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EXP-PR-DI030-EN-R0 - 2 - Roles and Procedures PDF
EXP-PR-DI030-EN-R0 - 2 - Roles and Procedures PDF
TRAINING MANUAL
Course EXP-PR-DI030
Revision 0.1
Exploration & Production
Miscellaneous Courses
Roles and Procedures
MISCELLANEOUS COURSES
ROLES AND PROCEDURES
CONTENTS
1. OBJECTIVES ..................................................................................................................5
2. INTRODUCTION .............................................................................................................6
3. THE OPERATOR TRADE ...............................................................................................7
3.1. ROLE ........................................................................................................................7
3.1.1. Observation ........................................................................................................7
3.1.2. Action..................................................................................................................8
3.1.3. Monitoring ...........................................................................................................9
3.1.4. Reporting ............................................................................................................9
3.1.5. Conclusion ..........................................................................................................9
3.2. THE OPERATOR'S DIFFERENT TASKS ...............................................................10
3.2.1. General Description ..........................................................................................10
3.2.2. Description of the tasks ....................................................................................10
3.2.3. Functional links .................................................................................................11
3.2.4. Line Manager....................................................................................................11
3.2.4.1. The role of the Chief Operator....................................................................11
3.3. EXERCISES............................................................................................................13
4. THE OPERATOR'S MAIN ACTIVITIES .........................................................................14
4.1. OPERATOR INSPECTION TOURS........................................................................14
4.1.1. Who does the inspection tours?........................................................................14
4.1.2. What inspection tours on rotating equipment involves?....................................15
4.1.3. What to do? ......................................................................................................15
4.2. OPERATION ACTIVITIES.......................................................................................22
4.2.1. Sampling...........................................................................................................22
4.2.1.1. Operating precautions ................................................................................22
4.2.1.2. Marking the samples ..................................................................................22
4.2.1.3. Special procedure: Sampling .....................................................................23
4.3. Works follow-up.......................................................................................................24
4.3.1. Works carried out by off-site personnel (contracted or not) ..............................24
4.3.2. Works carried out by on-site personnel (contracted or not) ..............................24
4.4. MAINTENANCE ......................................................................................................25
4.4.1. Terms and Definitions.......................................................................................25
4.4.2. The maintenance concept ................................................................................25
4.4.3. Maintenance operations ...................................................................................26
4.4.4. Classification in terms of maintenance levels ...................................................27
4.4.5. 1st level maintenance .......................................................................................28
4.4.5.1. Definitions ..................................................................................................28
4.4.5.2. General Principles......................................................................................28
4.4.5.3. Production personnel duties.......................................................................28
4.4.5.4. Maintenance personnel duties ...................................................................29
4.4.5.5. 1st level maintenance of surface facilities ..................................................29
Training Manual EXP-PR-DI030-EN
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Miscellaneous Courses
Roles and Procedures
1. OBJECTIVES
2. INTRODUCTION
In this course, we shall be addressing the role of the operators on the facilities. We shall
demonstrate that this role is essential to ensure the proper operation of the facility, and
more importantly, to ensure optimum safety and environment conditions.
To perform their duties in good conditions, operators will often be required to use
procedures and work permits. We will also be addressing these subjects in this course.
This course describes the generalities associated with the operator trade, but the level of
responsibility may differ slightly according to the site structure and the subsidiary company
with which it is associated.
This position is the starting point of the operation trade. As the operator develops skills in
this position, he will become eligible for appointment as Head Operator or Supervisor.
3.1. ROLE
As mentioned above, the role of the operator is of fundamental importance to the sites. He
acts as the "eyes and arms" of the control room. Furthermore, he is entrusted with the
monitoring of all of the unit facilities and personnel, who works and move from unit to unit.
Owing to his responsiveness, the experience gained and his knowledge in practice and in
theory, he ensures the safe and proper operation of the facilities he is assigned to.
3.1.1. Observation
Moreover, this observation role will enable the operator to anticipate any
changes in the process and therefore to point out any process malfunction
that may not have been observed from the control room.
To check the equipment start-up and shutdown phases (for example: Pump
change-over)
To ensure the cleanliness of the facilities (for example: Cloths left hanging
around, fire hose unravelled, etc.)
3.1.2. Action
The operator is required to perform a certain number of tasks on a daily basis as well as
others on an ad-hoc basis, in the event of an emergency or facility servicing/repairs.
Process:
He will be responsible for taking samples from wells being tested, finished
products, sea releases, etc. These samples will be used to determine the proper
or improper performance of the units, after laboratory analyses.
He will check that the chemical product injection pumps operate correctly and the
volumes injected.
Maintenance:
He will perform the preventive maintenance tasks for which he is responsible. (For
example: cleaning filters on the process).
Safety:
He will take an active part in safety drills. He will be fully aware of the locations of
the fire system devices and will know how to use them. He will know how to use
his own safety equipment (evacuation respirator, self-contained breathing
apparatus, as well as the firefighting equipment).
3.1.3. Monitoring
This is an important role for the operator as it is the means by which he will be able to
detect any hazards. This monitoring duty is associated with a temporary activity.
It concerns:
The facilities
The operator will perform his monitoring duties to prevent accidents during
operations such as works (for example: grating not stored away once the works
have been completed).
Personnel
He will be in charge of monitoring the persons working on the site. He will ensure
the equipment used by the works and maintenance teams conforms to the
regulations. He will flag and control hoisting and gamma ray level gage
operations.
He will monitor newcomers and will contribute to their training by coaching them.
3.1.4. Reporting
Reporting is one of the Operator's key roles. The report must be as clear and concise as
possible. Correct implementation of the actions taken in response to the report depends on
the accuracy of the report submitted.
3.1.5. Conclusion
To carry out all of his roles successfully, the operator is required to draw on his own
knowledge and experience regarding facilities.
Moreover, owing to the physical and theoretical (physics, chemistry) knowledge gained
during his training period, he will be unquestionably capable of performing all of these
tasks.
