bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of Permeability Anisotropy and Reservoir Heterogeneity on Optimization of Infill Drilling in Naturally Fractured Tight-Gas Mesaverde Sandstone Reservoirs, San Juan Basin
Authors: Al-Hadrami H. K. , Teufel L. W.
Published: December 2007

Production of Mesaverde tight-gas reservoirs is highly dependent on natural fractures. Fractures not only enhance the overall permeability, they also create significant permeability anisotropy that causes the drainage area of the wells to be elliptical. Elongated drainage areas creates production interference and drainage overlap between adjacent wells that are aligned in the maximum horizontal permeability direction, and increases the potential for leaving large sections of the reservoirs undrained. In addition, the Mesaverde sandstone reservoirs are locally heterogeneous, because of their fluvial depositional environment. Reservoir characterization and simulation models have been conducted in two pilot areas to predict reservoir quality, permeability anisotropy, well productivity for infill wells drilled on 80 acre spacing. Simulation results are compared to well performance of these infill wells and demonstrate the value of reservoir simulation in determining effective drainage areas, optimum location, and additional recovery of infill wells.
Predicting Natural Fracture Distribution in Reservoirs From 3D Seismic Estimates of Structural Curvature
Authors: Belfield William C.
Published: December 2007

Natural fracturing is a manifestation of brittle strain imparted to the rock mechanical units during deformation. It seems logical that attempts to predict distribution of fractures in reservoirs should then use strain-based measures as a guide. One way of estimating relative strain is with structural curvature. The approach taken here is to examine curvature as a function of scale. The reason for the scaling approach is to examine folds of different wavelengths for fracture potential. With this technique, principal curvature magnitude and direction can be determined at any point on the seismic grid and at any scale. From the principal curvatures an estimate of preferred fracture orientation can be made. Comparison of preferred orientation estimates made by this technique with borehole measurements of preferred orientation using imaging tools show very good correlation. The correlation holds even when fracture orientations are oblique to the maximum in-situ stress. When relative strain measures derived from the principal curvatures are compared to well-productivity indices, a positive correlation is found. This suggests that the technique is able to both identify areas of increased fracture potential and determine preferred orientation prior to drilling.
Case History: Observations From Diagnostic Injection Tests in Multiple Pay Sands of the Mamm Creek Field, Piceance Basin, Colorado
Authors: Craig David P. , Odegard Chad E. , Pearson Walter C. , Schroeder James E.
Published: December 2007

The objective of diagnostic fracture injection tests is to optimize multi-sand completions by estimating pore pressure and permeability in each lenticular sand. Since December 1998, over 200 diagnostic fracture injection tests have been pumped into isolated Piceance Basin Mesaverde sands in an effort to optimize well completions. The diagnostic injection tests were implemented to qualitatively identify the presence of fractures/fissures, to provide estimates of pore pressure and permeability, and to optimize the perforation scheme for effective limited entry fracture treatment diversion. This paper describes the diagnostic fracture injection test methodology, summarizes the results, and provides illustrative examples of typical Mesaverde sandstone pressure falloff response.

The results from 201 diagnostic fracture injection tests show extreme differences in reservoir quality between sands with very similar openhole log signatures.

While approximately half of the injection tests indicate open fractures/fissures through pressure-dependent leakoff, it is quite common to observe relatively high-permeability (kg > 0.050-md) without indications of open fractures/fissures. Permeability estimates between pay sands separated by less than 50-ft have been observed from kg < 0.001-md to kg > 0.100-md. Several examples of sands damaged by drilling mud invasion (fracturing) have also been verified with the diagnostic injection test analysis, which can differentiate between reservoir fluid permeability and fracture face damage. Since the differences in reservoir quality are identified with a pre-frac diagnostic injection test, the final perforation scheme can also be adjusted to ensure a limited entry fracture treatment will divert to the "best" reservoir rock.

Although the results presented are specific to the Piceance Basin, the methodology and analytical techniques are valid in all basins.
In-Situ Determination of Residual Gas Saturation by Injection and Production of Brine
Authors: Bragg J.R. , Shallenberger L.K.
Published: December 2007

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

A new in-situ procedure has been developed for measuring the residual gas saturation in watered-out zones of gas reservoirs. Gas-free formation brine is injected into a well penetrating the water-invaded zone to dissolve the penetrating the water-invaded zone to dissolve the residual gas from a region around the wellbore. The brine is then produced from the well. The volume of brine containing no dissolved gas is then determined by sampling the brine and analyzing for gas content. The original residual gas saturation can be calculated from these data.

