bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
TOTAL Experience To Reduce Discharge of Hydrocarbons Through Produced Water
Authors: Pedenaud P.
Published: December 2007

Hydrocarbon production generates aqueous effluents that may contain traces of either hydrocarbon or chemical products which have to be eliminated according to regulations and to the operator's policy, to reduce the potential impact of their discharge on the environment. Quantity of water produced with crude oil increases as fields are getting older. Watery effluents have to be treated by specially designed installations to comply with both regulations and technical requirements. The disposal of the aqueous effluents may be done by various means: dedicated water disposal wells, injection wells (as part of a re-injection system for pressure maintenance), disposal in the water column, at sea for offshore sites or disposal to an onshore water system (lakes, rivers, etc) for onshore sites.

The paper will present the approach taken by TOTAL to significantly reduce the quantity of hydrocarbons discharged in surface from produced waters from its existing installations (both onshore and offshore) already equipped with treatment facilities to cope with more stringent performance standards, at best cost.

It will describe the methodology and the main techniques used, and present the results obtained in several different cases such as: debottlenecking, lack of efficiency of existing equipment, stabilized emulsion, onshore-offshore sites, and so on.
Achieving Clean Environment by Attaining Zero Disposal in Surface Pits in PNZ Wafra Fields by Disposing Produced Water Through Injection/Salt-Water Disposal Megawell Completions—Case Histories: Wafra Main Field and South Umm Gudair Field, PNZ Joint Operations, Kuwait Oil Co./Saudi Arabian Texaco, Kuwait
Authors: Shahid M. A. , Hussain M. R. , Weston J. , Remila G. , Al-Shammari A.
Published: December 2007

The PNZ (Partitioned Neutral Zone) has four onshore producing fields bordering Kuwait and Saudi Arabia and is being operated by Joint Operations of Kuwait Oil Company and Saudi Arabian Texaco. The four fields are Wafra, South Umm Gudair (SUG), South Fuwaris and Humma. The majority of production in the PNZ comes from the Ratawi Oolite in the Wafra and South Umm Gudair fields. Production from these fields began in the early 1950s and as maturing of these fields with the passage of time the associated water production has significantly increased which has resulted an environmental hazard in handling and disposal of this vast produced water. This challenge has been met in the past utilizing first surface evaporation pits and then augmented with peripheral water injection into the Ratawi producing reservoir. Today JO is meeting this challenge with the innovative method of horizontal Mega disposal wells completed in the karsted Shuaiba formation. These horizontal Mega wells are capable of taking up to +/− 80,000 BWPD on gravity feed. So currently, +/− 750,000 BWPD of produced water in JO is handled by injection of +/− 220,000BWPD into the peripheral of the Ratawi Oolite in the main Wafra field for the Pressure Maintenance Project (PMP) and through disposal of +/− 530,000 BWPD into the karsted Shuaiba formation.

This paper highlights the integrated approach of studying the 3D Seismic interpretation, geologic, and engineering data resulted in the identification of Shuaiba karst Structure as the target disposal zone. The construction and completion of Horizontal Mega wells with 9 5/8" tubing completion in the Shuaiba karst has resulted in achieving the company target of Zero water disposal in surface pits. It is a remarkable achievement and this technique is uniquely introduced for the first time in Kuwait and could have a potential to be used in the other areas in the Middle East Region.
Development and Implementation of a Formal Competence Assurance Program for Safety Critical Operations
Authors: Nelis P. , Pelly R. , Simpkin P. , White R.
Published: December 2007

The paper describes a formal programme to assure the competence of engineers and operators working with explosives, radioactive sources and radiation generators.

The programme formalises minimum global competence standards for these safety critical operations and is aimed at ensuring that employees and contractors working with explosives and supervising operations involving radiation sources have the knowledge, skills, experience and personal qualities they need to work safely.

The paper discusses the development of competence standards which will deliver sustained improvements in health, safety and environmental performance. It describes the processes for assessment of a candidate's competence in the workplace and summarises the verification systems in place to ensure that assessment decisions are consistent and that finished portfolios are complete.

The issues which need to be considered when developing a programme of this type, and the problems to be overcome are identified and discussed.
Management of H2S Risk in Total ABK
Authors: Dagtas B. , Garnier O. , Noble G.
Published: December 2007

The presence of up to 2.5 percent (%) of hydrogen sulphide (H2S) in Total Abu Al Bukhoosh (TABK) production fluids with gas pressures of up to 290 bars at the wellhead, introduces specific risks due to its extreme toxicity and its corrosive effects on production equipment. This paper describes TABK's experience in managing these risks in the context of an increasingly complex and maturing field.

The TABK H2S management system is focused on four main areas: Personnel Protection, Plant Integrity, Safe Operations and Minimization of Environmental Impact.