In this chapter, we shall not only be addressing the operator's tasks, but also those of the
Chief Operator (C.O.), to clearly distinguish the tasks incumbent on each. Moreover, the
position of C.O. is directly above that of the operator. This means they will often be
required to fulfil these duties during their career.
The information that follows does not constitute a set of rules and may differ from one
subsidiary to another.
The operator is responsible for the production facility inspections carried out to make daily
recordings and to adjust operating parameters.
Reactivating the facilities in accordance with the general operation and safety
instructions.
Recording the daily parameters and changing the charts. Drawing up the reports
in the absence of the Chief Operator, writing the inspection reports.
The SCDAR personnel, the wire line operators, the contracted parties
General Description:
The Chief Operator is responsible for ensuring proper facility operation and safety.
The Chief Operator is responsible for all of the agents he is in charge of.
Monitoring, organising and checking the work of the operators under him.
In collaboration with his superior, being responsible for the safety and discipline of
all of the personnel working on the facilities.
In collaboration with his superior, stopping any works that prove to be hazardous
to personnel or facilities.
Checking the proper operation of the equipment and carrying out delicate tasks
when anomalies have been detected on the facilities.
Functional links:
The SCDAR personnel, the wire line operators, the contracted parties, the
logistics, the works, the safety, the laboratory.
Administrative duties:
Line Manager:
3.3. EXERCISES
2. Which of the tasks below are not incumbent upon the operator?
The equipment installed on a petrochemical site or a refinery is subject to wear, and even
under normal operating conditions, wear is inevitable. This is one of the reasons for which
the equipment needs to be monitored.
Wear is heightened in these conditions, and may result in equipment breakdown with
substantial consequences (leakage, fire risk, unavailability of equipment, unit shutdown,
etc.)
The conditions of equipment use may change and deviate from standard values of use
(temperatures, pressures, product qualities) until they become completely abnormal
(cavitation, unpriming, lack of lubrication, etc).
The monitoring of equipment must enable rapid detection of operating incidents that are
already apparent (packing, seal leakage, etc.)
Moreover, daily inspection tours enable the operator to report progress on machine
availability (emergency pumps), to ensure equipment maintenance and servicing is
adequate (filter clogging, etc.), to ensure the safety of the unit (odours, noise, leaks, etc)
and to rapidly detect any operating anomaly (gland-oil obstructed, cavitation, etc).
When performing his role of observation, it is important that the operator does several
inspection tours, as he is required to memorise a number of observations, and will thus be
able to notify his superior of any "abnormal" changes, even if he does not spot the origin of
the phenomenon to begin with.
To smell H2S, hear a bearing roll, observe a joint leakage or touch the cooling water outlet
pipe of a packing box, you need to be on the field.
To witness the progress of certain parameters (intensity, pressure, etc), you need to be
aware of the various parameters (process) and monitor them frequently.
The operators on shift match these requirements, as monitoring has always constituted an
important part of their duties.
Systematic readings on critical machines remain the same in terms of both content and
frequency.
Nowadays:
As regards the rotating equipment, while doing his tour, the operator is required to:
Electric Motors
abnormal temperature
vibrations
Turbines
Caution: Before any turbine is started up, purge the bearings (Presence of water)
o Check:
o Machines in operation:
Check the overall sound level of the machine: (innate operator skills!)
Check the oil level (and refill if necessary with the machine stopped)
Flushing :
Sweep quench:
Safety quench:
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Miscellaneous Courses
Roles and Procedures
o Check the system pressure (value between the MIN and MAX).
Values often indicated on the pressure gauge.
o Check the axial displacement indicated by the shaft end lamp (should be in
the middle position)
Reciprocating Compressors
o Check the efficiency of the cylinder cooling (touch the cylinder body)
o Check the oil level and operation of the Quervel mechanical lubricator
Centrifugal Compressors
Cooling towers
Mixer Impellers
These activities involve complying with and fulfilling the orders issued by the control room
or the Chief Operator.
They include testing wells, isolating circuits, checking for proper valve operation, taking
samples, etc. In this chapter, we will also describe the sampling methods to be used
depending on the type of sample required.
The Operator's responsibilities will continue to amplify over time. His tasks will become
increasingly complex as his knowledge of the site develops.
4.2.1. Sampling
The Operator's meticulousness and judgement are required for every sample taking.
Safety and hygiene: be very careful with the flammability and toxicity of products
(breathing vapours, contact with skin)
If possible, take the sample from the vessel which is to be dispatched. This
operating method is essential for volatile products.
Close the vessel as soon as possible after sampling is completed, and check it is
sealed properly.
For safety reasons and with respect to operating requirements, if the vessel is left
open, specify the degassing time on the follow-up data sheet.
The follow-up data sheet (to be filled in by the Supervisor before the sample is
dispatched for analysis).
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Roles and Procedures
Comments:
Label the vessel as soon as the sample has been taken, and number the sample.
Put the label in a plastic pouch and attach it to the neck of the vessel (avoid
sticking the label on the vessel itself).
The following recommendations must be adhered to when taking liquid sample from an
effluent that may contain H2S:
Wear integral chemical cartridge respirators around the neck, with the blind
washer in position, or self-contained breathing apparatus.
Wear a portable H2S detector, of the MICRO PAC HLS type, switched ON
Put the respirator on immediately (remember to remove the protection plug at the
bottom of the cartridge)
Leave the area immediately, paying attention to the wind direction. Leave in the
opposite direction
A more accurate measurement of the H2S content will need to be taken at the sampling
point.
This measurement shall be taken by the SEO (safety and environment officer) equipped
with a self-contained breathing apparatus.
If this measurement confirms a H2S content > 10 ppm.v, the sample will need to be taken
using a fresh air respirator (self-contained breathing apparatus, etc).
Note:
If a gas sample needs to be taken (in a PVT type bomb), the same procedure
shall be applied, but operators are required to use self-contained breathing
apparatus rather than a chemical cartridge respirator.
Before taking the sample, ensure the detectors of the area concerned have been
isolated, and the inhibition recorded in the relevant file.
