bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Utilisation of "Waste" Gas and Water Streams: An Example of Environmental Impact Reduction Effort during Field Development Planning in the Niger Delta
Authors: Ashiedu Rufus I. , Olarewaju-Alo Bayo O. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Shell Petroluem Development Company of Nigeria Limited (SPDC) is taking major strides at incorporating environmental impact minimisation schemes at the forefront of its oil/gas business development. This move is driven by its commitment to continuous improvement and the philosophy of "doing it right" as a preference to the standard curative end-of-pipe approach. One of the schemes is in the area of disposal of by-streams or "waste" gas and water associated with oil production. This disposal issue has remained topical and a continuous point of focus given some peculiarities of the Nigerian situation, i.e. high GOR crude, absence of sufficient gas disposal routes, increasing produced water levels and a struggling economy with limited project funding capacity. Despite these circumstances, SPDC has evolved strategies for harnessing these streams thus reducing their potential environmental risks. The strategies include plans for flares-out by 2008, proposals for produced water re-injection and the concept of "oil - protection" for new developments. This paper presents an overview of the company's enabling policies/objectives/plans and the outcome of an integrated development proposal for Cawthorne Channel - a major oil field in the company's Eastern Division.
Totally Catalytic Processing of H2S Containing Gas Streams to Get the 99.9% Recovery Performance
Authors: Savin S. , Mouraille O. , Nougayrede J. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
This paper relates to the development of a new totally catalytic process aimed at recovering sulphur from H2S containing gas streams with a performance as high as 99.9%. This process is based on the particular development of a catalytic step able to oxidise H2S directly into sulphur in the presence of air, at a temperature below sulphur dew point, even below sulphur freezing point. Consequently, it involves the implementation of at least two reactors operating alternatively according to the cyclic succession of the two following sequences:
⇒ an adsorption sequence where the sulphur is formed from the oxidation of H2S and trapped within the catalyst structure; ⇒ a regeneration sequence at a higher temperature (around 300°C) where the trapped sulphur is recovered from the catalyst.
This paper provides details concerning the reaction data acquired experimentally with the newly developed catalyst in view of the further modeling of the H2S oxidation process. The industrial performances of this catalyst under particularly low temperature conditions should shortly be confirmed through a pilot demonstration plant due to start up mid 1998 in the South of France.
Comprehensive Study of the Production Water Treatment, Phase I: Selection of the Production Water Treatment System for Mingo Station
Authors: Camacho Fernando , Alí José 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
The results of selecting the production water treatment system, for crude oil separation at Mingo station are reported. This unit is operated by PDVSA SUR, and is located in Barinas state, south-west of Venezuela. This unit runs a crude oil-water separation process, generating 70,000 bls of production waters per day (bpwd).
This study included the gathering and revision of effluent characterization for a period of four years. Additional studies were carried out to complete the technical information. Pilot-scale experimental studies were done for the evaluation of effluent treatment processes, including biological treatment for phenol removal and physico-chemical treatment for sulfur reduction.
As a result, treatment processes were identified and selected based on technical and economic aspects, as well as possible adaptation of the existing installations. The selected treatment consists in the application of polymers at the entrance of the API separator for removing the total crude oil content up to less than 20 ppm.
Effluent temperatures, could be reduced to 32°C using cooling towers with plastic material filling. Phenol and sulfur removal will be carried out through biological treatment at an aeration lagoon located downstream the cooling system. At present, treatment equipment are being installed and operation is being initiated.
Zinc-Iron Reactive Aeration Trench: Passive Treatment of Chlorinated Hydrocarbons
Authors: Miller John A. , Deuell Rick , Linse Steven J. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Chlorinated solvents have been used for a number of years for parts cleaning and maintenance work on trucks and heavy equipment in the oil field industry. If and when the chlorinated hydrocarbons are spilled or otherwise released to groundwater, they tend to gravitate to the bottom of the saturated zone and are difficult to remediate by traditional groundwater pump-and-treat systems that employ either groundwater extraction wells or interceptor trenches.
Reactive metals, such as zinc and iron, have been shown to provide reductive dechlorination of groundwater in laboratory studies. Innovative construction techniques were employed to provide a single pass interceptor trench with simultaneous excavation, backfilling with a zinc-iron-sand mixture, and installation of a flexible drainage pipe along the bottom of the trench. Results to date are reported.
