bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Screening and Evaluation of Some Environment-Friendly Mud Additives To Use in Water-Based Drilling Muds
Authors: Amanullah M. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Environmental safeguard policies enacted by EPA, state and federal governments for effective management of onshore, offshore, coastal and other areas dictate the identification of environment friendly muds and mud additives. The increasing concerns of world communities to protect the global environment from the detrimental effect of oil-based muds dictate the use of environment friendly water-based muds. However, water-based muds with excellent environmental characteristics often become obsolete due to poor technical performance and low thermal stability. This paper describes the results of three novel mud additives to control the viscous, fluid loss and thermal stability of water-based muds.
A comparative study of the viscosity generating characteristics of a newly identified viscosifier indicates better performance at the same concentration with respect to a widely used viscosifier. Several fluid loss additives, developed using an environment friendly technique, show better performance than a widely used fluid loss additive. A newly identified thermal degradation inhibitor improved the thermal stability of a bentonite mud up to 150 °C.
Experimental data indicate more than 100% increase in PV, 400% increase in YP and 200% increase in 10 seconds gel strength for the base bentonite mud after hot rolling at 150 °C for 16 hours. However, this mud showed about 40% increase in PV and virtually no change in the YP and thixotropic property after hot rolling at 150 °C for 16 hours in the presence of the newly identified thermal degradation inhibitor.
Reducing the Learning Curve Through the Use of an Advanced Drilling Simulator
Authors: Hodgson R. , Hassard P. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
This paper describes how the use of a full size, real time, drilling simulator is proving to significantly reduce the learning curve for drilling operations.
Traditionally simulators have been used for well control training, or the training of crews to operate new generation automated drilling equipment. Modern drilling simulators are, however, also now being exploited by performance oriented teams to practice techniques and procedures in a risk free, low cost environment.
Techniques such as Through Tubing Rotary Drilling (TTRD) and Extended Reach Drilling (ERD) are now routine techniques for many Operators. However, these operations are still typically new to many of the field drillcrews involved. The paper describes how state of the art simulators are being used to realistically model the proposed operation placing emphasis on anticipated well challenges.
An explanation is given as to how well planners can identify whether certain aspects of their programmes are effective and then establish whether all anticipated eventualities have been covered, allowing time for procedures to be modified and contingency plans to be prepared well in advance of actual operations commencing. Rig teams can be observed proactively addressing the information coming from the well and how they react to problems, allowing supervisory personnel to identify gaps in understanding or training which need to be addressed in order to give both Operators and the Drilling Contractor greater confidence in "getting it right first time".
The paper concludes that the use of such facilities can significantly accelerate the learning experience when developing innovative well programmes, when embarking on challenging well operations, or even to ensure trouble free start-ups for new rigs and crews.
Ranking Geostatistical Realizations by Measures of Connectivity
Authors: McLennan J. A. , Deutsch C. V. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Geostatistical reservoir modeling provides multiple equally probable realizations of structure, facies, and petrophysical properties. A large number of realizations should be processed to ensure that production decisions and strategies are not unduly affected by an unusually good or bad simulated realization. Flow simulation, however, often requires significant computational and professional time. Only a few geostatistical realizations can be subjected to detailed flow modeling. An integrated approach is developed for ranking geostatistical realizations. A small number of representative realizations can then be selected for flow processing.
The ranking and selecting of realizations must be tailored to the flow process. Techniques that work for conventional oil and gas reservoirs are not necessarily suitable for in-situ and SAGD bitumen recovery methods. This paper describes static connectivity measures tailored to heavy oil recovery processes from the McMurray Formation. Flow simulation is performed on many geostatistical realizations to calibrate the ranking measures to production response. This permits reliable inference in reservoir areas where it is not possible to perform many flow simulations.
Environmental, Social, and Health Impact Assessment (ESHIA) Process
Authors: McHugh S. , Maruca S. , Lilien J. , Manning A. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
The Chevron International Exploration & Production's (CIEP's) integrated Environmental, Social, and Health Impact Assessment (ESHIA) process is described together with the results of its implementation. The value added by an integrated approach to environmental, social, and health impact assessments is discussed. The key features of the process are the requirement for projects to be screened early in project development, stakeholder engagement to be conducted, and management plans to be developed for the construction and operations phases. The details of the process and its governance are addressed.
ESHIA requires multi-disciplinary teams to evaluate environmental, social, and health impacts and risks. The clear expectations on social impact assessment and stakeholder engagement have generated high value cooperation between HES and public affairs specialists. The early identification of potential impacts has greatly improved the quality of project decision-making.
