bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Pioneering Natural Waste Treatment in the Omani Desert
Authors: Younes N. 
Published: July 2010

Abstract
This international Oil and Gas company teamed with a specialised water management company and an Omani civil engineering contractor to develop, quite literally, a ground-breaking solution to the problem of dealing with sewage at their drilling and well testing base in the Omani Empty Quarter Desert.
The Reed Bed sewage treatment facility uses natural processes to treat sewage effluent of around 300 staff and contractors living at the concession central camp. This in-situ treatment of sewage waste reduces environmental impacts of transportation and collection of waste, risks associated with spillage, and the transfer of responsibility to others.
Avoiding a mechanical on-site sewage treatment plant or the transportation of the waste by tanker to faraway facilities from the site resulted in substantial cost savings. Environmental and operating cost benefits are matched by health and safety gains of avoiding the risks associated with long-distance driving.
The lush green patch is becoming a refuge for insects and migratory birds. It is also very popular with local employees providing a welcome change from the yellow desert sea.
The innovative approach was acknowledged in various media streams in Oman including interviews on major local newspapers. The project was also highly commended in the company's Chief Executive Innovation Awards competition.
Hot Work in Habitat – Developing a Method for Chemical Exposure Assessment
Authors: Jensen Ellen Katrine , Peikli Vegard , Dalene Marianne , Skarping Gunnar 
Published: July 2010

Abstract
This paper describes an approach for developing a protocol for chemical exposure assessment in habitats. The aim was to develop a method for the working environment toolkit to be applied in chemical risk management.
In general, no hot work can be performed on pipelines and equipment when a plant is in operation (hot plant). This is due to safety reasons, i.e. explosion and fire prevention. Introducing a habitat, typically a tent with overpressure, can fulfill the safety requirements and enable that hot work can take place on a hot plant if this is performed inside the habitat. However, habitat has not been considered with respect to working environment and health risk. High concentration of chemical contaminants and noise, difficult access and work positions, may be unwanted effects introducing health risk. This paper is focusing on chemical contaminants in real habitats that have not earlier been reported in the literature. Measurements are fundamental for the chemical risk assessment of work in habitat.
A protocol was drafted, selecting appropriate sampling methods, direct reading instruments, operating procedures and data collection protocols. Instruments were checked and calibrated and the robustness for field measurements was in particular investigated. A setup in a, for the purpose, designed climate chamber was made to simulate a habitat. The climate chamber enabled measurements, training of personnel, test of protocol and instruments in advance. Finally, the method will be used at real habitat measurements, to be performed at hot plant installations. The method will be revised based on the experiences achieved from real habitat measurements, and then recommended as best practice.
The method for the chemical exposure assessment in habitat will enable us to determine risk, and to implement suitable control measures.
IO (Integrated operations) Design Gives High Efficiency.
Authors: Moltu Berit , NæRheim Jakob 
Published: July 2010

Abstract
‘Integrated operations’ (IO) is about employing real time data and new technology to remove barriers between disciplines, expert groups, location and companies. In this paper we investigate the effect on efficiency from design and work practice in operation support rooms. A study taken within a Norwegian oil & gas company shows an evident correlation between IO design and high efficiency.
This study shows the difference in design and practice between five different operation support rooms (OPS rooms). The operation support unit is supposed to support interaction between different locations, e.g. onshore and offshore, in the upstream oil industry. Recent practice has established special OPS-rooms to make operation and maintenance work more feasible between the onshore based operation unit and the offshore operations.
In this study newer academic perspectives from Science and Technology Studies (STS) are taken into the field of HSE. Inspired by Actor Network Theory (Bruno Latour, 1987, 1994) the OPS-rooms are seen as a chain of networks between different physical locations, different ICT-solutions, different organisational and managerial models, and new working practices, all intended to support the current operations. The IO solution is intended to support and create new ways of working based on real-time data, online communication and across geographic space. This improves transparency in solutions e.g. to open up frozen borders between different departments, different disciplines, different geographical locations, management and employers, ICT and ideas of what a room is.
The variety of solutions and practices was studied by participative observation in all five rooms. More than 40 employees working with operations support onshore and offshore were interviewed. A survey was conducted on efficiency of operations and maintenance work, optimisation of production, and management of asset integrity and technical disciplines. Analyses of the results on efficiency concluded that the most IO mature assets perform well when it comes to efficiency. We attribute this to a more online and proactive work practice. The most IO mature asset reports a good work environment and that it is fun to work there. We also attribute this to a more online and proactive work practice.
Design Safety Lessons Learned From Major Offshore E&P Projects
Authors: McPhate A. J. , Zerafa M. , Venkataraman G. , Popat N. 
Published: July 2010