After taking the samples, do not forget to put back the safety devices correctly.
Are not always informed of the risks associated with the site
Do not always react in a quick and self-sufficient way when problems arise. (For
example: Closing a valve on their work site).
For these reasons, it is essential that an Operator is present when works are carried out
on site.
Even if the intervening personnel are well aware of the rules and risks of each intervention,
any "non-routine" works must be carried out in the presence of an operator who liaises
between the workers and the control room.
He monitors activities visually and ensures the special safety conditions specified on the
work permit are fulfilled.
He ensures the works are carried out through to completion and that the area is properly
cleaned (returned to its condition before the works).
4.4. MAINTENANCE
In this chapter, we shall be covering the Operator's maintenance duties. We shall not only
be addressing those incumbent upon the Operator, but also those for which maintenance
is of capital importance, and for which it is imperative to respect the roles of each of the
persons involved.
The maintenance activities described below do not constitute standard rules, as they may
differ according to site or subsidiary.
Operators learn how to pinpoint problems and determine their origins through the
maintenance activities they perform.
Moreover, these activities confer responsibility upon the Operators, making their work
more interesting.
The Maintenance is the organization that ensures the performance and service life of a
production tool required to meet production schedules is optimised at minimum cost.
It also constitutes the measures taken to maintain or restore the specified condition of a
piece of equipment, or to provide a given service at optimum cost.
Preventive Maintenance:
Corrective maintenance:
Inspection
Checks
Maintenance inspections
Testing
Detection
Localization
Diagnosis
Troubleshooting
Repairs
Improvement
Other operations:
Revision
Reconditioning
Reconstruction
Modification
SECOND LEVEL:
THIRD LEVEL:
FOURTH LEVEL:
FIFTH LEVEL:
4.4.5.1. Definitions
The production personnel have full control of their own facilities, whether directly
associated with the extraction, treatment or movement of effluents, or whether they
contribute indirectly to these processes by providing the necessary energies and utilities.
The production personnel perform all management operations, for which they are required
to have obtained the necessary skills and training.
Production personnel are provided with adapted documentation: operating instructions and
operating methods.
The production team monitors facilities and their equipment using instruments they keep at
hand at all times.
If necessary, the maintenance team can provide support and assistance using additional
temporary means.
They perform 1st level maintenance tasks for which they give specific updated procedure
instructions. Tasks may differ according to the degree of line automation.
Preventive measures regarding production and maintenance are managed using operation
schedule lists and routing sheets on OPTIMIS software.
All other operations on facilities in use are carried out under the responsibility of the
maintenance team, using their specific means.
The production team is required to grant authorization for these operations by issuing a
work permit or a work request.
If, under particular circumstances, a SCDAR contract has been drawn up (SubContract
with Duty to Achieve a given Result): The MC handles 1st level maintenance, with the
exception of the process facilities for which the Operating Company is responsible.
As we have just seen, the role of the operator also involves maintenance tasks. We are
now going to describe the maintenance tasks that fall within the scope of the Operator's
duties.
Valve lubrication
Instrument inspection
Bolting maintenance
Cabinet maintenance
Monitoring of parameters
Chemicals injection
Sampling
WELLHEADS
OPERATIONS ACTIONS
1st level
Valve lubrication Production
maintenance
1st level
Instrument inspection Production
maintenance
1st level
Bolting maintenance Production
maintenance
1st level
ESDV, SSV, ROV maintenance Production
maintenance
1st level
Cabinet maintenance Production
maintenance
1st level
SCSSV hydraulic control maintenance Production
maintenance
Cleaning of recorders
Cell purging
Controller lubrication
Leakage checks
Zero checks
Outlet manipulation
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Miscellaneous Courses
Roles and Procedures
Loop testing
Replacement of gauges
Chemicals injection
SEPARATORS
OPERATIONS ACTIONS
Heat engines:
Periodic tests
Fuel management
HEAT ENGINES
OPERATIONS ACTIONS
Rotating machines:
OPERATIONS ACTIONS
COMPRESSORS
GAS TURBINE
Machine monitoring encompasses any method, practice, process or technique used, while
the machines are in operation, to diagnose the condition of equipment, to determine what
is happening, what will happen and what may happen to increase machine availability and
to reduce costs.
The production operator is required to make the most of these "compulsory tours" to
ensure the machines are monitored accurately. We are now going to look at how
machines can be monitored accurately.
Means available:
Noise
Temperature increases
Lubricants
Vibrations
4.4.6.1. Noise
Of all of the machines monitored, the most efficient and reliable machine that is far from
breakdown and that is likely to have a long service life is always the machine that makes
the least noise, as silence is a revealing sign of efficiency.
Moreover, the geographical location of a machine will alter the noise generated by a given
machine, as their standing positions always differ, and consequently, echoes are
obstructed by elements in the immediate environment, altering the initial noise emitted.
As one becomes familiar with general machine noises and the purring of its engines,
anomalies can be detected innately.
Abnormal noises generated by a machine are a revealing sign of malfunctioning that may
result in damage.
Any bearing, casing, reducer or large device incorporating a lubricant tank must be fitted
with a temperature indicator that must be checked periodically.
If it is not fitted with a temperature indicator, manual periodic check (inner side tolerated on
the bearing =+/-55) may usually suffice as oil oxidation only becomes severe at 70.
The cause of any anomaly (temperature rises) must be determined without delay (grinding,
overload, lack of lubrication, misalignment, etc), failing which, the machine must be
shutdown for inspection and overhaul as temperature increases are detrimental to the
lubricating properties of the oils.
This must be monitored periodically with meticulous care as any breakdown process
increases the driving power from the onset (friction of rings, bearings, impeller, mechanical
packing, etc.)
Moreover, changes in the driving power consumption of a given machine has an impact on
machine life (decrease in energy due to grinding, increase in energy with part wear)
Caution! A change in machine load established by the Operating Company may cause
variations in driving power consumption that are far more significant than those caused by
mechanical phenomenon.