Shooting Seismic Safely - A Case History From the Orinoco Delta
Authors: Laven A. J. , Pring D. , McGrail A. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
The prospect of acquiring safe seismic under extremely difficult conditions is a significant challenge for any company. Over a period of two years and more than 3 million manhours, nearly 1000sq.km of 3D seismic have been acquired by one crew in the Orinoco delta.
By using a complete HSE management system, regular reporting and auditing, safety performance was demonstrably improved. The focus was shifted from lost time injuries to the more useful areas of reports and minor accidents. The HSE management system is described with regards to its use rather than content as only in this way does it deliver any value to the operation.
The overall performance has been extremely encouraging and demonstrates that, despite significant inherent risks it is still possible to produce an outstanding result. In addition, it also shows that continual improvement may be achieved, and provides for the possibility of safety performances far better than the current average. By sharing our experiences and views it is hoped that the industry can become a safer and more enjoyable place for people to work.
Environmental Assessment of Synthetic Based Drilling Mud Discharges to Bass Strait, Australia
Authors: Terrens G. W. , Gwyther D. , Keough M. J. , Tait R. D. 
Published: December 2007

AbstractEsso Australia Ltd. (Esso) on behalf of the Esso/BHP joint venture undertakes exploration and development drilling activities to produce oil and gas from the Gippsland Basin in eastern Bass Strait. As part of the environmental management of the operation, a field monitoring program was undertaken to verify the predicted limited effect on the seabed of the discharge of residual synthetic based mud (SBM) adhered to drill cuttings.Reservoir studies of the mature Fortescue oil field identified scope to more efficiently deplete existing reserves as well as develop undrained oil pools within the known reservoir system. As such, 18 additional wells were drilled from the Fortescue platform in 1994–1996 following the original development drilling program when 21 wells were drilled in 1983-1985.Esso's standard drilling fluid in Bass Strait is an environmentally acceptable water based mud (WBM). However, due to the high frictional forces involved the greater lubricating properties of a non-water based drilling mud were required to drill the long reach, high angle sections of seven of the additional wells. The ester SBM was chosen on the basis of its lubricity and biodegradability, to reduce any potential environmental effects from the persistence of non-water based mud in seabed sediments.A seabed monitoring program was undertaken around the Fortescue platform by taking seabed samples from August 1995 to August 1997 at sites along a transect following the predominant ocean current and at control sites, before, during and after the period in which SBM cuttings were discharged.The seabed sediments were measured for esters, barium, biological changes and grain size. Results show clearly the increase in esters concentration in sediments during drilling, then the rapid decrease after completion of cuttings discharge. After a recovery period of 11 months from completion of SBM drilling, SBM esters were not detected in sediments. Sediment barium concentration was also found to be elevated, but only after SBM had been used, indicating greater dispersion of WBM than the more cohesive SBM. The barium concentrations found generally do not have measurable effects on biota. The impact on the sediment biology was found to be limited to the sampling site 100 m from the platform with recovery evident within four months of completion of drilling.Mechanisms for recovery of the minimal zone of effect are thought to be a combination of the biodegradation of the ester SBM used and the physical seabed dispersion process evident in eastern Bass Strait generated by the continuous series of storms which pass through especially in winter.
Safety in Helicopter Transport of Personnel in Elf Exploration Production (EEP)
Authors: Serra Vincent De Rocca 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
ELF's technological risk management policy is directed at ensuring protection of personnel, respect for the environment and safeguarding of assets in the pursuit of petroleum activities.
As regards helicopter transport, prevention is stressed in priority, in view of the serious risks involved in the event of an accident. It is implemented by means of numerous specific rules applied throughout our subsidiaries.
The Company rules are based on international and national regulatory requirements and recommendations:
the air company chosen must operate its helicopters in observance of public air transport standards, the helicopters must, as a general rule, be twin-engine and piloted by a crew of two, minimum qualification and experience requirements must be met for both flight and ground personnel, follow-up of maintenance and operation programs must be regularly controlled, audits are conducted periodically by the EEP Chief Aviation Officer who checks on application of the rules and recommendations and assesses the level of air safety in each subsidiary, offshore, helicopters are inspected as part of such audits.
This paper details the main rules and provisions laid down in respect of prevention and control, and their scope of application. Any difficulties for implementing an identical strategy in each different geographical area are discussed and explained.
