UK Operations

BP EXPLORATION

SUBJECT:

GUIDELINES FOR
DRILLING OPERATIONS

Section

0120/GEN

Rev.

3 (10/95)

Page

5 of 46

H2S (HYDROGEN SULPHIDE) PROCEDURES

SECTION A
WILDCAT/EXPLORATION AREAS

This section is intended to cover the minimum equipment, training and procedure levels that will be applied to
all mobile rigs being used by BP Petroleum Development Limited in the UKCS area.
A.1

EQUIPMENT

A.1.1

Detection Systems
Both portable H2S gas detectors and a fixed automatic monitoring and alarm system are required,
although their accuracy and reliability must first be ascertained particularly in the case of fixed
detectors.
Flammable gas detection systems that may be installed in these areas should not be considered as
being suitable for toxicity monitoring of H2S concentrations.
a) Fixed Systems
The number and location of sensors should be sufficient to cover expected areas of accumulation
and must be tested for their accuracy and reliability.
The sensors should be collectively monitored at a central point, in a safe area. For example, the
Mud Logging unit or rig control room.
The system should be arranged to provide continuous monitoring of those parts of the installation
listed below.

Bell Nipple

This is the best location for early warning, but may not be practicable. In this
case the sensor should be as close as possible.

Shale Shakers/Header Box

Mud Pit Area

Return and suction pits.

Drill Floor

Two sensors.

If possible, the system should have at least two spare channels to allow extra sensors to be fitted
as required, e.g. on the trip tank.
Additionally and depending on rig design and positioning of living quarters air intakes,
consideration should be given to installing H2S sensors at the air intakes.
Since H2S is heavier than air, sensors must be as close to floor level or mud level as practicable.
The system should be set to detect H2S at any individual sensor at 10 ppm. This should sound an
alarm and register an alarm at the central monitoring point and at the remote alarm stations.
Remote alarms, giving both visual and audible alarm on detection of the preset limit of H2S, should
be placed at the following positions:
-

Drillers console.
Control room.
Mud logging unit.