ESHIA is critical to oil and gas companies who wish to access new opportunities, obtain external financing, acquire licenses to operate, deliver sustainable development, and enhance company reputation. In many areas of the world, there is little regulatory or cultural distinction between environmental, social, and health impacts. Stakeholder engagement is an increasingly important project requirement with increased expectations from governments and lending institutions. The integration of these factors into project decision-making is a key success factor to the delivery of long term project value.
Security Matrix in the Niger Delta Operations
Authors: Inyang E. , Oyinlola S. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Schlumberger operations in Nigeria significantly fall under the Niger Delta area.
This area is continously subject to threat occasioned by a precarious security situation and the associated risk levels are continously evolving. It is therefore necessary that this risk be constantly monitored such that the exposure is controlled and always mentained at an acceptable level.
The objective of this project is to identify the hazards associated with each area and develop a Risk Matrix, which will be used to constantly assess the likelihood and severity of these risks and hence provide detailed preventive and mitigation measures to reduce this risk to a level which is as low as reasonably possible (ALARP).
In order to monitor this evolving risk, an assessment of the communities where Schlumberger has active operations or could possibly have in the future was carried out. Harzards such as violence, mugging, injury, theft, blackmail, extortion, threats, kidnapping, revolution, civil war, expropriation, loss of control over operations, occupation of or damage to Schlumberger facilities, etc were identified. Possible sources of the identified hazards such as political extremists, terrorists, insurgent groups, hostile military and paramilitary forces, petty criminals, organised criminals, computer hackers, protesters, striking workforces, indigenous groups, corrupt officials, dishonest business partners, and disloyal employees were also identified.
The communities in the Niger Delta were then categorized into different risk zones (including black, Red, Yellow, Green and Blue) with respect to the hazards identified therein.
A Risk Matrix was then developed to measure the likelihood and severity of these risks.
The necessary requirements for prevention and mitigation were established in addition to an Emergency Response Plan.
Security porcesses were established for operation in different areas according to their risk zones.
Exemption processes including the authorizing signatories for the exemption were also defined both for the Client and Schlumberger.
This Project was implemented in one of the Niger Delta Fields (the Soku field of SPDC) with success.
e-Med File: A Toll To Strengthen Occupational Health Programs
Authors: Celly J. J. Z. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
In this article, e-Med File (EMF) refers to a software that allows entering medical data (from petroleum industry employees) to make critical medical information available for further reference and consultation for the employee and authorized doctors anywhere an Internet connection is accessible.
Also some statistical information could be presented for managers or supervisors, for planning and resource allocation purposes, for example.
In the petroleum business—especially in oilfield operations—the capacity for adequate medical response in case of common medical problems or life-threatening emergencies is critical, because the working conditions and extreme environments make very difficult—and often impossible—immediate and "proper" medical care, so quick access to vital information could save lives.
On the other hand, mobility is usually a characteristic of petroleum employees, where the employee may travel within a country, a continent, or worldwide. In various areas, medical technology might not be appropriate and thus some medical information requiring certain types of technology might be impossible to obtain. With electronic storage, medical data "travels" with the employee everywhere.
Also, some applications are recommended to make the software a useful tool in occupational health programs:
Allows locals doctors to extend medical certifications for legal purposes, based on reliable medical records. Alarm (or high values) laboratory results of an employee are electronically informed to the employee and to key health personnel for further investigation or action. Follows-up for planned physicals or health controls (for example referrals or additional clinical or laboratory investigation). Informs in advance about expiring dates of physicals and medical check-ups. Allows doctors and/or managers to obtain statistical information to present reports for multiple purposes.
In this context e-Med Files could play an important role to increase performance of petroleum companies in medical emergencies and occupational health programs.
Introduction of New Drilling Technology Improves Performance of Mature North Sea Assets
Authors: Anderson J. , Niescierowicz G. , Ruszka J. , Blair J. , Connell S. , Omokwald A. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
The Central North Sea (CNS) Cretaceous formations are notoriously difficult for performing directional drilling operations. Oriented drilling using bent housing steerable motors is troublesome and rate of penetration is unacceptably slow with rotary steerable systems. This has historically resulted in well trajectories being planned with minimal directional course changes through these sequences and, when directional course changes are absolutely required, oil based mud is often required to facilitate oriented drilling. With many assets in the Central North Sea reaching maturity, directional drilling course changes in the Cretaceous has increasingly become a necessity to access remaining targets.
