Alliance (COSIA). COSIA is a collaborative network with a mandate to accelerate the pace of improvement in environmental performance in Canada’s oil sands through capturing, developing and sharing innovative approaches and best practices. The alliance’s vision is to enable responsible and sustainable growth of Canada’s oil sands while delivering accelerated improvement in environmental performance through collaborative action and innovation. COSIA’s 13 member companies represent about 90 per cent of the crude oil production from the Canadian oil sands.

Through COSIA, oil sands producers are sharing new technologies and launching new projects in four key environmental areas: land, water, tailings and greenhouse gases emission. COSIA provides the basis for the participating companies to collaborate and share innovation, knowledge, and technologies to minimize oil sands environmental impact in these priority areas.

Launched in 2012, COSIA companies have shared about 560 technologies or innovations that cost roughly $900 million to develop. In addition, 185 projects such as commissioning new studies and developing targeted academic research chairs are moving forward under COSIA. COSIA is the overarching collaborative hub within which companies set priorities, drive and share innovation, and accelerate the pace of environmental performance improvements.
Oil and Gas Industry Leading Health Performance Indicators
Authors: Martin Alison , Walker Kirsty
Published: June 2014

In 2007 the joint Health Committee of International Association of Oil & Gas Producers (OGP) and IPIECA, the global oil & gas industry association for environmental and social issues, published a health performance indicator guide for the oil and gas industry. Text within this report was used to develop two tools to subjectively assess health leading performance indicators within individual companies and to compare performance between different parts of a company and between participating companies. One tool is used to indicate the extent of management of the 8 health performance areas across companies globally and the second allows for in-depth analysis at site and corporate level.

From 2008 to 2012, members of the OGP/IPIECA Health Committee reported their company leading health performance data. After this 4-year period of measuring health performance within the oil and gas industry, 18 companies agreed to have their 2011 data grouped together with 2008–2010 and the results were published externally in 2012.

This paper describes the leading health performance indicator tools, the anonymous results, the trends over the past 5 years and an in-depth analysis of the 2011 and 2012 data. This paper includes the 2012 data submissions from 16 companies, including 3 new participants.

The subjectively generated leading health indicators continue to inform individual companies and the industry as a whole where the challenges and successes in health management lie.
Creating A Healthy Foodservice
Authors: Stevens C. , Stelmach J. , Davis-Street J.
Published: June 2014

In locations where the employer is the central provider of foodservices to its employees, nutritional quality has implications that contribute to workforce health. This paper describes emerging trends in employer cafés, catering menus and vending machines. In partnership with corporate facilities leasehold service providers and contracted foodservice vendors, we are targeting foodservice delivery to ensure more healthful food choices are provided and assist the workforce in making healthier choices. Nutrition improvement programming includes café point-of-service education about healthful food choices, improved selection and accessibility to those choices and other venues for education delivery. Cafeteria improvements have included strategic placement of healthy foods, incorporation of healthier substitutions, ‘stealth health’ (discretely including healthier items through cooking methods, elimination and/or substitutions) and incentives offered for purchasing healthy selections. We have also created the "heart healthy" icon to indicate food items which meet more stringent nutrition criteria, and provide nutrition content and education in settings where the icon has been deployed. Foodservice web sites and weekly café menus are being modified to provide information about healthier items - facilitating advance planning of healthier meals thereby reducing less healthy impulse purchases. Tools implemented include: branded marketing efforts, health education, and cooking demonstrations featuring healthy food choices, sustained education of cafeteria staff on nutrition and portion sizing, and promotions to encourage more frequent purchasing of healthier foods. We will present the impact of ongoing foodservice efforts on ordering behavior and describe efforts to improve catering and vending machine offerings. Tools and resources available to support a healthy foodservice program and recommendations for including nutrition-related key performance indicators in foodservice contracts will be presented.

This approach may be utilized in the workplace to effectively support ongoing health and wellness efforts aimed at addressing risks for cardiovascular and other chronic diseases. Addressing such environmental characteristics of the workplace supports a comprehensive health and wellness strategy to improve workforce health. Utilization of these recommendations creates an environment that supports a culture of health for the entire workforce.
Optimizing Effectiveness of Restoration Practices Using Principles of Applied Ecology
Authors: Nucci M. E. , Angelini R. , Cirelli A. , Marcantonio G. , Pedroni P. M.
Published: June 2014

The oil and gas industry recognizes the Mitigation Hierarchy – avoid, reduce, restore and, if necessary, offset – as an effective framework to deal with potential impacts of operations. Avoidance and reduction measures are critical, particularly in the early stages of the project life cycle, nevertheless most of the time restoration is likely to be needed. Restoration activities are usually expensive, require time before their success can be demonstrated and, unless designed according to ecological principles, may be ineffective or even counter-productive.