The procedure has been confirmed by computer simulation and by laboratory tests on a long glass-bead pack. Two full-scale field tests have also been conducted; the interpretation of one of these tests is discussed in detail.

Introduction

Water invasion is a significant drive mechanism in many natural gas reservoirs. The residual gas saturation left behind the water front is an important parameter required for accurate prediction of recoverable reserves, frontal advance velocity, and optimal production scheduling.

The traditional method for determining residual gas saturation is laboratory waterflooding of core plugs. With that method there is usually some uncertainty as to whether the core samples used are truly representative of the entire reservoir zone, or whether the displacement process is representative of that within the reservoir. Pressure coring has been used successfully to measure residual gas saturations, but it is a very expensive procedure which requires that a new well be drilled in an already-depleted portion of the reservoir. In theory, neutron logging methods could be used in existing water-invaded wells to measure the residual saturation. However, cased-hole logging tools sample a relatively small volume of reservoir, and local wellbore effects might produce results that are not typical of general produce results that are not typical of general reservoir conditions.

In the new method described here, a relatively large volume of reservoir around a well is observed. Brine containing no gas is injected into the well, dissolving the residual gas within a circular zone around the wellbore. Brine is then produced from the well, and the concentration of dissolved gas in the brine is measured during production. The original residual gas saturation in the zone can be calculated from the amount of brine produced before dissolved gas appears.

This paper describes the theory of the method, results from laboratory and field tests, and results from test simulations using mathematical models. The test accuracy and range of applicability determined from field experience are reported.
Field Results Verify Afterflow Analysis From D.S.T. and Short Time Production Test
Authors: Milner E.E. , Warren D.A. , Claiborne P.M.
Published: December 2007

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

The actual production performance of a number of wells have been compared to predictions made by the McKinley afterflow analysis of drill stem test and short time production test data on these wells.

Many formations are tested for short time periods that do not give sufficient or periods that do not give sufficient or conclusive data for reservoir analysis by conventional methods thereby necessitating use of an afterflow method.

The example wells in this study show low permeability, wellbore damage, two zones permeability, wellbore damage, two zones with a large contrast in permeability, artificial stimulation and naturally occurring fracture systems with a tight matrix.

Example plotted curve shapes of the above conditions are illustrated along with a discussion of how to recognize and use each. Limitations as well as the applications of the McKinley afterflow method are discussed.

The most important use of the McKinley After-flow Method is the ability to predict the tight matrix production rate of a well after a stimulated wellbore area has been depleted. Comparison of drill stem test analysis before completion with production test analysis after completion on the same well give comparable answers.

Data on a group of wells selected from South Texas, the Permian Basin and Rocky Mountain areas have been furnished by the industry and the results are shown in Table 3. Illustrations of D.S.T. charts, Horner plots, McKinley plots and production decline curves are shown plots and production decline curves are shown for most examples.

The conclusions reached from this study show the McKinley afterflow method gives reliable predictions of reservoir performance when predictions of reservoir performance when conventional analysis methods cannot be used.
Seafloor Wells and TFL A Review of Nine Operating Years
Authors: Keprta Donald F.
Published: December 2007

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

Atlantic Richfield has completed eight sea-floor wells in the Eugene Island Block 175 Field, offshore Louisiana. Initial installation was in 1966. These wells are remotely operated and serviced from a central platform through flowlines of lengths up to 6,175 feet. Operation of the wellheads and a variety of through-flowline (TFL) procedures have been performed repeatedly since installation. performed repeatedly since installation. Although equipment failures have occurred, control of the wells has always been maintained.

This paper describes the surface, seafloor and downhole equipment installed, TFL operations and significant problems encountered.

Introduction

The Eugene Island Block 175 Field is 70 miles southwest of Morgan City, Louisiana. Water depth is 85 feet. It is a piercement salt dome, multi-reservoir field, with productive intervals between 7,000 and 12,000 feet. Original oil production was established in 1957 with wells drilled from a platform ("A") located on the southern portion of the block. Another platform ("B") was set in the center of the block in 1958. Platform "A" was destroyed during Hurricane "Hilda" in October, 1964. Consequently all wells from that platform were reentered and plugged. This loss platform were reentered and plugged. This loss resulted in the decision to utilize seafloor completions to minimize the chance of losing wells to hurricanes and to expedite reestablishment of oil production.

Two wells were initially drilled and made seafloor completions to exploit the reserves from the Platform "A" area. The wells were connected by flowlines to the "B" platform. Production from these wells was initiated in Production from these wells was initiated in September, 1966. Exploratory drilling in the northeast quarter of the block resulted in discovery of a major field extension. Again, early exploitation was afforded by drilling and completion with a mobile rig and flowline tie-ins to "B" platform. Five seafloor wells were completed on the east flank under that program. The final seafloor well was program. The final seafloor well was completed in the "A" platform area in August, 1969.

