bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Quantitative Blowout Risk Assessment Approaches
Authors: Dervo Helge J. , Blom-Jensen Bjarne 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
The risk of a blowout is one of the major contributors to the total risk picture on oil and gas installations. The consequences can be significant with respect to loss of lives, material assets and damages to the environment.
Even though much effort is put in to describe how blowouts occur, and how to prevent it to happen, the risk of blowouts will remain a threat to this industry. Historical data show that the variation in the frequency of a blowout strongly dependents on several risk elements identified in the well, on the platform, in the procedures and in the organization.
In order to prohibit blowouts it is of importance to evaluate well conditions, but also the system and the equipment on the platform and in the organization.
A brief comparison has been made between the approach of BlowFAM (Blowout Frequency Assessment Model1) and a more traditional approach based on kick frequency and BOP reliability.
3D Model for Qualitative Risk Assessment
Authors: Cram Robert S. 
Published: December 2007

Proposal
Conventional two dimensional qualitative risk assessment defines risk as the probability of an event multiplied by the consequence resulting from the event where the consequence is loosely defined as discrete components ranging from no consequence or minor consequence through to a catastrophe. In human terms, this is usually either a fatality or permanent disability.
Typically, this type of risk matrix is split into regions indicating, for example, "unacceptable risk", "acceptable risk" and "investigation required" categories. In the case of events involving risk to human beings, this type of approach is insufficient as the potential outcome is always in the most severe consequence category i.e. fatality or permanent disability. Risk assessment for activities involving human beings is therefore reduced to a one dimensional exercise focusing solely on the probability of the event.
This paper describes a three dimensional approach to qualitative risk assessment which permits acknowledgement of the possibility for a catastrophic outcome and the same time provides a mechanism for addressing measures to reduce such a possibility to a minimum.
By introducing a 3rd axis - "probability of consequence", the risk matrix becomes a risk cube. Each layer of the cube represents a level of consequence with the other two axes representing the probability of the event and the probability of the consequence occurring.
Seabed Recolonisation: N'Kossa Case
Authors: Durrieu J. , Bouzet Ph. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
During offshore activities directed at the exploration and production of hydrocarbons, the living conditions of the flora and fauna on the seabed may be disrupted. Drilling operations in particular, during which cuttings are discharged to sea, induce an impact on the benthic populations living in the sediment.
The study described in this paper set out to assess directly on site the real impact of the cuttings discharged, the regenerating capacity of the ecosystem and the medium- and long-term recolonisation processes.
The physical and chemical parameters used as tracers of the drilling muds were: the barium and hydrocarbon concentrations, and particle size.
The paper presents the main results obtained from the monitoring surveys. It discusses the methodology adopted (study of the physico-chemical and biological quality of the sediment, plus evolution of toxicity and bacterial population trends). The study has shown that the relevant parameters for describing benthic macro-fauna are: species richness, abundance and diversity (Shannon index).
Where the environment is concerned, the results obtained are a basis for evaluating the kinetics of restoration of the drilling site in time and in space, and provide evidence of the limited impact of the cuttings.
Produced Water Regulatory Requirements Offshore Australia
Authors: Cobby G. L. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Commonwealth Petroleum (Submerged Lands) (Management of Environment) Regulations 1999, require an accepted Environment Plan (EP) for offshore production facilities to operate. The EP should contain a comprehensive risk assessment of the environmental effects and risks of the whole PW discharge. Compliance with maximum dispersed oil in water concentrations continue to apply but the regulatory focus has changed in recognition of potential chronic effects associated with dissolved aromatics and other potential contaminants. This paper describes Australian regulatory requirements for the environmental management of PW, assessment techniques, treatment technologies and likely trends in Australian PW management.
The Bio-Mare Project: Ecotoxicological Assessment of Mediterranean Offshore Platform Areas using Biomarkers
Authors: Ferraro M. , Fossi M. C. , Casini S. , Marsili L. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
The AGIP "BIO-MARE" pilot project aims to develop and validate a methodology based on biomarkers in bioindicator organisms to assess ecotoxicological effects related to Mediterranean off-shore activities (Adriatic Sea). The research is articulated in three phases: I) laboratory studies; II) field studies; III) development of a methodological protocol. During phase I, specimens of the flatfish Solea vulgaris and barnacles Balanus trigonius and Balanus perforatus were exposed in the laboratory to increasing concentrations of discharged water, obtained from an Adriatic off-shore platform. Various biomarkers (MFO activities (BPMO, EROD, PROD, Cyp450-reductases), porphyrins (copro-, uro-, protoporphyrins), PAH bile metabolites, esterases (AChE, BChE, CbE), vitellogenin, zona radiata proteins, micronuclei, antioxidant enzymes (SOD), metallothioneins) and contaminants (PAHs and trace metals) were measured in the biondicator organisms. The main aim of this phase was to identify the most sensitive biomarker responses and build up an ecotoxicological model for the evaluation and interpretation of in situ data. Variations detected in biomarker responses of exposed organisms with respect to controls, included induction of MFO activity (EROD induction ranged 72-196%, BPMO induction ranged 43-116%), slight accumulation of PAH bile metabolites and slight inibition (20%) of SOD. During phase II, specimens of Solea vulgaris were collected in six Adriatic sites at different distances from the off-shore platform. Statistically significant differences in MFO induction were detected between organisms from the off-shore platform and a control area.