TABK has implemented specific H2S safety measures to ensure the protection of its offshore personnel. These include the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), warning alarms & emergency actions, dedicated escape and evacuation provisions and procedures, the installation of an emergency air supply (cascade system), H2S training, communications and emergency drills.

To guarantee the plant integrity, the operating parameters of all major rotating machines, affected by the H2S content of the fuel gas, are monitored continuously. An optimized risk-based inspection plan and a system of permanent corrosion monitoring assure the integrity of the equipment and mitigate against the "loss of containment" risk.

Safe operations are assured through a rigorous work permit system, reinforced by systematic risk assessments, simultaneous operations (SIMOPS) dossiers and an adapted management of change procedure. Safety studies including gas dispersion modeling have been carried out to determine safety distances based on critical H2S concentration limits.

TABK's future plans for reducing the environmental impact of its operations, include actions to lower the concentration of H2S in the fuel gas by installing a fuel gas sweetening unit and reducing flaring by the implementation of a Flare Recovery Compressor (FRC).

With these measures and procedures, TABK has reinforced its maintenance, safety, environmental protection and operational plans to guarantee the integrity and reliability of its installations.
Impact of Obesity on Morbidity and Mortality of a Refinery and Petrochemical Population
Authors: Tsai S. P. , Donnelly R. P. , Bhojani F.
Published: December 2007

Objectives

Utilizing the Shell Health Surveillance data, this study assesses the impact of obesity, one of the most prevalent health risk factors, on employee illness absence and long-term mortality.

Methods

A ten-year follow-up (1994-2003) of 5026 Shell Oil employees was conducted to assess the impact of obesity on illness absence frequency rate and workdays lost. The impact of obesity on mortality was based on a 20-year follow-up (1984-2003) of 7139 middle-aged Shell employees. Relative risks (RR) for selected causes of death by body mass index (BMI) category (normal: BMI=18.5-24.9, overweight: 25.0-29.9, and obese: 30+ kg/m2) were calculated using the Cox regression model adjusted for age, gender, and smoking status as well as other risk factors, i.e., cholesterol, hypertension, and fasting blood glucose.

Results

Obese employees had higher absence rates and missed more workdays compared to employees with normal weight. For example, employees less than 50 years of age who were overweight or obese missed an average of 4.0 and 5.7 workdays per year, respectively, as compared to 2.9 days of employees with normal weight. Similar patterns were noted for those 50 years and older (7.3 and 9.6 vs. 6.2 days). In addition, obese employees have significantly increased absence for diseases such as circulatory, respiratory and digestive systems, musculoskeletal disorders, and injuries. Compared with employees with normal weight, obese employees had a statistically increased risk of dying for all causes (Relative Risk [RR]=1.25), coronary heart diseases (RR=2.29), cardiovascular diseases (RR=2.22), diabetes (RR=16.97), and accidents (RR=2.64).

Conclusions

This study found a positive association between obesity and both absence frequency and workdays lost as well as the risk of dying from a number of causes. Reductions of employee obesity prevalence may be an effective means of improving employees' health and increasing a company's productivity.
Global HSE Standards for Global HSE Risks: Standardise, Simplify, and Share
Authors: Davidson S. , Provost E. , Baatz A.
Published: December 2007

The Shell Exploration and Production (EP) Business has a vision for HSE - No fatalities, no significant effects or incidents, continuous improvement in HSE performance and being acknowledged as an industry leader in contributing to sustainable development e.g. earning confidence of customers, shareholders and society, being a "good neighbour".

However, Shell EP HSE performance improvement over recent years is flattening off compared to the 1990's when significant year on year HSE performance improvements where realised. This paper makes the case for change and outlines the steps being taken to fully integrate HSE into all EP activities to help Shell EP on the journey to realising its vision.

In 2003 Shell EP reshaped itself to become a truly global Business. One objective was to standardise value-adding processes throughout the Shell EP Business.

This paper will discuss the methods used to achieve global alignment across Shell EP Companies for the management of common HSE risks, the benefits gained from deploying global IT tools to facilitate consistency of compliance with global standards and the approach taken to integrate HSE into a business management system.

Several of the Shell EP HSE standards are based on industry practices (e.g. Contractor HSE Management), while others have been used as input during the development of Industry Guidelines (e.g. ISO 17776 guideline on hazard management and the International Association of Oil and Gas Producers publications on Road Transport and Air Transport and Lifting & Hoisting).

