bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Produced Water Treatment Technologies: A Case Study
Authors: Hughes S. W. , Sehsuvaroglu S. A. , Slater J. M.
Published: December 2007

A major onshore oil and gas processing facility currently discharges a produced water stream into the sea. This water stream is contaminated with hydrocarbons, heavy metals, and naturally occurring radioactive materials (NORM). After receiving a proposed new permit-to-discharge that significantly lowered the allowable concentration limits for the contaminants in the discharged stream, the facility management commissioned a study to identify applicable treatment options and generate capital cost estimates for each option. Three treatment options were developed, with each generating different levels of effluent quality and capital cost. Facility management was able to use the results of the study to negotiate a less stringent discharge permit, which reduced the size and estimated cost of treatment requirements.
Phenol Compound in Produced Water
Authors: Priatna Rachmat , Syahbandi Edi , Sudewo Bambang
Published: December 2007

Phenol is an organic compound that may present in produced water of oil and gas industries. Some of phenol compounds are mostly used as raw material in disinfectant and adhesive industries. Phenol and its derivatives are hazardous materials with its toxicity level varies depending on the type of phenol. On the basis of its toxicity level, US-EPA and EEC classified some phenol compounds as "priority pollutant" due to at certain phenol concentration level they can endanger human and animal life.

The source of phenol in the produced water is from nature; they are carried over to the surface by formation water.

The Indonesian government has issued various laws and regulations in limiting the discharge of phenol compound into water. PP No. 20/1990 classified various limits of phenol concentration in water depending on water utilization, whereas KEPMEN No. 03/KLH/I/1991 classified the limit of phenol concentration in discharge water of various industries.

This paper describes efforts made by some oil and gas companies in Indonesia under PERTAMINA supervision in conducting studies for reducing the phenol concentration in produced water to meet the government phenol regulatory limit. The study is aimed to obtain the best phenol treatment method that is suitable to be applied for particular company operation and field conditions. The study consists of literature study, laboratory scale tests and pilot tests using some selected treatment methods that are currently available, complete with the technical and economical aspects of each treatment method as well as consideration of maintenance and operation aspects.
Biotreatment of Exploration and Production Wastes
Authors: McMillen S. J. , Gray N. R.
Published: December 2007

Biotreatment of oily exploration and production (E&P) wastes can be accomplished by using one of several biotreatment technologies: landtreatment, composting, or slurry-bioreactors. These technologies enhance naturally-occurring biodegradation processes through dilution, aeration/mixing, nutrient addition, moisture, and pH control. Each of these technologies has been evaluated on the laboratory scale and has been found to be technically feasible for treating oily drill cuttings, tank bottoms, pit sludges, and oily soils. However, biodegradation rates for E&P wastes are dependent on several factors including the specific hydrocarbon types present, nutrient ratios, and solids loading (for slurry-bioreactors). Laboratory results for hydrocarbon losses due to biodegradation indicate that half-lives for hydrocarbons range from a few days to several months depending upon waste characteristics and the technology used. Field scale treatment costs are estimated to be U. S. $20 to $45 per cubic meter of waste for landtreatment, $40 to $70 per cubic meter of waste for composting, and >$500 per cubic meter of waste for slurry-bioreactors. Treatment costs are dependent on the actual biodegradation rates achieved, and the volume of waste to be treated.
Development of Environmentally Benign Formate-Based Drilling and Completion Fluids
Authors: Downs J. D. , Killie Siv , Whale G. F. , Inglesfield Christopher
Published: December 2007

Laboratory and field experience indicates that simple universal drilling and completion fluids, suitable for all applications, can be built around brines based on the alkali-metal salts of formic acid. The formate brines have been subjected to a thorough hazard identification and assessment procedure prior to introduction into the field. This procedure was based on accepted OECD tests, compatible with EC requirements for asssessing the mammalian toxicological and ecotoxicological properties of new substances.

It has been concluded that the alkali-metal salts of formic acid pose little hazard to either users or the environment. As an additional safeguard for the environment a novel recycling process has been developed specifically for use with the formate brines, aimed at minimising product discharge and retaining a valuable non-renewable resource.
Environmental Effects of Produced Water from Large Fields in the North Sea: An Overview
Authors: Ynnesdal Harald , Furuhold Edgar
Published: December 2007

Oil production from the large fields in the North Sea results in discharges of large amounts of produced water. This paper shows that acute toxic effects will not occur even for the largest fields except for a very small area around each platform. Chronic effects can not be completely ruled out with the current state of knowledge. The various effects are discussed, as well as possible ways to treat the produced water.
Determination of Produced Water Contaminants in the Marine Environment
Authors: Riksheim Hilde , Johnsen Ståle
Published: December 2007

The Statfjord and Gullfaks fields are Statoil's two major offshore oil producing fields, and also two of the most important sources of produced water discharge in the Norwegian sector of the North Sea. The fields are located in the northern part of the North Sea, 150 - 200km off the west-coast of Norway. Sea water samples (3×10L, 5m depth) were collected at 3 locations (10m, 100m and 500m) downstream the two oil production platforms Statfjord C and Gullfaks A. In addition, corresponding samples representing sea water background were collected in open sea between the two fields.