Subsequent to the completion of the eight seafloor wells, an 18-slot platform was installed and field development was completed by drilling directional wells. Economic comparison of seafloor wells to platform wells is not attempted in this appraisal.
An Overview of the Global Health, Safety, and Environmental Program for Advanced Well-Construction Systems
Authors: Coats E. Alan , Preston David , Figenschou Anne Nilsen
Published: December 2007

This case-history paper presents details for a health, safety, and environmental (HSE) program, jointly developed by a service company and an oil company as part of an advanced, software-controlled, composite coiled-tubing, offshore drilling system. This drilling system can enable oil companies to economically harvest known hydrocarbon zones that were previously bypassed and to find and exploit new reserves.

From the feasibility study forward, the latest HSE standards were incorporated into all phases of the project. The resultant Global HSE Program allowed access to the knowledge and experience of professionals from all parts of both organizations. This paper provides a detailed description of the national, cultural, engineering, and logistical challenges overcome during the development of the HSE Program.

The paper also illustrates how teams from design, manufacturing, operations, maintenance, technical safety, HSE, quality verification, and management were unified for delivering a safe product. Included is an overview of the specific requirements necessary to fully define the unit for deployment in the Norwegian sector.
Repair of Buried Submarine Pipelines in the Long Beach Unit
Authors: Ellison W.F. , Robuck R.D.
Published: December 2007

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

This report covers the planning, acquisition of equipment and materials, and organizational staffing employed by THUMS Long Beach Co. to accomplish in-place repairs of buried submarine pipelines.

This paper includes a description of (1) methods and procedures developed to satisfy demands of the work environment, and (2) those actions taken for the protection and preservation of the marine environment. preservation of the marine environment

Introduction

THUMS Long Beach Co., acting in the capacity of agent for the field contractor, Texaco, Humble (now Exxon), union, Mobil, and Shell, furnishes the operating services for the City of Long Beach, unit operator for the Long Beach Unit, in the East Wilmington field. The 400,000 bbl (approximate) of gross fluids produced offshore each day are collected through produced offshore each day are collected through a submarine pipeline system linking the four man-made islands, in the San Pedro Bay less than 1 mile offshore from the City of Long Beach, Calif., with onshore treating facilities. The buried pipeline system consists of 30 miles of 6-, 8-, 12-, and 14-in. pipe buried 7 to 15 ft beneath the bottom of the bay in 30 to 40 ft of water. All lines are externally somastic coated for corrosion protection. The larger lines are weighted with 1 1/2 to 2 in. of reinforced concrete coating. Installation of the pipelines was made by the lay-barge method in 1966 and 1967. Each joint was metallurgically inspected, 100 percent of the welds were x-ray inspected, and the lines were hydrostatically tested after placement.

The entire pipeline network is externally protected with an impressed current cathodic protected with an impressed current cathodic system. Additionally, pipeline scraper facilities were installed to facilitate weekly scraping of the lines.

From the beginning, field operations were developed with great concern for protection of the environment and, in particular, prevention of an oil spill immediately offshore and adjacent to one of the nation's most attractive recreational beach areas.

As soon as equipment became available and techniques were perfected to make internal pipe evaluations of the integrity of the pipelines, surveys were initiated and have been run at intervals of approximately 6 months.
The Effect of Poisson's Ratio on Rock Properties
Authors: Kumar J.
Published: December 2007

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

This paper presents various relationships between Poisson's ratio and other rock properties such as overburden pressure, bulk properties such as overburden pressure, bulk compressibility, Young's modulus, modulus of rigidity, compressive and tensile strength, porosity, density, wave velocities, modulus of porosity, density, wave velocities, modulus of resilience, modulus of rupture, fractures, drillability, and hardness. Thus, it points out the importance of Poisson's ratio in the understanding of some of the questions in rock mechanics.

Introduction

Though the change in Poisson's ratio for various types of rocks is small in general, sometimes this change can be significant. Assumption of a constant value of Poisson's ratio in some cases may result in serious errors. Unfortunately, the importance of Poisson's ratio in the understanding of other rock properties is not fully realized and very little work, both theoretical and practical, has been done on this subject. This paper presents various relationships between Poisson's ratio and other rock properties such as overburden pressure, bulk properties such as overburden pressure, bulk compressibility, Young's modulus, modulus of rigidity, compressive and tensile strength, porosity, density, wave velocities, modulus of porosity, density, wave velocities, modulus of resilience, modulus of rupture, fractures, drillability, and hardness. Thus, it points out the importance of Poisson's ratio in the understanding of some of the questions in rock mechanics.