These values can be recorded using the machine instrumentation that must be kept in
good condition and calibrated on a regular basis.
4.4.6.5. Vibrations
Analysis of vibratory phenomena requires very specific training and equipment that is often
expensive.
Nevertheless, the occurrence of vibrations that can be heard, felt (hands on the ground),
or detected using sensors, is always a sign of damage that can have extremely rapid
consequences.
Unbalance
Misalignment
4.4.6.6. Lubricants
Quantitative Check:
Any deviation between the maximum and minimum level must be explained.
Beyond the maximum value, excess oil (or foreign liquid) may hinder or prevent
correct lubrication.
Below the minimum, a lack of oil can quickly result in an incident caused by rupture
of the lubricating film.
Qualitative Check
4.5. EXERCISES
4. To detect the smell of H2S, to hear un bearing roll, or to observe a joint leakage, the
operator is required to:
Be on the field
True
False
7. List two tasks that the operator is required to complete whilst doing his tour, concerning
rotating equipment and particularly electric motors.
8. List two tasks that the operator is required to complete whilst doing his tour, concerning
rotating equipment and particularly centrifugal pumps in operation.
9. List two tasks that the operator is required to complete whilst doing his tour, concerning
rotating equipment and particularly centrifugal pumps not in operation.
10. List two tasks that the operator is required to complete whilst doing his tour, concerning
rotating equipment and particularly reciprocating compressors.
11. List two tasks that the operator is required to complete whilst doing his tour, concerning
rotating equipment and particularly centrifugal compressors.
12. List two tasks that the operator is required to complete whilst doing his tour, concerning
rotating equipment and particularly cooling towers.
13. List two tasks that the operator is required to complete whilst doing his tour, concerning
rotating equipment and particularly mixer impellers.
15. What are the 4 recommendations that must be adhered to when taking liquid sample
from an effluent that may contain H2S?
17. Periodic emergency equipment testing and the change-over of redundant equipment
are tasks incumbent upon the operator.
True
False
18. List 3 tasks that the Operator is required to carry out whilst working on wellheads.
19. List 3 tasks that the Operator is required to carry out whilst working on capacities.
20. List 3 tasks that the Operator is required to carry out whilst working on heat engines.
21. List 3 means by which the Operator can monitor the machines whilst doing his tour.
22. Of all of the machines monitored, the most efficient and reliable machine that is far
from breakdown and that is likely to have a long service life is always the machine that
makes the least noise.
True
False
True
False
24. An increase in driving power, without changes in load made by the Operating
Company, is a revealing sign of the start of a fault.
True
False
25. Analysing any changes in machine operation characteristics does not enable operators
to determine the condition of these same machines in any case.
True
False
27. What are the two checks that need to be carried out on lubricants?
Each different job involves specific risks. This is why we have established ten rules that
shall be described in this chapter, and that are based on experience. These cover the
most frequently encountered situations of Exploration & Production sites.
Compliance with these rules will significantly contribute to preventing accidents in this field.
These rules should be respected in the interest of each and every one of us on a day-to-
day basis.
By making every endeavour to meet the safety improvement objective that is a decisive
vehicle of progress, together, we can continue to improve results.
These ten rules will contribute to the development of our HSE culture within the field of
Exploration & Production.
Most of the works we carry out include tasks that, although routine, can be dangerous.
The 34 deaths suffered by Exploration & Production personnel since 1998 were due to:
Vehicle accidents 35 %
Explosions / burns 26 %
Trapping 11 %
Falling 11 %
Drowning 9%
Electrocution 4%
Adhering to these simple rules can prevent accidents and save lives.
All works carried out on site, other than "routine" works (defined in an official list
disseminated throughout the company) require a Work Permit.
The permit issuer ensures the works and tasks are clearly mentioned and that an
analysis of the operational risk is carried out,
to perform several distinct tasks on one piece of equipment, the person in charge
establishes a link between all of the associated permits and documents,
the on-site works supervisor ensures all of the conditions prior to permit issuance
have been met, before and during the works,
prior identification of all of the tasks for which isolation is necessary, to ensure
operations are strictly controlled,
definition of the method to be used to isolate and discharge the energy stored,
use of a fail-safe locking and labelling system that authorises over-isolation when
there are several distinct tasks,
Entering a confined space is strictly prohibited, and no work may be carried out
therein unless the following requirements have been met with:
all other options have been dismissed and the appropriate authorities have been
notified of the reasons for entering a capacity,
a work permit has been established and approved, and includes all information
pertaining to the intervention and emergency plan,
all sources of energy and fluids have been isolated and secured,
an agent (or team) with the appropriate training and equipment shall stand guard,
ready to act,
5.4. TRENCHING
an appropriate work permit has been established and approved with all of the
adequate plans,
all underground hazards (lines, cables, etc.) have been identified, located and
marked on site, and if necessary, isolated,
the ground movement prevention methods (such as cave-in of trench walls) have
been assessed and finalised,
the trenching work has been conceived with consideration for confined space
specificities, and the related safety precautions will be applied.
the transfer of personnel by cable is authorised in exceptional cases only, and this
type of operation is carried out under the following conditions: validated work
permit, specially adapted and certified hoisting equipment, stoppage of
simultaneous operations of any type, permanent supervision by a qualified
employee.
5.6. HOISTING
No work involving a crane, a hoist or any other such mechanical devices, including
lift trucks, may be initiated if the following conditions have not been fulfilled:
the hoisting equipment and method have been defined by an authorised person,
the persons participating in the operation are qualified and trained. The cranes,
lifts and trucks are manoeuvred by certified personnel,
all of the safety devices for the hoisting equipment are in proper operating
condition,
all of the hoisting devices and accessories (slings, shackles, etc.) have been
inspected and certified as suited for use,
the load has been determined and does not exceed its maximum capacity,
each item of hoisting equipment has been visually inspected before use.
