bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
International Collaboration to Advance Sustainable Oil & Natural Gas Production and Climate Protection
Authors: Chakraborty A. B. , Kalita Kapil Deb , Bartos Scott , Seastream Sandra , Shartzer Andy 
Published: September 2012

Abstract
Directly supporting the Global Methane Initiative (GMI), the Natural Gas STAR International Program is a voluntary partnership between the oil and natural gas industry and the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that promotes use of cost-effective technologies and practices to reduce methane emissions. In 2008 and 2009, the Oil and Natural Gas Corporation LTD (ONGC), the first Natural Gas STAR International Partner in India, undertook a desktop review and in-country methane emissions measurement study and analysis to identify and quantify baseline methane emissions levels for seven of its production, processing and transmission facilities. The measurement study was conducted using infrared camera technology to identify emission sources; and a combination of turbine meters, high volume samplers, and calibrated bagging techniques to measure their emission rates.
This paper details the survey activities and quantitative measurements for the seven surveyed facilities. EPA's Natural Gas STAR International (NGSI) Partners are eligible to receive recommendations on technologies or practices, a facility-specific assessment of their technical feasibility, anticipated methane emission reductions, and the economic and environmental value of the proposed emission reductions. The paper further describes mitigation projects ONGC has deployed as a result of their collaboration with EPA.
ONGC, acting immediately upon the Partnership's recommendations, and consistent with ONGC's corporate carbon management program, have to date reduced methane emissions in the studied facilities by 30 percent, achieving annual natural gas savings of more than 9 million cubic meters (MMcm). This paper also reviews ONGC's future climate protection plans.
A Release Criterion for Oil and Gas Production Equipment with NORM Contamination
Authors: de Witt R. F. , Rutkowski S. J. , Young J. G. , Cooper M. B 
Published: September 2012

Abstract
The deposition of small amounts of radioactive material on the surface of oil and gas processing equipment creates, in time, a scale that can potentially pose a safety, health and environmental risk. Release criteria are usually defined in terms of the activity concentration of the radionuclides in a material; however this constrains the measurement of NORM in equipment to an impractical and prolonged testing process. This paper evaluates field data to establish a practical empirical relationship between the activity concentration present in a NORM deposit and measurements obtained with a hand-held Geiger-Müller radiation monitor. This has been done for varying circular diameters to account for geometrical variations introduced by measuring a curved surface with a flat probe.
Facing Up to Demands for Small Bribes: Legal Requirements and Operational Challenges in Weak Government Zones
Authors: Bray John 
Published: September 2012

Abstract
Until recently, international anti-corruption initiatives focused almost exclusively on ‘grand bribes’ to secure contracts or obtain licenses. Now small bribes or ‘facilitation payments’ connected with day-to-day operational matters such as customs clearances, environmental inspections and security are rising up the international legal and corporate agendas. The increased focus on small bribes reflects wider international enforcement trends, including in the US. However, the greatest single driver has been the UK Bribery Act, which does not distinguish between large and small payments.
Demands for small ‘operational bribes’ present particular challenges for E&P companies working in weak government zones where such payments are often customary, even if they are against the host country's written law. Demands are typically backed up by what amounts to a form of extortion. At a minimum, failure to pay will result in expensive commercial delays and, in many cases, there is an implicit threat of violence. Indigenous employees are often at greater physical risk than expatriates.
This paper draws on the recent consultancy experience of the author and his colleagues working with international companies at both headquarters and the operational levels in a range of complex environments in Africa, the Asia-Pacific and the Middle East. It briefly reviews the changing international legal context, before focussing on the practical strategies that companies have adopted to resist demands.
The paper argues that small bribes are a corrosive phenomenon, and that companies should not pay them. With skill and determination, they can reduce their exposure to demands, and they have a social as well as a legal responsibility to do so. It concludes with recommendations for companies and their partners in ‘host’ and ‘home’ governments as well as international agencies.
Offshore Environmental Monitoring: Evolving Approaches and Technologies to Support the Oil and Gas Industry
Authors: Glickman Andrew , Mine Jacques , Nilssen Ingunn , Lystad Einar , Buffagni Melania , Findlay Abigail 
Published: September 2012