Significantly increased levels of total hydrocarbon content and naphthalenes were detected at the nearfield locations in both fields, compared to the reference samples. The near-field samples from Statfjord C also contained higher levels of phenols, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and the elements barium and zinc than the reference samples. The dilution factors of the produced water constituents analysed in the present study ranged from 1:1 000 - 1:20 000 within the sampling area, which is considerably higher than the dilution predicted by available mathematical models for the two fields.
Soil Quality Management: Classification of Contaminated Sites and Priority Setting for Action
Authors: Herenius T. A. , Veltkamp A. G. , Satijn H. M. C.
Published: December 2007

In this paper a framework is described for the classification of contaminated sites, including priority setting for actions to be taken. The framework covers 800 oil and gas locations of the Nederlandse Aardolie Maatschappij (NAM) and forms part of Soil Quality Management. The number of contaminated sites and the costs involved for investigation, monitoring and control and clean-up makes it necessary to develop such a framework. Also, the limited availability of manpower/expertise within and outside industry increase the need for a framework with management tools. Within the framework, management tools for decision making have been developed, such as risk assessment on health and safety, criteria for priority setting, planning and budgeting systems. Out of the overall framework, individual Business Units within the NAM have developed their own Masterplan for their specific sites. By applying these instruments, Soil Quality Management forms an integral part of location management.
Oil Spill Remediation: An Integrated Approach for In-Situ Site Clean-Up
Authors: Seitinger Peter , Baumgartner A. J. , Peball Ulrich
Published: December 2007

Oil spills are one of the major concerns of the up-and downstream oil industry. Although land operations do not cause spill accidents and volumes like offshore, the damage and the loss in public credibility is severe and longterm.

Solubility of hydrocarbons (HC) in water is generally small. The movement of oil in porous media must be described using a two phase flow concept. The spread is a four stage process:

– migration in the subsoil – invasion into the capillary fringe – spreading on the water table – stabilization of the spill, HC solubility (plume)

The four steps will be analysed in detail in this paper.

The main concern of the environmental groups, authorities, etc. is the presence of a floating oil layer on the groundwater table. Further in-situ remediation methods are based upon the removal of the liquid hydrocarbons (bioremediation, soil-vapour extraction, etc.).

Horizontal or strongly deviated wells offer significant advantages in the cleanup of thin, floating oil spills. The advantages are similar to horizontal wells in oil production (linear drainage along wellbore instead of radial drainage, low drawdown during production, increased net pay, etc.). A moving groundwater table is one of the most obvious differences to traditional oil production. High angle wells combine inflow advantages of horizontal wells with moving water table.

This paper will present various directional drilling techniques including their pros and cons for oil spill remediation. Also, a brand-new technology to drill directional wells in heterogeneous, unconsolidated sands will be presented. This method was used to drill directional wells in unconsolidated, coarse gravel formations (river sedimentation). Directional changes of 25 - 30°/30m were reached.

A case study and experience from oil spill production will also be presented, including a comparison in cost and success to vertical extraction wells.
Gulf War 1991 Environmental Crisis
Authors: Alam I. A. H.
Published: December 2007

The environmental crisis in the Arabian Gulf following the Gulf War was a case study of the application of science and has shown international cooperation to protect the environment. This paper summarizes the scientific activities of the multidisciplinary areas and expertise in a crisis. A brief description of plans and actions suggested or implemented during the crisis is included.
Drilling Waste Controls
Authors: Cline J. T. , Piper W. A.
Published: December 2007

Drilling wastes are about 75% of the solid wastes generated by Amoco Production Company operations. This paper discusses the current status of controlling wastes generated during drilling, applying new technology and tracking the wastes with an Amoco developed Environmental Data Management System (EDMS). Case studies include field data, designs, economics and optimization. Advances in waste control technologies are currently being made: to treat low toxicity, high volume cuttings to be usable soil; to minimize mud and cuttings wastes with effective solids control equipment; to use down hole injection to eliminate cuttings and mud discharged to the sea; and to use synthetic muds for reducing environmental effects (i.e., toxicity). The EDMS database being used to monitor drilling wastes has benefits such as tracking and quantifying wastes to final disposal, helping to focus on the technological needs for the impacted environment, and helping to identify cost benefits of various drill waste controls. But, measurement (estimation) of drill waste characteristics and quantities can be seriously in error. Industry focus on common terms and techniques is needed.
Biological Soil Treatment and In-Situ Groundwater Remediation for Hydrocarbon Contaminants
Authors: Ratliff M. D.
Published: December 2007