The current suite of global HSE standards comprises: Competence Assurance of HSE Critical PositionsContractor HSE ManagementHSE Controlling Documentation ManagementHazards and Effects Management ProcessRoad Transportation HSEMarine Logistics HSEAir Transportation HSELifting & Hoisting HSEHSE PlanningIncident Reporting and Follow-UpHSE Auditing

Significance: This paper discusses what has been achieved to date on the journey to establishing one common HSE Risk Control Framework, integrated into the EP Business Management System (EP BMS), rather than maintaining a separate HSE MS.
Accelerating Technology Acceptance: The Role of Culture of the Oil and Gas Industry in Technology Acceptance
Authors: Hirsch J. M , Luppens J. C. , Shook M. T.
Published: December 2007

While technology should never be seen as a panacea, it would appear that the oil & gas industry has allowed the pendulum to swing too far towards short term gains and risk aversion in regards to new technology value creation. Leadership is required to push the pendulum back towards value creating technologies which will enable our industry to create value on the massive scale that our customers demand. To create that kind of value, we must be about creating an industry culture that assesses technology and business risk appropriately, cooperates where necessary and garners investment in a disciplined way, by all parties who would benefit from an improvement in the industry's ability to commercialize technology in a meaningful way. Given that a commonly held paradigm is that "all the easy oil has been found", technology would appear to be the best chance for creating even greater efficiencies in our industry as well as creating and capturing more value for the world's energy needs. As an industry that has become one of the least effective at technology uptake, and as well an industry that also has one of the greatest needs for new technology, we must figure a way to adopt work processes which allow value creating technologies to become standard solutions more rapidly.
Creation and Evolution of Damage Zones Around a Microtunnel in a Claystone Formation of the Swiss Jura Mountains
Authors: Marschall P. , Distinguin M. , Shao H. , Bossart P. , Enachescu C. , Trick T.
Published: December 2007

The investigation of damage zones around cylindrical excava-tions such as sealing sections in tunnels or shafts is a key issue in the field of underground waste storage. Emphasis is on the geometry and extent of the excavation-induced damage zones, on their mechanical and hydraulic characteristics and, in a broader perspective, on the stability of the cavities before and after waste emplacement. Formation damage control in pro- duction and injection wells represents a similar stability problem, suggesting that a detailed understanding of coupled hydromechanical processes in the vicinity of cylindrical cavities is just as valuable for the oil and gas industry. As part of a geoscientific research programme at the Mont Terri underground rock laboratory in the Jura Mountains of Switzerland, a horizontal microtunnel was drilled in an over- consolidated claystone formation. Prior to the excavation, the rock formation was instrumented with piezometers, incline- meters, extensometers and stress cells for monitoring the hydromechanical response of the rock formation to the drilling process. After completion of the excavation, a geoscientific characterization campaign was initiated, comprising detailed geological mapping of structural features, laser scanning of the tunnel surface and the instrumentation of the tunnel walls with surface extensometers. Complementary investigations were conducted to estimate rock stress at the site and the geo-mechanical rock properties, such as elastic moduli, rock strength and anisotropy. The observations to date indicate that a distinct damage zone was created by the drilling process, comprising massive breakouts and localized spalling.Break-outs with magnitudes of up to 15 cm were observed in one of the upper quadrants of the tunnel cross section and less marked features were mapped on the opposite lower quadrant.Long-term monitoring of pore pressure and deformation around the tunnel and progressive spalling along the tunnel wall suggest that the damage zone is still developing.The complex geometry of the damage zone is explained by the interaction of a distinct stress anisotropy and rock strength anisotropy. The initiation of excavation-induced fractures can be linked to isolated tectonic features intersecting the micro- tunnel.The geometry and the temporal evolution of the damage zones are similar to observations in boreholes, indicating that the basic hydromechanical mechanisms are comparable.
Biodiversity Action Plans: Sector-Specific Guidance for the Oil and Gas Industry
Authors: de Bie S. , Dholoo E.
Published: December 2007

Biodiversity conservation has risen rapidly up the environmental and political agenda and now represents one of the most important challenges of the 21st century. Oil and gas companies can contribute to international, national and local biodiversity conservation targets through careful planning and management of operations, working with stakeholders and partners to develop long-term and sustainable solutions.

However, companies face the challenge of how to integrate biodiversity considerations into their day-to-day activities. BAPs are a systematic approach to biodiversity conservation that can build on, and be integrated with, existing company activities and processes throughout the oil and gas project life cycle

This paper presents sector-specific guidance, developed by by the oil and gas industry, which will help the industry to develop BAPs for their sites and projects. It describes the principal process steps needed to develop a BAP. The paper highlights the conditions under which BAP may best be integrated in company's HSE management system or developed as a stand-alone product.

As stakeholder engagement is always at the basis of the development of a BAP, this paper also addresses the critical elements of that engagement process.
The Use of Reed-Bed Technology for Treating Oil-Production Waters in the Sultanate of Oman
Authors: Al Mahruki A. , Alloway B. , Patzelt H.
Published: December 2007

The safe and environmentally benign disposal of oil production water is of major concern in the Sultanate of Oman. Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) is currently producing 600,000 m3d-1, and the volume is predicted to rise to 900,000 m3d-1 by the year 2013. This water is contaminated with petroleum hydrocarbons (10-800 mg L-1), traces of phenols, emulsifiers and a wide range of metals at variable concentrations; it also shows a relatively high (12 dS m-1) electrical conductivity. The currently adopted methods of disposal into shallow and deep aquifers are no longer meeting the environmental legislation.

