bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Environmental Permitting of E&P Activities in Latin America: A Comparative Perspective
Authors: Wagner Jay Paul 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
This paper reviews recent trends in environmental law applicable to onshore oil and gas exploration and production (E&P) activities in South America. Drawing from recent experience in analyzing environmental issues relating to oil and gas projects in Latin America, the author compares and contrasts approaches to environmental permitting in the E&P sector in Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru and Venezuela. Particular emphasis is placed on seismic and exploration drilling activities.
As the author points out, most countries in the region have in recent years undergone significant changes in their respective regulatory and institutional regimes regarding environmental protection. This process is resulting in the introduction of more stringent environmental standards throughout the region, particularly as regards E&P in sensitive and protected areas. While environmental agencies still lack adequate funding and qualified personnel, and face difficulties in fully implementing and enforcing legislative and constitutional provisions, many Latin American governments now require an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) prior to start-up of exploration operations. Moreover, enforcement is beginning to be taken more seriously. Against this backdrop, the author emphasizes the importance of integrating environmental parameters early on in project planning and concludes by stressing the growing role of environmental law regarding all stages of E&P activities in Latin America.
A Performance-Based Approach to Offshore Regulation
Authors: Kallaur C. U. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
The way in which the United States, through the Minerals Management Service (MMS) of the U.S. Department of the Interior, regulates its Outer Continental Shelf oil and gas program is at an important crossroads. During much of the 50-some-year history of this program, a prescriptive approach was adopted for assuring safe and environmentally sound operations. As the next millenium nears, a clear shift towards performance-based regulation is taking place. This shift is occurring at a time when the Gulf of Mexico is once again being viewed as a world class production province, where technological records are being set routinely.
A high level of environmental and safety performance is a key to assuring that the significant energy and economic benefits tied to this development can be realized. The MMS recognizes that the majority of the companies who operate on the U.S. Outer Continental Shelf have alternative investment opportunities and that investment dollars will not only go where the prospects are, but also where the regulatory regime is the most rational.
Contingency Planning For Oil Spills. An International Perspective
Authors: Salt David 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Oil spills are not noted for their recognition of international boundaries, it is a relatively simple matter for a spill to quickly escalate into an international incident. It has also been recognised that there is benefit in allowing resources to be shared when responding to spills through a process of layering the response levels. One important factor in this is the pre-planning to allow this process to run smoothly and effectively. This paper looks at some of the issues involved in this planning cycle.
Over the last few years the Oil Pollution Preparedness and Response Convention (OPRC) has been spreading throughout the international arena. This convention outlines the benefits of improved planning, training management and response equipment availability to enhance the success of any response operation. The convention attempts to improve the cross boundary co-operation between countries to facilitate the deployment of personnel and equipment to provide assistance.
The amount of oil spill equipment which is available in the world is quite astonishing, the oil industry (IPIECA) approach to oil spill contingency planning recommends that the tiered approach to oil spills be adopted. This concept is aimed at ensuring that each operation conducted by the industry has the requisite amount of equipment and resources to respond to the spills which are most likely to occur i.e. the small operational spill, whilst catering for the large event which may require additional resources from outside the region. Ultimately the major event or worst case scenario must be considered where all of the local and regional response capability is exhausted and additional resources must be imported from an external source.
An Integrated Approach for Developing Health, Safety, and Environmental Plans
Authors: Gala William R. , Abel J. A. , Davies E. , Lima E. , Masciangioli P. , Brandwjk K. , Esclapes M. M. , Holmboe R. H. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
In preparation for assuming operations of Block LL-652 in offshore Lake Maracaibo, Venezuela, a series of Health, Safety and Environmental (HSE) plans were developed to provide the management framework and guidance to ensure that Block LL-652 operations will be protective of people and the environment and to satisfy Operating Services Agreement (OSA) requirements. The LL-652 Consortium, working closely with PDVSA-Intevep, assembled a team of HSE spe-cialists that focused on the strengths of the various organizations. This integrated team was responsible for preparing Integrated Emergency Response (i.e., procedures to respond to oil spills and health & safety emergencies), Waste Management, Safe Practices, and HSE Management Plans.
The synergies that developed from the organizations working together resulted in the incorporation of several innovative approaches to HSE planning. For example, emergency response procedures and contingency planning for health & safety emergencies and oil spills were combined into one Integrated Emergency Response Plan (IERP). The use of an IERP avoids unnecessary duplication of effort resulting in significant administrative cost savings and promotes a consistent ap-proach (i.e., Chevron's Incident Command System) for managing all types of emergencies. Oil spill trajectory modeling was used to identify sensitive areas that could potentially be impacted by spills so that contingencies for protecting these sensitive areas could be incorporated into the IERP. A HSE risk management exercise was performed by a cross-functional team of operations, facility, reservoir and HSE specialists to proactively identify, evaluate and prioritize opportunities to reduce environmental and safety risks.