The paper discusses two different approaches to the remediation of contaminated soil and groundwater. The information was obtained from two case studies where these methods were utilized to treat contaminants. The first approach involves the treatment of hydrocarbon-contaminated soil with microorganisms which digest the hydrocarbons releasing carbon dioxide and water. The use of microbes in this manner is commonly referred to as biotreatment. The case study was conducted in Kenai, Alaska.

The second case study involved the treatment of gasoline-contaminated groundwater through the use of active permeable barrier trench systems. Trenches were installed below the surface of the groundwater and air was pumped into the groundwater, stripping the volatile hydrocarbons which were evacuated by a vapor recovery system. Because of the low hydraulic conductivity of the soil in the area, more traditional treatment options, such as the standard pump and treat operation, were not viable alternatives. The active permeable barrier trench system is being utilized at a Halliburton field facility in Artesia, New Mexico.
An Assessment of Environmental Sensitivity to Marine Pollutions: Solutions With Remote Sensing and Geographic Information Systems
Authors: Moreau Fabrice , Populus Jacques , Coquelet Dominique , Xavier Jean-Paul
Published: December 2007

The environmental sensitivity to oil pollution is addressed in the Loire estuary, an area of very high economical and recreational value. The first part of the paper deals with the evaluation of remote sensing images (Spot, Landsat Thematic Mapper and Ers1 radar). The availability of the right images with respect to low tide conditions is discussed. Well established classifications are used for both visible and radar images, which produce mainly geomorphological information: coastline, sediments, vegetation. Living resources at risk are compiled mostly out of ancillary data, i.e. maps and reports. These two types of information lead to ranking the shoreline in terms of its "ecological" sensitivity. Man-made objects and human activities are also incorporated. After collecting all relevant data, we examine in a second part how to merge them and produce environmental sensitivity maps, using both CAD (Computer Assisted Design) and GIS (Geographic Information Systems) tools.
Produced Water Treatment
Authors: Marsid Maryuswan , Suwito Suryo
Published: December 2007

In 1992, PT Caltex Pacific Indonesia oil field operations in Sumatra resulted in 680,000 barrels of oil produced daily and 4,600,000 barrels of slightly brackish produced water.

This paper discusses the systems in operation to separate oil, gas and water to provide oil for export, gas for power generation and water for reuse and return to the environment.

The systems operate quite effectively now and under normal operating conditions the water produced remains within the MIGAS Guidelines and the Pertamina/CPI goals of 25 ppm oil content and temperature of 45 °C in order to protect the environment.

However, increasing production and maturation of the fields mean that there is an ever increasing amount of produced water to treat and that will require continuing efforts to maintain quality.
Worldwide Training of Rig Medics
Authors: Barbey Alexander , Bobillier Arnaud , Pelat Francois
Published: December 2007

With approximately 90 rigs around the world Sedco Forex operates in many different geographical areas. Health problems are common, be they work related or due to local disease.

Audits of rig medics have demonstrated that they possess very different levels of training and experience.

A multi-lingual doctor was designated to test each rig medic's proficiency, audit the rig infirmary and prepare a training program which includes a 5 day theoretical First Aid course and a 7 day hospital training period.

It is planned that each rig medic will be re-audited, re-trained and re-exposed to a hospital course at least once every 3 years to keep him up to level.
Health Management Guidelines for Remote Land-Based Geophysical Operations: An E&P Forum Initiative
Authors: Dawson D. G. , Barber S. W. , Keech J. , Ballantine B. , Ranke H. , de Jong G. , Hansen H. , Rodier J. , Stormonth M. , Howell J. , Lowe R. , Barbey A. , Clyde D. A. , Roythorne C. , Pion J. , Walker K. P. , Striefel J. E.
Published: December 2007

Company and contractor have a joint commitment to health risk management stated in health policies and should develop a health management system which needs to be based on a full and careful appraisal of the health risks to which personnel will be exposed.

