Liverpool Bay Development - oil spill response strategy and its realisation
Robust contingency oil spill response arrangements are a prerequisite of nearshore oilfield developments. The Liverpool Bay Development (LBD) represents the greatest UK challenge to date in this regard. This paper describes the development of BHP Petroleum E/R/A/ME Region`s LBD oil spill response strategy and how it was possible to implement this strategy in a very cost effective way. The strategy was based initially on the field Environmental Impact Assessments, which had identified oil spill hazards and risks based on industry data. Additional studies and tests defined credible oil spill events, specific oil properties and coastal impacts. The types, levels and location of response requirements offshore and onshore were then evaluated - we had our strategy. A series of in-house brain storm sessions reviewed all possible means of achieving the strategy. LBD was unique: a 4 field nearshore development with offshore crude storage and offloading. Novel solutions should be possible, resulting in a more cost effective implementation of the response strategy. Using multi-function vessels was a recurring theme - oil spill response arrangements should not be considered in isolation but together with other marine support services. A crucial step was to realize accepted practices were based on single well or single field scenarios. The company successfully opened a debate within the industry and government agencies on existing UK Regulations governing oil spill recovery, resulting in drafted, more practical Regulations and Guidelines. A shortlist of possible vessel scenarios was then prepared. These were costed and tested against the response strategy by risk analysis, checking double jeopardy cover for all marine support services. Government Agencies were consulted closely. This was particularly important because of the novel nature of the proposals. Their considered and positive responses enabled us to go forward with the most cost effective acceptable solution.
- OSTI ID:
- 414712
- Report Number(s):
- CONF-960623-; TRN: 96:004555-0014
- Resource Relation:
- Conference: International conference on health, safety and environment in oil and gas exploration products, New Orleans, LA (United States), 9 Jun - 12 Sep 1996; Other Information: PBD: 1996; Related Information: Is Part Of The third international conference on health, safety & environment in oil and gas exploration and production. Proceedings - Volume 2; PB: 934 p.
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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