Systematic Approach to Working Environment in Design and Construction of Major Offshore Projects
Authors: Borgersrud Oeystein K. , Ellingsen Dagfinn 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
This paper gives a presentation on a practical approach to systematic follow up of working environment in a major offshore project. Emphasis is put on key activities, approaches made and future areas of improvement. A major Phillips Petroleum Company Norway (PPCoN) project in the North sea is used as a case presentation. A complex offshore platform needs to be designed to fit for purpose. One of the most important key issues is to design and construct for optimal conditions concerning operability and maintainability. This requires a focus on working environment issues from an early stage of design phase and through all the project phases. Establishment of working environment goals, philosophies and design basis requirements, mapping of key working environment issues and finally late phase construction review and inspection activities assist the strive to achieve the goals set.
Changing the E&P Safety Culture
Authors: Pemberton James B. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
The safety culture of the exploration and production (E&P) industry must change to produce long-term results and keep pace with emerging quality and technology advancements in the industry. Reengineering of safety management processes is not enough to produce quality performance. The corresponding values, norms and customs of the safety culture can be shifted in an elemental manner to produce behavior modification levels necessary to produce quantifiable results. Four case studies are utilized to present a methodology to close this "cultural gap" and produce results beyond traditional safety parameters.
Environmental Risk Assessment of Exploration Activities – Offshore Egypt
Authors: Thompson I. , Nour M. H. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
All E&P activities contribute to the risks posed to the environment and a full understanding of these risks are an essential part of an environmental impact assessment.
The methodology involved in completing a qualitative environmental risk assessment for offshore exploration activities, from initial seismic acquisition to exploratory drilling, in the Egyptian Mediterranean Sea, is presented. The methodology includes:
– Setting acceptance criteria. – Review of environmental baseline survey. – Hazard identification. – Preparing hazard and effect matrix. – Assessing risk and tolerability levels. – Recommending elimination, reduction, curative measures. – Implementing recommendations into the environmental management of the operation.
Acceptance criteria is based on the concept of tolerability, that is defined in terms of hindrance. This approach applies levels of tolerability to two risk threshold levels and consequently three bands of risks. The top band represents an intolerable risk level. The lower band represents a negligible risk. The middle area is known as the tolerable band. Within this tolerable zone that risks is managed so as to be "As Low As Reasonably Practical" (ALARP).
The hazard posed by seismic surveys and drilling operations and their potential environmental effects are summarized and examples of the risks they pose to the marine environment are classified. These effects are assessed in terms of severity, extent and persistence and subjectively ranked according to tolerability.
All the environmental risks posed by exploration activities are considered for control. The control mechanisms in preferred order of application are explained. Selected control techniques are determined objectively on an acceptable balance between the environmental benefits of each option and the costs of the appropriate safeguards.
Mutual Recognition of Safety and Emergency Training
Authors: Kyle S. R. , Krahn D. R. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Non-acceptance of valid safety and emergency training certificates in the North Sea was noted in 19941. Regulators, industry and workers' representatives discussed these difficulties in a 1997 Luxembourg workshop. This paper notes considerable progress and co-operation by all parties on this issue. It highlights the attached matrices (Tables 1–4) as an excellent means of comparing similarities and differences in national training requirements. The authors believe this will prove useful in petroleum provinces where similar schemes exist or are being designed.
A Novel Methodology for In-Situ Removal of NORM from E&P Production Facilities
Authors: Eylander J. G. R. , Frigo D. M. , Hartog F. A. , Jonkers G. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
During oil/gas production, Naturally Occurring Radionuclides (NORs) from the 238U and 232Th series are occasionally co-produced in deposits (scale, sludge) in production facilities. The radionuclides are mainly the progeny of unsupported 226Ra and to a lesser extent unsupported 228Ra/224Ra isotopes. The co-precipitation of radium with Group IIa ions in (sulfate/carbonate) scales and/or sludge leads to enhanced external (• -) radiation levels. The occurrence of (metallic) 210Pb is not associated with increased levels of external radiation, yet manifests itself as thin, sometimes hardly visible films deposited on the inside of equipment. The occurrence of these Naturally Occurring Radioactive Materials (NORM) represents not only an occupational health hazard for workers but also considerable cause of additional operational expenditure, production deferment (due to extended interventions), facility maintenance and abandonment costs.