Talisman Energy (UK) Limited acquired several CNS mature assets in the period 1997 – 2005. A challenge faced by the operator was to improve directional drilling control and overall drilling performance through the CNS Cretaceous while simultaneously moving away from oil based mud requirements. A new generation rotary steerable system which integrates a performance drilling motor with a high speed rotary steerable tool was introduced to meet this challenge. By applying this new system coupled with the latest steerable drill bit technology, precise three dimensional trajectories are now being drilled at more than double the offset rates of penetration & water based mud can now be used more frequently. The results have been easier access to remaining reserves, a dramatic reduction in drilling time, lower environmental impact and overall reduced cost and risk.
This paper describes the drilling conditions in the CNS and the new drilling technology applied. It also describes the challenges encountered applying new technology on cost sensitive mature assets, procedures put in place to minimise operational risk while introducing the new system and a comparison of performance now compared with that of offset wells.
The What and How for HSE Management Systems
Authors: Weldon D. , Wallace J. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
This paper provides an overview of the approach used in ExxonMobil Production Company (EMPC) to implement and execute HSE management systems. The systematic approach to managing health, safety, environmental, and security risks in ExxonMobil is referred to as Operations Integrity Management System (OIMS). The Corporate OIMS Framework includes 11 Elements and 64 Expectations, the characteristics of a management system, and how to evaluate management systems. EMPC has defined and documented 24 management systems that are standard among all producing business units to address the OIMS requirements. The concept of EMPC's management systems is described in the paper and ranges from the driver system (Management Leadership and Commitment) through operations-related systems to the system for evaluation (OIMS Assessments). Each management system document is intended for use by a system owner and administrator and describes ‘What to do’. The system owner and administrator are responsible for developing the processes and procedures required by the system, and they can reference successful work practices for procedure development. The system processes and procedures are the ‘How to do it’ portion of the system. System owners and administrators use the system documentation ‘What and How’ to develop appropriate training, to roll out the system to end users, and to assist the business unit with system execution.
This paper provides HSE management system implementation guidance that has been gained from executing OIMS for over a decade and includes recent system upgrades so that operating sites can implement more effectively. The improved performance from using OIMS is also demonstrated in the paper.
Accelerating Technology Acceptance: Hypotheses and Remedies for Risk-Averse Behavior in Technology Acceptance
Authors: Rao V. , Rodriguez R. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Risk aversion was concluded as being a significant factor in the observed slow uptake of technology in the Upstream Sector of the Oil and Gas business. Hypotheses centered on information asymmetry, effect of risk volatility on tolerance, and risk profiles of decision makers molded by structural or temporal considerations. Remedies proposed for debate and action included the creation of industry wide independent entities (testing agency or insurance company) charged with closing the gap created by asymmetries, as well as the creation of an industry award for excellence in technology uptake.
Managerial Resilience and Safety: Vasa to NASA
Authors: Flin R. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Organisational resilience is a new concept in the safety mamangement literature. It has been defined as 'the characteristic of managing the organisation's activities to anticipate and circumvent threats to its existence and primary goals. This is shown in particular in an ability to manage severe pressures and conflicts between safety and the primary production or performance goals of the organisation' (Hale & Heijer, 2006, p31). This definition can be transposed from an organisational to a managerial level of analysis. The essence of managerial resilience being the ability to manage severe pressures and conflicts between safety and the primary performance goals of the organization (Flin, 2006). In order to achieve this, managers have to anticipate and either rebuff or circumvent threats to various goals, most notably to maximise production, while minimising the risks to safety. In some cases where this component of resilience fails – managers to not detect the threats; in others, the threats are recognised but the manager fails to take the requisite actions. So managerial resilience requires risk assessment, decision making and assertiveness skills. Production and safety goals can often be seen as competing, requiring the manager to make ‘trade-off’ or ‘sacrificial’ decisions. As Quinn (1988) points out, leadership is by its very nature inherently paradoxical and the most successful managers are those that can reconcile these paradoxes. In this paper, I first examine some notable organisational failures (the Swedish warship Vasa 1624; the space shuttles Challenger 1986 and Columbia 2003, and the oil platform Piper Alpha, 1988) where the erosion of managerial resilience appears to have played a key role, I then consider the key skill components of managerial resilience and how they might be measured and developed.
Measuring "Risk Perception Index" To Improve the Safety of Offshore Teams
Authors: McGrath T. , Mearns K. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Measuring the "Risk Perception Index" of individuals could provide a step change from the current plateau in HSE performance. By taking into account each individuals ability to detect, assess and react to hazardous situations and their knowledge and willingness to follow rules and procedures we may more effectively select personnel requiring non-technical skills training, then test its effectiveness and gauge the necessity for and effectiveness of existing hazard controls.