5.7. VEHICLES
Excess speed is not acceptable, even for operating reasons. The following
precautions shall be taken for all vehicles:
the drivers will respect the driving rules, regulations and policies in force,
all vehicles must be suited for the scheduled operation, inspected and authorised
for use,
any person driving a company vehicle must have completed a preventive driving
course and revision lessons as required,
each passenger will be allocated a seat, and will wear their seat-belt fastened
when the vehicle is in motion,
passengers and goods will not be transported in the same vehicle compartment,
special precautions will be taken to provide for risky situations or conditions that
may be hazardous when driving.
The possible impact that any changes may have on the working conditions on site
must be determined, using an appropriate means of risk assessment or by
implementing compensatory measures, if necessary. These changes may include:
organisational changes,
changes in procedure,
5.9. SIMOPS
all of the recommendations derived from risk analysis have been implemented,
the responsibilities for the SIMOPS have been allocated and a SSEM (site
environment safety manager) has been appointed,
formal authorization to proceed with the operations has been granted by the
Operations Manager (or Technical Manager) pursuant to site inspection.
Any situation in which the risk level has been temporarily increased in comparison
with the normal situation must be treated as a "degraded situation" in accordance
with the following principles:
compensatory measures to reduce these risks have been defined and approved,
a list of "degraded situations" is updated every day on the site and made available
to the personnel concerned.
5.11. EXERCISES
28. The ten rules listed in this chapter cover the most frequently encountered situations on
the Exploration & Production sites. These rules are based on experience feedback.
True
False
29. List 5 of the causes of the deaths suffered by Exploration & Production personnel.
30. All works carried out on site, other than "routine" works (defined in an official list
disseminated throughout the company) require a Work Permit.
True
False
31. Works requiring the isolation of energy sources (hydraulic, mechanical, electric,
process, etc.) may be undertaken once the isolation has been checked, and if its
efficiency is checked regularly.
True
False
32. Nobody is allowed to enter a confined space and no works may be carried out therein
without an agent (or team) with the appropriate training and equipment standing guard,
ready to act.
True
False
33. It is strictly prohibited to undertake any work at a height (involving a potential fall from a
height of over 20 metres) without fall arrester equipment comprising a complete safety
harness and an appropriate anchorage point.
True
False
34. No work involving a crane, a hoist or any other such mechanical devices, including lift
trucks, may be initiated unless all of the hoisting devices and accessories (slings,
shackles, etc.) have been certified as suited for use after inspection.
True
False
6. WORK PERMITS
Work permits are essential documents for Operators. Operators handle these documents
several times a day. Operators need to understand the general principles of the work
permit, its scope, the documents and permissions associated therewith, how it is
established and the personnel concerned, to be able to read it and understand the ins and
outs of it.
Reminder: This document is not any form of substitute for the "specific work permit"
training. Although relatively detailed, it represents a general view intended to present the
work permit mechanisms.
Operators can therefore anticipate any untimely phenomena during the works and
take the measures required to remedy inconvenient situations (for example: A length
of cable has been isolated for works; what "process" change could possibly occur that
would render the isolation inefficient?
This chapter describes the work permit and comprises extracts from CR EP HSE 036
(07/05).
All of the works to be completed within the framework of operations carried out by an entity
shall be governed by the risk management principles established in CP EP HSE 031, and
namely on the basis of a consistent Work Permit.
describes the overall process and the various stages included before an
intervention is carried out: Preparation, approval, execution and closing;
identifies the main participants, their prerogatives and their respective roles in this
process;
defines the type, the model and the content of the various Work Permit forms, as
well as their respective scopes, the restrictions and the exceptions for use.
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Roles and Procedures
The Work Permit procedure uses dedicated forms, that comprise or formalise:
the hazards involved in the HSE field. These include all of the risks associated
with the intervention, with the work area and with the neighbouring facilities as
well as any potential interference with other works or operations;
the measures required to ensure full acceptance of the work and the checks
performed to ensure effective implementation of these measures;
The Work Permit procedure is based on various forms that are easily distinguishable.
Three different types of form will be available:
a standard form (the most commonly used) referred to as the Cold Work Permit.
a specific form covering all hot work, referred to as the Hot Work Permit. This
Hot Work Permit form must clearly distinguish between hot work involving "Open
flame" and hot work involving No Open Flame,
A specific form covering all types of access to a confined space, referred to as the
Confined Space Entry Permit.
Depending on the organisational context and the nature of the operations, the different
entities may consider developing and implementing other forms:
specific Work Permit forms with special check-lists used to identify and assess the
risks involved in certain types of work, as a replacement for the "standard" Work
Permit forms;
6.2. SCOPE
Usually, all works require the use of one or several permits. The one or several
appropriate forms will be chosen according to the nature of the various tasks to be
completed, as described below. Exceptions to this rule are given in 4.2.2 and 4.2.3.
The Cold Work Permit form always applies to all types of work other than that covered by
a more specific form.
A Hot Work Permit is required instead of (or, if necessary, in addition to) the Cold Work
Permit when the work involves real or potential ignition sources, particularly:
open flame sources, generating sparks or heat (such as flame cutting, welding,
grinding), unless these are used in workshops or areas designed specifically for
this purpose, and located at a safe distance from hazardous areas. On the
corresponding Hot Work Permit , the Open Flame checkbox must be selected;
other potential sources of ignition (such as hand tools, equipment that is not or no
more intrinsically safe) located or used within or near to a hazardous area that
cannot be isolated. On the corresponding Hot Work Permit , the No Open
Flame checkbox must be selected;
A Confined Space Entry Permit is required in addition to the Cold Work Permit or the
Hot Work Permit when the works involve entering a capacity or tank under pressure, or
require the presence of personnel in a confined space - i.e. a space with limited natural
ventilation and in which a hazardous atmosphere exists or could develop.
For the other forms likely to be developed and used within the entity, the scope must be
specified by the Work Permit procedure in the same way.
