bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
International Association of Oil and Gas Producers (OGP) Life-Saving Rules
Authors: Walker Kirsty , Sunderland Jeff , Fraser Stewart , Peuscher Willem 
Published: September 2012

Abstract
In January 2010, the International Association of Oil and Gas Producers (OGP) Safety Data Subcommittee sponsored a two-day Fatal Incident and High-Potential Event workshop. Considering the industry plateau in fatal accident rates over the last five years, the main objectives of the workshop were to focus specifically on causes and prevention of fatal incidents in the upstream oil and gas industry and to recommend actions that might be taken to prevent future fatal incidents.
An analysis of historical OGP fatality and high-potential incident reports and a review of existing rules developed by OGP member companies were conducted, contributing to the development of OGP Life-Saving Rules.
Several member companies have realized the benefits from implementing their own programs, which have been based on their own fatal incident learning. However, there is a larger potential benefit to be realized in learning from a larger OGP member company's data set and standardization of rules across the industry. Many contractors are required to learn new rules and procedures each time they go to work for a different client, even though the operating practices and risks are very similar. Migrating toward a standard set of industry life-saving rules will improve understanding and compliance, especially in multilingual and multicultural settings, with the aim of reducing serious incidents and fatalities.
The OGP Life-Saving Rules provide operational workers and supervisors with simple, clear icons and instructions on the actions that they are expected to take to prevent fatalities. In many fatal incidents, the actions of individuals are the last barrier in fatality prevention. A set of eight core rules and ten additional rules were selected. The 8 core rules correspond to 40% of the fatal incidents analysed, and the full set of 18 rules correspond to 70% of the fatal incidents analysed.
Comprehensive HIA of Greenfield Gas Project in Papua New Guinea
Authors: Viliani Francesca , Curtis Peter , Guibert Philippe , Hooper Dick , Martin Michael 
Published: September 2012

Abstract
The current paper provides a narrative of the Health Impact Assessment (HIA) of a greenfield project located in a remote part of Papua New Guinea. HIA, in the context of this project, is presented as one of the processes that a company needs to go through in order to develop a site-specific Health Management System (HMS).
The objective of a narrative is to tell a story; in this case the story describes how the HIA was carried out. Many guidelines on HIA exist and HIA reports are available. However, very little information is published and presented about the challenges encountered during the delivery, as well as about the management issues that need to be addressed in order to deliver an HIA in remote regions. Up to now we have focused on creating rules and structures for HIA; however, not enough attention has been given to their implementation, and even less to the consequences for not complying with the recommendations.
Furthermore, impact assessments are usually described on their own or within the life cycle of the project. However, there is little information on how this process links with the other ones in the development of a site-specific Health Management System and which kind of choices are made in this regard.
Projects always interact with the external environment where they are located. This environment poses health, safety and security risks for the project. At the same time this broadly defined environment, where the project is located, is altered and impacted by the project itself. Therefore, the "project" and "environment/context" are two essential parameters to understand the health challenges that a company need to manage when starting a greenfield project.
The paper concludes systemizing the experience of this HIA in key practical tips for people implementing HIA of complex projects in remote locations.
Innovative Ways to Inspire New Employees to Embrace an HSE Culture
Authors: Bordage Pierre , Fox Chris , Arce Lina , Villarreal Gonzalo , Zambrano John 
Published: September 2012

Abstract
This paper describes how an oilfield services company in Colombia implemented a new program to complement its traditional safety training, to ensure that new recruits receive not only health, safety and environment (HSE) knowledge but also a strong message from the company about the safety culture inherent in its values.
The HSE culture maturity model developed by the oil and gas industry indicates that having a management system is necessary yet not always sufficient to ensure continuous improvement. The authors argue that companies consider a more integral approach and take into account human behavior, corporate values and the culture forming the environment in which the company operates.
This integral approach requires a long term strategy allowing some time to pass before the company can see changes in its HSE performance. This becomes challenging when a company enters a period of growth with high staff turnover. In that case, the company needs to be more creative to ensure the full integration of the new employees into its safety culture.
This paper examines a program developed for new employees to get them involved in the building of houses for underprivileged families in the communities where the company operates. Each employee receives comprehensive HSE training prior to starting the project. The program objectives include providing new employees with opportunities for community outreach, management visibility and teamwork as well as the hands-on HSE training to give the new employees a chance to put acquired HSE knowledge into practice and demonstrate competency before being exposed to the front line risks of the industry. This paper also describes how the program contributes to the company's long term strategy to minimize HSE risks and develop a more mature HSE culture.
Issues and Challenges Surrounding Evacuation of Employees and Families at Times of Trouble
Authors: McTague Tracey , Richards Catherine , López Juan Carlos 
Published: September 2012