Abstract
Major accident safety management in the E&P Industry has experienced several challenges (e.g. cost over-runs, loss of life) throughout our history. A typical strategy for risk management is goal setting: achieving tolerable risks and reducing risks to As Low As Reasonably Practicable (ALARP). However, several projects have demonstrated that in their efforts to optimize safety design features, some systems have been under-specified early in the project. The process to identify these areas of potential weakness, select appropriate increased requirements and implement design changes often results in a sub-optimal solution for effort, cost, schedule or safety performance.
The strategy proposed can be applied to any type of E&P installation to manage major accident hazards. It can also be applied to other goal setting design dimensions, such as environmental performance. The approach prescribes a set of specific performance standards at the concept selection stage and ensures that these requirements are implemented.
The safety measures implemented to manage major accident hazards are very seldom required to function in the facility lifetime. As such project teams may not fully understand the significant role of each major accident control measure. Input from experienced Safety Engineers was refined into a minimum specification that is sufficiently clear to be used by design engineering teams, such that these few critical systems are implemented effectively. First applications of this approach have demonstrated significantly improved levels of safety, cost, schedule and effort relative to the reliance on the optimization approach during detailed design.
The design safety strategy recommended by the authors has demonstrated the opportunity to:
Speed up execution Limit safety scope changes late in the project Reduce project engineering efforts Minimize safety "gold-plating" Deliver a robust design for major accident hazards Significantly reduce and manage the major accident risks
Environmental Management and Visual Mapping as Alternative Monitoring in Heterogeneous Areas
Authors: Jensen Tor , Pinturier Laurence Maryvonne , Ulfsnes Amund , Moltu Ulf Einar 
Published: July 2010

Abstract
Environmental Baseline Study (EBS) in Norway has been carried out as traditional sediment sampling at the planned production site for biological, chemical and physical analysis prior to production drilling according to regulation. The extent of such study should be related to the risk of impact from the planned operations. This baseline can then be used as a reference for future environmental monitoring. Equally important is the contribution to environmental impact assessments defining the measures to eliminate, limit or offsetting the adverse effects that the operation could generate. For the Victoria location, a traditional EBS based on sediment sampling was not considered beneficial due to both anticipated coarse sediment as well as presence of corals at the elevated ridge south west in the area. A comprehensive study including sediment analysis, visual mapping with ROV (Remotely Operated Vehicle), current measurements and interpretation of side scan sonar data and bathymetry data was therefore applied to meet the challenges at Victoria. The video lines covered more than 130 km of sea bed and the interpretation enabled categorisation of the seabed in soft bottom, rocks and reef building corals. Still photos and HD videos of the major corals structures were used to identify the dominant species and assess their health status (dead, poor, live). Results were transferred to a GIS to define the optimal position of anchoring corridors minimising interference with sensitive ecosystems. The combination of the different methods used in the EBS gives a thorough coverage of the area. The amount and quality of data gathered also beyond the location of the appraisal well location, allow a proper assessment of the sensitivity of the area at the field scale. Based on the experiences gained, it is recommended that future monitoring in areas comprising different habitats (soft bottom, rocky habitat etc.) apply different dedicated monitoring methods. For the visual monitoring a recommendation of approaches are: ‒Turbidity and current should be measured before and during drilling to document the dispersion of particles to secure the monitoring strategies.‒Establish photo stations and indicator species to be monitored based on the data from turbidity and current measurements.‒The use of a GIS based map system is highly recommended to handle the amount of data collected in an efficient and presentable way.‒Collected data from future surveys should be implemented in the already existing GIS based map system of the Victoria site to secure an up to date database.
Workplace Strategies: Implementation of a Workplace Directed Prevention Ergonomic Program
Authors: Lawhorn E. G. , Douglas G. A. , Fischkelta James A. 
Published: July 2010