The removal of NOR-enriched scales using commercially available scale dissolvers has been widely reported in literature. It is claimed to be a safe and convenient method of decontamination, particularly in those instances where conventional physical decontamination methods (e.g. high-pressure water jetting) are inapplicable. In contrast, there has been no report of successful decontamination aimed at the removal of metallic lead deposits containing 210Pb. In this paper we report how this can be achieved using sequential treatment with solvent systems whilst minimizing deleterious effects such as corrosion, worker exposure, etc.
The feasibility and optimization study reported in this paper was a prelude to an in-situ facilities decontamination trial in a no longer productive on-shore gas production location in The Netherlands. Unlike common practices in e.g. the USA, underground disposal by re-injection of the waste produced from decontamination operations is currently not an allowed conduct of business by the Dutch authorities. Concerns exist about the ‘safeguarding’ of the injection process with no chance of seepage of the waste to surface sediments and potable water sources, and that the integrity of the injection well is not compromised. Considerations for a successful and environmentally responsible injection program will be elucidated.
Environmental, Health & Safety Management System (EHSMS): An Implementation
Authors: Hamid Abdul Halim , Zainy Cut Ahmad , Purwanto Joko , Syahroezah Agustanzil 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
The environmental, health and safety (EHS) aspects of our business continue to get more complex resulting in increasingly higher cost. To ensure quality and at the same time reverse these skyrocketing trends we need a new approach to managing EHS issues. A Management System approach will improve our operating performance, financial performance and competitive strength.
The Mobil Oil Indonesia EHS Management System (MOI-EHSMS) is a comprehensive, quality-based structured process for efficiently and effectively managing environmental, health and safety related aspects of Mobil's operations in Indonesia. Through this process, MOI management clearly communicates the target levels of EHS performance, and its desire for continuous improvement.
Application of this EHSMS will allow MOI to not only meet the minimum required standard but also continuously move beyond toward a superior level of performance. MOI personnel will establish objectives and plans to meet or exceed these target levels of EHS performance, implement their plans to achieve those objectives, periodically measure their progress, then readjust the objectives and plans accordingly to provide for continuous improvement.
We learned that strong management commitment and involvement which is demonstrated in assigning responsibility and accountability on the EHSMS expectations process is a key component for the success of EHSMS implementation in the organization.
Integrated Risk Management in Oil and Gas Exploration and Production
Authors: Turner S. K. , Singer R. V. , Pegram A. , Saunders B. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Much effort has been devoted in recent years to quantifying risks to personnel associated with offshore operations. The data collected has had the additional benefit of facilitating rational, consistent decision-making on safety upgrades. It was realised that this principle could be extended to cover risks to company assets and risks associated with field development, and that the tools required to aid rational decision-making under conditions of risk in all of these areas were essentially similar. This paper describes the major features of the Integrated Risk Management (IRM) framework which has been developed by RMRI for Amerada Hess Limited (AHL), and discusses its use within AHL.
Harmonizing Environmental and Economic Profiles in a Marginal Oil Field Development Project: A Case Study
Authors: Brown T. G. , Nour M. H. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Many times the cost associated with minimizing the impact to the environment are burdensome to the overall project economics. There are cases when the decisions regarding these two important issues become mutually beneficial to both the environment and project economics. This paper will demonstrate an example of this situation.
The Ras El Ush development lease (which is located in the southern Gulf of Suez, Egypt) was discovered in March 1995. In order to develop the reserves associated with this field in the most economical manner, many decisions where made which also impacted the environment. The environmental and economic considerations were incorporated into the decision making process. The heart of the conducted Environmental Impact Assessment for the pre-development phase was the evaluation of the possible field development alternatives including their environmental consequences in a comparative form. The first decision was to drill the wells directionally from the shore to intersect bottom-hole locations offshore in the Gulf of Suez. The cost to drill this type of well was favorable to contracting an expensive jack-up rig to drill straight hole wells in the gulf. Multiple directional wells were drilled from a single pad and utilized a common individual mud pit. This minimized land take and minimized the cost of location construction and rig moves. These techniques minimized the environmental impacts associated with the field development activities compared with offshore production options as will be presented in the paper. The next decision was to utilize the excess capacity in existing facilities nearby in order to save the cost of capital required to process and ship the oil. This also minimized the environmental impact of onshore facilities. By allowing these measures, the field was brought on line in an extra-ordinary fast schedule- first production started in January 1996, less than one year from discovery.