In this study, the use of reed bed technology for the treatment of oil production water was evaluated and insights into its associated chemical and biological processes in contaminant removal are presented. This reed bed system is constructed in Nimr concesion site of PDO to treat 3000 m3 of production water per day.

The results obtained demonstrated that inorganic and organic contaminant concentration was significantly reduced in the effluents. Metal concentration decreased by 78% for Al, Ba, Cr, Cu and Zn, up to 40% for Fe, Li, Mn, Pb, As, Cd, Co, Mo, Ni, Se, Tl and V. The total hydrocarbon concentration was reduced by an average of 96%. The removal mechanisms were attributed to the complex interactions between substrate, macrophytes and the associated microorganisms. Aerobic processes seem to dominate the system over the anaerobic ones in the removal of both groups of contaminants.

In model pot experiments, a sandy loam soil matrix and a surface flow regime proved superior to a pure loam matrix with subsurface flow of Nimr. The latter modification may render existing reed bed decontamination sites even more effective.
Malaria: Impact of a Tropical Disease on an Oil Company in a Sub-Saharan Country
Authors: Walz T.
Published: December 2007

During the three months of September through November 2005, approximately 1,100 cases of malaria that were diagnosed and treated in the medical facilities of an oil company in Nigeria were collected and analyzed to clarify the economic impact to the business unit. Additionally, gaps and challenges were identified to adopt strategies to mitigate the impact of this tropical disease. Based on this information, the primary initiative has been to establish more effective malarial preventative measures to mitigate potential fatalities of this disease in the future.
Step Change in HSEQ Performance through Leadership Initiative
Authors: Zartl-Klik A. , Read B. , Samhaber R.
Published: December 2007

Austria has produced oil for more than 60 years, typically from small and mature fields. Throughout the years a local safety culture developed which did not keep up with the developments in HSEQ in the international E&P industry.

After several years of below average safety performance (10 year LTI = 11) and continued poor results in 2004 (13 accidents with a lost time of 878 days recorded in OMV Austria E&P for the first 10 months of 2004) we were committed to change our performance. Because of this poor safety performance a leadership initiative was started in September 2004 to change the attitude towards safety of all employees and increase our understanding of the leadership drivers and responsibilities for HSEQ. Management was trained on basic HSEQ knowledge and a management system roll out initiative including reporting tools and training was undertaken. A HSEQ leadership workshop was introduced. This workshop focused on the leadership and management aspects of individual intention, behaviour, culture and systems. Safety leadership and loss prevention teams were established and monthly meetings scheduled. The training and tools given to the 780 employees were accepted by most of them and the attitude changed quickly. First half year of 2005 only one accident with 4 days lost time needed to be recorded and the number of near miss and hazard reports increased considerably. The leadership approach employed has been to change the way all people in the organization think about safety. We recognised that we needed to change the culture; how we related to HSEQ – we needed to work on the thinking behind the behaviour. This paper will show how an intensive focus on HSEQ leadership is able to, within a short period of time, change the safety performance of a company.
Malaria Control Strategy in Shell Companies in Nigeria—The Health Issues
Authors: Fakunle B. A.
Published: December 2007

Malaria is a major public health problem worldwide. It is estimated that 500 million clinical cases of malaria are recorded yearly resulting in about 3 million deaths. Malaria transmission is very high in the Niger Delta region where Shell Nigeria (SCiN) operates. The disease is listed as the most frequent cause of mortality and morbidity among the population of this region.

The non-immunes among Shell hospitals eligible population (expatriate staff and their families, Nigerians returning from overseas postings, children under 5 years of age, Sicklers and pregnant women) are all prone to severe forms of malaria. Malaria control is therefore one of Shell's topmost health priorities as it is a high health risk that also has the potential to impact on reputation and profit. SCIN has developed an integrated and highly effective malaria control program to checkmate the malaria scourge among staff and their dependants. A Malaria Working Group coordinates this program.

The programme has proven to be very effective at reducing malaria morbidity and mortality. Our overall case fatality rate (CFR) of 0.00005% (i.e. 1 in 20,000) over the last 10 years compared with 1 to 5% in the Nigerian population is a highly commendable achievement. The CFR among Shell Nigerian expatriate staff and their dependants is 0%. The national CFR target is <0.5%. External assessors have described the control programme as "world-class".

