Decom North Sea News Issue 18 October 2014

MEMBER NEWS

Issue 18 | October 2014

DECOM NEWS In this issue • Vision for the Future • Decom North Sea Project Initiatives; Delivering Decommissioning Solutions • New Website Update • A Clean and Clear Seabed for the Safety of Fishermen • A Day in the Life of a Deployed Forecaster • Member News

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2 Decom News: Issue 18

DIRECTOR’S FOREWORD

As this edition of the newsletter will be published in time for our Annual General Meeting (AGM) and the annual Offshore Decommissioning Conference, I thought it would be useful to reflect on some of our collective achievements over the last year and also to highlight some “news items” that will be featured at the Conference.

Nigel Jenkins Chief Executive Decom North Sea

Networking and knowledge transfer are key parts of the DNS Service.

In the last year, our popular events were attended by over 1000 delegates. The feedback about these events is overwhelmingly positive. However, we will continue to refresh the approach to ensure members extract maximum benefit when attending these events.

Our flagship event, Decom Offshore was held in May and attracted over 250 delegates. The event, entitled ‘Realising Opportunities for All,’ highlighted the many and varied technologies and techniques required within the sector and brought together professionals from all tiers of the decommissioning industry to discuss and debate how future projects can be undertaken in the safest and most environmentally and cost effective ways.

We undertook two learning journeys across Europe, recognising that we are a pan North Sea organisation serving members across the continent.

Our purpose is to help our members deliver efficient decommissioning solutions and thus ensure members derive tangible business benefit from their involvement.

To this end we have fast tracked a number of key projects including a development programme with ITF which has identified a number of “decommissioning solution” projects which DNS and ITF will drive forward.

We have also made significant progress in the early contractor engagement, lessons learnt, streamlined EIA process, and a multiparty approach to P&A. I am continually impressed by the dedication of our members and the DNS team to focus on and deliver meaningful results.

Conference news will include a significant report about decommissioning capacity, implementation of our new member focussed web site, operators and contractors collaborating to reduce the cost of well P&A and share market information in a meaningful form, an update on decommissioning activity and the new DNS organisation.

There is much more to share with you and our vibrant organisation continues to grow with over 30 members joining in the last few months demonstrating the value our members see in being part of an extended network and the only organisation focussed on delivering efficient decommissioning solutions.

We always request and need your feedback and we are constantly discussing and listening to your suggestions.

We look forward to catching up with as many of our members as possible at our annual Conference.

Nigel Jenkins

In this issue pg 10 Feature Article -

pg 13 Member Point of View -

Scottish Fishermen’s Federation pg 12 Member Point of View The Met Office

Design & Production

L2 Business Consulting Limited

pg 16 Member News pg 24 Spotlight on New Members

Decom North Sea would like to thank the Scottish Fishermen’s Federation for supplying the front cover image for this issue.

PR & Copywriting

www.decomnorthsea.com 3

DECOM OFFSHORE

Save the Date

Wednesday 27th May 2015 Aberdeen Exhibition and Conference Centre, Aberdeen Following from the success of Decom Offshore 2014, planning is now underway for Decom Offshore 2015, returning to the Aberdeen Exhibition and Conference Centre on Wednesday 27 May 2015.

This event will bring together professions from all tiers of the decommissioning industry to discuss and debate how future projects can be undertaken in the safest and most environmentally and cost effective ways.

Decom Offshore 2015 will highlight the latest industry developments and the many and varied technologies and techniques required within the sector. It provides the supply chain with an excellent opportunity to showcase their skills and capabilities to key decision makers within the offshore decommissioning industry.

The event comprises of interactive plenary sessions, exhibition stands, 1-2-1 meetings and networking.

This is the third year that this annual event has taken place; Decom Offshore 2014 focused on “Realising Opportunities for All” and attracted over 250 delegates and welcomed 28 exhibitors.

We are looking for key representatives from various sectors of the industry to join our organising conference committee for Decom Offshore 2015, if you are interested please contact Izzie Bryce for more information on 01224 914044 or ibryce@decomnorthsea.com

“” ‘A well-paced informative event addressing highly topical issues with articulate speakers’ ‘The event was very well planned to facilitate networking. There was ample opportunitiy to network with a large number of people’ ‘It was better than expected.

Especially from the perspective of operators and suppliers both willing to work together and share ideas’ Delegate feedback from Decom Offshore 2014 ‘Realising Opportunities for All’

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DECOM NORTH SEA

New Website Predicted to be the Hub of Decommissioning Activity Decom North Sea is currently developing a new website.

Our aspiration is that this will become the hub of decommissioning news and information within the industry.

