bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Investigation of Naturally Occurring Radioactive Materials (NORM) in Oil Fields and Oil Lakes in Kuwait
Authors: Abdullah F. H. , Saad H. R. , Farhan A. R. , Sharma M. M. 
Published: April 2008

Abstract
This paper represents the first report on natural radioactivity measurements in Kuwait's oilfields. Samples from various petroleum sectors in Kuwait have been investigated. Samples were collected from gathering centers, well heads and oil lakes. These have been measured for their radioactivity contents by using high-resolution spectroscopic system. From the γ-ray measurements, activity concentration have been determined for 232Th (range from 0.4 to 73.1 Bq\kg), 226Ra (from 0.4 to 113.9 Bq\kg) and 40k (from 11.9 to 463.5 Bg\kg). The location and the geological structure of oil fields are also considered. From the analysis of our preliminary data, we conclude that in general radioactivity concentrations are low and can be related to the structure of bedrock wherefrom oil is extracted. It is noted that the activities depend on the different sedimentary properties and other physical conditions.
Managing HSE Performance in difficult work EnvironmentS: The Approach of a Major Oil & Gas Producing Company in Nigeria
Authors: Ijenyo Jude Ochuko 
Published: April 2008

Abstract
Over the years, a major oil & Gas company in Nigeria had the battle of managing the poor safety attitude of employees and their participation in the company's Safety activities which hitherto resulted in very poor safety performance. In order to correct this anomaly, the company adopted a five point strategy to improve the poor safety attitude among the work force which resulted from monotony of job activities, age of the facility, external threats, peculiarity of the work location, and the ages of the employees.
The paper describes the approach adopted by the company to improve on safety even with the inherent difficult work environment that the staffs are exposed to. The approach involves active staff participation in activities, introduction of a holistic reward and sanction system, reorganization of training needs and delivery, partnering with host community and embarking on an aggressive and systematic enlightenment campaign. This approach boosted the morals of all stake holders and consequently turned out to be means of improving the Company's unsatisfactory safety performance.
Managing Explosion Risk in Arctic Areas
Authors: Høiset Stian , Fossan Ingar , Kaasa Øyvind 
Published: April 2008

Abstract
Oil and gas platform design for arctic locations is a challenge. Platform modules are traditionally built with open ends, providing natural ventilation that has a favourable effect on accumulation of a flammable gas cloud from a potential gas leakage as well as on explosion pressure reduction. However, open end design in artic locations will have a negative effect on the working environment, with a potential for high wind chill factor. This can lead to periods where workers are not able to perform maintenance on process equipment, resulting in lost production. In addition, open end design has a potential for icing of equipment.
A natural proposal could be to choose a closed end module design, where explosion panels at the module ends reduce the flow of cold air. However, studies have shown that introducing a closed module design will lead to both higher frequencies for ignition of gas leakages and higher explosion pressures, thus leading to a higher fire and explosion risk level. The increased explosion risk will lead to a higher design accidental load on structural elements, increasing construction cost.
The present paper presents an idea that may both reduce explosion risk compared to a closed module design and still maintain a satisfactory working environment in arctic areas. A concept with rotating wall elements, acting on gas detection, has the potential to reduce the strong explosion frequency by a factor of 3 compared to closed module designs.
Fugitive Emissions Management Through Infra Red Monitoring—Full Scale Field Application
Authors: Plisson-Saune S. , Suripno S. , Pradier B. , Cramer A. , Pramono H. , Camps R. , Lacamoire H. 
Published: April 2008