Abstract
Cumulative trauma disorders (CTDs) are estimated to account for $1 of every $3 spent of workers compensation costs. This accounts for more than $15 to $20 billion in direct costs such as medical bills. In addition to CTDs, computer users may also experience eyestrain, back pain and many other medical problems.
The increased prevalence of CTDs associated with video display terminals and the work environment has been well documented. The problem of CTDs continues to plague business as both a medical issue and performance issue. In the US alone, CTDs account for 5% of non-fatal injuries.
The relationship between computer usage and musculoskeletal complaints continues to be soft, while workers increasingly complain of pain and discomfort with computer usage. Physical and psychosocial work exposures have been shown to be risk factors for low-back pain and neck and upper limb symptoms, with CTS excluded (Aas et al. 2005; Bongers et al. 2006; van Rijn et al. 2009a, 2009b).
The program’s experience indicated that over the past 5 years, the number of office-based worker ergonomic illnesses has been fairly constant with all workplace related injuries/illnesses reflecting a slight increase in the rate from ∼3% to ∼5%. The overall illness severity (measured in days away from work) has been consistent over this same period (∼10% of workplace related office ergonomic illnesses resulted in days away form work). The data indicated the primary medial diagnosis for these musculoskeletal upper limb disorders included carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), tendonitis, and tenosynovitis. The body parts impacted by these illnesses were hands/fingers approximately 65%, arms 25%, and shoulders/neck 01%. Many of these illnesses were experienced by our office based workers whose tasks includes frequent interface with computers and repetitive use of computer input devices.
A recent review of a major oil and gas company office ergonomic program prompted management to request the medical department assistance to review the corporate office ergonomic program to ensure office based activities are performed in a manner thereby reducing or eliminating stress, strain and injury /illness. An inter-professional team was assigned the task to implement the program. The objective of the program was to develop a template and toolkit to provide consistent criteria for additional intervention and a prioritized set of intervention options and guidelines to help supervisors and managers. The corporate process would define the requirements to ensure office safety and consistency in application.
This paper reports on the experience of implementing a worksite-based ergonomic program, the essential components of the program, and lessons learned for a more effective system-wide project approach.
Reducing Flaring And Improving Energy Efficiency: An Operator's View
Authors: Labeyrie Hadrien , Rocher Anne 
Published: July 2010

Abstract
TOTAL is strongly committed in reducing the flaring and improving the energy efficiency of its exploration and production (E&P) operations: commitment of no continuous production flaring in new projects since year 2000, joining GGFR in 2004, strong objective of flaring reduction (after having achieved a 40% flaring reduction from 1998 to 2005 while the production increased significantly), as well as greenhouse gases (GHG) and energy efficiency internal targets.
The reduction of continuous flaring is the aim of several projects under studies even when there is no gas market. Furthermore, Energy Assessments have been conducted on E&P sites representing about half of TOTAL E&P's fuel gas consumption, to detect opportunities to optimize the energy efficiency and define action plans for the implementation of these opportunities. In addition to this, the company has developed a guidebook gathering all known technical best practices, leading to GHG emissions reduction.
This publication gives highlights from this guidebook, in particular practices to quantify, categorise and actually reduce the flaring and venting, as well as practices to evaluate energy efficiency and optimize it. Examples are given from actual gains obtained by applying those practices.
In parallel to these efforts on existing facilities, actions are also applied to the new projects: Environmental General Specifications have been recently updated in order to reflect the best available technologies and optimum design practices. The paper highlights these specifications, with examples of what is considered in Total as mandatory or recommended for new projects design, to minimize emissions of GHG, and to increase energy efficiency.
Finally, the GHG and energy efficiency assessment which is performed for new projects, during the conceptual or pre-project studies, which is another tool to encourage the use of Best Available Technologies, is described.
Acoustic Monitoring of Marine Mammals around Offshore Platforms in the North Sea and Impact Assessment of Noise from Drilling Activities
Authors: Bach S. S. , Skov H. , Piper W. 
Published: July 2010

Abstract
Acoustic monitoring of small cetaceans (harbour porpoises and dolphins) has been conducted around two platforms in the central North Sea. At one platform, there was continuous drilling activity while at the other platform, drilling did not occur during the monitoring period. The objective was to assess activity of harbour porpoises, Phocoena phocoena, around the platforms and assess the behavioural effects from sound emissions related to drilling activities.
Passive acoustic monitoring devices (PAMs – T-POD ver. 5) were deployed at both locations for a period of more than two years. The PAMs are able to detect high frequency sound from small cetaceans and thereby assess the activity of animals in the immediate area surrounding the platforms.
The results indicate that there is a relatively high activity of harbour porpoises around both the observed offshore platforms throughout the year. Clear seasonal trends in acoustic activities were not observed aside from increased activity levels during the fall of 2007 and in the late fall of 2008 at both locations. It is possible that these events are the results of a movement of harbour porpoises away from the calving grounds to the offshore areas. The offshore structures are known to attract fish and could function as feeding stations for the harbour porpoises, i.e. the platforms most likely function as artificial reefs. Hydrographic conditions at the platform locations that could influence the availability of prey in the area will naturally influence the activity level of the harbour porpoises. The study indicates that offshore platforms and drilling activities do not pose a significant threat to small cetaceans. However, the results show that short-term behavioural effects must be expected during activities that result in high sound intensity levels, e.g. during the ramming of conductors.
The study confirms that PAMs are a useful tool for monitoring behavioural changes of small cetaceans in offshore environments. However, rough weather conditions and the risk of collision with vessels present a challenge. Loss of equipment and consequently loss of data is very likely to happen. In addition, the costs of maintaining the equipment and retrieving the data are significant due to the remote location. Consequently, the use of PAMs should be carefully considered when assessing the purpose of the monitoring.
Driving to Real-Time Compliance in Land Transport
Authors: Allen Gary , Fee Wayne 
Published: July 2010