This paper illustrates the approach and the results of a 6 year field activity that eni e&p Division and its Southern District (DIME) carried out in the Agri River Valley (Italy) as part of a Biodiversity Action Plan implemented in partnership with the academic spin-off ABD Monitoring. Our final aim was to enhance the effectiveness of the practices used to restore mountain prairies and woodlands crossed by flowlines as close as possible to their natural conditions.

Following the identification of suitable sites for testing restoration protocols, indicators of the status of the natural environment were selected. After the assessment of flora composition and soil conditions, monitoring protocols were developed to understand the ecological structure and dynamics of each site. Field observations and data collected provided the basis for developing an optimized restoration practice, specifically tailored for these Val d’Agri habitats, with practical recommendations on how to effectively restore beech and oak woodlands and different types of prairies following the construction of flowlines.

The paper will provide details on the process, key achievements and areas for improvement. Despite successful results based on the adoption of sound principles of applied ecology, the involvement of local authorities and communities is key to achieving successful restoration in all contexts. We will also show how the optimized restoration practice has been integrated into DIME’s operational procedures to inform future developments on how to effectively mitigate operational impacts on the natural environment.
Coral Relocation as Habitat Mitigation for Impacts from the Barzan Gas Project Pipeline Construction, Offshore Qatar
Authors: Deb Kaushik , McCarthy Anne , Harkanson Ben
Published: June 2014

The Barzan Gas Project is a critical program to deliver natural gas to Qatar’s future industries. This project was expected to cause impacts to shallow coral communities during pipeline construction from Qatar’s North Field to onshore. To partially meet the state’s environmental clearance for the project whilst supporting the state’s national vision, RasGas Company Limited developed a project-specific Coral Management, Relocation, and Monitoring Plan that incorporated proven methodologies to relocate at-risk coral colonies to a suitable location. The coral relocation project includes the following: an initial Benthic Environmental Survey (BES) to assess coral colonies’ health and suitability for relocation;relocation of more than 1,600 corals from the pipeline corridor to a habitat specifically created for the reattachment of the coral colonies due to the lack of available hard bottom substrate containing 550 native quarried limestone boulders; anda five (5) year monitoring program to assess the health of the reattached coral colonies, colonization of the artificial habitat and document reef fish associated with the recipient site.

Preliminary monitoring results indicate that the relocated corals were of comparable health and exhibited similar signs of stress as the reference corals. This paper presents monitoring results from Surveys II (January 2013) and III (July 2013) which were assessed for the following categories – reattached colony bonding status, colony health assessment, benthic characterization, reef fish assemblage, sediment accumulation, sea urchin density and water column data.

RasGas will continue to monitor and report on the Barzan coral monitoring program as it matures and incorporate lessons learned. This paper has reported on the data from the two 2013 surveys following the post-relocation baseline survey in 2012. Despite the initial challenges to find a suitable substrate, the quarried limestone boulders have proven to be a sustainable habitat for the relocated corals, associated fauna and reef fish populations. The project will hopefully contribute to the body of existing knowledge for building successful coral relocation programs in the Gulf and stand as testament to RasGas’ commitment to protecting Qatar’s precious offshore biodiversity.
The IPIECA Water Management Framework
Authors: Wyness Alistair , Buttini Patrizia , Fennessey Karl , Thorne Kirsten , Romer Ruth , Ruck Philip
Published: June 2014

Water, particularly fresh water, is a scarce resource in many parts of world and further constraints are predicted. Developing and implementing water management practices across the oil and gas lifecycle is therefore considered an essential component in a company’s sustainability strategy.

IPIECA, the global oil and gas industry association for environmental and social issues, has recently developed a framework for water management. Adoption of this framework helps align member companies with IPIECA’s goal of the oil and gas industry being recognized by as proactively and collaboratively managing water use and acting as responsible stewards of this resource. The IPIECA framework is also aligned with the goal of the 6th World Water Forum Target 6, which is specifically reated to water management in the oil and gas sector. Acheivement of this target is being led by IPIECA with support from International Association of Oil & Gas Producers (OGP).