Prevention Of Malaria Among Nonimmune Rotating Expatriates When They Are Back Home From Endemic Countries
Authors: Guibert Philippe 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Expatriates working on a rotational basis in malaria endemic areas are usually well protected when they are directly exposed (on-site medical services, medical evacuation capabilities, etc.). However when they are back home they seem more at risk to developing clinical malaria that will not be managed appropriately. Unpublished data from companies operating in endemic areas show that malaria related mortality is higher when employees are away from their place of work while malaria incidence is higher on-site.
Expatriates knowledge is usually poor, and repeated education and training sessions may ensure full cultural understanding of the disease. As compliance to the chemoprophylaxis is low and decreases with the time, detection of prophylaxis metabolites in biological fluids may lead to better adherence. Standard defined prophylaxis may also avoid irrational use of inappropriate drugs. When malaria occurs, a hot line service may be set up to monitor and to refer any suspect cases to health care providers, to bring support and information, and to link with company medical directors. Self-medication kits included with credit-card size information cards, containing curative drugs coupled with rapid diagnostic kit may be useful to start the treatment.
The purpose of this paper will be to review the complimentary methods of malaria prevention among nonimmune expatriates working on a regular basis in endemic countries. Prevention needs to be focused on repeated information, communication for both the person at risk and their family and access to self-treatment measures when expatriates are back home. We have analysed with our on-site physicians in Africa several factors that may explain this situation, and the measures that can be implemented to decrease
Chad Export Project: Environmental Management and Monitoring Process and Systems
Authors: Moynihan Kelly J. , Kaul Clayton F. , Caldwell Ed R. , Sellier Ulrich L. , Daetwyler Neil A. , Hayward Gary L. , Tucker Joey V. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Over its 25-30 year life, the $3.5 billion Chad Export Project will produce ~1 billion barrels of crude oil from three Chadian oilfields for export to world markets. Oilfield area facilities encompass ~250 wells, produced fluids separation and processing units, and supporting infrastructure including a 120 MW power plant. The Project's export system includes a 1070 kilometer onshore pipeline traversing the southern part of Chad and much of neighboring Cameroon, three pump stations and a near shore pressure reducing station, a 12 kilometer subsea pipeline, and an offshore marine terminal (Floating Storage and Offloading vessel). Major construction was preceded by the Project's upgrading of significant portions of the transportation infrastructure in north central Cameroon and southern Chad. The participation of the Republics of Chad and Cameroon in the Project as equity partners in the export system was made possible by loans furnished by the World Bank. During the Project's six-year planning period, extensive integrated engineering, environmental, socioeconomic, and health studies were undertaken, with a special emphasis on issues/impacts identification and avoidance, alternatives analyses, and site selection/optimization. The development of the Project's Environmental Assessments and twenty volume Environmental Management Plan (EMP) featured a high degree of transparency and embodied extensive public consultation. An assortment of systems and processes were developed and implemented to ensure that the Project was constructed in a manner that featured a high level of compliance with EMP-related obligations and requirements. EMP implementation, performance, and compliance results have been made widely available to global civil society via the posting of Project-related reports and other information on the Internet.
Protecting Shallow Water Environment through Re-Injecting Drilling Wastes Down Hole: A Proactive Management Decision
Authors: Lee Tzee Wan , Radzuan b Yusof M. , b Boni Rosli , Rahman Shaharuddin Abdul 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Petronas Carigali Bahrain Ltd (PCBL) drilled two exploration wells in the shallow water environment offshore Bahrain in 2003. In order to protect the rich and sensitive natural environment with commercial and scientific importance due to the presence of a number of unique and rare habitat types namely, seagrass beds and coral reefs, PCBL conducted an ecological baseline survey to collect information prior to conducting an Enviornmental Impact Assessment. The main source of potential impact was expected to come from the drilling wastes, normally discharge overboard. In view of the sensitive environments, PCBL made a proactive decision to slurrify and re-inject drilling wastes down-hole in order to reduce the volume of plume producing solid and liquid effluent discharged into the marine environment. The environmental benefit realized from the decision has far exceeded the cost installation and operation of the cuttings reinjection unit.