The provision of health care of the Geophysical crew's operation in remote land areas is dependent on the assessment of environmental and occupational health risks in the area of operations and the quality, availability and accessibility of the local medical support system. A Risk Scoring System is described which allows for the development of a modular system of health care. Modules vary from induction training for all personnel through various levels of first aid to the professional field nurse and supervising doctor. Guidance on training requirements and manning levels for each module is given. A health management system is described with the main objectives to ensure that the activities of the company and contractor are planned, carried out, controlled and directed so that health risks are minimised.
Health Care in Remote Areas
Authors: Darling C. J.
Published: December 2007

The international search for oil and gas continues to expand in to locations that are remote from established support bases or in underdeveloped areas. The provision of health care in these locations must be carefully planned and implemented to ensure that an acceptable standard of care is provided to employees, contractors and, if accompanied, families. Planning is required to lower the risk of disease or injury to acceptable levels and to ensure that individuals return home at the end of working in these locations in the same state of health as they arrived. The ability of a company to provide an acceptable standard of medical care, particularly in remote or underdeveloped areas, may impact on the willingness of staff to relocate to areas away from their home base.

This paper outlines the procedures and practices which BHP Petroleum has applied when undertaking medical risk assessments prior to the commencement of exploration or operational activities.

These assessments are used to develop a range of health practices and procedures to deal with identified risks and to reduce the health risks of operating in specific locations.
A System of Remote Medicine
Authors: Norman J. N. , Brebner J. A.
Published: December 2007

A system of remote medicine is described which has suited the needs of two very different organisations – the North Sea oil and gas industries and the British Antarctic survey.

A major advance is taking place by the emergence of telemedical technology. This has implications for training, medical service and for research. By using the experience of the past twenty years and the current emergence of new technology it should now be possible to see greatly improved systems for the new areas of exploration. To achieve maximum efficiency and cost-effectiveness, however, it will be necessary for several projects to collaborate with a central co-ordinating area which can offer training and research facilities as well as medical services.
Telemedicine: A Means To Improve Health Care Services on Remote Oil and Gas Installations
Authors: Pedersen Steinar , Gammon Deede , Sund Torbjorn
Published: December 2007

Telemedicine provides sound and image communication for routine and emergency consultations between remote practitioners and centralised specialists. Telemedicine can contribute to constraining costs while ensuring equal access to health care services regardless of location. Experiences from telemedicine and remote teaching in rural Norway are applicable to remote oil installations.
Accident and Illness Trends Over a 15-Month Seismic Survey Period in Myanmar (Burma)
Authors: Dawson D. G. , O'Donnell Barry , Hursey Michael
Published: December 2007

Accident and illness trends have been analysed during Unocal's seismic operations in Myanmar. The seismic work was carried out in Unocal's prospect area in mid Myanmar west of the Irriwaddy river.

The seasonal weather in Myanmar follows three distinct patterns. This paper describes how these varying weather patterns influenced the illness and accident rates during the seismic operations and concludes with some of the lessons to be learnt.
Effort in Preventing Insecticides Intoxication on Malaria Fogging Operator, Irian Jaya, Indonesia
Authors: Buraena Sultan , Soebijakto Raden
Published: December 2007

Irian Jaya is the endemic location of malaria, therefore in the settlement areas including Base Camp Santa Fe Energy Resources Ltd. Kasim Marine Terminal, Sorong, Indonesia, there should be a prevention effort againts the malaria desease, inter alia i.e. by eradicating adult mosquitoes and their larvae. The insecticide utilized is the organophosphate type. This insecticide category can cause intoxication to human being. The depression of the cholinesterase plasm and/or red blood cells activities constitute the most obvious fact on the existence of excessive absorption of this type of insecticide category.

The cholinesterase activities in the serum at 9 fogging operator adult males examined in August 1989, 3 person (33%) among them indicated the existance of cholineterase activities depresion. These there people were given rest from work for 4 weeks. All fogging operators were then admitted in the Malaria Eradication Training, including the knowledge/skill enchancement in utilizing a safe insecticide.

The cholinesterase activities were examined again in October 1989 and May 1993 on these 9 people, with the result no longer indicating the existence of depression abnormalities of the cholineterase activities.

It is concluded that the effort to decrease contack with this insecticide by means of providing knowledge to the fogging operators on the safe utilization of insecticide can decrease or eliminate completely the intoxication of this insecticide.

It is recommended that continuous supervision be conducted to these fogging operators.
Acceptance Requirements for Thermal Properties of Survival Suits
Authors: Påsche A. J.
Published: December 2007

Recent reports from accidents in the sea during winter time indicate a much more rapid cooling of victims than seen in the acceptance tests for survival suits, performed according to the International Maritime Organization Specifications.