Since 2010, IPIECA has made significant strides to raise members, stakeholders and the oil and gas industry’s awareness of water management issues including development of the IPIECA Global Water Tool for Oil and Gas and the Global Environmental Management Initiative (GEMI) Local Water Tool for Oil and Gas. The framework builds on this work and will ultimately include a series of industry guidelines, tools and initiatives providing a comprehensive approach to water management through the life of oil and gas development and production.

As part of the framework, new guidance is being launched to coincide with the SPE International HSE Conference at Long Beach, California. This paper describes the framework, its aims and the concept as well as introducing the new guidances on "Identifying and Assessing Water Sources " and, "Optimising Water Use through Efficiency ",
Evaluating the Global Performance of Social Investment Programs: A Socioeconomic and Environmental Impact-Oriented Approach
Authors: Graveaud Fabiola , Verzat Benoît , Jammes Laurent
Published: June 2014

Most Oil & Gas companies have developed "Social Investment" programs aimed at developing local infrastructure and services to benefit communities in regions in which they operate. These programs are intended to anchor companies in local environments and improve public attitudes, thus contributing to project acceptance by populations.

These programs are often implemented through partnerships with established development agencies or NGOs that are familiar with local conditions. However, agreed-on tools to evaluate their impacts are lacking, especially for projects targeting the base of the pyramid.

After a review of the state of the art of impact evaluation methods used by development actors, this paper proposes a novel method to evaluate the socioeconomic and environmental impacts of Access-to-Energy projects in developing areas.

The specific objectives and implementation context of these projects require the adoption of a holistic approach to gauge and monitor short-term and long-term impacts on livelihoods, the economy and the environment. However, a single evaluation method does not fit for all the dimensions. The proposed methodology encompasses two specific evaluation frameworks, the results of which are then combined for a global performance evaluation.

At the socioeconomic level, different types of indicators are proposed and ranked in a hierarchy of impact categories. Indicators are built to understand the potential long-term impacts and their drivers in a cost-effective way, rather than to simply monitor the project activity. The method is illustrated using the example of electrification and cookstove projects.

At the environmental level, a Life-Cycle Assessment (LCA) based approach was selected for its ability to assess impacts in multiple dimensions. However, the most widespread product-focused use of LCA was modified to assess a project, and thus to compare different project implementation scenarios rather than different product design scenarios. It makes it possible to identify a potential shift of environmental burdens between scenarios, and consequently optimize project implementation. A mock-up of an environmental evaluation tool targeting electrification projects was used to demonstrate the feasibility of this approach, taking the example of off-grid electrification implemented via Solar Home Systems or Diesel Generators. Based on the results, several project implementation scenarios are discussed.
Using New Means of Communication to Mitigate Expatriate Psychological Stress: an Example of E-Consultation Platform
Authors: Astruc B. , Jammes L. , Hopman N.
Published: June 2014

The globalization of the oil and gas industry has resulted in an increased number of expatriates and families, relocating in geographically and culturally unfamiliar and sometimes unsettling environments. The acculturation process and changes in living conditions may result in maladjustment, possibly causing a loss in self-esteem, stress and anxiety, often engendering difficulties in professional relationships, lack of performance at work, or worse still, premature returns.

Premature returns have been extensively studied because of their potential impact on the individual and the organization, with varying conclusions with regards to their causes. Indeed, external risks factors related to expatriation are numerous: the geographic distance that jeopardize familiar supports; the exposure to new sets of rules, customs and beliefs; the increased responsibilities and workload, and the family's feelings towards relocation to name a few. Accordingly, significant mental and social resources are heavily mobilized in the coping strategies used to manage the stress of relocation.

This paper argues that risks associated with expatriation cannot be fully addressed through the common preventive measures such as cross-cultural training or spouse involvement in the expatriation process.

Residual but critical risks remain, that have to be mitigated through specific plans, such as responses to incidents of psychological distress or even psychiatric decompensation. Telepsychology and telepsychiatry, either through tele-consultation and tele-expertise, can be used to address such problems in a timely manner, providing remote access to specialists able to interact with the patient in his own language.

A dedicated platform has been deployed worldwide for this purpose, the configurations of which are variable depending on cases and situations. The platform provides a videoconferencing system, secured nominative health data and time zone management for appointments. Consultations are provided through the platform by a multilingual and multicultural team of psychiatrists and psychologists with expatriation expertise.