Vermicomposting and Best Available Technique for Oily Drilling Waste Management in Environmentally Sensitive Areas
Authors: Paulsen John E. , Getliff Jonathan , Sørheim Roald 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Oil and gas exploration into areas of increasing environmental sensitivity require justification of selected Best Available Technique (BAT), including drilling waste disposal. The BAT should also reflect a most responsible technique.
In sensitive areas offshore Northern Norway discharge of drill cuttings is a controversial issue. Improvements in bulk handling techniques are expected to allow wastes to be quickly and safely returned to shore for treatment. If the cuttings are not injected into subsurface formations offshore, then thermal treatment is one option. However, such plants require considerable capital investment or transportation of the cuttings over long distances to the next plant. While bioremediation may not be the obvious choice for waste treatment in arctic climates, the use of benign fluids designed to facilitate bioremediation can greatly increase process rates and facilitate recycling of the waste. Field trials show that vermicomposting is fit for this purpose.
Vermicomposting uses worms to remediate the cuttings converting them in to a compost type material that can be used as a soil enhancer or fertilizer. This paper considers a technique that not only cleans the cuttings, but also adds value, converting them into a valuable resource.
The results of a study into the feasibility of vermicomposting in Northern Norway provide data for discussing the efficiency and practicality of the technique, while the results of analytical tests and plant growth studies demonstrate the quality and beneficial properties of the product.
Acknowledging that this concept transforms a waste into a fertilizer, it may be argued that this is an attractive waste minimization technique that requires low energy inputs and leaves no environmentally compromising residues.
Improving the Implementation of HSE Management Systems through the Use of Neural Networks to Analyse Accident Data
Authors: Cram Robert S. 
Published: December 2007

Proposal
Many companies have access to large databases of accident / incident data collected over many years of operations. Often however, best use of this data is not made and organisations find themselves limited in most instances to the generation of standard reports such as Lost Time Injury Frequency Rates or, at best, offering management the opportunity to generate ad hoc queries. As a consequence, a large reservoir of useful knowledge remains untapped.
Human beings are notoriously bad at recognising patterns within data. When presented with huge quantities of information, we are unable to process it simultaneously and rapidly become overwhelmed. Neural Networks offer a solution to this problem. They provide HSE and line management with the opportunity to look deep into their accident databases and identify patterns within this data store. These patterns can then be used to identify appropriate management HSE objectives to further reduce accident rates.
Using Neural Networks to analyse accident data provides a tool which satisfies four important questions in improving HSE performance; "What are the major contributing factors to existing accidents?", "What new issues are beginning to become a problem?", "How effective have previous measures been in reducing the contribution of specific factors in accident causation?" and finally, "Have we achieved all that we can achieve within the scope of our current accident investigation methods?"
This paper describes how a Neural Network can be set up to analyse accident data and presents the results of several investigations using hundreds of accident reports.
A New Method of Measuring Safety Performance Will Soon Affect the Whole Industry
Authors: Veley Carl , Ritchie Norman , Coats E. Alan , Disatell Joel , Cook Pat 
Published: December 2007

Proposal
Safety performance is an increasingly important factor in deciding which bidders get contracts. Companies also make safety performance an important element in selecting employees for promotion, or for termination. The stakes are high, and it is critical that safety performance measurements accurately reflect probability of future accidents.
Conventional measurements are proving to be unreliable indicators of the future and can cause contracts to go to bidders with the highest, not lowest, probability of accidents. They punish supervisors and companies for things they cannot control. Additionally, they can unfairly derail the careers of capable employees at all levels. This new system rewards supervisors based on corrective actions entirely within their control. It receives strong approval from all management levels, and is proving much more effective in preventing accidents.
Now, a new metric is available that eliminates these problems. It is based on a simple, objective, highly reliable system of evaluating corrective actions. This new system generates a single number directly indexed to future safety performance. The system eliminates problems with conventional frequency and severity ratios, and it is proving to be a powerful management tool in many ways. It is currently being tested and implemented by large and small companies throughout all of the industry.