POISSON'S RATIO POISSON'S RATIOWhen a force is applied to a body, at right angles to the force, a certain amount of lateral (transverse) expansion or contraction takes place. This phenomenon is shown in Fig. 1. In place. This phenomenon is shown in Fig. 1. In other words, it can be said that, if a solid body is subjected to an axial tension, it contracts laterally; on the other hand, if it is compressed, the material expands sidewise.

So the definition of Poisson's ratio can be stated as the ratio of transverse strain to axial strain induced by unconfined axial deformation. Poisson's ratio can be expressed as(1)

where the strains are caused by uniaxial strain only.

Generally, values of Poisson's ratio vary between 0.25 and 0.35.
Why HSE MS/Cases for External Environmental Certification in an Operating Company
Authors: Amadi Amadi , Sunmonu Mutiu , Benebo Tari
Published: December 2007

The SPDC Alakiri experience has demonstrated that the preferred route to external environmental certification is the implementation of an HSE management system aligned to ISO 14001 standard.

This approach is consistent with Shell HSE MS requirements and guarantees staff and contractor buy-in, promotes ownership and accountability and yields result faster. There is the added merit of very little additional cost required to align the HSE MS elements with ISO 14001 elements, mainly from consultancy and verification/certification fees.

Also, adopting an integrated (HSE MS) approach to risk management enables the component risks in the business to be weighed from the perspectives of their Health, Safety and Environmental impact, and how any failure in the ineffective administration of one would interrelate and/or impact on another.

However, in using HSE MS as a vehicle for external environmental certification in an operating company, it is essential to distinguish between HSE MS ‘Risk’ as described using the Risk Assessment Matrix (RAM) and ‘significant environmental aspect’ as used under the ISO 14001 regime. More parameters are considered in determining environmental significance. Once an ‘E’ aspect is adjudged as significant, the onus is on the asset custodian to show that there are operational controls in place to mitigate against the release of the hazard(s) as well as ensure the reduction of residual risks/impact to as low as reasonably practicable (ALARP).

Other benefits of an HSE MS approach include (i) HSE competence development for staff and contractor personnel HSE competencies all at once, sufficient to address gaps in technical operations and contractor activities. (ii) Focus on operational control to manage inherent risk. (iii) Significant cost savings from material and energy consumption. (iv) Reduction in HSE incidents, not just environmental incidents and (v) Co-operative and harmonious relationship with stakeholders, especially host communities. A positive relationship with host communities results in less production deferment and better public image. Overall, our experience with the pilot project has demonstrated that with management commitment and motivation to change attitude, external environmental certification is achievable in a complex operating company.
Developments in the understanding of working on extended nights offshore
Authors: Miles Robert W
Published: December 2007

This paper explains the UK HSE regulatory position with regard to shiftwork and the need for shiftwork to become part of the risk management process. Advances in research understanding are reviewed and the growing evidence for the adjustment of offshore workers to continuous night shifts is discussed. Data is presented to demonstrate the significant effects of shiftwork and fatigue on accident rate. The problem of preferred vs. safest shift patterns is discussed and suggestions made as to how this problem may be addressed.
Systematic Assessment of Human Error Potential in Operations
Authors: Thomas Jeffrey J. , Noerager Jere A. , Danz-Reece Mary E. , Pennycook Wayne A.
Published: December 2007

HFAST (Human Factors Analysis Software Tool) is a self-help software tool used by operating sites to identify the potential for human error in the design, operation, and maintenance of site systems. Reduced error potential results in fewer errors in daily operations, leading to improved safety and more efficient operations. Through a process of consensus, the team rates diagnostic statements about the conditions at their site in as many as 14 general categories for improvement (e.g., field workplace design, procedures, training, communication structure). Based on these responses, the program produces a report that provides guiding principles for improving the design of systems and work processes to reduce the potential for human error. This paper describes the genesis and development of the tool, how the tool would be used by an operating site, and provides examples of site benefits from applying the tool.
Ergonomics in Material Handling in the Offshore Petroleum Industry
Authors: Throndsen Thor Inge , Lund Jan Petter , Torsteinsen Rønnaug , Salbo Terje
Published: December 2007

The paper focuses on the challenges that the material handling on offshore petroleum installations represent, with regard to the possible harmful effects on health.

The term material handling covers all handling of materials, goods and supplies. This includes offloading from a supply vessel and all operations in connection with operation, maintenance and repair. The term ergonomics covers all the manual handling in connection with the material handling operations. In Norway the term working environment (WE) includes ergonomics and other physical and mental factors that influence on the personnel.