Three case studies where the platform has been used are presented herein, in order to describe the situation, the set-up, the treatment protocol, and the results obtained.

Lastly, the benefits and limits of this patient care technique are discussed, in view of the most recent research on telemedicine and topics for further investigation are suggested.
Ethics in Humanitarian Assistance for Host Communities
Authors: Win Aung Zaw , Win Swe Swe
Published: June 2014

In 1995, Total started its oil and gas activities in Myanmar as the operator of Yadana consortium, which comprises Total Exploration & Production Myanmar (TEPM), Thai National Petroleum Exploration & Production Company (PTTEP), UNOCAL, and the national energy corporation Myanmar Oil and Gas Enterprise (MOGE). Among the facilities it has developed, a 65km long onshore gas pipeline in remote southern Myanmar (Tanintharyi Division) is the crucial asset.

Together with the company’s operations, a CSR program called Yadana Socio Economic Development program is implemented under direct management of the company’s employees and contractors. This community development program covers 33 villages located within a 10km strip of "corridor" along the gas pipeline, from sea shore to Thai border.

"Through our operations, we contribute to the social and economic development in countries where we operate, particularly local communities" – code of conduct
Floating Lng Challenges On Cryogenic Spill Control
Authors: Cataylo A. D. , Tanigawa K.
Published: June 2014

Cryogenic spill on Floating LNG (FLNG) is one of the risks which need to be managed to avoid the potential embritllement and subsequent fracture of exposed unprotected steel work, as well as the possibility of large flammable cloud within the facility which may cause fire and explosion. For onshore LNG plants, guidance on spill control has been based on the widely used NFPA59A and EN1473.However, these guidelines are not directly applicable FLNG. With the absence of international rules directly applicable to this new concept, risk-based approach can be considered to determine the design.

The challenge is how to control the cryogenic liquid spill in a congested installation when there are no proven robust existing installations for this application. Onshore practice is to collect the cryogenic liquid spill in an impoundment area. However, this practice is not suitable for offshore installation due to limitation in space and congested nature of FLNG facilities. In using risk based approach, the cryogenic spill is presumed to have a large extent due to two-phase jet caused by high pressure systems. Thus, a study and optimization for the cryogenic spill control design on the onset of the project is important.

In this paper, there are several options that are considered during the design development on how to control the cryogenic spill in Floating LNG using risk analysis. The risk analysis method is widely used in offshore design but it also has limitations. Designing based on risk analysis with different possible options is also described, recognizing the strengths and weaknesses of each design option in terms of safety and operability. An observation of alternative approach rather than purely relying on risk analysis is also discussed in this paper.
Medical Evaluation and Clearance for Helicopter Underwater Escape Training (HUET)
Authors: Frangos Stephen , Bardarson Trevor , Caraballo-Arias Yohama
Published: June 2014

Individuals who have safety sensitive and/or physically strenuous occupations typically undergo a pre-placement / post-offer evaluation or a return to work evaluation following an injury or illness absence. A Fitness for Duty determination is made prior to these workers performing their usual and customary job tasks. Some training is physically strenuous and may or may not be a routine requirement for workers. Individuals who participate in physically strenuous training need to be medically evaluated and cleared prior to participating in that training.

This article describes the industry leading best practices to incorporate a medical examination and functional capacity evaluation (FCE) into a medical evaluation protocol, which allows the occupational health provider to make a medical clearance determination for workers to participate in Helicopter Underwater Escape Training (HUET). This training is commonly provided to military personnel or workers in the offshore oil and gas industry who are transported to and from operations by helicopters over water. The purpose of the training is to prepare the workers in the case of a crash landing over water and involves simulated sinking of the training module in a pool while rotating the module upside down. Students are trained on bracing for impact, identifying exit points, and safely escaping the module. Workers also complete Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training (BOSIET) or other Water Survival Training along with the HUET. For consistency of nomenclature, the term HUET will be used in this paper.