Abstract
Emergency management planning has matured in the oil and gas industry over the last 30 years. As part of such planning, essential personnel— or employees who stay on the job when everyone else is leaving— perform vital tasks to mitigate risks related to human security, loss of assets, and damage to the environment. This paper defines the specific problems related to maintaining business continuity while dealing with the human issue of moving families of employees out of volatile yet sensitive security zones.
Companies can use managed approaches to identify families of employees who stay on the job, meet their evacuation needs, and devise methods by which employees and their families can communicate with one another during evacuations and other emergencies. Employees, confident their families are safe, can then focus on the critical business tasks at hand, and once families are relocated, people outside the emergency zone can render aid and comfort.
This paper discusses the challenges that decision-makers, workers, and families in the industry face when implementing or following crisis and emergency response procedures during real-life evacuations. In some evacuations, industry health, safety and environment (HSE) personnel have to move quickly to analyze each situation, apply crisis management tools, secure sensitive assets, and evacuate staff and their families. In a large global company, the business-phased return for one country can coincide with the evacuation from another.
The paper also adds historical context to the evolution of emergency and crisis management communication and planning through analysis of a series of interviews with people in the oilfield industry who were involved in past evacuations. The analysis draws parallels and differences between then and now, identifying best practices and also potential challenges for the future.
Next-Generation DNA-Based Approaches for Comprehensive Assessment of Marine Communities
Authors: N’Guessan Lucie , Springer Nina , Borisenko Alex , Singer Greg , Shokralla Shadi , Hajibabaei Mehrdad 
Published: September 2012

Abstract
Biodiversity analysis is key to ecological biomonitoring in any environmental assessment program. Conventional taxonomic methods lack the speed, sensitivity, accuracy and robustness required for executing comprehensive biodiversity analysis especially in remote marine environments. Recent advances in molecular biology and bioinformatics have made DNA sequences a major source of information for biodiversity analysis. Taxonomically validated reference libraries of standardized species-specific sequences—DNA barcodes—are being assembled as part of large-scale initiatives such as International Barcode of Life Consortium. Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) technologies provide the capacity to analyze environmental DNA from various types of samples and read biodiversity across all domains of life from bacteria to higher eukaryotes directly from environmental samples.
This pilot project assessed the utility of using DNA barcoding as well as NGS-based environmental barcoding tools for biodiversity analysis. Specimens collected during a recent scientific expedition in the Beaufort Sea were used. Individual specimens were DNA barcoded using a single-specimen Sanger sequencing approach and environmental DNA from ice cores and water samples were subjected to bulk NGS analysis in a Roche 454 platform.
DNA barcoding revealed 60 distinct genetic lineages (putative species) of metazoa, many of which matched sequences in the Barcode of Life Data Systems (www.boldsystems.org). The lack of reference sequences for marine taxa currently limits the usability of this approach in a wider context. NGS-based patterns of ecological diversity were able to robustly separate communities of microbial and non-microbial species in ice-core and water samples. Additionally, more detailed taxonomic assignments allowed teasing apart specific groups of organisms in these samples directly from NGS sequences. Overall, a combination of DNA barcode analysis and NGS tools demonstrated the potential of DNA-based approaches for comprehensive biomonitoring in remote marine environments.
Chemical Regulatory Changes—Are We Managing Them Effectively?
Authors: Smith C. , Caldwell S. , Graves D. , Galvan J. 
Published: September 2012

Abstract
The introduction of new regulations such as the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS) and the Registration, Evaluation and Authorization of Chemicals (REACH) increase the challenges for companies to keep up with regulatory requirements. In addition, upcoming chemical regulatory requirements are being developed and implemented in all areas around the world where international exploration and production (E&P) companies operate.
In addition to initiatives by companies, to provide more environmentally friendly products and greener technology, there is also an increased demand for transparency and accountability. Companies have to ensure regulatory compliance with the continuously changing regulatory landscape. There are increased requirements for proper management of documentation (safety data sheets (SDS), labels, etc.), integrated software/IT resources, training, auditing and more importantly internal and external communication to ensure compliance. A practical management system is required to monitor and implement these regulatory changes.
The implementation of health, safety and environment (HSE) and regulatory programs can be supported through the effective management of regulatory changes. These regulatory changes can have a significant impact on corporate behavior and reputation. Identification, investigation, implementation and integration are key elements when managing regulatory impact. Identification and documentation of the regulations to monitor and track industry changes is critical in the process. Investigation requires the review and assessment of the regulatory requirements, considering the potential impact on products and business lines. Implementation involves updating relevant documentation to ensure compliance. The final step of integrating controls in the supply chain to ensure regulatory compliance is especially critical with international movement of chemicals and substances. This also involves training and communication to implement changes.
This paper seeks to highlight the importance of monitoring and implementing regulatory updates and changes within the industry. It also explores an effective system for managing regulatory changes.
Worker Stress and Fatigue in Oil Spill Response
Authors: Gibson Dawn 
Published: September 2012