Using the rectal temperature change for the human test subjects as an index for the suits’ thermal properties may also be strongly misleading.
MED-TRACK: A Global Approach to Physicals
Authors: Barbey Alexander , Roche Noel
Published: December 2007

A global approach to physicals with a centralized data bank has allowed Schlumberger, a worldwide oil field company working in a large number of countries with employees from over 100 nationalities, to handle the difficult task of performing and following up on regular physicals.
Operational and Environmental Safety With Nuclear LWD Tools
Authors: Aitken J. D. , Holenka J. M. , Torbett D. E. , Turner K. W.
Published: December 2007

After several decades of use, resistivity, formation density and neutron porosity measurements are considered fundamental to formation evaluation. In the last decade, logging-while-drilling (LWD) formation density and neutron porosity tools utilizing chemical radioactive sources have been added to resistivity, gamma ray, directional and other drilling parameter tools run as part of the bottomhole assembly (BHA) during drilling. These drill-collar mounted formation evaluation tools are now safely and reliably delivering high-quality data.

Field experience with one such tool, an LWD formation density-neutron porosity tool with wireline-retrievable logging sources, is discussed. The paper gives statistics that show the success in retrieving sources from LWD tools in stuck bottomhole assemblies. A number of operational safety techniques have been enhanced, resulting in a reliable and safe system. A new source retrieval and communications tool significantly enhances the tool's operational efficiency.

In the unlikely event that downhole conditions prevent retrieval of the chemical radioactive sources from the LWD tool, safe, well-established and accepted abandonment procedures are given.
Journey Management: A Structured Approach to Reducing Accidents
Authors: Ritchie R. D. , Greene Terry
Published: December 2007

In the past companies have addressed the problem of high Automobile Accident Rates (AAR) by focusing on Defensive Driving training and awareness. This approach has achieved limited success because emphasis was placed solely on the driving skills of the employee, allowing the actual cause of the automobile accident to go un-evaluated.

In addition, research has shown that for most vehicle fleets more than thirty percent of the running costs are the result of inefficiencies caused by incorrect choice of equipment, increased maintenance cost due to poor training and, finally, unnecessary trips due to poor supervision and planning.

The Journey Management Program has been introduced to look at the "big picture" of operating a fleet of vehicles safely and efficiently and was developed based on accident information collected in the field. The program builds on the existing Defensive Driving Training to cover all aspects of managing a fleet of vehicles. It consists of six modules and involves the entire work force from drivers up to management, as everyone has a responsibility to reduce automotive accidents.

This paper provides an in-depth study of the Journey Management Program and how its introduction into the Middle East area of operations resulted in reduction of the AAR along with considerable cost savings.
Radioactive Tracers in Oil and Gas Production: Practical Considerations in the 1990's
Authors: Abernathy S. E. , Woods S. E. , Taylor J. L.
Published: December 2007

Almost since the emergence of petroleum engineering as a distinct discipline, radioactive tracers have been used to study the in-situ placement and flow of various subsurface processes. Since very few techniques exist for determining the placement or flow of materials around wellbores, the use of tracers which emit gamma radiation capable of penetrating the casing and being detected by wireline conveyed instruments is an obvious and logical undertaking. Indeed, properly conducted radioactive tracer studies help provide a safe and cost-effective means of determining the location and placement of many types of treatments and procedures frequently performed on wells.

Radioactive tracers have been used to study nearly all aspects of drilling, completion, and production/injection in the petroleum, geothermal, and underground injection profiling. Moreover, advancements in handling and injection techniques have improved not only the tracer log interpretations, but the safety and environmental aspects as well.

A successful radioactive tracer study requires careful coordination and cooperation among all of the involved parties: tracer contractor, pumping service operator, wireline contractor, and well operator. This paper will discuss the methodology required to conduct reliable downhole tracer studies. Special attention will be devoted to the chemistry and mechanics of the tracer materials and their suitability to the various applications involved. Also, the techniques required to transport and inject these materials in the field without contaminating the associated pumping equipment and tubulars will be cited. Additionally, the logging instruments and techniques required for accurate in-situ detection will be discussed. Finally, the environmental considerations and recommended procedures for returning a well to normal operation after a tracer study will be covered.
Welding Hot Work Habitats
Authors: Browning I. G.
Published: December 2007

The 14 well Maui A (MPA) production platform supplies some 90% of New Zealand's gas and consequently any shut down is limited to only 10 hours by virtue of line pack. In 1990 further field development called for the installation of the Maui B platform producing through a multiphase pipeline to separation facilities on MPA.

It therefore became necessary to carry out widespread process modifications to MPA whilst simultaneously maintaining continuous production. Work scope included:

– diver assisted installation of pipeline riser and clamps, – fabrication of a new deck to support pipeline ESD valves and pig receiver, – removal of one of twelve LT separators and replacement by 2×70 tonne separators after floor strengthening, – extensive tie in of flowlines, blowdown piping, instrumentation and electrical cabling.