This paper outlines the critical components in the Integrated Malaria Control Program and their interaction. It also addresses our approach to best-practice sharing, managing recurrent issues including inconsistent or inappropriate chemoprophylaxis advice, compliance with advised and mandatory prophylaxis and malaria occurring in non-immunes after departure from Nigeria. The application of a well-designed malaria control and recovery strategy is highly effective in controlling malaria even in hyper-endemic regions.
High-Pressure Water Jet Injuries
Authors: Mehra A.
Published: December 2007

Our hands serve many purposes. Hands help us eat, dress, write, earn a living, create art, and do many other functions and daily chores. To do these tasks and activities, our hands require sensation and movement, such as joint motion, tendon gliding, and muscle contraction. When a problem takes place in the hand, care must be given to all the different types of tissues that make function of the hand possible, achievable and attainable.

Presentations of high-pressure water jet injuries to the emergency departments are varied. However, these injuries are sometimes described as a ‘benign variant’ of high-pressure injection injuries; external appearances can be deceptive. These injuries can produce an unexpected pattern of severe and grave internal injury with infectious and vitiating complications.

High-pressure water jet injuries from high-pressure jet devices are surgical emergencies characterized by small entry wounds with extensive internal damage. Often subtle and inconspicuous on initial clinical presentation, these injuries can lead to potentially extensive tissue damage underneath. Unfortunately, because the injection itself is often painless, and the lesion usually has a benign appearance, physicians not familiar with the pathophysiology may treat these cases with expectant observation. Three major issues are involved in these injuries. Physical injury is caused by soft tissue disruption and vascular and nerve damage. Chemical injury, depending on the chemical constituents of the injected water, can exacerbate compressive vascular injuries with increased edema and inflammation. Biological injury occurs when injected water, contaminated with virulent organisms and other foreign matter, leads to unusual infections. The key to managing this injury is swift diagnosis and decompression, but delays remain common. Review of high-pressure water jet injuries suggest that prompt diagnosis and early decompression offer the best prospects of digit survival.1,2
High Resolution Oil Spill Response Planning for Operations in a Sensitive Arctic Environment: Sharing Information between Operators, National Authorities, Local Oil Spill Response Groups, and the General Public
Authors: Skeie G. M. , Bjørnbom E. , Thorbjørnsen S. , Engen F. , Østby C. , Spikkerud C. S. , Brude O. W.
Published: December 2007

Near shore petroleum operations in Arctic sensitive environments call for detailed oil spill response planning, to ensure swift and proper response. This paper presents the results and conclusions from an extensive response planning project in the Norwegian sector of the Barents Sea.

Oil spill response for the operation was planned by a group comprising the operator, the Norwegian Clean Seas Association for Operating Companies, the Norwegian Coastal Authority, regional oil spill response groups and consultants. Drawing on these resources, the contents of the oil spill response plan were defined, as well as the need for training.

From the findings of this group, field surveys were made, identifying sensitive areas, access points and bays suited for oil containment. A baseline environmental survey was made to ascertain the current status of the environment.

Information from these surveys were integrated with national geographic databases on topography, bathymetry and shoreline sensitivity, and access to the integrated system is provided to all parts of the response organization through an Internet Map Server Interface.

The oil spill response plan is primarily web-based, and provides access to information on personnel, equipment, vessels, methods, training, exercises and organization. Also included are checklists for all functions, as well as standard forms for all relevant actions, from notification to shoreline cleanup operations.

In our experience, the combination of local knowledge and technical skills provided the basis for proper response planning. Georeferenced photos are essential in discussions of response options, and internet based response maps are an efficient way for different parties to get familiar with detailed response issues. Sharing information is required for proper functioning of oil spill response operations, and dealing with it in this manner has been a positive experience for the parties involved.
Implementation of Environmentally Friendly Corrosion Inhibitor at the Statfjord Field
Authors: Knudsen B. , Skjerve S. , Frost T. K. , Gangstad A. , Birketveit Ø.
Published: December 2007

There has been a significant increase in the produced water volumes at the Norwegian continental shelf the last decade, and the operators have worked systematically to fulfil the ambition from the Norwegian Pollution Control (SFT) of "Zero harmful discharge" to sea. Statoil has in cooperation with other operators developed an environmental risk management tool (Environment Impact Factor, EIF) which has been used to select cost-efficient measures to meet "Zero harmful discharge" ambition goal.

Environmental risk assessment at the Statfjord field has shown that the discharge of corrosion inhibitor contributes significantly to the potential environmental impact (EIF-value). Statfjord field is an old field with flowlines of carbon steel which demand injection of inhibitor for corrosion control.

Statoil and M-I Production Chemicals started a joint R&D-project in 2002 aiming to develop and implement environmentally friendly corrosion control at the Statfjord field. In the present project the following tasks have been investigated:

– Modification of chemical formulation – Reduction of the chemicals consumption – Documentation of the environmental impact – Purification of produced water – Development and field testing of new low-toxic inhibitors

The output of this project enables Statoil to start implementation of an environmentally friendly solution within 2006 at the Statfjord field. The first step will be to perform a full scale pilot test at one of the three Statfjord installations with 6 months duration.
A Framework for Managing Workplace Stress in the Oil and Gas Industry
Authors: Dahl-Hansen E. , Treeby R. , Keulemans R. , Doig M. , Al-Maskery N. , Lerman S.
Published: December 2007

abstract

Work-related mental illnesses are becoming one of the major causes of occupational illness and work years lost. Exposure to stressors can be both work-related and non-work related. The Oil & Gas Health Committee of OGP/IPIECA has decided to issue a brouchure on this subject.