Abstract:(previously submitted to SPE)
The International Association of Oil and Gas Producers (OGP) Offshore Environmental Monitoring Task Force has developed a compendium of guidance and best practices for offshore environmental monitoring. Environmental monitoring has increased and become more sophisticated as concerns around the ecological impacts of offshore drilling and production have grown. Environmental monitoring is now integrated into the full life cycle of an offshore oil field, from early seismic evaluations through production to decommissioning. Traditionally, water column analyses, and physical, chemical and biological analyses of sediments have composed the basic elements of an environmental monitoring program. These analyses have often been coupled with dispersion modeling assessments that estimate the spatial footprint of drilling and production discharges both within the water column and on the sea floor. More recently, new technologies are becoming part of the environmental monitoring toolbox. These include subsea chemical and physical sensors attached to subsea landers, remote observational vehicles equipped with video, sensor and sampling capabilities, whole effluent toxicity testing, and biomarkers in organisms caught or caged within the oilfield. This new OGP guidance will enable an operator to define the scope of monitoring appropriate for their operation and stage of development, select from a range of monitoring technologies, and take steps to ensure high quality data is obtained.
Extended Abstract:
The International Association of Oil and Gas Producers (OGP) Offshore Environmental Monitoring Task Force has developed a compendium of guidance and best practices for offshore environmental monitoring. Environmental monitoring can be driven by regulatory requirements or to meet internal environmental stewardship expectations. The compendium provides guidance to offshore operators on when and how to conduct an environmental monitoring programme.
To scope out potential environmental data needs for a monitoring programme, OGP developed the e-SHRIMP1 toolbox to assist offshore operators in the assessment and management of impacts in all project activities throughout the full field development lifecycle. Different project phases can be mapped to the e-SHRIMP1 framework (OGP, 2007).
Dropped Object Prevention Scheme (DROPS) - An Asia Pacific Perspective
Authors: Leong Weng Fei 
Published: September 2012

Abstract
Dropped Object Prevention Scheme (DROPS) has been in existence since the late 1990s with the first DROPS grouping in the United Kingdom and developed out of a Step Change Initiative in the North Sea to tackle the high number of dropped object incidents in the industry. The DROPS chapter in Asia was established in 2009 and has come a long way with the active participation many of the oil and gas industry companies through activities organized by the Asian DROPS chapter. However, anecdotal evidence suggests that success with any DROPS initiative in the region is usually operator dependent or driven largely by the international drilling contractors. Companies like Shell and Transocean are leading the pack globally on DROPS and the focus on DROPS given by these organizations does benefit the DROPS initiatives in the Asia Pacific region. The progress of DROPS in Asia Pacific will be examined objectively and the challenges and strategies in preventing dropped object incidents in the oil and gas industry in Asia Pacific will be looked at critically. We will also examine some of the efforts taken by the companies within the Asia Pacific region in managing dropped object risk in the industry as well as the efforts of DROPS Asia in bringing the focus on DROPS across the entire industry supply chain. For example, engaging rig constructors on building rigs or offshore installations that eliminated dropped object risk from the design stage.
Challenging Our Societel Performance
Authors: Win Swe Swe 
Published: September 2012

Abstract
Yadana consortium, partnership of Unocal, PTTEP, the Myanmar Oil and Gas Enterprise (MOGE) and Total Exploration & Production Myanmar (TEPM) as an operator, is operating the Yadana gas field located in the Gulf of Mottama. The extracted natural gas is exported to Thailand via a 63 kilometer onshore pipeline that passes through Kanbauk area in the region of Tanintharyi, south of Myanmar.
As part of its Corporate Social Responsibilities, Yadana consortium has been implementing a socio-economic program for the inhabitants of the villages neighboring the pipeline since 1998.
The coverage was extended step by step from 13 villages to 25. As of May 2012, the program directly covers about 33,000 inhabitants, but it is estimated that about 50,000 people benefit directly or indirectly of the activities implemented. For instance villagers from non-covered areas are also being welcomed to seek consultations in supported health facilities.
The Yadana’ socio economic program is extended beyond the pipeline area to the national level supporting mainly on public health, education and social welfare infrastructure. Some projects are implemented by specialized NGOs.
Partnering with the Wildlife Conservation Society to Protect Marine Mammals and Turtles
Authors: Maruca Sheryl , Augusto Benvinda , Wolinsky Gary , Mann Nicole , Rosenbaum Howard , Formia Angela , Cerchio Salvatore , Collins Tim , Pendoley Kellie 
Published: September 2012

