2017

Mari Petroleum

[Internship Report]

NAME: MUHAMMED AHMED SALAR

INTERNSHIP DURATION: 4 WEEKS
SUBMITTED TO: HSE DEPARTMENT
SUBMITTED ON: JULY 14 2017
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Acknowledgement
All praise to Allah Almighty, the most Merciful, and the most Compassionate who enabled me
to complete this task.

The internship opportunity I had with Mari Petroleum Company ltd. was a great chance for
learning and professional development. Therefore, I consider myself as a very lucky individual
as I was provided with an opportunity to be a part of it. I am also grateful for having a chance to
meet so many wonderful people and professionals who led me through this internship period. I
express my gratitude to Mr. Abdul Ghaffar khan, General Manager Human resources, and his
team for giving us all an opportunity to be a part of this company.

It is my radiant sentiment to place on record my best regards, deepest sense of gratitude to Mr.
Muhammad Asim Butt, [Manager HSE], Dr. Moughis Shahid, [Senior HSE Officer], Ms. Javairia
Mughal, [HSE Officer] for their careful and precious guidance which were extremely valuable for
my study both theoretically and practically.

I perceive this opportunity as a big milestone in my career development. I will strive to use
gained skills and knowledge in the best possible way, and I will continue to work on their
improvement, in order to attain desired career objectives. Hope to continue cooperation with
all of you in the future.

Sincerely,

Muhammad Ahmed Salar Wali

Place: MPCL Head Office, Islamabad

Date: 12/July/2017

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Contents
INDEX NO TITLE PAGE NO

1 Introduction 3

2 History 3

3 The Start Of Internship 4

4 Moving Forward 5

5 Management System Procedures 6

6 Meeting With Manager 7

7 IMS Policy 9

8 Environmental Impact Assessment 10

9 Seismic Surveys 10

10 Drilling Operation 12

11 Visit To Reservoir Department 15

12 Environmental Aspect Register 16

13 Outcomes Of Internship 17

14 References 18

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Introduction
On 19th June, 2017 I began my internship program at Mari Petroleum Company ltd. This
internship not only taught me various skills that I will use in my career but also a lot of
professional values that will be crucial for me in the future. Throughout the internship I was
given tasks of varying natures that eventually assisted me in getting familiar with the work
environment and testing my professional endurance. This report includes the summary
different assignments and tasks that were given to us throughout our internship under the
subheading of weeks in which tasks were assigned. It also includes a conclusion and learning
outcome of this work experience.

History of MPCL
Mari Gas Field was originally owned by Pakistan Stanvac Petroleum Project, a joint venture
formed in 1954 between Government of Pakistan and Esso Eastern Incorporated, having 49%
and 51% ownership interest, respectively. The first gas discovery was made by the Joint
Venture in 1957 when the first well in lower Kirthar ‘Zone-B’ Limestone Formation was drilled.
Production from the field started in 1967. In 1983, Esso Eastern transferred its entire share to
Fauji Foundation, which set up a public limited company for the purpose of acquiring the assets
and liabilities of the Project.

In 1984, Mari Gas Company Limited (MGCL) was incorporated with Fauji Foundation,
Government of Pakistan and OGDCL as its shareholders having 40%, 40%, and 20%
shareholding, respectively. Upon formation, the Company took over the assets, liabilities and
operational control of Mari Gas Field.

In 1994, the Government divested 50% of its 40% shares and the Company became listed on all
the stock exchanges of Pakistan.

In 2001, the Company expanded its operations and entered into exploration business. The
Company is now a major player in the Country’s oil and gas exploration and production sector
operating eleven exploration and production assets (two D&P leases and nine operated blocks)
and has partnership with leading national and international E&P companies in six non-operated
blocks.

To reflect its diversified business operations and expanded activities, the name of the Company
was changed from “Mari Gas Company Limited” to “Mari Petroleum Company Limited” (MPCL)
in November 2012.