Some works or tasks may only require a Work Order, as long as the conditions described
below are fulfilled:
the works are carried out regularly, several times a year, for example;
the analysis of the risks involved clearly specifies that the works are not unusually
dangerous and are not of high risk;
the works are subjected to detailed procedures including an exhaustive list of all
of the potential dangers and of the precautions to be taken, and these procedures
have been thoroughly tried and tested and declared appropriate;
the works are carried out by appropriately trained and experienced employees or
contracted personnel who belong to the permanent on-site organization;
the works are included on the "list of works subjected to a Work Order", duly
approved by the entity's operational Management team.
Some activities may only require verbal instructions, and consequently no standard or
specific work permit or Work Order - as long as the conditions described below are
fulfilled:
activities are part of the normal operation of facilities and equipment according to
design specifications, and within the operating limits recommended by the
manufacturers;
they are referenced on the "list of works not subjected to a permit", duly approved
by the entity's operational Management team.
As these activities have not been formalised by means of a permit, it is important that they
are carefully co-ordinated and supervised to prevent interference with other works.
When simultaneous operations are carried out, the Work Permit is adapted when the
SIMOPS file is established so as to consider the highest risk levels involved.
In particular:
the lists of exceptions (works subjected to a Work Order", works based on verbal
instructions) are revised and modified, if necessary;
the interference between different works is reassessed with consideration for the
SIMOPS requirements and any further restrictions or stricter rule - if necessary -is
clearly identified;
Isolation, permission to "get around using a vehicle", permission "for works" or "transport
for degassing" are not necessarily associated with work permits.
Other additional permissions or documents may only be obtained with a WP, and are
associated therewith.
The WP expiry date also applies to all of the additional permissions granted with this
permit.
6.3.2. Isolation
Isolation includes all of the provisions necessary to lock-out a machine, device or facility
such that its state can only be changed (restarting of a machine, closing of an electric
circuit, opening of a valve, etc.) once the operating conditions have been restored and
checked with the consent of all of the persons involved.
An isolation sheet is used to formalise the process involving isolation and de-isolation, as it
requires the attention of qualified and informed persons (Operating Company, electrician,
mechanic).
Once the electrical isolation is carried out, the Isolation Manager dates (date/time) and
signs the record.
The person carrying out the operation receives a red token (electrical or electrical lock-out
isolation) that he keeps until the work has been completed, and gives back to the Isolation
Manager to de-isolate the equipment.
Sheet 2 (pink) with a protective plastic cover may be attached to the label (on site),
depending on the equipment, for process or utility isolation.
This type of isolation may be associated with a mechanical part or a fluid. The procedure is
identical to that of electrical isolation.
This is mandatory for all hot work (use of equipment generating, or likely to generate a
heat source) carried out on facilities with a fire or explosion risk, outside of the permanent
work points.
Certain usual operations, that do not involve the use or generation of flames, may be
exempt from Cutting and Welding Permits as long as a specific procedure has been drawn
up. The procedure specifies the means implemented and the level of qualification of the
operating personnel.
It is signed by the OM and SEO. The OM and SEO are required to re-validate it
along with the WP before each new task.
Hot work may not be commenced until the following conditions have been fulfilled:
the SEO has recorded the test results on the Cutting and Welding permit,
Having acknowledged the results of the atmosphere test, the OM has signed the
WP and the Cutting and Welding Permit.
This is mandatory for one or more external company agents to access a vessel.
It is issued and signed jointly by the OS, the OM and the SEO.
Permission to access a device may only be granted if the appropriate sign has been
affixed to each of the access points.
Yellow disk : access subjected to specific authorization by the OM and the SEO
The colour of the disk to be affixed to the access points is determined by both the OM and
the SEO according to the atmosphere test results and to the works scheduled.
For each activity site or area, the Work Permit procedure identifies each job or position
playing a key role in the Work Permit process, namely:
the Operational Manager, i.e. the person technically responsible for the operations
carried out and for the entity's facilities in place on the work site, if any;
the Permit Control Manager, i.e. the person responsible for preparing the permits,
according to the work site organization requirements, (usually the permit co-
ordinator, the Operational Manager or one of his appointed representatives);
the HSE representative, i.e. the person responsible for checking the HSE aspects
of the various activities conducted on the site (usually the HSE supervisor or
advisor);
the Shift Leader, i.e. the person responsible, for the duration of the shift, for the
overall, continuous monitoring and supervision of the equipment and works within
a given area;
The Requestor, i.e. the person having requested the Work Permit;
The Operations Supervisor, i.e. the person responsible for performing the works
(usually a department leader or supervisor, a representative appointed by a
service provider). Whenever possible, the Operations Supervisor will be he who
requested the Work Permit. This guarantees his full commitment to the work
preparation process.
a permit expires 14 days after its approval, or 7 days after the start of the works,
at the latest. A "open flame" Hot Work Permit expires 7 days after the date of
issue, or 2 days after the start of the works, the first to occur.
a permit is submitted for approval at least 24 hours before the date on which the
works are scheduled to begin;
a permit is issued for one job only, i.e. a set of interdependent tasks to be
performed by one team in one area. Consequently, the following scenarios may
not be covered by one common permit: tasks that are not directly related, works
performed in 2 different places, the activities of 2 different service companies, etc;
a standard or specific permit approved by both the Operational Manager and the
SSEM. A Work Order is approved by the Operational Manager.
Before works begin or are resumed with a new team, each standard permit, specific permit
or Work Order is (re)validated. It is important to ensure the following conditions are
fulfilled:
the work permit has been approved, is still valid, and all associated documents
are attached. It is noted "in progress" for the team in the latest register review;
the persons involved have been informed of the various tasks required of them,
the associated hazards and the measures to be taken, by means of meetings held
before works begin or during the course of the works, of which any reports are
attached to the permit;
all resources are available, including the equipment and tools required for the
works and the supervising team;
the conditions associated with the works and facilities are those taken into
account or provided for during the preparation phase;
all of the compensatory measures (including inhibitions and isolations) have been
checked carefully for proper implementation and efficiency, and the corresponding
boxes have been selected in the Work Permit;
In addition to the original form, at least one copy of each Work Permit is systematically
printed.