The term "Stress" will be used as the overall description of the subject.

The term "Stressor" is used to label pressures or demands that are known to have the ability to cause distress.

The term "Distress" is used to label a set of bodily, behavioral, and emotional reactions in response to issues or events that we perceive as challenging or dangerous.
Biological Monitoring of Marine Waters for E&P Activities: Outcome of a 10-Year Strategic Research Program
Authors: Pinturier L. , Moltu U. E. , Sanni S.
Published: December 2007

When the ambition of a zero discharge of harmful components policy was introduced for the offshore oil and gas industry on the Norwegian Continental Shelf and the subsequent regulatory demand in Norway for monitoring the marine environment, the need for better monitoring methods and risk assessment tools emerged. Biological marine monitoring and risk assessment require sufficient information on the toxico-kinetic properties of the chemicals and their mechanism of action in the targeted organisms. In addition it is essential to establish quantitative relationships between external dose, internal dose and adverse effects to understand the meaning of the biomarker response. To meet these challenges TOTAL E&P NORGE AS (TOTAL) initiated a research program on biological markers (biomarkers) in 1995 to evaluate their potential to assess and monitor environmental risk associated to offshore E&P discharges. Priority was given to investigate the potential effects of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) in dispersed oil present in produced water discharges as PAH are known to be harmful to organisms.

Biomarkers have been developed for marine crustaceans and fish in different environmental conditions: temperate, tropical and arctic conditions. Both laboratory and field validation studies have been carried out to ensure that operational tools suitable for E&P activities were developed. This allows data analysis and development of more relevant and cost efficient biological marine monitoring programs. The main outcome of these research studies to date is the definition of a set of biomarkers and a methodology suitable to detect and monitor potential effects linked to E&P activities. Ongoing research activities focus upon further refinement of the interpretation of biomarker responses and possible impact on population level as well as using biomarkers as environmental indicators for the general health condition of the ecosystem.
Fate of Nonaqueous Drilling-Fluid Cuttings Discharged From a Deepwater Exploration Well
Authors: Nedwed T. J. , Smith J. P. , Melton H. R.
Published: December 2007

This paper describes the results of a study of the fate of cuttings drilled with nonaqueous drilling fluids and discharged into a deepwater (950 m depth) marine environment. The study characterized the effects of discharges from a single-well drilling program in deep water and tested the accuracy of a discharge model for predictions of seabed cuttings accumulations.

Samples of cuttings falling to the seabed were collected in sediment traps placed around the drill site. Seabed sediment cores were collected before and after drilling. Sediment trap and seabed sediment core samples were subjected to chemical analysis to determine the concentrations of drilling fluid components. Seabed sediment core samples were also subjected to biological analysis to assess the potential for changes in biological communities as a result of drilling discharges. Observed accumulations of drill cuttings were compared with model predictions made with the Offshore Operators Committee (OOC) Mud and Produced Water Discharge model, supported by ocean currents measured during the drilling process and laboratory measurements of cuttings settling velocities.

Sediment traps placed near the drill site accumulated a maximum thickness of 0.5 cm of solids, in good agreement with model predictions. Cuttings from sediment traps had significantly lower concentrations of nonaqueous base fluid than did the discharged cuttings suggesting that loss of base fluid during settling to the seabed through 950 m of water may act to significantly reduce potential chemical effects from discharges. In addition, low (up to a few tens of ppm) base fluid concentrations were observed in seabed sediment core samples. Consistent with the low observed hydrocarbon concentrations in sediments, biological analyses of sediments showed no significant difference in benthic meiofauna between pre-drilling and post-drilling sediment samples.

The results provide strong evidence that cuttings drilled with nonaqueous drilling fluids may be discharged in deep water with very limited environmental effects, and that the OOC Model can make usefully accurate predictions of cuttings accumulations from deepwater drilling discharges.
Trends of Environmental Effects: After 20 Years of Environmental Monitoring, What Has Been Learned?
Authors: Jensen T. , Noland S.
Published: December 2007

Since the first monitoring was carried out in 1978 thousands of sediment samples have been collected, identifying millions of benthic organisms. This paper summarise and discuss the general practice of the environmental monitoring on the Norwegian, focussing on trend analyses and factors that strengthen the analysis. Examples of trend analysis from Gullfaks and Ekofisk are discussed. The MOD database and requirements to accreditation are powerful tools that strengthen the quality, comparability and trend analyses.
Injectivity Decline Under Multiple Particle Capture Mechanisms
Authors: Guedes R. G. , Al-Abduwani F. A. , Bedrikovetsky P. G. , Currie P. K.
Published: December 2007

Severe injectivity decline during seawater injection and produced water re-injection is a serious problem in offshore waterflood projects.The permeability impairment occurs due to capture of particles from injected water by the rock. The reliable modelling-based prediction of injectivity decline is important for the injected-water-treatment design,for injected water management (injection of sea- or produced water, their combinations, water filtering),etc.