Abstract
The Indonesian Regulation requires the Oil and Gas Operators to managing their possible Fugitive Emissions. To comply with this requirement TOTAL E&P INDONESIE launched a comprehensive Infra Red Imaging Based Fugitive Emissions Survey completed by a Volatile Organic Components Specific Survey. The aim was to cover exhaustively all Production Units spread on a 1500 km2 area by detecting, quantifying each unknown gas release and assessing the Benzene, Toluene, Ethybenzene and Xylene content of these releases. The objectives were to protect the Health of the Operators possibly exposed to unknown VOCs, to improve the Safety of the Workers and Installations by tackling even minor gas leaks down to 3g/h and reducing VOCs emissions possibly contributing to the Global Warming. The paper describes the operational methodology used and its cost efficiency. It also describes the know-how and the improvements gained during the field survey. The selected technology, Infra Red Dynamic Digital Imaging, allowed detecting roughly 500 unknown leaks part of 2100 Fugitive Emission Sources. The related Green House Gas emissions were also quantified. The findings are used for improving HSE topics but also for taking lessons of design issues for future phases of development. The technology used is highly valuable for maintenance purpose.
The results, presented in the paper, show the operational feasibility and the advantages of this new methodology which takes into account the effect of Fugitive Emissions not only on Safety but also on Operator's Health and finally Environment. They also demonstrate the absence of major issue for the 3 H, S and E aspects provided the lessons of the Survey are conveniently taken into account and the mitigation measures correctly applied.
Holistic Environmental Management of Discharges from the Oil and Gas Industry—Combining Quantitative Risk Assessment and Environmental Monitoring
Authors: Nilssen Ingunn , Johnsen Ståle 
Published: April 2008

Abstract
Since the early 1990s focus on the environmental performance in the oil and gas industry has continuously increased. Technology development has resulted in a large variety of mitigation options, both with respect to source reduction, reuse and treatment of different waste streams and discharges. Testing, qualification and implementation of new technology is a result of the increased focus. In parallel, the need for appropriate management systems for decision support in the effort to minimise impacts of E&P activity has become evident.
The present paper introduces a system to meet this challenge, by integrating quantitative risk assessment (QRA), mitigation technology/measures and environmental monitoring. QRA methodology has been developed to cover major discharges and emissions to the environment and is used to identify cost effective measures to reduce environmental risk. The QRA is further integrated with monitoring to understand and document ecosystem conditions and effect/benefit of improved performance (discharge and emissions reduction). This integrated approach results in a holistic environmental management system. This paper will mainly focus on the QRA, the environmental monitoring and the integration of these two. Examples of practical application of this integration are given on discharges of produced water and drill cuttings.
MISS: Report an Incident Using a Mobile Phone
Authors: de Gier Wouter , Twilhaar Dirk Nijen 
Published: April 2008

Abstract
Unsafe conditions and acts may lead to the occurrence of an incident. Reporting those unsafe conditions and acts provide opportunities to prevent a potential significant accident from occurring. Unfortunately, many unsafe conditions and acts go un-reported; often because the means to report is not at hand at the time of occurrence (e.g. online or paper reporting form). Shell allows staff and contractors to report incidents using a (mobile) telephone. This tool is called MISS. Through number recognition, the incident reports are transferred automatically to the global incident management database. With the introduction of MISS, the number of reported unsafe situations, near misses, etc. has nearly tripled, without significantly compromising the quality of the reports.
Effective Contract Management — A Key For Better HSE Performance
Authors: Al-Failakawi Ali , Aravind Nandkumar , Mohiuddeen Mohammad K. S. 
Published: April 2008

Abstract
Contract Management is one of the key elements for Kuwait Oil Company's (KOC) HSE Management system, which deals with "Contractors Commitments and Involvement". KOC believes that, contractors those who are conducting business with the Company are the keys to its business performance and good HSE performance is an integral part of an efficient and profitable business management. In line with its commitment towards Contract Management, KOC has developed many processes such as guidelines and oversight procedures to ensure full HSE compliance and enhanced performance. These processes defined the contractor HSE performance expectations and vigorous oversight of Contractor activities while performing work for the Company.
Contractor HSE statistics are one of the key HSE performance measures for Kuwait Oil Company. Contractor's HSE involvement is highly visible in all its activities. These initiatives of KOC have given good results in better awareness of our HSEMS expectations, better understanding of our HSE requirements, improved cooperation towards achieving our HSE goals and targets, Lowered accidents and incidents, which ultimately resulted in better Contractor HSE Performance.
Contract Management is one of the major challenges to the Oil Industry. Complexity and volume of corporate contracts have increased considerably in the recent years, due to the ever growing demand of higher productivity. Company's HSE performance is taking a lead role in the success of any company, which is largely dependent on an effective contract management.
Effective Contract management is the need of the hour to assure quality HSE performance and uphold the Company's reputation and corporate image. It will also provide a base line necessary to allow companies to measure and monitor HSE performance of the contractors.This paper outlines the processes and the methodology being followed by KOC for enhancing its HSE performance through an effective Contract management.
Managing Environmental Incidents at Oil and Gas Facilities Before They Happen
Authors: Lee T. W. , Othman N. S. 
Published: April 2008