The effect of poor solutions for material handling may be low efficiency, exposure to risk, near misses, incidents and lost time injuries. There is a common goal from an operational and an HSE/ergonomic point of view to create solutions that make material handling efficient with a reduced risk for incidents, accidents and occupational diseases. In project work we are focusing on how we in a systematic manner can transfer our experience from operations to other installations and to modification or development projects. A systematic approach to ergonomics at an early stage in design creates better solutions and reduce the need for later modifications and corrective actions.
The Bohai Sea Oil Exploration and Environmental Protection
Authors: Zhijie Fan , Chunyin Song
Published: December 2007

A comprehensive review is given in this paper on marine pollution and its management in the Bohai Sea-a internal sea of China. With fast industrialization in the last two decades along the coast of the Bohai Sea, more and more pollutants discharged into the coastal waters and caused environmental disaster-a dying sea. The monitoring results have shown that 90% of the pollutants come from land-based pollution sources, which have a fundamental impacts on marine environmental quality, on marine organisms and resources and on human health. During the last ten years, the government and scientists had set up many projects including monitoring network, environmental survey, loading capacity study and formulation of management framework. However, all the projects have a little effective on the Bohai Sea environmental quality as a whole. In the late of 90's, integrated coastal zone management (ICM) was introduced into China under the support of International Maritime Organization. The approach and methodologies have changed towards the comprehensive Bohai Sea pollution control and environmental management including international organizations, central government, local authorities and stakeholders. Presently, the central government has paid a great attention to the Bohai Sea pollution problems and initiated a "Blue Sea Action Plan" which lays a foundation to the ICM. Finally, pollution control measures are listed including the laws, regulations and environmental quality standards, as well as stipulation of marine environmental management measures. Some suggestions to improve marine environmental quality and to control oil pollution in the Bohai Sea are discussed.
Management of Oil & Gas Exploration and Production in the Zamrud Conservation Area
Authors: Yunan Arief , Haryanto Bambang
Published: December 2007

This paper describes how Caltex Pacific Indonesia (CPI) manages the development of oil and gas production in the Zamrud conservation area. This management began with a "green" seismic project, "zero discharge" drilling, produced water management, preservation of nature, and includes delivering oil to the sales point. The challenges come not only from internal issues in preserving the environment during oil field operations, but also from the cultivated surrounding areas, which leads to growing pressure on the conservation area.

As global energy demand continues to grow, the oil and gas companies are expanding their exploration and production activities into some of the most sensitive and remote ecosystems. The Zamrud field is one of the example sensitive ecosystems where CPI is exploring and producing oil and gas. The history of oil and gas development in the sensitive tropical ecosystems has been marked by conflicts with the environmentalists and isolated indigenous communities. However, CPI in line with its vision, mission and values in preserving its area of operation has implemented viable techniques, technologies and innovative management approaches – as well as improved communications among companies, governments and local communities – which have increased the potential to reduce the risks of oil and gas development.

High commitment to the environment, which is reflected in an integrated effort between the government, CPI, and the local people and other institutions, has resulted in successfully preserving the conservation area. Application of the latest drilling and production technology has contributed to the success in maximizing oil production and at the same time preserving the environment.

CPI manages exploration and production operations that have proven to be good practices for the future, and has implemented viable techniques to ensure conservation of the environment while exploring for and developing hydrocarbons for the Government of Indonesia.
Heart Disease Prevention in the Workplace: A Case Study
Authors: Babalola R. O. , Fagade O. A. , Ajayi P. A.
Published: December 2007

Many oil companies operate in the developing world, where the infrastructure for good health care is deficient, awareness of healthy living low, and information on health issues scarce. Chevron Nigeria (CNL) operates in that kind of environment, and has responded to the situation by providing first class health care facilities for employees and their dependants in its areas of operations.

As part of preventive health efforts, the medical division organized a campaign and a screening program to improve awareness on the risk factors for Coronary Heart Disease, and to screen employees for the risk factors. It involved lectures, posters, mail messages, and intensive electronic campaign to reach all employees. Screening for high blood pressure, diabetes mellitus, elevated Cholesterol, Obesity, Smoking and Exercise habits followed. Individual results on risk assessment were sent, with advice on remedial measures.

The response to the campaign was overwhelming, with records indicating over 75% employee participation. The number of registered hypertensives attending the clinics has risen, more employees now engage in regular physical exercise at the company provided facilities (>1000% increase).

We found a higher prevalence of Hypertension, Obesity and Hypercholesterolemia amongst our employees than has been reported in the general Nigerian population. Our field-based employees were at greater risk than office-based employees.