The classical deep bed filtration model accounts for a single physics mechanism of the particle capture. During laboratory or field data interpretation using this model, it is usually assumed that several simultaneously occuring capture mechanisms are represented in the model by a single overall mechanism. The filtration coefficient as obtained by fitting the model to the laboratory or field data represents the total kinetics of the particle capture.

Nevertheless,the kinetics of different capture mechanisms can differ one from another by several orders of magnitude.It highly affects the particle propagation in natural reservoirs and the formation damage. A multiple retention deep bed filtration model describes several simultaneous capture mechanisms.

In the present study,a model for deep bed filtration taking into account multiple particle retention mechanisms is discussed. It is proven that the multi capture model can be reduced to a single-capture-mechanism deep bed filtration model.The method for determination of the capture kinetics for all individual capture processes from the breakthrough curve is discussed.As an example,the complete characterisation of filtration with monolayer and multilayer deposition of iron oxide colloids is performed using particle breakthrough curves from coreflooding.
Human Factors Program To Reduce Lost-Time Injuries in Oilfield Land Operations
Authors: Swinstead N.
Published: December 2007

The analysis of an oilfield service company's land operations lost time injuries and associated costs indicated a need for immediate action to be taken to reduce the problem.

This paper presents a human factors program implemented to reduce Schlumberger's lost time injuries. The ultimate objective of the program was to implement design changes and adapt working practices to reduce lost time injuries and to increase productivity.

The program began with an analysis of lost time injury incidents to identify specific areas on which to focus. Of particular interest was the significant number of lifting and handling injuries and tripping and falling accidents, as well as the significant costs related to workers involved. Data gathering was undertaken in the field in North America, the Middle East, and the Far East. Remedial actions were suggested, some of which included fundamental revision of working practices.

To promote a proactive approach for the future, a field management training program was proposed to increase awareness, help identify potential hazards, and define a structured approach to the remedial action.
Developing a Contractor Scorecard for Safety Performance
Authors: Dudics D. D. , Rivera P.
Published: December 2007

Managers and safety professionals have historically relied upon a series of lagging or trailing indicators to measure safety performance. Indicators such as the recordable incident rate (RIR) or the Lost Work Case Rate (LWCR) have been used as the traditional ‘safety yardstick’. The inherent flaw in using such lagging indicators is well known; tracking failure is merely an exercise in reporting old news.

Focusing on the RIR or other lagging indictors also leads to other problems. Managers and safety professionals are often duped into believing that because they are experiencing a low RIR; their safety performance must be good or even improving. In fact, what often occurs may simply be a run of good luck or the ‘dilution effect’ from aggregating hours worked by office staff and others with low risk profiles.

Safety professionals know that companies can raise the knowledge and awareness level of their workforce by performing inspections, audits, training, behavioral observations and other similar activities. These activities when performed, in turn, can help to lower the number of accidents. The question then becomes how does one develop performance indicators around such activities and encourage preemptive action. How does one shift the focus from the outcomes (i.e. RIR, LWCR) to the inputs?

Occidental of Elk Hills, Inc. (OEHI) has developed a Scorecard for Safety that encourages Contractors to perform activities that lead to better safety performance. By grading each Contractor's efforts in several key areas, focus and attention can be been brought to bear on performing activities that will help avoid accidents and incidents.

In fact, the actual number of OSHA recordables at Elk Hills dropped over 20% between 2002 and 2003 even though the activity level increased over 20%. Improving safety performance therefore is sometimes a simple matter of tracking the right "score".
Review and Follow-up of Search and Rescue (SAR) Missions and Medical Evacuation From Oil Fields in the Tampen Area, North Sea, Norway
Authors: Evensen A. M. C. , Brattebø G.
Published: December 2007

The Tampen Area contains huge oil and gas fields. The population in the area is more than 2000 persons at work at any time. Statoil is the major operator in the area and responsible for an efficient and well-trained emergency organization, including SAR missions and medical evacuations.

Statoil established a Search and Rescue service (SAR) in 1981. Through the years since then the service has undergone major development and improvement and represents a major contribution to the safety and security of personnel working in the area. SAR also represents an important resource for the national Joint Rescue Coordination Centre in Stavanger.

Since 1981 several hundred patients has been evacuated to hospitals onshore due to severe medical conditions and injuries. In our earlier review, presented in Jakarta 1994 (SPE 27220)1, the main cause for medical evacuations were diseases or injuries in the muscular-skeletal system followed by problems in the respiratory and gastro-intestinal tract.