Abstract
Marine mammals, including coastal dolphins, West African manatees, offshore cetaceans (baleen whales and larger odontocetes), and marine turtles are increasingly under threat; many are rare, although some cetaceans are showing recovery from commercial exploitation. When Angola Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) began using Chevron's Operational Excellence Process for Environmental, Social and Health Impact Assessment (ESHIA) to manage the potential environmental impacts of a proposed LNG facility in the Congo River Basin, they collaborated with the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) to address issues identified in the Angola LNG ESHIA Process and to develop programs to protect the marine turtles and marine mammals through cooperative science and management, training, and education.
The Marine Mammal Program fieldwork, conducted by WCS and Angola LNG in the Congo River Basin area and South Atlantic coastline near Soyo, Angola, was completed between 2008 and 2009. Activities included the assessment of inshore and Congo River environments and marine mammals, and the use and deployment of Marine Autonomous Recording Units (MARUs; shown in Figure 1) as a cost-effective means of surveying whales in the South Atlantic Ocean. This was the first time MARUs were used off the coast of West Africa.
The MARUs allowed for long periods of continuous monitoring for vocalizing cetaceans, cetacean behavior and anthropogenic contributions to ocean ambient noise with relatively minor field effort. The technique also allowed for uninterrupted acoustic monitoring investigations, otherwise impossible with boat-based visual methods during night hours and inclement weather. However, there were certain challenges in using the MARUs, such as the analysis and management of large datasets, as well as the identification of signals in the recordings when there is little to no possibility of verifying all possible signals through simultaneous visual surveys and sightings. Due to logistical and safety limitations for conducting numerous offshore surveys for identification, existing data from other parts of the world were used for comparisons to confirm species of vocalizing whales. In many cases, some of the signals will remain unknown.
Why Quiet? Legislative, Commercial and Ethical Drivers Behind the Design of Quieter Offshore Facilities in Australia
Authors: Chandran Andrew 
Published: September 2012

Abstract
This paper outlines the legislative, commercial and ethical drivers behind the design of quieter offshore production platforms in Australia and explains why decisions should be made during the Front-end Engineering and Design (FEED) phase of a facility to ensure that operational noise risks are as low as reasonably practicable (ALARP).
It explains how the requirements of current noise management legislation can be met during the design of new Major Capital Projects (MCPs) in Australia and how strategic implementation of engineering noise controls during FEED can increase shareholder value. This will ensure that future reliance on personal hearing protectors to mitigate occupational hearing loss is minimised over a facility's operational life and can turn MCPs into valued legacy operations for years to come.
It provides: An overview of the current occupational health and safety (OH&S) legislation in Australia that applies to new offshore facilities, including noise mitigation requirements;A cost comparison of implementing production-critical engineering noise controls during early FEED as opposed to late FEED and then after retrofitting them to an operational facility;A recent case study of best practice noise control during offshore facility design in Australia;A discussion of cost-benefit models used in Australia and Singapore and potential enhancements to both models that can satisfy both legislative and economic goals of facility designers and operators; andA brief discussion of design ethics and responsible facility design.
Lessons Learned Applying Human Factors Engineering in Capital Projects
Authors: Seet Alfred , McLeod Ron 
Published: September 2012

Abstract
This paper describes the model of Human Factors Engineering (HFE) as it is applied in capital projects in Shell. Best practices from Shell projects in writing and implementing a HFE strategy are discussed together with examples where relevant. Finally, the paper presents some challenges and key success factors for implementing an HFE strategy.
Challenges When Ambient Air Standards are Set Near Background Levels
Authors: Rabideau Christopher , Satin Kenneth 
Published: September 2012

Abstract
Despite improvements in air quality and uncertain science about health effects at near-background levels of pollutant exposure, regulatory agencies continue to push for lower ambient air standards based on modeled adverse health effects that are believed to result from pollutant exposures. Consequently, nearly pristine rural areas have the potential of being labeled as "non-attainment" and attaining, if possible at all, may require control of any local anthropogenic pollutant source. This paper will focus on one of the most ubiquitous air quality pollutants that affects the United States: enhanced concentrations of ground-level ozone. We will review ozone formation in the presence of sunlight and other ambient pollutants, health effects associated with ozone, changes in the national ambient air standard, trends in ozone air quality, contributions to ground-level ozone concentrations from a variety of natural and manmade sources including long-range transport, stratospheric-tropospheric exchange, lightning and wildfires, and estimation of "policy-relevant background" levels. We will show there is little basis for setting a standard near background exposure concentrations and doing so may render the standard unattainable.
Win-for-All: Strategic Approach in HSE Management for E&P in Malaysia
Authors: Yusoff Nor Hashim , Hamzah Rosnan , Taib Norazah M 
Published: September 2012