Designing for a Step Change in Benefit from Combustible Gas Detection Systems
Authors: Bonn R. J. C. , Moros A 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Gas detection plays an important role in the safety of offshore sites, particularly for large, manned production facilities. It is common practice to install many hundreds of point type gas detectors to provide blanket coverage. This approach is not only costly, there is also increased risk for the people who have to inspect and test the instruments in the field.
This paper presents a way to determine where gas detection should be installed to obtain the optimum balance between efficient detection against increased risks and costs. Over one hundred platform years of experience using this method have shown that substantial improvements are possible over more conventional, opinion-based designs.
Included in the paper are the results of studies into the behaviour of gas releases in the complex geometry of offshore sites.
The paper also reveals how conventional designs will frequently miss significant gas hazards. Since adopting this new approach, our success rate for the detection of releases has improved dramatically.
Hazard Assessment Modeling – A Multi-Purpose HSE Tool
Authors: Hawker L. P. , Lee W. W. , Fontaine D. J. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Hazard assessment models are used to address a wide variety of health, safety, and environmental issues for oil and gas facilities worldwide. These models are capable of predicting the hazards of hypothetical releases of oil and gas from production equipment. Many different types of sources can be modeled ranging from controlled releases such as flares and vents, to unplanned releases including fires, spills and blowouts. These tools are capable of addressing many types of hazards from these events including the size of flammable gas clouds, radiant heat from fires and flares, blast overpressures, and toxic cloud dispersion. Modeling results are used to minimize hazards and manage risk during the design, construction, and operation of both onshore and offshore facilities. Regulatory agencies increasingly require accidental release modeling results in facility permit applications. Hazard assessment models provide key information for the emergency detection and response planning processes. Occasionally the models are used during an actual event to help determine the best course of action for response or repairs. Lastly, it is possible to use these tools to assist in the post-incident investigation process or potential litigation.
The purpose of this paper is to discuss and illustrate with examples the wide variety of uses for hazard assessment modeling in the exploration and production industry.
Occupational Health; An International Response to an International Problem
Authors: Spiller Roger 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Long gestation disease where cause and effect are remote in time or space, are difficult to assess in static industries. The peripatetic workforce of exploration and production companies makes epidemiological studies difficult. When allied to an industry utilizing large numbers of casual and contract workers, epidemiological methods are put to the test. Difficulties include the departure of older workers well before normal retirement and thus before the diseases of long exposure periods may have become apparent.
An employee tracking system that follows from first employment to death, no matter how long after leaving the industry, is needed. The international nature of operators and contractors demands an international industry initiative.
In particular there is a need to address the issue of work related stress. At best stress management and counseling place responsibility on the employee. Responsibility lies with the employer, particularly because the major stressors are generated by the employer, the client or the contractor. Wherever generated, they impact on all those involved.
An industry initiative to establish a tracking system will require close working between operators, contractors and trade unions and should also develop the linkage to stress resolution.
The author is responsible health and safety issues covering the 420,000 members of the skilled and professional union MSF in the UK and Ireland. prior to this he was responsible for organising offshore workers in the UK.
Implementation of an EHS Management System at Multiple Facilities through Utilization of Networked Processes and Tools - A Case Study
Authors: Vidmar Dennis M. , Ramos Juan M. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Cornerstone to Mobil Corporation's commitment to its neighbors, employees, and shareholders is the implementation of the Mobil Environmental, Health, & Safety Management System (EHSMS). The Mobil system details fifty-six EHSMS Expectations that describe business conduct necessary to achieve a desired level of Environmental, Health, & Safety (EHS) performance. However, efficient and cost-effective execution of such a system requires resource dedication, process planning, and tools. Mobil's North American Marketing & Refining (NAM&R) Lubes EHSMS Network has utilized and developed such processes and tools to create an anticipated cost avoidance expected to reach greater than $350M.
EHSMS implementation began at five separate lube plants in the United States in November 1996. In a joint effort to reduce costs and facilitate implementation, the plants established an informal, minimally staffed, Lubes EHSMS Network. This Network developed an implementation process that applied a staggered approach, based upon the criteria of relative importance, existing status, and potential liability of Mobil's EHSMS Expectations. This prioritization increased speed and reduced cycle time in capturing or developing the EHSMS Procedures that satisfied the EHSMS Expectations. The completed EHSMS implementation will entail fully functional EHSMS Procedures occurring within all five facilities by year-end 1998.