During the last 10 years the number of evacuations due to cardio-vascular disease has increased. The proportion of evacuations due to this diagnosis has risen from 4 % to approx. 40%. In our paper we will present statistics on medical evacuations from the area, including information on new medical training, equipment and standards. We also describe our standards on treating acute heart disease, prehospital diagnosis through transfer of ECG using telemedicine for obtaining correct medical diagnosis directly from the emergency care units in hospitals.

We also present the standards on prehospital trombolysis administrated by nurses in the SAR service and our cooperation with the specialist staff at Haukeland University Hospital. The presentation will contain short case studies covering the most important diagnosis such as myocardial infarction and multi-trauma injuries and treatment.
Dedicated HSE Education for Undergraduate Petroleum Engineers
Authors: Williams J. M.
Published: December 2007

This paper describes the creation and presentation of a new undergraduate course to educate petroleum engineers in HSE issues. It contributes both to the competencies specified by the employer, and to the educational mission. The course makes a significant contribution to the development of student's soft skills, such as communication, out-of-the box thinking, and ethical responsibilities. Significant commitment has been shown by the students in adopting the HSE behaviours that will be expected of them in the petroleum industry.
AIDS Prevention Challenges in Western and Southern Africa
Authors: Fosso S. W. , Barbey A. , Fox C.
Published: December 2007

In western and southern Africa, where most sub-Saharan oilfield activity occurs, AIDS is one of the main health concerns of most operators and service companies. Approximately 40 million persons are infected with HIV/AIDS in sub-Saharan Africa. This represents over two-thirds of the worldwide infected population. Although HIV/AIDS is not a work-related disease, most operators and services companies recognize that it affects their workforce and operations.

Most oilfield companies aim to recruit and train the vast majority of their work force locally. One barrier to doing so is that, in the oilfield environment, the infection rate and exposure to HIV/AIDS tends to be high due to factors that are analyzed in this paper. Although some oilfield operators have started to implement HIV/AIDS programs, most service companies do not have clear policies and standards for prevention and risk mitigation.

In this paper, we review the main factors that contribute to HIV/AIDS risk of infection in oil-producing countries in western and southern Africa. Barriers to prevention are analyzed using a survey of a service company's employees. The survey results are used to determine the extent and the root causes of the problem.

Using findings from this study, we outline elements of a prevention program specifically designed for the oilfield work environment.
Lessons Learned From Security Vulnerability Assessment Program Implementation in the Petroleum Sector Since 9-11
Authors: Robb A. J. , Leith H. M. , Piper J.
Published: December 2007

Corporate security programs include a wide variety of measures and implementation approaches yielding differing results. Security vulnerability assessments (SVAs) are an important component of effective and robust security programs and multiple methodologies exist to conduct these analyses. The majority of these methodologies are derived from governmental standards and expectations, professional societies, and corporate best practices. Methodologies for the petroleum sector are summarized and outlined in the 2005 API Security Guidelines for the Petroleum Industry1. SVA's generally evaluate risks in terms of likelihood (L) and consequence (C), where likelihood is a function of target attractiveness (AT), threat (T), and vulnerability (V). Although these elements are reasonably consistent, implementation approaches taken by various industry sectors can vary significantly depending upon the overall threat and risk factors present for that industry. Fit for purpose customization is common in the petroleum industry. Customized approaches to overall SVA program management, assessment execution and the methodologies used (including asset characterization, threat assessment, vulnerability analysis, risk assessment, and countermeasures analysis and implementation) occasionally yield differing results. The effectiveness of these processes are directly related to practitioners knowledge base (e.g., familiarity with the specific risk assessment methodology being used), historical experience in conducting SVAs, and engagement at the operating line level in both initial execution and follow-up. An important concept related to fit-for-purpose customization involves close coordination between government and private sector representatives to develop and align SVA approaches that are consistent and interpretable across various sectors and still meet the needs of the involved entities.
A Strategy for the Reduction of Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Authors: Veerkamp W. , Heidug W. K.
Published: December 2007

In order to develop a renewed strategy for the emissions of greenhouse gases against internal and external commitments we have undertaken a number of steps

Full analyses of the data on energy consumption, venting and flaring for all of the operating units, which are currently in the baseline. A forecast of the expected emissions based on a portfolio development, assuming certain CO2 or greenhouse gas emission intensities related to the type of oil and or gas production. An analysis of the option available to reduce, minimise or mitigate the greenhousegas emissions, with a focus on operational and design measures as well as captureand sequestration options. The work clearly revealed a shift in quality and accuracy of the data sets, with significant improvements over time. In addition the consensus on which substances contribute as greenhouse gas has changed as well, which impacts the reported GWP in CO2 equivalents. For example in the initial assessments VOC, SO2 and NOx were included and the factor for methane and halons have changed.