Abstract
Since the first oil exploration in 1910, Malaysia has advanced to join the global oil and gas players in redefining the industry's landscape by making discoveries in newer frontier and challenging fields such as ultra deepwater, High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) and high CO2. As the entrusted entity and the custodian to manage the hydrocarbon resources under the Malaysia Petroleum Development Act 1974, PETRONAS has discovered over 400 fields, developed and operated by joint-venture agreements with 16 international oil and gas companies.
Compliance with the prescriptive Malaysian regulations for E&P activities is not the only condition to ensure effective Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) management and implementation. This paper discusses the philosophy and strategic approach that PETRONAS, through its Petroleum Management Unit (PMU), has taken to formulate the "win-for-all" concept and harmonized standards in steering the E&P operators’ HSE management. As PETRONAS leads the oil and gas industry in Malaysia, it is PMU's obligation to bridge the Government's expectation and E&P operators’ conformance, whilst taking into account the latest technology available derived from international standards and industrial best practices.
With the evolving relevant Malaysian laws and regulations, increasing public awareness in HSE, and managing new E&P players and subcontractors; PETRONAS has effectuated the self-regulatory principle by influencing the E&P operators to adopt their own global HSE standards for continuous improvement. Through this concept, PETRONAS has developed several HSE standards to be met by E&P operators at minimum, in which the challenges and anticipated achievement will be discussed further in this paper.
The key success factor for PETRONAS in managing HSE in E&P is the ability to manage the portfolio for assets in Malaysia and balancing those between minimizing HSE risks and maximizing the profit returns, as the highest contributor to the nation economic growth.
Setting a New Benchmark in Managing Biofouling on Vessels in a Sensitive Marine Environment
Authors: Wells Fred , Booth Greg 
Published: September 2012

Abstract
The water surrounding Barrow Island (BWI), Western Australia is an internationally significant marine protected area for coral and turtle conservation. A key commitment of the Gorgon Project is that no marine pests be introduced to island waters. A comprehensive quarantine strategy has been developed to prevent the introduction of marine pests, monitor for any that have penetrated the quarantine barriers, and respond to any introductions of such pests.
All vessels mobilising to Barrow Island must be free of secondary biofouling (barnacles, bryozoans, hydroids and worms) at the time of mobilisation. In meeting this criterion, all vessels undergo an initial risk assessment to determine the risk of being infected with marine pests and measures are taken to remediate or mitigate such risks. A preference exists to drydock vessels. In-water inspections and cleaning are also undertaken for vessels that remained in high risk areas following drydocking.
The key question "How long can vessels remain in-water and still be considered to be free of secondary biofouling?" is ecologically and economically significant. To address this, the results of 32 vessel inspections were analysed, including vessels commencing, ongoing and departing from Gorgon service. A range of vessels were considered: offshore support vessels, landing craft tankers, dredges, barges, utility vessels and crew transport vessels. The results have significant implications for all vessel owners that work in sensitive marine areas. It is also an important indication that the current risk assessment methods underestimate the risks vessels present to marine ecosystems, more so when vessels operate in marine protected areas.
To date, quarantine measures to prevent the introduction of marine pests to Barrow Island from overseas have been effective.
Safety Case Analysis as a Tool for Assessing Safety System Effectiveness
Authors: Turnbull R. , Watkiss R. , Taylor M. 
Published: September 2012

Abstract
The IADC safety case template for land rigs is well known within the industry. Many safety cases will be a "living document" used as an integral element of a project or well operations. However, a risk exists that the safety case may be used as a one-off demonstration of HSE management and then put aside.
This paper describes the development of a "living" safety case as an approach to assessing the completeness and effectiveness of equipment and systems at a company rather than rig level.
The development process involved, first, describing all company land rig operations over the preceding three years. Thereafter hazard and effect registers were compiled, bow-ties generated and matrices of permitted operations constructed. Company equipment and systems of work were then compared with measures identified by the safety case analyses.
The comparison process delivered a three-fold benefit. Firstly, it provided a gap analysis tool to identify where controls were assumed rather than present. Secondly, it provided a more detailed specification for the development or revision of safe systems of work. Finally, it provided an assurance framework by which equipment and systems can be assessed on an ongoing basis.
The major findings from the exercise identified a greater range of operations than generally perceived within the company. Gaps in standards, procedures and other controls to cover this operational range were identified. The content, clarity and consistency of documents between rigs were highlighted as areas for improvement as was the specification and selection of equipment.
The exercise also generated a "generic" safety case document that can be stripped down to an individual rig level for operational use. This offers a wide range of advantages by helping to define required actions for inclusion in general rig management documentation, standard job descriptions and vocational training materials.