The medical evaluation for HUET consists of a health questionnaire and medical exam, cardiovascular screening, FCE and medical clearance. The scope of the HUET FCE is guided by a functional job description that objectively documents the training requirements specific to HUET. This medical evaluation and clearance process also provides a mechanism to periodically monitor individuals who may be required to perform physically strenuous tasks, including those persons for which these tasks may fall outside of their typical day to day activities. These non-routine tasks (i.e. HUET) may not have been envisioned for their position at the time of hire and therefore any significant underlying medical condition would not have been appropriately evaluated.
Unified Shoreline Protection and Cleanup Project – Brazil’s Experience
Authors: Medeiros Marcelo , Moreira Josimar , Oliveira Mara , Pessoa Maria Eduarda , Sandy Diogo
Published: June 2014

Recent events demonstrate that oil spills are a continuous challenge to the oil industry. The industry is always developing and implementing new safety requirements to prevent oil spills from happening. Nonetheless, the risk of an oil spill is inherent to the upstream and downstream activities. If preventing oil spills from occurring is the most important priority, with technological assessment of equipment and procedures, preventing spills from reaching the shore is a second aspect to be considered. The coastal environment is where the state/country’s assets are located, where economical activities take place, and where marshes and estuaries that are nursery and feeding grounds for hundreds of marine species are found. However, strategies must be developed to protect the coast if necessary. To develop these strategies, it is first necessary to map the shoreline. Brazil has a coast of over 7000 km (4,300 miles). Although exploration and production in recent years has been concentrated mainly in the Campos and Santos basins, in the Southeast of the country, with the recent 11 th bid round, new exploratory frontiers will change the Brazil’s E&P map, expanding the activities to the sensitive North and Northeast coast. Due to the extension of the coast and in order to develop a product necessary for the industry, several oil company’s decided to work together to elaborate a Unified Shoreline Protection and Cleanup Project. This Project consists of strategic data basis obtained from primary data for each coastal segment. For each segment, information such as access, physical description, sensitivity index, coastal type and recommended response strategies are identified. This data are plotted in GIS systems and will assist in decision making processes. In the future, it could be used as a tool by Brazil’s National Contingency Plan. The objective of this paper is to demonstrate how the joint effort is important to the E&P industry, and the main results of the Unified Shoreline Protection and Cleanup Project.
Working Together to Address the Occupational Health Hazards of Hydraulic Fracturing
Authors: Nocco Bob , Postage Matt , Ohrin Pat , Downey Ashleigh , Jones Mike , Feldman Pam
Published: June 2014

The occupational hygiene (OH) and health hazards of hydraulic fracturing have been identified in various sources including the OSHA/NIOSH Hazard Alert and its focus on respirable crystalline silica. Other exposures include exposure to noise, diesel particulate matter, chemical additives, hydrocarbon from well flow backs, naturally occurring radioactive materials (NORM) and other agents. As a backdrop, an overview of occupational hygiene aspects associated with hydraulic fracturing will be presented.

There have been various efforts to address the health aspects associated with occupational exposures resulting from hydraulic fracturing. These efforts involve a multi-discipline and multi-stakeholder collaborate approach that has included operators, oilfield service companies, equipment manufacturers, industry associations, professional societies and governmental agencies. Some of the main efforts have included National STEPS Network Hydraulic Fracturing Respirable Crystalline Silica Focus Group, the American Industrial Hygiene Association's Oil and Gas Working Group the American Petroleum Institute's (API) Industrial Hygiene Group, API's E&P Health Issues Group as well as other organizations. The organizations and activities that are addressing the OH issues of hydraulic fracturing as well as other oil and gas OH issues will be discussed, highlighting the successes and challenges of using a multi-stakeholder approach. Some of these issues include the practical and technical considerations of workplace hazard communications, exposure assessments, and exposure mitigation measures.
Facility Risk Profile: A Methodology Of Putting Various Risk Assessment Information To Work
Authors: Saleem Omer , Kovach Steve
Published: June 2014

Various risk assessment methodologies are used across the oil & gas industry to identify potential risks, for example Integrated Hazard Identification (IHAZID), Hazard and Operability (HAZOP) and Layers of Protection Analysis (LOPA) etc. Many times results of such detailed assessments reside with local SME functions (e.g. engineering, health environment and safety (HES) or process safety (PS) etc.) and are not widely communicated, understood and used by line functions e.g. operations, maintenance and different levels of organization to make risk based decisions.