Employing the Techniques of High Reliability Organisations in the Oil & Gas Industry
Authors: McGrath Tim , Conversi Tim 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
The objective of having zero health, safety and environmental incidents whilst achieving excellent business performance is the long-term goal for oil and gas industry operators and contractors. There are a few "High Reliability Organisations" (HROs) that have achieved better than expected performance in other hazardous and complex industries where the consequences of failure are also a threat to organisational survival. The Berkeley Group (Roberts, 1993) identified and analysed this phenomenon in the late 1980's. It may be possible for oil and gas industry operators and contractors to employ some of the techniques that HROs utilise to achieve higher reliability. A tool has been developed which measures the degree to which an organisation employs these techniques at each level of the organisation from the boardroom to the drill floor so that areas for improvement may be identified. The tool can also be used in a similar manner to 4D seismic to identify the improvement or reduction in reliability following the implementation of, for example, a new management technique, organisational change or a change in the operating environment. The tool will be presented along with data from oil and gas operators who are on the path from "Reliability Seeking" to "High Reliability".
Holistic Approach to HSE Performance Assessment, Monitoring and Management in an Integrated Upstream Oil/Gas Corporation
Authors: Chakraborty Ashok B. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Assessment and monitoring is an important step to ensure and facilitate better performance for any activity. Likewise, for the Occupational Health, Safety and Environment Management (HSE), there are different performance assessment parameters, monitoring methods, procedures and the related Management aspects. Some of these are of general type while others specific. Selection of the assessment parameters may serve to establish the required benchmarking or to ascertain performance level leading to better loss control management or these may be some means to satisfy the statutory compliance etc. In an integrated upstream E&P oil/gas company where activities like exploration, well completion, production, maintenance, pipeline network and all associated services are available and undertaken in-house, the selection of the performance parameters and assessment system adopted, are required to be more elaborate and comprehensive. Each organization has a HSE policy and set of defined objectives to be accomplished. This necessitates a better coordinated approach for the selection of performance parameters, assessment and monitoring methods with a view to ensure that the company objectives are met and sustained along with desired future trends.
In this paper, different performance assessment parameters and the monitoring systems have been discussed. While dealing with the subject and the concerned issues, effort has been made to lay emphasis on strengthening the systems making it more system-centric instead of data-centric. This paper is more analytical and practical in approach and systematically covers to a large extent the whole gamut of issues involved regarding performance parameters, assessment and monitoring in the area of Occupational Health, Safety and Environment management. Nature of the work upon which paper is based; the field study, literature survey and the professional experience. The conclusions are that while finalizing the performance parameters assessment, monitoring methods, procedures and the related management aspects, it is necessary to view it objectively, detailing the purpose and to ensure minimum acceptable HSE operating standards. Besides, standards of performance are an important tool ensuring Management by Objectives.
The area of interest in the paper is primarily based on sharing of experience.
A Focus on Fitness to Work to Prevent Occupational Injuries
Authors: Wright Robin 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
This paper describes Coogee Resources' health programme as it applies to two Floating Production Storage and Offtake (FPSO) facilities in the Timor Sea, Australia. The company's approach is aimed at maintaining a fit workforce, which is a key aspect in minimising occupational injury. In introducing a health programme, difficulties can be encountered in resolving perceived conflicts between company goals and personal choice and privacy. This paper will show how a relatively small oil producing company has attempted to overcome these difficulties in implementing a health programme that has both corporate and personal benefits.
The Benefits of Job-Specific Functional Testing for New Hires
Authors: Bunch R. , Doucette N. , Kalkan S. , Sealy I. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
The requirements and methods are described for developing and implementing a functional capacity testing program for a range of field operation positions in an oilfield services company. Functional capacity testing is a physical agility testing process designed to assess an applicant's ability to perform the physical demands of the job. It is considered a preventive measure designed to eliminate or mitigate unnecessary risk associated with job placement. Benefits include proper job matching, injury reduction, and improved productivity.
This paper shows the value obtained from this preplacement testing process. The physical capacities of the prospective employee must be properly matched with the essential physical demands of the job. This provides a foundation for ergonomic analysis to reduce work stressors, wellness feedback with employee fitness-level awareness, and instruction on proper body mechanics at hiring time. The program also establishes a preinjury functional capacity baseline that serves as a measurement for assessing recovery during post injury rehabilitation, and determines if impairment translates into occupational disability.
Various regulations have necessitated the functional analysis approach to the hiring process. Functional capacity testing provides a basis for accommodations when a disability qualifies for protection under various regulations such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
The paper discusses the potential for future program development for assessing return-to-work capability, and creating links between the functional capacity testing program and hazard identification and risk control programs.