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The Start of Internship

At the very beginning of this internship, my fellow internees and I were given different types of
orientation. The first presentation was given by Mr. Abdul Ghaffar Khan, General Manager
Human resources, in which he enlightened us about the vision and mission of MPCL and other
information about the operations of Mari Petroleum all over Pakistan. MPCL currently holds
Development & Production Leases over Zarghun South and Sujawal Gas Fields and has
operatorship of eight exploration blocks (Ziarat, Harnai, Sukkur, Sujawal, Karak, Ghauri,
Peshawar East, and Khetwaro). Moreover, the company operates in joint ventures with other
national and international companies in six different blocks in Pakistan. Since the formation
MPCL has succeeded in achieving the status of an E&P company. After this, we were given an
orientation by Dr.Moughis Shahid from Health and Safety department where all the different,
both on and off the field, protocols and safety procedures were explained. We were also
informed about the ISO standards observed by the company which include the following
standards

 ISO 9001: 2008 (Quality Management System)

 ISO 14001: 2004 (Environmental Management System)
 OHSAS 18001: 2007 (Occupational Health System Assessment Series)
 ISO 27001: 2013 (Information Security Management System)

Lastly, we all were subjected to an initial written test which would be later considered for the
best intern award given at the end of the internship.

As soon as these orientations were over, we were guided to our specific departments and
introduced to our supervisors. The HSE department in which my internship was placed is
located on the third floor of the old building at MPCL head office .The very first task given by my
supervisor was to study the management system procedures of the company which included
the Health, Safety and Environmental Risk Identification, Assessment and Controls.

Risk assessment involves a systematic process of evaluating the potential risks that may be
involved in a projected activity or undertaking. In order to reduce risks of an activity/operation
the control measures are developed. The hierarchy of controls determines the way risks and
hazards are minimized.

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At the end of the day I was given an assignment on ‘Drilling safety’ by my supervisor.

Moving forward
The next day I was given the task to review HAZOP studies as well as risk assessment.
HAZOP is an acronym that stands for HAZard and OPerability study. A HAZOP study identifies
hazards and operability problems. The concept involves investigating how the plant/equipment
might deviate from the design intent.

A HAZOP study involves a node, primary keyword, secondary keywords, the deviation, causes,
consequences, safeguards and actions

Node: A node represents a section of the process where a significant change takes place.

Primary keyword: The words that focus attention upon a particular aspect of the design intent
or an associated process condition or parameter. Example Flow, Pressure, temperature etc.

Secondary keyword: The words that when combined with a primary keyword, suggest possible
deviations Example: More, No, Less etc.

Deviation: A departure from design intent of the node.

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Causes: The reasons why deviations might occur.

Consequences: These are the results of the deviations should they occur.

Safeguards and actions: Steps taken to reduce the hazards associated with the deviation and
the consequences.

After learning basic processes involved in a HAZOP study I was asked to review the HAZOP
study of Halini Deep-1 in Karak Block. The study involved the investigation of two nodes which
included the High pressure separator and injection compressor.

The next day I was asked to review the Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) of Kalabagh 1A
Gas Processing Facility and construction of associated flow line, in disctrict Mianwali, Punjab.

Initial Environmental Examination (IEE):

IEE is conducted in the projects which are located in a place where protected areas are not
involved. Kalabagh 1A Gas Processing facility comes under non protected areas.

IEE PROCEDURE:

 Understanding of the proposed operation

 Review of Legislation and guidelines
 Secondary data collection
 Field data collection
 Public consultation
 Impact identification and assessment
 Recommendations for mitigation measures
 Development of IEE report

Management system procedures

The next day my supervisor gave me an in-depth analysis of Management system procedures
observed by Mari Petroleum. One of the most important system procedures is permit to work
system.

A permit-to-work system is a formal written system used to control certain types of work that
are potentially hazardous. A permit-to-work is a document which specifies the work to be done
and the precautions to be taken. Permits-to-work form an essential part of safe systems of
work for many maintenance activities. They allow work to start only after safe procedures have
been defined and they provide a clear record that all foreseeable hazards have been
considered.

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The types of work which require permission include:

1. Hot work such as welding, cutting etc.

2. Cold work such as water works and gas supplies
3. Soft Work

My supervisor then asked me to review different Health and safety courses and examinations
which included the NEBOSH (National Examination Bureau for Occupational Health and Safety),
OSHA (Occupational Health and Safety Administration) and IOSH (Institute for Occupational
Safety and Health).