While the works are in progress, the original copy of the Work Permit and the associated
documents are posted up near to the work area. A copy is held in the permit control room
(this may be the control room, if any, or the Shift Leader's office etc.), in the register
dedicated to permits in progress.
Should the works be discontinued, the original form is returned to the Shift Leader, who
ensures it is kept with its copies in the permit control room, for future use.
in the event of a general alarm or specific instructions given by the Shift Leader,
the Operational Manager or the SSEM;
If works are suspended, the conditions in which they may be resumed are established and
approved by the Operational Manager. Re-assessment of the work conditions and
comprehensive revalidation between shifts are required at the very least.
The permit is closed once all of the works have been completed, the validity period has
expired or the works have been suspended and revalidation unauthorized (in the last two
cases, the works cannot be resumed unless a new permit has been requested and
issued).
Once all of the works have been completed, the acceptance process is formalised under
the responsibility of the Operational Manager and includes, if applicable and relevant:
tests, inspections and checks including a visit to and visual inspection of the work
site;
The signatures of the Operations Supervisor and Operational Manager are required to
close the permit.
Once closed, the original copy of the Work Permit, its appendices and associated
documents are filed for at least one year.
The Work Permit breaks down into five sections, which are detailed in this chapter:
the request
the preparation
the approval
the execution
the acceptance
Reminder: For any scheduled work, the Work Permit will be established at least 2 days in
advance.
The requestor
The worker
This is a person with knowledge of the works to be carried out (external or TFEA line
position).
He is required to:
clearly specify:
clearly specify:
describe the available documents and data (procedures, WOM, sketches, etc)
This will be the person in charge of conducting the works (Performance Manager) on the
field.
In practice, it is the Leadman or the Site Foreman of the company with Leadman
authorization.
He is required to:
These sections ("A" and "B" in figure 13) are filled in by any person involved in the
preparation of the work to be completed and aware of the conditions encountered and
precautions to be taken.
WEM : This is the TFEA line supervisor assuming the responsibilities of project
manager (e.g. FOC, TVX, ING, etc )
He confirms the execution of this work in the required conditions, and add his own
recommendations.
Diving:
SEO: This is a safety technician working at the request of the SEM, or systematically for all
Cutting and Welding Permits and Access Permits.
He interprets and completes the necessary S/E recommendations according to the work to
be carried out and the environment (classified zones).
This section is filled in by the Safety and Environment Manager ("6" in the figure)
It is the titular SSEM or the SSEM appointed by the GM in special SIMOPS cases.
In these last cases, the site SSEM (EXP) acts as the OM throughout the duration of the
SIMOPS.
He checks the information on the WP added by the different participants, and adds his
own comments if necessary.
He then checks to ensure that there is no incompatibility with other activities and the
environment in which the identified work is to take place.
Reminder: The SSEM is required to give his approval within the 24 hours (no longer) that
precede the start of the works.
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Roles and Procedures
This WP phase cannot begin until the SSEM has given his approval.
They do not authorize the works to begin until the required conditions have been fulfilled.
The OM : within the time limits and for all types of work carried out (except those below)
He then validates the reactivation of the facility and adds any reservations.
the OM or the SSEM returns the "white" WORKER copy to the Site SEO as soon
as the completed work has been accepted.
the site SEO files the "pink" SAFETY copy and the "white" WORKER copy
The tasks described below will usually already have been completed by the operators,
although there may be a few differences according to the sites and subsidiaries.
The purpose of this chapter is to describe the operator's specific role during the Work
Permit phase.
He assists the Production Foreman / Chief Operator in the development of procedures, the
preparation of PID mark-up, the provisioning of facilities - This task is optional and remains
at the discretion of the Production Foreman.
PID Mark-Up enables, during permit preparation, to determine the risks involved in the
process and hence the lines to be isolated (blinds, spectacle blinds, manual valves, SDV,
ESDV, etc) to work in safety.
Blinds, spectacle blinds and any other items shall be numbered on this PID.
These elements, listed in table as shown below, can then be tracked. This table will allow
tracking progress during plating
Likewise, this type of table can be used to specify and track the valves and systems locked
out during this operation. This makes the Operator's task easier when provisioning the
device.
Different colours can also be used to specify the hydrocarbon pressurised lines, the non-
inerted depressurised lines, and the inerted depressurised lines.
All of these documents will be attached to the Work Permit to facilitate work follow-up.
It shows the number of the blinds used and the number of the spectacle blinds turned.
The area Operator must be on the worksite with the workers when the permit is first
opened, before the works commence.
All of the required authorities have signed the permits and associated documents.
The persons involved have acknowledged and taken the precautions listed on the
risk analysis sheet. If this is the case, he will then sign the risk analysis sheet,
He will also inform the workers of attached works/permits and the risks associated with
these permits.
The Area Operator responsible for performing process isolation, if requested in the Work
Permit, must respect:
The isolation phase by fitting a robust means of isolation of the "cablet" type
(marking tape is to be avoided at all costs).
The identification phase by attaching labels with the date, the operator's name
and the Work Permit number.
He will validate process isolation by signing all of the necessary documents, isolation
sheet, valve/plate table, etc
The area Operator must regularly visit the sites associated with all of the current
works/permits in his area, including permits previously opened. These regular visits
include a "morning inspection" and an "afternoon inspection" at the least.
He will check that the precautions listed on the risk analysis sheet have been
acknowledged and implemented,
He will inform the workers of related permits/works and the risks associated with
these permits.
When the permits are closed, the area Operator must ensure the worksite is cleaned
thoroughly before he and the worker sign the permit closing section at the bottom of the
sheet.
It is important to ensure the site is clean and this phase is of absolute necessity.
WP covering:
... etc.
The present appendix includes some classic forms recommended as a support for the
Work Permit procedure.
Please remember that the predefined lists of hazards and precautionary measures in the
forms are given for information only. These lists are limited to the most common scenarios
and may not be considered comprehensive.