Abstract
Environmental incidents at oil and gas facilities includes oil spills, releases and leaks of hydrocarbon and other hazardous materials, emissions and discharges exceeding allowable limits and community complaints.
A survey by the Group office of a National Oil Company reveals that post environmental incidents management processes such as incident notification, reporting, investigation and follow-up actions are relatively well-established at its operating sites. These sites also have adequate oil spill preparedness which usually includes the establishment of oil spill contingency plan, the conduct of oil spill response exercises and the availability of oil spill response equipment and arrangement. The NOC in its pursuit for continual improvement in HSE risk management carried out a study to assess and review the level of proactice controls that needs to be in place to prevent or reduce environmental incidents.
A strategy which touches on three aspects, viz. organisation, process and people has been developed with the aim to prevent and control environmental incidents at oil and gas facilities within the Group. This strategy was tested at two of the operating sites where the activities carried out include an environmental management process review, environmental hazard review and a capability building program to enhance the awareness, knowledge and skill of site personnel with respect to environmental incidents prevention and control.
The effect of the effort was felt positively even at the early implementation stage when the HSE staff, the process operation engineers and maintenance engineers began to work together to review the environmental management process. The awareness training as well as the competency training to enhance the skill of environmental aspect identification and impact assessment proves to be effective in the prevention and control of environmental incidents at oil and gas facilities. The pilot project is now being promoted to other operating sites within the Group.
Bioremediation—The Journey From Hazardous to Green
Authors: Hamza Leila H. , Adly Tarek A. , Afifi Sameh 
Published: April 2008

Abstract
Often hard to avoid in petroleum companies, a vast amount of hydrocarbon contaminated wastes such as oil-base mud drill cuttings, tank bottom sludge and other contaminated soil that get generated. Bioremediation is considered a safe, environmental-friendly and economical remediation technique for these wastes, best suited for warm, dry climates similar to Egypt's. However, for large scale projects, remediation time (8 years) and land use (hundreds of acres) hinder its application.
Over the years, as a result of drilling operations, BP Egypt's Joint Venture - Gulf of Suez Petroleum Company (GUPCO) has generated tonnes of hydrocarbon contaminated wastes at its Western Desert (WD) and Gulf of Suez (GOS) Districts. BP and GUPCO have worked closely together to face the challenge of finding an effective, cost-efficient method to clean-up existing contamination and treat future generated hydrocarbon contaminated wastes. Previously at GUPCO, different treatment alternatives were utilized. However, they were discontinued because of environmental and safety hazards.
Thus, bioremediation was tailored and technically advanced into applied research by United Environmental with leading academic institutes in collaboration with BP-Egypt, setting a world record in handling huge contaminated quantities. Results determined bio-piling, a bioremediation technique, as most suitable for GOS and WD. Bio-piling requires less space and water - both of which are scarce at these locations. Also, with bio-piling remediation time is reduced dramatically.
Bio-piling was used to treat to action level about 15,000 and 11,000 tonnes of contaminated soil/mud at GOS and WD, respectively. Remediation was completed within 6 months. Treated soil/mud was used to develop green areas in desert environment. Also, remediation cost was reduced to about 65% less than similar application.
BP-GUPCO will continue to use bio-piling as an effective method of transferring hazardous waste into environmentally friendly application.
Capturing Mangement Information in the Oil and Gas Industry
Authors: Sortland G. W. , Madaboosi M , Fox S. E. 
Published: April 2008

Abstract
BP is leading an International Petroleum Industry Environmental Conservation Association (IPIECA) group to integrate health performance indicators in corporate reports. "Core" oil and gas industry indicators will enable more informed comparisons and dialogue between companies and stakeholders. Indicators under review include management system implementation, employee health programme participation, workforce health status, work-related illness rates and product-related health issues. This paper will focus on the process of determining Health metrics within BP through an external and internal benchmarking exercise. Additionally the paper will outline the implementation of business processes and technologies to accomplish a seamless gathering and reporting of management information. Data sources identified within the Health continuum will provide first line managers to Group level executives with leading and lagging indicators of performance. These performance indicators will assist in mitigating Management Control issues at the Group level.
Benchmarking Lifting Equipment Surveyors Competencies Using a Competency Model: A Major Step in Reducing Lifting and Handling Incidents in Nigeria
Authors: Ologe J. , Kue Y. 
Published: April 2008