The above required extensive welding on both the structure and piping throughout the platform's process modules which could not be progressed without isolation from a possible gas leak.

To achieve the required isolation, "habitats" were fabricated from fibre board and lined internally with fire resistant material and blankets to fully enclose and seal the "hot work" area. Habitats were constructed in a variety of shapes and sizes to custom fit or enclose a specific work front. Control of the work was maintained under the Permit to Work system and simultaneous operating procedure.

Throughout the 18 months construction period, MPA never once went off-line for longer than 10 hours with modifications being completed on time and within budget. The paper will expand on habitat construction and the safety systems supporting their deployment.
HAZOP of Procedural Operations
Authors: Willis David , Deegan Frank , Owens M. J.
Published: December 2007

The HAZard and OPerability technique has been used for many years as a formal means for the review of chemical process designs, specifically from the standpoint of safety and operability. In addition to application of the technique to hardware systems, such as chemical process systems, the technique has been developed to address the same issues in systems which combine software and hardware, such as the drilling of oil and gas wells. The Drillers HAZOP technique has been used to review the drilling process where multidisciplinary teams of men work with high specification equipment to get or enhance the production of oil and gas from subterranean reservoirs while working to procedures.

This paper describes the further development of the technique, to incorporate more recent ideas for the identification of hazards and human factors to better assess the contribution made by the operator to the hazard as well as his potential for hazard mitigation. Development of the technique has been based upon the use of theoretical concepts which have been validated through use on commercial projects. The potential applications of the technique to procedural activities are enumerated to allow the reader to assess the relevance of the technique to his own environment. Further, development of the technique by integration with planning and improvement of the means of hazard identification are discussed.
Guidance for a Structured Approach of Risk Assessment in Offshore Developments
Authors: Chamoux Patrick
Published: December 2007

Risk Assessment is an important constituent in the development process of an offshore installation. To be safety, cost and schedule effective, its integration requires that the relevant measures should be taken, in a structured way, at the appropriate stages of a development project. This paper offers a presentation of the approach being recommended within Elf Aquitaine Production together with its practical implementation.
Hazard Analysis for the Amoco Netherlands P/15-P/18 Production Facilities in the North Sea
Authors: Engelhard W. F. J. M. , de Klepper F. H. , Hartmann D. W.
Published: December 2007

Introduction

This paper outlines the set-up and methodology of the Hazard Analysis, part of the Safety Case, for the Amoco Netherlands P/15-P/18 gas development. The Hazard Analysis was performed as a joint effort of TNO and Stork Protech. TNO is an independent technical research and consulting organisation with specialised knowledge in the field of safety technology.

Stork Protech is an engineering contractor, active among other in the field of offshore installations. TNO and Stork Protech joined forces in performing safety studies for the offshore oil and gas industry.

Safety Cases for new and existing offshore installations are now required by the Dutch Authorities.
Water-Fog Firefighting System
Authors: Gjestrum Einar , Sundholm Gøran
Published: December 2007

High Pressure water fog fire fighting systems are now-developed and approved for use in ships machinery spaces. Relatively small amount of fresh water are stored under high pressure in energy power units, and when activated, distributed by a large number of spray heads. In these heads the water is made into small droplets and propelled at high momentum into the whole machinery space. The fire is efficiently extinguished by a High Pressure Water Fog fire fighting system harmless to men and environment.
Caring for the Human Side: Developing a Critical Incident Debriefing (CID) Response Plan in a Midsize International Oil and Gas Company
Authors: Johnson R. B. , Hansen H. R.
Published: December 2007

Most companies prepare to protect and restore physical assets when a traumatic disaster occurs, but neglect to consider the "human side" — the short term and long term effects on the survivors. The costs of ignoring are large and the benefits of developing a C.I.D. (Critical Incident Debriefing) response are clear. The company EAP (Employee Assistance Program) may be best positioned to develop and deliver this response.
Preliminary Study on Alertness in Wireline and Testing Operations
Authors: Wertz Rick , Bartz S. M. , Stampi Claudio , Sirois W. G.
Published: December 2007

The objective of this paper is to quantify the alertness issue associated with working the irregular hours inherent to the wireline logging and well testing operations of the oilfield service industry.

It is widely recognized that oilfield service operations benefit from a well-rested and alert crew. However, operations can involve long, irregular work schedules, unplanned events, long periods of relatively low activity, sleep disturbances and/or circadian disruption. This can result in a fatigued crew working at a dangerously low alertness level. A simple response is to go to shift work and/or limit the number of hours worked in a given period. However, advancements in the scientific research on human biological clocks do not necessarily condone this methodology.