Tools allowing capture, analysis and sharing of existing or new EHSMS Procedures across the Lubes EHSMS Network and Mobil Corporation were also deemed critical for success. The Network obtained structures, informative handouts, creative communications, and auditing guides from other Mobil companies and networks. The Network also developed tools, including a database for capture of the EHSMS Procedures. Mobil organizations consider some of these tools Best Practice.
The Effects of Chronic Oil Inputs to Marine Ecosystems
Authors: Kingston E. , Smith R. , Harrison P. , Holmes N. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
The ecological effects of acute oil releases into marine systems, such as occurs in major oil spill incidents, have been well documented. Less information has been collected together on the effects of chronic oil inputs, such as produced formation water discharges or municipal/industrial run-off into oceans, which are of greater frequency and total quantity. A review of existing field and laboratory knowledge has been conducted and the results analysed with respect to oil type and source, habitats at risk and species impacted.
The results are discussed under key themes including habitats/ecosystems and the basis for assessing ecological risk. Some gaps in knowledge have been identified and suggestions made for future work to address scientific and regulatory needs.
Approaches to Minimizing the Environmental and Social Impacts of Oil Development in the Tropics
Authors: Rosenfeld Amy B. , Bowles Ian A. , Thomsen Jorgen B. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Oil exploration and development in the humid tropics presents significant environmental and social challenges to operators unfamiliar with these sensitive rainforest ecosystems. This paper considers the potential impacts of such operations as well as a range of environmental, social and financial mechanisms that can be used to minimize these impacts. The final section offers a series of general recommendations for improving the environmental and social sustainability of oil development in tropical ecosystems.
The Oil Industry: Operating in Sensitive Environments
Authors: Depraz S. , Feil R. , Gossen R. , Kearns J. , Marvillet J. , Scupholme P. , Sonnenberg S. , Szydlowski N. , Tramier B. , Ungerleider G. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
The oil and gas industry has been operating in some of the world's most sensitive environments for more than 100 years. These range from deserts, mangroves, wetlands, coral reefs, tropical rainforests and frozen tundra to heavily populated urban environments. Although the industry's environmental record has not been perfect, it has been a pioneer in developing and using new technologies and in implementing management systems to minimise the impact of its operations. The industry's continuous efforts to improve have intensified in recent years, reflecting heightened public awareness and interest regarding the way that industry manages its interface with the environment, local communities and the public at large. Its efforts also reflect a rapidly involving policy framework including international initiatives such as the UN Convention on Biodiversity.
Developed by the International Petroleum Industry Environmental Conservation Association (IPIECA) in partnership with the Oil Industry International Exploration and Production Forum (E&P Forum), this publication has three key objectives: To demonstrate that minimal impact operations are achievable in a diverse range of environmental and social settings;To actively encourage good practices, high standards and continuous improvement; andTo provide a basis for discussion with groups outside the industry with a view to promoting ongoing improvement of industry environmental performance.
The publication uses a series of case studies to describe some of the oil industry's experience of operating responsibly in sensitive environments. It includes ‘best practice’ examples across the Ml range of oil industry activities. Some cases relate to operations near conservation sites of global importance; others describe sites that are of special value to local people. The list of case studies available as of April 1997 is given in table 1.
Measuring Safety Climate on UK Offshore Oil and Gas Installations
Authors: Flin R. , Mearns K. , Gordon R. , Fleming M. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Recent developments in the UK offshore oil and gas industry have focused on leading rather than lagging indicators for safety. One method of assessing the state of safety on a given installation is to assess the prevailing safety climate, by asking the workforce about their attitudes to risk, safety management, supervision, procedural compliance etc. This paper reports the final results of a safety climate survey on the UKCS supported by the UK HSE Offshore Safety Division and BP, British Gas, Conoco, Coflexip Stena, Elf, Texaco, Total and the Offshore Contractors Association. Analysis of 722 responses to the "Offshore Safety Questionnaire" (OSQ) indicates key factors in safety management which should be addressed in a programme of human factors initiatives. The OSQ can be used as part of an installation's safety condition monitoring and opportunities to include this as part of an offshore safety benchmarking project will be discussed.