We conclude that oil industry workers in Nigeria are at increased risk for Coronary heart disease compared with the general population. Workplace health programs can be used effectively for heart disease prevention, and to protect the human resource of companies operating in developing countries.

We recommend increased preventive health efforts to Oil companies operating in these areas.
An Approximate Three - Dimensional Reservoir Simulation Model
Authors: Watts J.W. , Huang H.Y.
Published: December 2007

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

A new method for solving two-dimensional cross-sectional and three-dimensional reservoir simulation problems has been developed. It uses the basic reservoir flow equations, but it solves them only approximately.

The new method has been tested on a variety of problems. The results of these tests show the approximations involved to be quite accurate in reservoirs that have good vertical communication. In reservoirs with restricted vertical communication, the results are less accurate but are generally good enough for most engineering purposes.

The new method uses less computing time than conventional simulation. The amount of improvement obtained is quite problem-dependent; decreases of 28 to 67 percent problem-dependent; decreases of 28 to 67 percent were obtained in the set of test cases run.

Introduction

Reservoirs have three dimensions. However, for economic reasons, they are often modeled in two dimensions. Several approaches have been attempted to reduce three-dimensional problems to two dimensions. Breitenbach et al. problems to two dimensions. Breitenbach et al. assumed that the degree of fluid segregation could be estimated beforehand and used this assumption to calculate average interblock relative permeabilities. Coats et al. used pseudo relative permeability and capillary pressure functions based on vertical equilibrium. These two approaches did not account for reservoir stratification. Hearn accounted for stratification but had to assume that no crossflow occurred. Only Jacks et al. could account for both crossflow and reservoir stratification. However, they had to run a series of representative cross sections to generate their pseudo functions.

This paper describes a new approach. The three-dimensional grid is retained instead of being reduced to two dimensions. The full three-dimensional set of equations is solved, but it is solved only approximately. This generally results in a significant reduction of computing time. In most cases, this is done with little loss in accuracy.
Risk Management in Exploration Drilling
Authors: Thorogood John L. , Hovde Finn , Loefsgaard Dag
Published: December 2007

In late 1997 BP Amoco realised that a step change in drilling performance, including HSE performance, was necessary to sustain the future of the Norwegian operation. A review was undertaken to determine what factors contributed to really successful exploration drilling projects. A detailed planning process was developed and underpinned by a set of Ten Principles.

The results have been outstanding and exceeded management expectations as regards time, cost and HSE performance – not to mention the technical results of the wells in terms of data acquisition, coring and testing. From a drilling performance standpoint all five exploration wells drilled after introduction of this new process are in either the first or second quartile wells.

Identifying, understanding and managing the HSE and financial risks involved in an operation is vital to achieve world class levels of performance. One of the key features of the process is the way risk assessment is seamlessly integrated into the work flow of the project. The paper describes how this is achieved right from the outset of the project and how it continues in increasing detail to completion of the operation. The paper explains the critical stages of the process, the key principles and results. The paper outlines the methodologies applied and how team members are involved.
Restoration of Coastal Wetlands Using Treated Drill Cuttings
Authors: Veil J. A. , Johnson N. , Ford J. K.
Published: December 2007

One of the most serious environmental problems facing coastal Louisiana is the loss of wetlands. The oil and gas industry has contributed to erosion of coastal wetlands through extensive dredging of canals for drilling and production and to allow boat access to the Gulf of Mexico. This paper describes an innovative approach to restoring some of those wetlands using treated drill cuttings, a waste material generated in the same wetlands areas, as a substrate for vegetation. Rather than disposing of drill cuttings as a waste material, they can be reused for beneficial environmental restoration. The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) provided funding to develop and pursue this pollution prevention/wetlands restoration strategy. Researchers at Southeastern Louisiana University (SLU) conducted laboratory mesocosm studies to determine whether treated drill cuttings would support growth of wetlands vegetation. SLU grew wetlands vegetation in 200- liter containers under four different hydrological regimes and found that treated cuttings allowed growth of wetlands vegetation to an extent comparable to that of dredged materials, another substrate used in wetlands restoration projects. A second set of mesocosm studies will begin in 2000 to better refine the treatment of cuttings to make them more suitable as a substrate. A team of representatives from DOE, Argonne National Laboratory, SLU, an oil field waste treatment company, and an independent oil and gas operator has worked for several years to gain regulatory approval for the project and to identify sites that would be good candidates for a demonstration of the approach. This paper describes the regulatory approaches pursued by the team, the difficulties experienced, and the lessons learned to date.
Social Responsibility and the Sustainable Economic Development of Oil and Gas Producing Communities in Nigeria.
Authors: Agbon I. S.
Published: December 2007