Abstract
The purpose of this paper is to highlight the often neglected areas of health and safety during a spill response pertaining to worker stress and fatigue and to determine strategies that can be employed by both individuals and organisations to address these issues. During a spill these issues can often be considered as an afterthought once the impacts of worker stress and fatigue have already become apparent and are affecting operational capability. This oversight is reflected in the scarcity of literature available regarding emergency responder welfare during an extended response. However, in the wake of the Macondo incident in the Gulf of Mexico, a greater focus on responder health and safety has developed and is continuing with several studies into the topic, including work by the United States National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).
This paper includes a review of current literature surrounding the topic and explores current practices from other areas of the emergency response community. Taking inspiration from these case studies it also suggests some best practices and policy ideas to be adopted for oil spill response operations. Furthermore, the paper recognises and aims to address the difficulties that may arise in implementing these practices and policies due to the nature of response work and the environments in which response organisations operate in.
Ultimately the paper aims to stimulate discussion within the oil spill response community regarding how best to ensure worker stress and fatigue issues do not adversely affect operational capabilities during sustained responses. This is important not only to maximise human resources enabling them to reach their full capabilities but to fulfil the duty of care which organisation should hold to protect the welfare of its response personnel.
Coal Seam Gas (CSG): What Becomes of Produced Water? Regulation and Strategies
Authors: Hatley Ray 
Published: September 2012

Abstract
Strong LNG demand, both here in Australia and overseas, fuelled by worldwide transition to a low carbon economies is driving unprecedented growth in coal seam gas (CSG) exploration and development of east coast resources, not to mention the other conventional gas resources around Australia. With this accelerated growth in demand for gas, particularly with the onshore CSG production, comes the matter of the associated environmental affects and the need for socially responsible environmental management and mitigation of impacts.
Why do I single out the CSG industry in this regard – after all the oil and gas industry has been the subject of considerable environmental regulation during the many decades of production in this country, and has a very proud record in doing the right thing.
This paper relates specifically to one unique attribute associated with the production of CSG, namely the need to extract groundwater from the gas production wells in order that they be depressurised as a precursor to gas release. Pumping groundwater from of the coal seam ‘aquifers’ targeted for the resource reduces the hydraulic pressure to the point that the adsorption bonds holding the methane to the surfaces of the coal cleats (or microfractures) are reversed and the gas moves into the gaseous phase, and is hence available to flow to the well under the prevailing hydraulic gradients. Typically, a CSG well is pumped for its groundwater, producing its peak flows early in the life of the well, with flows of water tapering off with time, as gas flows increase and peak some years into its life.
’Wild Thing’: The Challenges of Regulatory Change under Wild Rivers
Authors: Oliver Sofia 
Published: September 2012

Abstract
In late 2011 the Queensland State Government of Australia declared the Cooper Creek Basin in South West Queensland to be a Wild River Area under the Wild River Act 2005. The Wild River Area covers a significant proportion of Santos’ current tenements and future development interests in the area.
The Wild Rivers Declaration is a highly prescriptive regulatory regime that sets out significant restrictions which would detrimentally impact on existing operations and future oil and gas development opportunities, including emerging coal seam and shale gas prospects in the proposed declaration area. It includes general prohibitions on certain activities across extensive areas of channel country and the imposition of setbacks for activities in proximity to watercourses.
The issue first arose in late 2010 when the Queensland Government indicated its intent to declare the Cooper Creek Basin as a Wild River through its issue of a Declaration Proposal. During the 12 month consultation period that followed, Santos engaged with the Queensland Government regulators and Ministers to assist the Government to make a Wild Rivers Declaration that achieves a balance between protecting the natural values of the Cooper Creek and allowing the continuation of the sustainable development of the petroleum resources within the Cooper and Eromanga Basins.
The paper will provide insight into Santos’ experience in taking a lead role in responding to the significant new legislative regime proposed by Government. Key insights include the need for industry tobe proactive and take a role in educating the Government on the industry's operations andthe changes required to ensure compliance with the new regulatory requirements. It will also discuss broadlythe challenges associated with the changing regulatory environment including the role that politics can play and observes that we should continue to expect a ‘Wild’ ride whenparticipating in thelegislative developmentprocess.
The significance of the Declaration is that the restrictions for petroleum activities imposed in the Cooper Creek Basin Wild Rivers Declaration may be imposed upon all Wild Rivers areas in Queensland. In addition, other Australian state governments are watching the implementation of Wild Rivers’ legislation in Queensland and are considering the need for similar regulatory regimes in their jurisdictions.
Keys to Successful Response Waste Management Programs: Experience from Deepwater Horizon
Authors: Sweeten David W. 
Published: September 2012