7. GLOSSARY
WRA
Work Risk Analysis (carried out prior to the Work according to the Risk level) (you
may come across WSA - Work Safety Analysis - on old forms)
SEO
Safety/Environment Officer
WO
Work Order: simplified version of a Work Permit, used for common work requiring a
special operating procedure
Isolation
All of the provisions required to lock-out a machine, device or facility such that its
state can only be changed (restarting of a machine, closing of an electric circuit,
opening of a valve, etc.) once the operating conditions have been restored and
checked with the consent of all of the persons involved.
Mechanical isolation
Fluid isolation
Electrical isolation
Requestor
Representative of the entity requesting the performance of the work subjected to a
WP or WO
PPE
Personal Protective Equipment
Worker
Person in charge of performing the Work
Entity
Any unit of the DGEP placed under the responsibility of a General Manager
appointed by the President of Exploration & Production The DGEP itself, a
subsidiary or a project group are also considered as entities.
Service company:
Company to which the entity has entrusted a work project of which the execution is
governed by a contract entered into between both parties.
HAZID
HAZard IDentification.
HAZOP
HAZard OPerability study.
HSE
Hygiene Safety and Environment.
WP
Main Work Permit, which may be associated with additional permits: Cutting and
Welding Permit, Trenching Permit or Access Permit
Trenching Permit
Additional Permit issued when the work involves earthmoving, the digging of a
trench, granting ditch or pipeline access to personnel, well, excavation, the
positioning of piles or any other type of ground penetration.
Access Permit:
Mandatory additional permit when the work requires persons to physically enter a
closed capacity.
WEM
Work Execution Manager, who may delegate to the WORKER
OKM
Operation Kick-off Meeting
OM
Operational Manager representing the Production authority
He may appoint a representative to authorize execution of the works on the site
(signature).
WOM
Worksite Opening Meeting
SSEM
Site Safety and Environment Manager
OS
Operation Supervisor: Any heavy works or capital repairs requiring the presence, at
the facility or nearby, of a supervisor in charge of the operation.
For any other type of intervention, the necessity for an Operations Supervisor will
be determined case by case.
SIMOPS
SIMultaneous well and production OPerationS
Hot Work
Work involving a flame or a flame source, or a heat source that could cause a
facility with gas or hydrocarbons to explode or catch fire.
observation
action
monitoring
reporting
2. Which of the tasks below are not incumbent upon the operator?
Wear
4. To detect the smell of H2S, to hear un bearing roll, or to observe a joint leakage, the
operator is required to:
; Be on the field
To track progress
; False
7. List two tasks that the operator is required to complete whilst doing his tour, concerning
rotating equipment and particularly electric motors.
8. List two tasks that the operator is required to complete whilst doing his tour, concerning
rotating equipment and particularly centrifugal pumps in operation.
9. List two tasks that the operator is required to complete whilst doing his tour, concerning
rotating equipment and particularly centrifugal pumps not in operation.
10. List two tasks that the operator is required to complete whilst doing his tour, concerning
rotating equipment and particularly reciprocating compressors.
11. List two tasks that the operator is required to complete whilst doing his tour, concerning
rotating equipment and particularly centrifugal compressors.
12. List two tasks that the operator is required to complete whilst doing his tour, concerning
rotating equipment and particularly cooling towers.
13. List two tasks that the operator is required to complete whilst doing his tour, concerning
rotating equipment and particularly mixer impellers.
15. What are the 4 recommendations that must be adhered to when taking liquid sample
from an effluent that may contain H2S?
17. Periodic emergency equipment testing and the change-over of redundant equipment
are tasks incumbent upon the operator.
; True
18. List 3 tasks that the Operator is required to carry out whilst working on wellheads.
Valve lubrication
Instrument inspection
Bolting maintenance
Cabinet maintenance
Hydraulic panel maintenance
Monitoring of parameters
Monitoring of annular spaces
Chemicals injection
Product inventory management
Replacement of chokes and auto choke checks
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Sampling
19. List 3 tasks that the Operator is required to carry out whilst working on capacities.
20. List 3 tasks that the Operator is required to carry out whilst working on heat engines.
Periodic tests
Fuel management
Water and oil level checks
Startup system checks
21. List 3 means by which the Operator can monitor the machines whilst doing his tour.
Noise
Temperature increases
Driving power consumption
Operating characteristic tracking
Lubricants
Vibrations
22. Of all of the machines monitored, the most efficient and reliable machine that is far
from breakdown and that is likely to have a long service life is always the machine that
makes the least noise.
; True
; True
24. An increase in driving power, without changes in load made by the Operating
Company, is a revealing sign of the start of a fault.
; False
25. Analysing any changes in machine operation characteristics does not enable operators
to determine the condition of these same machines in any case.
; True
Unbalance
Misalignment
Poor ground attachment
27. What are the two checks that need to be carried out on lubricants?
Quantitative
Qualitative
28. The ten rules listed in this chapter cover the most frequently encountered situations on
the Exploration & Production sites. These rules are based on experience feedback.
; False
29. List 5 of the causes of the deaths suffered by Exploration & Production personnel.
Vehicle accidents
Explosions / burns
Trapping
Falling
Drowning
Electrocution
Impact due to falling objects
30. All works carried out on site, other than "routine" works (defined in an official list
disseminated throughout the company) require a Work Permit.
; True
31. Works requiring the isolation of energy sources (hydraulic, mechanical, electric,
process, etc.) may be undertaken once the isolation has been checked, and if its
efficiency is checked regularly.
; True
32. Nobody is allowed to enter a confined space and no works may be carried out therein
without an agent (or team) with the appropriate training and equipment standing guard,
ready to act.
; True
33. It is strictly prohibited to undertake any work at a height (involving a potential fall from a
height of over 20 metres) without fall arrester equipment comprising a complete safety
harness and an appropriate anchorage point.
; False
2 metres
34. No work involving a crane, a hoist or any other such mechanical devices, including lift
trucks, may be initiated unless all of the hoisting devices and accessories (slings,
shackles, etc.) have been certified as suited for use after inspection.
; False
2 metres