In the this century, the social responsibility of oil and gas companies will include not just health, safety and environment, but also the sustainable economic development of host communities. Today, in most host communities around the world, local community organizations protesting environmental pollution and economic underdevelopment are making it impossible for oil and gas companies to operate without engaging in social engineering or economic development activities. In Nigeria, the local community struggles have interrupted operations on numerous occasions leading to declarations of force majeure. In the last five years, these interruptions have become widespread, better organized, and more violent. Company workers have been kidnapped for ransom, hostages taken, flowstations and other surface facilities occupied and access roads to plants and offices blocked.

This paper examines the struggles of local grassroot organizations for sustainable economic development and environmental conservation in the oil and gas producing areas of the Niger Delta of Nigeria. The impact of oil and gas operations on the environment and the development of the communities are also examined. The linkages between environmental conditions and sustainable economic development are highlighted. The relationship amongst the host communities, oil companies and Federal Government of Nigeria is analyzed in detail. A project economics model that captures the cost and benefits of investments in sustainable economic development is developed.

The paper concludes that the social responsibilities of oil companies should encompass the sustainable economic development of host communities. An economic evaluation model that captures profitability from the perspertives of the oil companies, the host communities, the Nigerian government and the shareholder is recommended. This approach encourages the cost-effective participation of the inhabitants of the host communities, the oil companies, the shaeholders and the Nigerian government in the economic development process. A balanced growth strategy is proposed for the sustainable economic development of host communities in the Niger Delta of Nigeria.
Oil-and Gas Development as a Potential Threat to Protected Areas and Pristine Wilderness in the South-East Barents Sea and Nenets Autonomous Okrug – Habitat Fragmentation and Contamination
Authors: Kotkin N. J. , Boere G. C. , Hindrum R.
Published: December 2007

This paper is based on experiences from the joint co-operation on nature protection between the Russian – Norwegian working group on biological diversity and the Goskomekologiya NAO, and the Russian – Dutch environmental co-operation.

Results from previous research work in the Pechora region and the South East Barents Sea shows that the actual region is of an outmost importance for protection of areas with ecological key functions and high wilderness quality and richness. Simultaneously this area contains biological resources of significant importance to the people living in the region and nature resources of high potential economical interest. Exploring for oil and gas in the Pechora delta and bay has already led to local oil contamination and disfigured localities from property left of constructions, and illegal fishing has caused decline in salmon and whitefish stocks in the Pechora River and Bay. Oil and gas development in other parts of the NAO shows similar experiences.

In 1998 the part of the regional nature reserve Nenetsky Zakaznik on the northern part of the Malosemelskaja tundra was upgraded to Zapovednik status. The searching for oil and gas in the Pechora River, Bay and Sea is bordering this extremely valuable and rich wilderness area. Also other protected areas, areas planned for protection, or other important habitats to protect the biodiversity of the region are threatened by the oil and gas industry.

Based on the expectations to find and utilise large oil and gas reservoirs in this region, it is of outmost importance to protect the wilderness from habitat fragmentation and to establish the best environmental practises and criteria to secure that the development will be sustainable as much as possible. This paper gives an overview of the existing and possible conflicts to nature protection and attempts to give a brief outline of future challenges and plans. It also questions the seminar theses "Progress to sharing values".
Decommissioning of the Balmoral Installation (UK North Sea) BPEO Case Study
Authors: Linzi P. , Harley L. , Picken G.
Published: December 2007

It is anticipated that the infrastructures used to exploit the reservoirs of the Balmoral, Glamis and Sterling fields, in the UK Continental Shelf, will be decommissioned within the next two to three years. Agip (U.K.) Ltd intends to decommission the installations in full accordance with the latest international regulations and to the highest standard of environmental protection and safety.

Various decommissioning options for the 10,000 tonnes of sub-sea components (including a template, trees, flowlines, pipelines and ancillary equipment), were assessed and measured in relation to their performance in five categories, to identify the Best Practicable Environmental Option (BPEO).

The measures for the five categories are in different ‘currencies’ and cannot be combined to produce a single value, to allow a meaningful comparison of the options and the identification of that which best fits the goals. Some element of judgement shall be used to combine the results of the individual assessments.

The assessment of the options for the decommissioning of the sub-sea template, partly imbedded in a mound of cutting piles, were particularly challenging because of the effects associated with the disturbance and re-suspension of the cuttings. The decommissioning options for the flowlines and pipelines were also reviewed in great detail in consideration of the safety implications for those involved in the activities and other members of the community (fishermen), in the short as well as in the long term.