In this study "Risk Perception Index" was measured in a computer virtual reality simulation of the working environment. Seventy-two participants were immersed into a realistic scenario where they focussed on completing a task. Risk stimuli were initially presented in subtle ways, then more apparently, to detect the participant's degree of risk perception each participant's reaction to the stimuli was recorded and scored. 6% of the participants demonstrated excellent risk perception by "stopping the job" when they were uncertain. 33% of the participants demonstrated good risk perception by following rules. 38% of the participants initially demonstrated good risk perception then broke rules when put under additional time pressure but interpreted cues and went back to following rules. 23% of the participants broke rules, then failed to respond to cues and endangered themselves.
It is expected that a knowledge of "Risk Perception Index" will assist in the reduction of incidents and accidents where root causes include ‘poor risk assessment’.
Attacking Metropolitan Driving Hazards with Field-Proven Practices
Authors: Campbell N. , Tate D. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
The exposure to risk from driving in field-type operations by companies engaged in the oil and gas industry is generally well recognized and, in many places, well addressed. Driving in a non-field or support-role environment provides similar exposure; however, even when this exposure is recognized, it is generally not well addressed. A challenge to a large oilfield service company was to leverage the best practices of a successful field-oriented journey management program for application in a metropolitan environment.
The number of miles driven on company business in this non-field metropolitan environment is substantial, but driving to and from work (commuting) was found to eclipse this exposure by 25 times. Because the greatest exposure to our metropolitan employees is commuting, the challenge becomes even greater—to develop a journey management plan that not only addresses business driving but also commuter driving.
Significantly Enhanced Landfarm Performance through the Use of Saline Water and Weekly Tilling
Authors: Al-Mahruki A. , Al-Mueini R. , Al-Mahrooqi Y. , Al-Sabahi A. , Roos G. H. P. , Patzelt H. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
On the Fahud concession site of Petroleum Development Oman, an experimental landfarm for the bioremediation of petroleum hydrocarbon was constructed. It consisted of seven beds, laid out from a drilling mud/sand mixture, containing a total hydrocarbon concentration of 5.1% (w/w). The beds were fertilized at the onset and then tilled in weekly intervals. Duplicate beds were irrigated twice weekly with potable water, Reverse Osmosis (RO) reject water and brackish well water, respectively, and the hydrocarbon and metal content of the soil was monitored in monthly intervals. As a control, one bed was tilled regularly, but was not watered.
The beds irrigated with saline water showed a significantly improved performance over the fresh water beds or the control. Within four months of operation from March to June 2005, the hydrocarbon content of the soil in the saline beds had fallen to below two percent, where the control contained still above four percent. The findings correlate well with the observed higher microbial activity and greater microbial diversity that was observed in the saline beds.
Characterization of the Early-Time Mechanical Behavior of Well Cements Employed in Surface Casing Operations
Authors: Mueller D. T. , Eid R. N. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Pressure events that occur after surface casing cementation, such as casing integrity testing, formation integrity testing, etc. all impose stress upon the recently set cement sheath. The magnitude of stress will depend on the pressure state, casing thickness, cement sheath thickness and mechanical parameters of the cement and formation. Should pressure testing take place during the early stages of cement curing, the tangential stress imposed by the pressure event can exceed the tensile strength of the cement, thereby inducing cement sheath failure.
It is well documented that cement is much stronger in compression than in tension. In most wellbore pressure scenarios, cement fails in tension. The proportionality between the compressive strength and the tensile strength of set cement is generally assumed to be an 8:1 to 10:1 ratio. During typical pressure testing events, the cement will have a compressive strength ranging from the 500 psi required for the commencement of drilling operations to upwards of 2000 psi depending on the cement curing time. Accordingly, conventional wisdom would hold that the tensile strength of the cement would be in the range of 50 to 200 psi at the time of casing pressure testing. However, accurate prediction of the degree of pressure induced cement sheath stress requires more than a general correlation to derive cement tensile strength.
This paper characterizes the early-state physical properties and mechanical behavior of accelerated API Class A, G, H and ASTM Type I cement designs during the twelve hours following placement. The confined/unconfined compressive strengths, ultrasonic compressive strengths, tensile strengths, Young's Modulus and Poisson's Ratio of four commonly used "tail" cements as a function of time are presented. Predictions of induced stress in typical casing/hole size combinations as functions of pressure are also included. The results from this testing provides guidance as to when pressure testing of the casing/formation can take place without inducing damage to the set cement sheath.