Abstract
Developing, planning, and—when necessary—executing an effective Waste Management Program are critical to timely and efficient clean-up operations. Waste Management Programs include a written Waste Management Plan that is approved by the relevant regulatory agencies and a series of programs or initiatives that support the written plan. Both components are designed to provide a framework for safe and compliant recovery operations, and to assist with managing both short- and long-term potential environmental impacts related to the incident.
This presentation reviews five key areas of an emergency response Waste Management Program and discusses them in the context of the Deepwater Horizon response in the Gulf of Mexico. The areas include talent needs, linkages to operations, data management, maintaining compliance, and green alternatives.
Although each emergency response is unique, this presentation highlights key elements of effective Waste Management Programs and strategies.
Integrating Green Waste Management Strategies Into Emergency Response Waste Management Programs: Examples from the Deepwater Horizon Response
Authors: Sweeten David W. 
Published: September 2012

Abstract
This paper delivers an overview of green waste management (recycling and reuse) strategies that can be integrated into a waste management program during emergency response events. Although each emergency response event is unique in location, size, scale, material released, and situational logistics, this paper is intended to provide individuals involved in preplanning and preparedness with ideas for incorporating green alternatives into effective waste management strategies. The "Green Alternatives" Program that was implemented as part of the waste management strategy during the Deepwater Horizon (DWH) response in the Gulf of Mexico is used as a case study.
The DWH Green Alternatives Program was designed to minimize waste generation and to develop a comprehensive recycling, reuse, and recovery approach. A variety of potential waste materials were generated during the response, many of which can be recycled, reclaimed, or reused. Each potential material stream generated during an emergency response event needs to undergo a comprehensive permitting and regulatory review. In addition, each potential material stream must be evaluated by a field- or full- scale proof-of-concept pilot test to validate the proposed "green" process and determine whether it will be an effective part of the response and the overall waste management strategy.
Because an emergency response event could occur anywhere, international and regional considerations—such as governing regulations, available infrastructure and transportation, local culture, and customs—must also be taken into account. As demonstrated by the DWH response, incorporating green alternatives into a response can make a positive contribution to the environment and local communities by preserving critical landfill space, creating new products, and generating energy.
Operational Improvements In The Use Of Towed Passive Acoustic Monitoring Of Marine Mammals at Sea During Seismic Surveys
Authors: Hedgeland D. , Pierpoint C. , Wyatt R. , Rypdal C. 
Published: September 2012

Abstract
Visual monitoring has been the primary method of detecting marine mammals during offshore activities for many years. The effectiveness of which is reduced when animals are not at the surface of the water and during periods of poor visibility.
Towed Passive Acoustic Monitoring (PAM) is another tool in the ‘monitoring tool box’. It is a method to detect the presence of marine mammals beneath the sea surface and estimate their location relative to a hydrophone array being towed from a moving vessel. Marine mammal species are identified by the specific characteristics of the detected click and whistle sounds, the interpretation of which requires a specialist operator to maximise detection/identification efficiency and reduce the likelihood of false detections. PAM is increasingly considered as a best available tool for conducting marine mammal monitoring at sea during night time or poor visibility conditions when visual observation methods are less effective.
The performance of towed PAM systems in the field is highly variable. The presence and characteristics of ambient acoustic noise relative to animal vocalisations, availability of experienced operators and levels of technical support are contributing factors to determining the overall operational performance of PAM systems.
Recent experience of deploying towed PAM systems under real-time industry conditions has identified some practical challenges and potential improvements when using PAM as a mitigation monitoring tool during offshore oil and gas related activities such as seismic surveys. Lessons learned from industry experience in the field will increase the understanding of current capabilities and limitations and will lead to further improvement of the technology.