A "Facility Risk Profile" process has been developed and implemented for Chevron's San Joaquin Valley Business Unit (SJVBU) in California. The Facility Risk Profile is a methodology to systematically use information from various risk identification processes, to analyze and communicate results to various functions and levels of organization to allow risk based decision making. This methodology is especially useful for upstream oil & gas organizations where multiple geographically separated facilities are owned and operated by sub-organizations. Collection, comparison and communication of various types of risk information across sub-organizations would allow common ownership and resource prioritization. In summary this methodology comprises of:

Common enterprise-wide risk assessment values and language that allows for the organization to effectively communicate assessed risks. Gathering, analyzing and grouping data from existing risk identification processes (e.g. iHAZID and HAZOP) to identify high consequence scenarios across multiple sub-organizations and facilities. Use gathered data to facilitate discussions of cross functional workgroups (e.g. drilling, pipeline, and abandonment etc.) and capture any perceived catastrophic process safety (PS) risks "not already identified". Facilitated sessions with leadership to prioritize high consequence risks across various sub-facilities and identify the top ten process safety risks for the business unit (BU). Use the top 10 BU PS risks as a BU risk profile to align annual Business Planning to prioritize resources and activities. Conduct this exercise at a regular frequency (annual or every other year) depending on the complexity of facilities, workforce turnover rate and activity levels (could be indicated by annual capital and operating $$ spend rates).

Observed benefits of proposed Facility Risk Profile exercise include communication and ownership of high consequence risks across the BU leadership and refreshing the level of awareness to high consequence PS risks across the organization.
HSE and Well Integrity: Friends or Foes?
Authors: Wilson Valerie A.
Published: June 2014

Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) is a defined and recognizable term and requirement in the Oil and Gas Industry, and has been for decades. Well Integrity on the other hand has become the Industry's "catch" phrase over the past few years. With increasing company and regulatory requirements surrounding Well Integrity how are companies handling the co-mingling of their HSE and Well Integrity systems? Oil and gas operations must not only be safe but also be seen as safe. This paper will discuss the optimal reporting lines for HSE and Well Integrity Teams, as well as, commonalities and differences in the roles they play in an organization. A survey was conducted through posting the link at: http://www.wellintegrity.net/ and distribution to Well Integrity professionals which results will be discussed throughout this paper. This paper will also discuss human factors that affect the success and implementation of a Well Integrity program and statistics collected by different industry groups to examine if there are trends to illustrate that HSE and/or Well Integrity are being effective.
Enhancing Social Knowledge Management to Drive Performance Improvement
Authors: Valiyev Tural , Wild Elizabeth
Published: June 2014

Industry is increasingly realizing the role knowledge management plays in enhancing operational effectiveness. Effective knowledge management promotes an integrated approach to identifying, capturing, evaluating, retrieving, and sharing all of an organisation's knowledge-based assets. These assets may include tools and templates, documents, policies, procedures, good practice and case studies.

In the past, knowledge management in BP's social practitioner discipline lacked a structured and disciplined approach. Valuable knowledge was passed on informally from team to team or through meetings and virtual forums, but not recorded for others to draw on. Skilled people (eg long term contractors on large projects) took knowledge with them when they moved on. This caused loss of lessons learned while planning and executing projects or running complex operations, making it difficult for new businesses to access the knowledge unless they could contact the individuals involved.

This paper explains BP's efforts over the past two years to develop and formalise knowledge management mechanisms for social practitioners and others involved in social risk and impact management. BP has developed and tested a range of mechanisms, including virtual networks and distribution lists, group subject matter experts on social issues, inclusion of social topics in a 10 year career roadmap for environmental practitioners, e-classroom trainings, social capability development for people who lead early environmental and social project screenings, recorded knowledge-sharing workshops, face to face forums, peer support, share points, intranet sites and electronic Q and A systems.

The paper explains how BP's efforts to improve and standardize social knowledge management are based on the interaction of three elements: people, process and technology. The authors highlight the need to draw on other disciplines, e.g. environment, project and operations personnel, external affairs, supply chain management and security, to achieve an integrated approach.
Review of Sound and Marine Life Guidelines for Marine Seismic Operations
Authors: Martin Nikki C. , John Karen St. , Gill C. G.
Published: June 2014

Potential impacts from anthropogenic sound on marine life, including from geophysical operations, have received ever-increasing attention in recent years from regulators, environmental non-governmental organizations, fishing organizations and the public. As a result, many national government agencies and international agencies have developed a range of guidelines and regulations aimed at mitigating these potential impacts.

Regulations vary between countries and regional authorities, and in several locations there are no official guidelines in place. Regulations are frequently amended, often in reaction to public demand and overly conservative estimates of potential impacts. Operating globally, the geophysical industry faces many challenges as it seeks to understand and properly implement the disparate and changing regulatory requirements.