This paper shows that the starting point of all environmental protection practices is to reduce the environmental impact at the source using typical pollution prevention mechanisms which integrate with the process of production. In the Ras El Ush field development this had economic as well as environmental benefits.
Slurry Fracture Injection of Solid and Liquid Heavy Oil Wastes
Authors: Dusseault M. B. , Danyluk P. G. , Bilak R. A. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Disposal of solid and liquid wastes from heavy oil production by deep injection is now an accepted technology in Canada. The article discusses the process and monitoring requirements for safe and environmentally secure disposal, based on four years experience on various projects.
Air Emissions Testing at an Oilfield Service Company Bulk Storage Facility
Authors: Turner Charles L. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Because of their particulate size, certain products used in oil and gas exploration are subject to compliance with National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). Therefore, oilfield service companies handling and storing these materials must maintain a permitted facility to insure that NAAQS are being met. The transport, handling, and storing processes create dust and the potential emission to ambient air. The standard method for capturing this dust is to install a bag type dust collector commonly called a bag house. This paper describes the steps taken to conduct an EPA-acceptable field test of a typical bag house in an existing bulk cement storage facility. Problems encountered at the test site and measures taken to remediate leaking elements of the bag house are detailed. The efficiency of various types of fabric bags, clamps and gaskets are provided. Modification of testing procedures to accommodate field conditions are addressed.
Findings of the Offshore Operators Committee Produced Water Bioaccumulation Study
Authors: Ray J. P. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
The 1993 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Gulf of Mexico General Discharge Permit (GMG290000), required operators to conduct an offshore produced water bioaccumulation study. The goals were to assess the potential for bioaccumulation to marine organisms of selected target compounds associated with produced water, and to evaluate the human health risk to seafood consumers. Eighty nine Offshore Operators Committee member companies, co-sponsored this three year, $3,000,000 study from 1994 through 1997.
The study was based on pairwise comparisons of chemical concentrations in edible tissues of marine organisms collected near 12 platforms discharging &gt; 4,600 barrels per day (bpd) (&gt; 548 m3/day) and 12 non-discharging platforms. Twelve target analytes were measured at all locations. These included three volatile organics, four semi-volatile organics, three metals, and two radionuclides. Two of these platform pairs were studied in great detail (larger numbers of specimens and an additional 48 target analytes were measured). Spring and summer sampling cruises were made to collect biota, produced water, and ambient seawater. Eleven species of fish were collected, three species of mollusks, and one species of crustacea. Sampling areas included shallow and deep water, areas of high and low industry activity, and near river locations. The results showed no significant bioaccumulation related to the produced water discharges.
The extensive literature review conducted as part of this study on toxic response and tissue residues of target analytes in marine organisms, showed that none of the EPA specified target analytes were present at concentrations that might be harmful to the fish or bivalve mollusks. A comparison of tissue concentrations to risk based concentration factors in humans is indicative that there is no human health risk to consumers of fisheries products harvested from the vicinity of platforms discharging produced water. Based on this comprehensive study, it appears that produced water discharges into U.S. waters under the current regulatory requirements, do not pose an unacceptable risk to the environment or human consumers.
Assessing Non-Technical Risks in Oil and Gas Exploration and Production
Authors: Barker Gary W. , Steele Edward J. , Heaton Kevin P. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Good E&P business decisions require assessment of both technical (e.g. reservoir porosity and permeability) and non-technical risks (e.g. safety, health and environmental). Consistent analysis of safety, health and environmental (SH&E) risks is a critical first step in the management of these risks. Amoco has developed several probabilistic-type risk models which provide for consistent evaluation of SH&E risks associated with exploration and production new ventures opportunities and allow them to be compared, ranked, and/or portfolio managed. A corporate GRISK (Generic Risk) model, PC Windows-based and designed to handle the analysis of nearly any type of risk, was used to build the models. These models are currently being implemented within the Worldwide Exploration Business Group to provide consistent evaluation of safety, health, and environmental risks.
Principles for Social and Environmental Assessment
Authors: Scupholme P. L. , Exxon J. Bruney , Armstrong K. , Visser J. P. , Campbell J. A. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
The E&P Forum have identified key principles for assessing the environmental and social impacts of oil/gas projects. They have highlighted the importance of taking an integrated approach to social and environmental assessment in all aspects of project planning and implementation. This paper by members of the E&P Forum's working group on Social and Environmental Assessment (SEA) describes this approach, and focuses on the key issue of stakeholder consultation.