In addition I was also briefed about the Oil and Gas (safety in drilling and production)
Regulations 1974. These regulations released by the federal government of Pakistan which shall
apply to every well and field using which an oil and gas company should operate.

Meeting with Manager

Mr. Asim Butt, Manager HSE, asked me to find out about short term and long term effects of
ammonia. He had been working on the Mari Field at Daharki where one of the largest fertilizer
producing plant is operating (Engro Fertilzer). Ammonia is used extensively in order to produce
Urea Fertilizer.

Ammonia is colorless and sour and can be really dangerous if inhaled extensively. The effects
include irritation to eyes and skin, respiratory problems nausea and sore throat. If ammonia is
inhaled for long term it can cause respiratory diseases which can be fatal for humans.
Therefore, proper measures should be taken in storage and usage of ammonia at fertilizers
plants.

Incident Investigation and Reporting

Incident Investigation and Reporting is a management system procedure whose prupose is to
provide guidance on the reporting of incidents, in order to be able to set targets for
improvements and measure, appraise and report performance in pursuance of the goal to
protect the environment and cause no harm to people.

Category of Incident

All incidents have been grouped into four groups:

1. LTI (lost time injury) incidents are fatality, permanent/partial disability and lost workday.
2. Non-LTI incidents are restricted workday case, medical treatment illness and first aid.

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3. Non-injurious incidents are property damage, fire, oil spill, hydrocarbon sensitive, near miss,
effluent discharge quality and other environmental related.
4. Regulatory incidents are incidents that are reportable to Chief Inspector of Mines and other
regulatory bodies. They are dangerous shock, radiation exposure, notable disease and serious
bodily harm.

Core concepts of Investigation:

Incident Investigation should be part of every loss control system. Effective Investigation can:

(1) Determine what happened.

(2) Determine the real causes.
(3) Decide the risks
(4) Develop the controls
(5) Define trends
(6) Demonstrate management concern.

Investigation Procedure:
The Six major phases of effective investigation are:
The Emergency Response includes taking control of the scene and ensure first aid and call for
emergency services and control potential secondary incidents.

Second is collecting information from eye witnesses or from security cameras.

Third phase is to evaluate and analyse the cause(s) using loss causation model. Determination
of the critical few specific causes can help in future elimination and prevention of incidents. A
detailed sequence of events is developed for complex incidents.

Remedial actions should be taken by considering alternative controls which can help lower the
likelihood of occurrence and reduce the potential severity of loss.

Reviewing the findings by generating a report and have every report reviewed by the next
higher level of supervisor.

Lastly, follow through is done by conducting investigation review meetings and monitoring
timely implementation of remedial/preventive actions.

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IMS Policy Statement

To realize our strategic vision and to achieve professional excellences in petroleum sector, we
are committed to meet requirements of Integrated Management Systems for Quality,
Environment, Occupational Health & Safety and Information Security consistent with
internationally recognized management system standards. We are devoted to maintaining
effectiveness and continual improvement of IMS by monitoring Company objectives,
customer satisfaction and complying with the legal and other applicable requirements. Our
top management is committed to provide all resources required to ensure compliance with
its IMS policy and to attain best international performance criterion.

Scope of IMS Manual

All elements of the IMS Manual are defined with respect to ISO Quality Management
Standard (9001), ISO Environmental Management Standard (14001), ISO Information
Security Management System (27001) and Occupational Health and Safety Management
Standard OHSAS (18001). Clauses of all four standards are merged and addressed collectively.
Wherever applicable, good industrial practices for oil and gas exploration and production are
considered.

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EIA Study of Ghauri Block

Mr. Asim asked me to study the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) of Ghauri block. Mari
Petroleum Company Limited (MPCL) was granted exploration license for the Ghauri Block (EL
3273-3) on 16th February, 2010. In order to carryout Exploration and Production activities,
MPCL conducted IEE study in April, 2012 for non-protected areas and later EIA for protected
areas.