The geophysical industry is committed to conducting offshore activities in an environmentally responsible manner, including compliance with mitigation and monitoring guidelines and regulations. More than four decades of worldwide seismic surveying and various scientific research indicate that the risk of direct physical injury to marine mammals is extremely low. In addition, there is no scientific evidence that demonstrates biologically significant negative impacts on marine life populations. Nevertheless, the members of the International Association of Geophysical Contractors (IAGC) support measures that are proportionate to the potential risk and based on the best available science to minimize any potential impact of their operations.

IAGC proactively engages with government agencies in their development of regulations and IAGC also supplies guidance to its members where none exist, including its guidance documents Recommended Mitigation Measures for Cetaceans during Geophysical Operations (1) and Guidance for Marine Life Visual Observers (2), both published in 2011, and Guidance on the Use of Towed Passive Acoustic Monitoring during Geophysical Operations (3), published in January 2014.

This paper will review the current status of guidelines globally and serve as an update to the 2008 SPE paper on this topic (4). In addition, this paper discusses how guidelines have evolved since 2008, how they have impacted the geophysical industry, and the actions IAGC has undertaken to address the issue.
Dealing With Cumulative Environmental Risk in Unlocking Access to Constrained Resources in Frontier Areas and Unconventional Resources
Authors: Wright Nigel H
Published: June 2014

Constrained access to oil and gas reserves is one of the top risks for future oil and gas. The best energy opportunities are in frontier areas and in new unconventional resources, but these often overlap with environmentally sensitive or refuge areas.Advances in technology have brought these high risk areas within business radar of companies, but have catapulted new environmental risk dimensions (potential "show stoppers") to the forefront of corporate opportunity ranking.

A comparison will be made of pioneering approaches to deal with cumulative risk in offshore polar zones and new onshore unconventional energy. In new frontier Arctic areas, increasing levels of cumulative noise pollution can disrupt the ecological sounds cape of marine species upon which they depend for their survival. In contrast, advances in fracking technology onshore have brought into stakeholder focus the widespread and cumulative risks of unconventional energy both in terms of surface multiple drill site infrastructure and subsurface invisible cumulative risks to critical subsurface water resources. A critique of new techniques, current research and innovations into the development a 3D risk-scape for the marine environment to assess the significance of human imposed sound pollution on former pristine bioacoustic habitat, will be presented. Unlocking access to these energy resources will require industry to demonstrate how marine species and unique habitats can be safeguarded from mu cumulative threats over the next 20 years. Cutting edge approaches to lifecycle evaluation of unconventional energy development using GIS data bases and mapping to measure and communicate overall impact to stakeholders, will be illustrated using case selected case histories. Insights will be given into subsurface modelling and monitoring techniques to reduce long term risk to critical water resources.

The first stage of unlocking access to sensitive reserves is to achieve "preferred bidder" status for new acreage, which will be judged on corporate delivery of environmental and safety performance past promises made around the globe. Industry needs to convince stakeholders, that cumulative environmental risks in escalating development can be managed using new innovative techniques to safeguard the sustainability of key species, or face lockout of some vital areas.
The Expanding Role of Natural Gas: Comparing Life-Cycle Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Authors: Siveter R. , Castañeda J. , Emmert A. , Lee A. , Juez J. Martin , Stephenson T. , Riera-Palou X. , Ritter K. , Smith G. R. , Verduzco L.
Published: June 2014

Natural gas is experiencing a period of strong growth. Increased resource estimates, and improvements in production and transport technologies are allowing it to fill an expanding role in energy supply, and in important demand sectors such as electricity generation. In the USA, a rapid increase in production from ‘unconventional’ sources (e.g. shale) has resulted in an abundance of low-priced natural gas, encouraging a shift from coal to gas in power generation. Since natural gas is a fuel with inherently lower carbon content than coal, that shift has contributed to a significant decline in USA greenhouse gas emissions.

Life-cycle greenhouse gas emissions from natural gas systems is one of the many, real and perceived, factors concerning natural gas development and the industry's social licence to operate. A wealth of recent data on GHG emissions from contemporary natural gas systems is now emerging. This information will facilitate both the accurate comparison of alternative technologies and the management of emissions so that gas resources can be developed prudently, to displace other, more carbon emission-intensive options and contribute to economic growth.

This paper draws on material from an IPIECA workshop in 2012, and focuses on the expanding role of natural gas, the new resource base estimates, its GHG footprint compared to other energy sources, and projected demands from different sectors.