AbstractLand transportation–related incidents continue to be the highest cause of fatalities within the oil and gas industry, as shown in the International Association of Oil & Gas Producers (OGP) 2008 performance indicators. Despite widespread efforts, significant performance improvements have not been achieved. Time and again, investigation of automotive-related fatalities and incidents identifies failures in compliance with the known controls of land transport activities.The complexity of risks in land transport operations—as well as the focus and expertise required to successfully manage compliance—is such that managing land transport cannot be effectively dealt with as a part-time job. While line managers must be responsible and accountable for compliance with standards, policies, and recommended practices, it is inevitable that multi-tasking managers will not be able to spare the required attention to ensure all journeys within their control remain compliant at all times.This paper discusses the shift towards a dedicated function equipped with fit-for-purpose tools, software, and expertise to manage every journey from the planning stage to its ultimate safe conclusion.Over a period of time, dedicated Journey Management Centers (JMCs) were set up in several Middle East and Asia countries. Each JMC was provided with web-based software that performs hazard assessments and risk control for each journey, provides visibility of driver certification, past performance, and incident/route data. This is augmented with data in respect to vehicle position and speed provided by in-vehicle monitoring systems (IVMS) in either real-time or near real-time. This information provides constant visibility of any events or behaviors that indicate noncompliance and thus facilitates real-time intervention.The paper explains the JMC setup and outlines technologies in software and IVMS that, when integrated, provide a powerful tool that can manage real-time compliance. It also shares the impact made by such dedicated resources—in terms of behavior, incident reduction, and fleet management efficiencies.
Method of Equivalent CO2 Emissions Sources Identification and Quantification of Offshore Petroleum Production Units
Authors: Maia João Luiz , da Silva Neves Marcus Vinicius 
Published: July 2010

Abstract
Each offshore petroleum production unit has some sources of CO2 emissions, related to both energetic and non-energetic uses, such as electric energy generation, gas flaring, natural gas and CO2 ventilating, drainage systems and other meaningless uses. Additionally, some fields may have high CO2 content present in the chemical composition of the produced natural gas stream. In this case, the separation of the CO2 stream from the produced natural gas one is mandatory, in order to meet the natural gas specifications established by the regulated bodies. Therefore, this available CO2 stream can be used in the oil fields in many applications, mainly as a method of enhancing oil recovery (EOR) or even as enhancing gas recovery (EGR). The present paper approaches a methodology of both identification and quantification of each CO2 and equivalent CO2 existing source of the petroleum facilities, in such a way of presenting all of them together and also separated though the unit's life cycle.
HSE for Youth—Reinforcing an HSE Culture to Employees, Families and Communities in the Oil and Gas Industry
Authors: Lopez Juan-Carlos , Barnier Muriel , Palacios Luisa , Arce Lina 
Published: July 2010

AbstractAn initiative has been developed by an oilfield services company to share its health, safety, and environment (HSE) knowledge and expertise with families and local communities, who in turn reinforce a HSE culture among employees, which helps make such a culture become a lifestyle habit for all.The initiative, "HSE for Youth", is a program designed to reach young people aged between 11 and 18. It focuses on seven themes: Injury Prevention, Road Safety, Personal Security, HIV/AIDS, Malaria, Water and Climate Change. Workshops are designed to be easy-to-implement and low cost, and are facilitated by volunteer employees, spouses and motivated people in the community. Participants include children of employees, clients, and members of local communities.This paper explains how the worldwide program was established, and how materials were developed based on the company's HSE expertise, as well as on external public health and educational expertise. All content is learner-centered and is flexible and adaptable to local contexts yet is framed by the company's corporate quality control system. Several hundred children have participated since the program was launched in 2008.The paper also describes a local adaptation of the program in Colombia, Ecuador and Peru called "HSE for Kids", tailored to reach a younger audience and their parents, and already implemented in seventeen offices and operational bases.