To understand alertness in the oilfield services industry, a questionnaire was developed to provide a qualitative reference identifying employee perception of the issues affecting alertness. The questionnaire is initially used to provide baseline data and finally to monitor progress/change. Actigraph measurements provide quantitative support data with actual measurement of the sleep/rest activity of crews over a period of time. The data provide the necessary correlation to the circadian rhythm and "sleep bank" status.

Preliminary results indicate that the circadian rhythm plays the primary role in alertness. The ideal solution is to eliminate the dangerous activities during definite low alertness periods in the circadian rhythm. The realistic solution is to understand means to impact the alertness level of the individual and implement strategies to maintain the level required for the operation. Understanding the recent advances in scientific research on the human biological clock and introducing effective management of the "switches of human alertness" will lead to maximization of alertness on the job.

Cultural change will result as the knowledge on the effects of irregular work hours and effective napping strategies evolves.
The Role of Oil and Gas Manpower Development Centre in Health, Safety, and Environment Training Activities
Authors: Fathoni Ahmad Zuhdan
Published: December 2007

Oil and Gas Manpower Development Centre (PPT MIGAS) is a government institution responsible for carrying out education and training programs for Indonesian employees working in oil and gas industries as well for other personnel overseas and developing countries.

On its activities, PPT Migas has been implementing Oil and Natural Gas Academy (AKAMIGAS) and miscellaneous courses from various disciplines: upstream-downstream including oil and gas exploration and production, processing, technical construction and maintenance, administration, and management topics since 1967.

The centre plays very important roles in developing knowledge, skill, and attitude needed for the employees in general and especially in Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) issues in order to maintain safety awareness in the oil and gas industries.

These roles are implemented on the programs and the course curricula which will be analysed and described in detail on this conference presentation.
Helicopters or Boats - Risk Management Options for Transport Offshore
Authors: Spouge JR , Smith EJ , Lewis KJ
Published: December 2007

The journey to and from offshore installations provides an important source of risk of accidental death for offshore workers. An appropriate transport policy is therefore a key element of effective risk management. This paper describes how quantitative risk assessment (QRA) may be used to guide this policy.

The paper identifies the contribution which transport makes to the total risk picture offshore, using accident experience and example risk analyses from the North Sea and South East Asia. Statistics on the risks of transport by helicopter, fixed-wing aircraft, boat, coach and car are presented.

Developing a comprehensive personnel transport policy involves comparing options such as:

Transport by different modes (i.e. helicopter or crew boat) Different crew change intervals (i.e. daily, weekly, monthly) Transport from different onshore locations (i.e. using road or fixed-wing aircraft to move personnel to a heliport nearer to the offshore installations)

As an example of such an analysis, the paper describes a QRA by DNV Technica for Brunei Shell Petroleum (BSP), which operates over 200 offshore platforms in the South China Sea. The risks were compared for various combinations of transport and offshore accommodation, and the effects of uncertainties in the data were explored. The study illustrated how relatively simple QRA techniques can provide valuable insight for companies undertaking major and potentially costly decisions.
Some Recent Global Trends in the Regulatory Control of Major Hazards in the Oil and Gas Exploration and Production Industries
Authors: Jones Dave , Donegani Andrew
Published: December 2007

This paper highlights some recent global trends in regulatory development with respect to the control of major hazards from both a safety and an environmental perspective in particular those trends illustrating performance-orientated or goal- setting regimes are discussed. The aim of the paper is to focus on some of the common regulatory requirements and the use of hazard/risk assessment, safety management systems and emergency planning techniques to ensure compliance. The emphasis is on the use of pragmatic, experience-based methods. The impact of this new legislation on business is discussed, and potential spin-off benefits are identified. New regulation currently under development is also considered, and a view of potential future regulatory direction is presented.
The Management of Safety Using a Systems Approach
Authors: Whittingham R. B. , Wallace I. G.
Published: December 2007

The underlying basis of the approach described in this paper is that any operation or project can be characterised by means of a discrete set of essential activities which need to be implemented for the objectives of the whole operation to be met. A sub-set of activities within this total set are safety related activities. It is the way in which they are managed which ultimately determines the safety of the operation. The approach was developed from a study of recent major accidents which clearly attributed the root cause of most of these accidents to deficiencies in the management of safety critical activities i.e activities which, if not carried out, or if carried out incorrectly, could result in an accident.
Implementing Operations Integrity Management System (OIMS)
Authors: Jones J. E. , Ariffin A. B.
Published: December 2007