Abstract
Lifting and handling operations is one of the main causes of High Potential Incidents (HPI) in the Oil and Gas Industry. With Nigeria's foray into offshore and deepwater oil and gas exploration and production, handling and lifting has presented itself as a major and critical part of our oil and gas operations. Concerted efforts and resources have been and are being channeled into training and retraining of personnel in acquiring requisite knowledge and competencies in the arts of lifting and handling to braze up with the increasing challenges. In the same vein, administrative controls in the form of tested and proven procedures, rules, lift planning; six monthly prescriptive inspection intervals are carried out. Yet incidents still occur due to equipment failure as identified by root cause analysis of most incidents. To arrest this trend and enhance quality service delivery; in 2006 Elf Petroleum Nigeria Ltd (EPNL) developed a model to benchmark the lifting equipment surveyors’ competencies and categorize their services. The result of the assessment conducted using this competency model was shocking. From the results of the assessment, it was self-evident to Elf Petroleum Nigeria Ltd, its contractors, subcontractors and the surveyors themselves that competencies were lacking or non existent in most of the certification services hitherto rendered. Following the outcome of this assessment, the management of Elf Petroleum Nigeria Limited segmented the services of these surveyors into their respective areas of competencies and withdrew the services of those surveyors that lacked the requisite competencies, certifications, experiences, and qualifications to act as Third Party Lifting Equipment Surveyors.
HSE Considerations During Land Acquisition and Design and Construction of New Facilities
Authors: Adams Bruce 
Published: April 2008

Abstract
Constructing a new facility for an operating or oilfield services company is a significant undertaking involving an investment of millions of dollars and up to three years. This timeline begins when a business case for a facility is prepared and continues until facility commissioning. As building construction is not a core business of operating and service companies, there are different approaches to the issue, ranging from 100% outsourcing to in-house construction groups that handle all aspects of the project. No matter which approach is taken, processes and guidelines must be established to ensure a consistent, standardized approach to projects. These processes and guidelines are developed over time and are based upon experiences and lessons learned from previous projects. One area that is often overlooked is how health, safety, and environmental (HS&E) issues should be considered in the three primary phases of a construction project: concept and feasibility, design, and construction.
After reviewing internal construction practices in 2005, one oilfield services company modified its approach to facilities construction by forming a core team responsible for oversight of large construction projects. A key objective of this group was to review current practices and develop processes and guidelines to ensure that each project follows a standardized approach. This paper details how HS&E aspects of construction are included in these processes.
The reader will follow three major activities of a construction project-land acquisition, facilities design, and facilities construction-and be provided with the key items to ensure that each phase is successfully completed from an HS&E standpoint. The material presented is taken from a detailed list of items reviewed prior to project start.
This paper is based upon lessons learned from several large construction projects. It provides information necessary for any company to review its current construction practices and ensure that HS&E requirements are met.
Managing Chemical Risk at the Point of Procurement - Simple Tools for Efficient Chemical Risk Reduction
Authors: Gilbert Y. , Raahauge P. J. , Raivio T. 
Published: April 2008

AbstractConsideration of the risk associated with operations at the earliest possible stage is a key factor for effective chemical HSE risk management. This paper describes the operational and strategic decisions behind the design and implementation of a method developed for Maersk Oil, where the responsibility for chemical risk assessment is transferred to the earliest possible point in the chemical handling chain - the procurement process.Separate HSE risk assessment procedures conducted solely by specialists may lead to decoupling of the HSE considerations from the operational requirements. The objective was to integrate chemical HSE risk assessment into the overall consideration of chemical suitability (technical and cost) for a particular operation. When extending HSE risk assessment responsibility to operational staff with procurement responsibilities from HSE specialists, certain criteria must be met. The developed methodology was to meet the following targets:Give consistent answers without applying HSE expertise; Be easy and fast to use; Take into account regulative demands; and Allow linking chemical HSE risk to management actions and corporate policyThe developed methodology provides the assessor with a simple yet plausible and understandable result of the associated level of HSE risk. The assessment is based on linking data supplied by the vendors to chemical usage scenarios supplied by the actual operative personnel. Implementation of the methodology for easy user interface is based on an IT-solution tailored to the operators existing processes.This paper summarises the definition of the objectives and the main considerations taken when developing the methodology and presents an overview of the supporting tool developed.