Decisions on the decommissioning options for some of the components have been made, but others have been postponed waiting for the results of a Joint Industry Project aimed at identifying the best ways to deal with the drill cuttings.
West African Gas Pipeline as a Clean Development Mechanism Project under the Kyoto Protocol
Authors: Spiers Albert H. , Shinn John H. , Cornwell John R. , Dehmer Steve G.
Published: December 2007

An independent study was conducted on the proposed West African Gas Pipeline (WAGP) to evaluate the project in the context of the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) under the Kyoto Protocol of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. This project would utilize by-product natural gas from petroleum-producing operations in Nigeria to provide clean energy for development. Once operational, WAGP would help eliminate significant levels of gas flaring in Nigeria and would directly replace crude oil–based fuel with clean-burning natural gas in power plants in Benin, Togo and Ghana. It could also provide an indirect reduction in high-carbon fuels such as firewood or charcoal briquettes as end users take advantage of additional power generation. A preliminary assessment of project impacts shows that greenhouse gas emissions may be reduced by approximately 100 million tons (as CO2 equivalents) over a 20-year period compared to the expected emissions that would occur during the same period without WAGP. Actual emissions reduction would ultimately depend on the volume of gas contracted and delivered to the region. WAGP also has the potential to bring other environmental benefits, and promotes sustainable development objectives in the host countries. The project appears to meet currently foreseeable requirements for CDM and provides some insights concerning issues facing ongoing negotiations on rules and modalities of CDM.
Implementing an Accredited Competence Assurance Scheme
Authors: Jeffries J. R.
Published: December 2007

accredited. adjective officially recognized; generally accepted

competent. adjective adequately qualified or capable

In an era where competency is increasingly important to individual marketability and to company activity, Schlumberger has developed a system that has gained national recognition in the U.K. and that we are offering this case study as a guideline for others to develop similar systems.

Following the findings of the Lord Cullen report into the Piper Alpha disaster, and the legislation and regulations derived from these findings, it became a requirement for people working on an offshore installation in the United Kingdom (U.K.) sector of the North Sea to be competent to do so. Under this ruling, operators, rig owners, and services companies had to be able to demonstrate and "prove" the competence of their employees through an auditable management system.

Recommendations came forth from the U.K. Health & Safety Executive to the North Sea operators who had a legal obligation to assure the competencies of all workers on the installations. One of these recommendations was that the selection of contractors and service companies should consider the mechanisms for assessing competence within the company and that those companies with an "externally verified" competence assurance management system would be the most desirable.

In 1998, Schlumberger Oilfield Services in the U.K. embarked on such a system of assessing and assuring competence, and by January 2000 had qualified the abilities of nearly 95% of its offshore workforce. Implementation was not all "text book," and we gained many learning experiences along the way. The outcome of this effort is detailed in this paper so that others may benefit from the experience. This paper is not intended to discuss the development of actual standards of competence but more the implementation of standards and qualifications within a competence assurance system.
Assessing Safety, Health and Environment in Acquisitions and Divestitures
Authors: Pickford Kyle , Dibble J. T.
Published: December 2007

The traditional safety, health and environmental (SHE) due diligence effort is no longer sufficient for industrial transactions, irrespective of where in the world they occur. Corporate management for both buyers and sellers now demands a more comprehensive "value-added" approach. Successful management of SHE issues now involves risk identification and allocation, not in isolation, but in light of the transaction's overall goals. Therefore, the SHE transactional effort must be viewed as a process, not an event. The first step in this process is setting formal objectives or goals for the transaction. Pre-transaction planning must take place early to chart the course necessary to achieve these objectives. The SHE assessment identifies risks and liabilities, and contractual negotiations develop terms to allocate these risks and liabilities. Good post-closing management helps ensure that contractual provisions work for and not against the parties involved. Proper management of SHE considerations throughout the effort can add value to the transactional process.
Application of RBDM to Safety-Related Problems Within an Operating Company
Authors: Haynes David M.
Published: December 2007

Risk Based Decision Management (RBDM)© (1) facilitates decision-making that is rational, informed and cost-effective. Hibernia Management and Development Company (HMDC) have various, diverse business areas. But all have an identical objective, "to manage the Hibernia asset in a productively safe and environmentally responsible manner so as to maximize the return to the owner companies". In order to achieve this objective Decision Support Tools (DSTs) based upon RBDM have been implemented. This paper discusses the application of the RBDM methodology by HMDC, to specific safety-related problems. The benefits that may be accrued by employing a structured decision-making framework such as RBDM are discussed.