Objectives of the EIA

The objectives of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) are to:

 Assess the existing environmental conditions in the project area, including the
identification of environmental sensitive areas and develop a baseline of its prevalent
environmental and socioeconomic conditions;
 Identify and investigate all impacts of the proposed exploration and associated activities
on the physical, biological and socio-economic environment of the project area;
 To propose mitigation measures that would help MPCL in conducting the exploration
activities in an environmental sustainable manner;
 To uncover the construction and operational phase impacts up to microenvironment
levels in which project is proposed to be sited; and
 To develop an Environmental Management Plan (EMP) that would assist MPCL in the
effective implementation of the recommendations of the EIA.
 The EIA covers potential effects of the proposed project activities in the project area.

MPCL intends to carry out 500 line km of 2D seismic activity, 380 sq. km of 3D seismic data
acquisition, drilling of four exploratory/development wells along with other associated activities
i.e. construction of the facilities in Ghauri Block.

The proposed seismic survey included the acquisition of 2D/3D seismic data in the designated
project area within Ghauri block. The results obtained from these seismic operations will help
to identify locations for drilling of three exploratory wells within the project area that includes
only non-protected area of Ghauri block. The seismic data acquisition was carried out using a
combination of vibroseis and dynamite.

Seismic Survey:
The objective of the seismic survey is to explore the subsurface in the area to identify
hydrocarbon-laden formations. The activities involved in each seismic program include:

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Line Permitting: Before commencement of work, a permitting team headed by a chief permit
man will arrive in the area. The team's early arrival will facilitate activities such as liaising with
local landowners and authorities to inform them of the operation and make necessary
arrangements.

Line Survey and Preparation: In this activity the seismic lines will be marked on the ground by
survey teams. The survey teams will use a global positioning system to mark shot points on the
seismic lines at every 20-50 m interval with whitewashed stones or wooden pegs Seismic lines
laying in the plain areas may be cleared (if required) to a width of 3m and a depth of a few
inches with a bulldozer This will allow the movement of vibroseis over the cleared strip of land
along the line. Clearing of trees and dense patches of vegetation will be avoided. Seismic lines
lying in agricultural fields will not be cleared, as dynamite will be used as the energy source in
these areas.

Data Acquisition

a.) Dynamite:

In this technique, 1-20 meters deep and 10cm diameter holes, called ‘shot holes’ will be drilled
every 20-50m along sections of the seismic lines passing through agricultural lands or areas
where access or working of vibroseis will be difficult. Cables and geophones will be laid across
the surface water bodies for data acquisition purposes. After completion of drilling, each shot
hole will be loaded with approximately 0.5-8 kg of dynamite and 1 or 2 detonators. The cables
and geophones will be symmetrically laid out 5-6 km along the seismic line on either side of a
shot point. The geophones connected together in groups of 24 or more will be planted along
the line at intervals of 1 to 5 meter. Each string of geophones will be connected to a cable,
which will be connected to a station unit. The station units will be connected to a recording unit
(see Photographs 2) through the same cable. The points along which cables and geophones will
be laid are termed receiver array.

Dynamites are stored in underground pits located away from work area and communities and
covered with soil and tarpaulin (water proof clothing).

b.) Vibroseis

This technique will make use of vibrators as an energy source. The vibrator consists of a heavy
mass (up to 50 tons) attached to a steel plate mounted on a truck. The truck will lower the steel
plate to rest on the ground while lifting the body of the truck in air by means of hydraulic jacks.
The steel plate will be made to vibrate, creating energy waves that will travel downwards into
the earth’s surface. The reflected waves will be received on the ground by cables and
geophones laid along the seismic line.

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Drilling Operation
The proposed project will entail the following activities:

Phase I – Construction

 Civil contractor’s mobilization

 Development of access road
 Rig camp construction
 Well site construction
 Civil contractor’s demobilization

Phase II – Well Drilling

 Rig mobilization and rig camp establishment

 Well drilling and possible testing
 Vertical Seismic Profiling (VSP)
 Rig demobilization

Phase III – Site Restoration (depending on the failure or success of the well)

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Figure 1 Key map of Ghauri Block

Photograph 2 Recording unit Photograph 1 Vibroseis Trucks

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EIA conclusion and benefits to Pakistan

Pakistan is an energy deficient country, a large part of the country’s energy demands are met
through imports which is a severe burden on country’s foreign reserves and economy. There is,
therefore, a vital need to explore for additional energy reserves.