In 1992, Exxon affiliates throughout the world began implementing an expanded, formal safety management system known as Operations Integrity Management System, or OIMS. This paper will present a summary of OIMS elements, as well as the approach Esso Production Malaysia, Inc. (EPMI) has taken to implement OIMS and further improve its existing successful safety programs to realize the additional benefits associated with OIMS.
Development of Integrated Safety, Environmental, and Quality Management Systems for the Oil and Gas Industries
Authors: Alderman J. A. , Donegani Andrew
Published: December 2007

The oil and gas industry worldwide face a host of safety, environmental, and quality (SE&Q) requirements, driven by regulation, company, and industry standards. Their ability to demonstrate good management practices in these areas is significant beyond the obvious, efficient operation of their facilities, extending to impacting decisions on location of plant sites and gaining external capital funding. Hence, for many different reasons, developing SE&Q management systems has become a high priority throughout the industry.

Experience shows, however, that demonstrating adherence with wide-ranging requirements is a significant undertaking, and efforts to achieve this are often misdirected. Many have considered their SE&Q systems as effectively three separate entities, with few interconnections. Difficulties arise from this approach--the numerous audits and noncompliance corrections required in each field can become an intolerable burden, as can resolving apparent conflicts between standards. As a result, compliance can become an empty exercise, with little benefit to the organization, while valuable resources are underutilized for productive work.

So how does an organization address this "multistandard" issue without overwhelming the operation? The key is to apply common sense. There is only one management system operating within an organization, not three, and the operations should actually be carried out on a daily basis in this manner. Therefore, the solution is based on an integrated approach that incorporates SE&Q requirements within a single, unified management system. A methodology for achieving this will be described, the key features being:

Integration of the requirements of standards/regulations into one audit package; Assessment of the actual management practices against this package, through interviewing and observing; and Development/implementation of resulting changes on a structural basis.
Diagnosis and Target Setting in Drilling and Engineering Operations Using Tripod-DELTA
Authors: Hudson P. T. W. , Primrose M. J. , Cranmore Robert
Published: December 2007

Tripod-DELTA provides a way of identifying latent failures, potential causes of accidents. This paper reports on how Tripod-DELTA was used in two E & P operational settings, Engineering and Drilling, to diagnose underlying problems and set up systems to implement remedial actions. Implications for further implementation, with structured diagnosis and remediation, arc discussed.
First-Line Supervisors in the Offshore Oil Industry
Authors: McGoldrick D. A.
Published: December 2007

A survey of offshore first line supervisors on the UKCS installations identified the significance of their role in terms of performance, job satisfaction and safety. Many respondents felt that the offshore environment changed supervisory style and work discipline, and some felt that the general work regime was affected. More than half of the respondents felt that the combination of working, socialising and living with their shift could influence supervisory decisions.
An Integrative Micro- and Macroergonomic Framework for the Reduction of Human Error Potential: A Case Study of an Oil and Gas Pipeline System’s Control Room
Authors: Meshkati Najmedin
Published: December 2007

Human error plays a significant role in oil and gas pipeline systems’ incidents and accidents. According to one study, operator error was the "direct cause" and was responsible for 30.9% of 500 incidents involving pipework failure and subsequent chemical release. The material presented in this paper is based on findings of an investigation of control room operations of a U.S.- based oil and gas pipeline company. Notwithstanding, the utilized framework and its findings could be applied to the control rooms of other pipeline systems. Both the micro- and macroergonomic considerations are discussed; suggestions for the reduction of potential for human error through the elimination of human-task and human-machine mismatches are offered.
Implementing Tripod-DELTA in a Major Contractor
Authors: Hudson P. T. W. , Primrose M. J. , Edwards Cliff
Published: December 2007

Tripod-DELTA, the D iagnostic EvaLuation Tool for Accident Prevention1 based upon the Tripod model2, is aimed primarily at understanding how human error causes accidents. Instead of concentrating upon immediate or active failures, usually by front-line operators such as rig floor workers, helicopter pilots etc., Tripod stresses the existence of latent failures, pre-date problems and weaknesses within a system which predate and cause active failures.

Tripod stresses that the most useful information from incidents is that reflecting the General Failure Types (GFTs) which represent underlying rather than immediate causes. Tripod-DELTA is a tool for assessing the state of the GFTs directly, without waiting for incidents. Tripod-DELTA generates a Failure State Profile (Fig 1) and then defines procedures for interpreting such profiles to improve the organisation's safety.

In order to get such a 'safety health’ profile, the DELTA approach uses checklists of indicators drawn from a larger database of indicators of weakness or success within the operation under study, related to the individual GFTs. Databases comprise indicator questions proposed by operators and specialists in the operation, based upon their own experience and developed in terms of features of the ‘ideal operation’.