EIA concludes that the proposed operations will not lead to adverse environmental impacts of
such nature or magnitude if the mitigation measures for all impacts identified here are
implemented as per the prescriptions of the EIA. Similarly, no significant and unacceptable
changes in the baseline environmental conditions of the project area will occur. Additionally
careful implementation of the EMP will ensure that environmental impacts are managed and
minimized and the project proponent meets all statutory requirements.

The operation will have a visible positive impact on the socio-economic conditions of the local
residents of the area, manifested as increased local businesses; local employment generated
during the operations, increased mobility and increased income due to disbursed land
compensation money.

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Visit to Reservoir department

In order to enhance my knowledge about my field I was asked to visit the Reservoir department
of MPCL. Mr. Saad of Reservoir department discussed well testing in detail with me and my
fellow internees. I got to learn about the Bottomhole pressure test (BHP test) and Drillstem
testing (DST) in detail.

BHP TESTS:

Bottomhole pressure test are conducted using a Bottomhole

Pressure Gauge Bottomhole Pressure Gauge is a specified tool
that is designed to measure the precision and accuracy of a well.
It consists of associated electronics, telemetry, and pressure
transducer. Different components measure the performance of
the device. For instance, accuracy is measured by a pressure
transducer whereas a sensor detects the change in the resolution
with pressure. Every component predicts the quality while
calculating the downhole pressure of the well. Moreover,
transient response can also be monitored with the help of the
gauge.

Drillstem Testing (DST):

A DST string is a complex array of downhole hardware used for

the temporary completion of a well. DSTs provide a safe and
efficient method to control flow while gathering essential
reservoir data in the exploration, appraisal, and development
phases of a reservoir or to perform preconditioning or treatment
services before permanent well completion.

DST sting essential components

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Environmental Aspect register

In the same week my task was to create an Environmental Aspect Register (E.A.R.) for the head
office, place of my internship. It is noted that one of the most important job of HSE department
is to create an Environmental Aspect Register (E.A.R.) of all the work places such as fields and
offices. The E.A.R. consists the aspects, impacts, conditions, the consequences of the impact
and mitigation measures by the management.
Environmental Impact Analysis: An environmental impact assessment (EIA) is an analytical
process that systematically examines the possible environmental consequences of the
implementation of projects, programs and policies.
Aspect: An environmental aspect (or hazard) is any material, physical agent, condition, or
activity that can interact with the environment. Examples include discharges and emissions (e.g.
of materials, wastes or noise), the transport of materials and products, and the consumption of
raw materials and natural resources.
Impact: Any change to the environment whether adverse or beneficial, wholly or partially
resulting from organization’s environment aspect.

An Example:

Environmental Aspect register example

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Outcomes
On the whole, this internship was a useful experience. I have gained new knowledge, skills and
met many new people having variety of minds and approaches. I achieved several of my
learning goals; however for some the conditions did not permit and I have some restrictions, I
got insight into professional practice. I learned the different facts of working within an
Exploration and Production Company. I experienced that having more focus on health, safety
and environmental issues and their reporting, as in many organizations, is an important factor
for preventing the accidents, near misses, protecting the environment and increasing the
reputation and progress of business.

The internship was also good to find out what my strengths and weaknesses are. This helped
me to define what skills and knowledge I have to improve in the coming time. After my
bachelors I think that I could start my working career. However I could perform certain tasks in
research better if I practice/know more the research methodologies applied in HSE field. It
would also be better if I can present and express myself more confidently.

At last this internship has given me new insights and motivation to pursue my career in HSE
field.

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References

1. http://environment.gov.pk/eia_pdf/n_Oil_Gas_EP.pdf
2. http://mpcl.com.pk/about/history/
3. http://petrowiki.org/Acquiring_bottomhole_pressure_and_tem
perature_data#Drillstem_testing
4. https://www.scribd.com/doc/233317386/General-Principles-of-
Bottomhole-Pressure-Tests
5. https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/hierarchy/

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