Our current website is seeing increased “hits” and we need to build on this so that it is seen as the “go to site” for all things decommissioning. The website is scheduled to be launched January 2015 and is being developed so that it is responsive to being viewed across a number of different devices.

The new website is focussed on delivering real benefits for our members. It will host information about members of Decom North Sea and will provide the opportunity for members to showcase their services.

Nigel Jenkins, Chief Executive of Decom North Sea commented that “The opportunity for members to showcase their services on a level playing field will support collaboration within the decommissioning sector and give members a great opportunity to derive real business benefit.”

Key Market Information will be another area of the new website, which will feature current and future decommissioning projects, where they are happening and who is involved.

Decom North Sea members have been contacted to complete Member Service Directory and Case Study documents for the website, if your company have not yet returned these forms please contact Izzie Bryce on 01224 914044 or ibryce@decomnorthsea.com

“”

The opportunity for members to showcase their services on a level playing field will support collaboration within the decommissioning sector and give members a great opportunity to derive real business benefit.

Nigel Jenkins, Decom North Sea

www.decomnorthsea.com 5

DECOM NORTH SEA

New General Manager at Decom North Sea Decom North Sea is delighted to announce Karen Seath will join the organisation in October, in the role of General Manager.

With the total cost of UKCS decommissioning expected to reach approximately £4.5billion in the next five years, these are strategically critical times for the North Sea decommissioning industry. This has been amply demonstrated by the publication of the Wood Review and the more recent “Scotland’s Independent Expert Commission on Oil and Gas: Maximising the Total Value Added”. Both reports urge the industry to find “game changing” solutions to the challenges of decommissioning.

Karen therefore joins DNS at an exciting time for the industry. With significant experience in both the public and private sectors, Karen has spent over 20 years ensuring that collaboration, strategic development and risk and regulatory management are top of the agenda.

With a background in academic research and consultancy, Karen spent 14 years with drinks giant Diageo, before taking responsibility for commercial business development at the University of St Andrews.

DNS CEO Nigel Jenkins said: “Karen holds an impressive range of skills which will prove invaluable in her new role. Her experience in building collaborative partnerships, management of stakeholder relationships at all levels and her focus on strategic policy development and solutions ensures that she has the toolkit which will help me continue developing an already successful DNS.

“I am certain that Karen will bring a new perspective to Decom North Sea, where innovation and successful collaboration are central to our activity with members, stakeholders and the oil and gas industry at large.”

Commenting on her appointment, Karen said: “I am delighted to be joining Nigel and the team at Decom North Sea - this is an exciting time for the North Sea decommissioning sector. The promotion of solutions and delivery of effective cross-sector working relationships is a substantial challenge for any industry. As time progresses, the work of DNS becomes ever more critical to the success of the decommissioning industry and I look forward to facilitating these relationships within the current membership and beyond.”

Karen will join an organisation that is already part of a significant collaborative network delivering solutions for the industry. CEO, Nigel Jenkins and DNS Director Nigel Lees will be in the new Oil & Gas UK Decom forum and connected with the INSITE programme and MASTS. DNS Board Member Paul Charlton is Chairman of NOF Energy, while DNS Chairman Callum Falconer sits on the OGP and SUT decommissioning committees. There are strong, well-established links into EEEGR, Subsea UK, OCA, DECC, Scottish Enterprise, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, Energy North and the Nuclear Industry Association. The “game changer” will emerge from this network.

“”

I am delighted to be joining Nigel and the team at Decom North Sea - this is an exciting time for the North Sea decommissioning sector.

Karen Seath, Decom North Sea

TRAINING COURSE

Decommissioning: From Planning to Execution

Decom North Sea in partnership with Strategic Decom hold regular training courses focused on Offshore Decommissioning. The overall objective is to inform participants of the background, scope and cover some of the key issues associated within the decommissioning sector over a two day period.

19th & 20th November 2014 - Aberdeen and 28th & 29th January 2015 - Norwich and 25th & 26th February 2015 - Aberdeen To book or for more information about our Training Course’s please visit our website www.decomnorthsea.com/training or contact Izzie Bryce on ibryce@decomnorthsea.com

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DECOM NORTH SEA

Decommissioning in the Southern North Sea The Special Interest Group (SIG) on Decommissioning in the Southern North Sea is gathering pace with Centrica Energy Upstream, Chevron North Sea Limited, ConocoPhillips (U.K.) Limited, Eni Hewett Limited and Perenco UK Ltd all moving their programmes forward.

Working in partnership with EEEGR, Decom North Sea established the SIG in 2012 in response to the needs of a variety of EEEGR members and stakeholders in the East of England Region.

Working in partnership with EEEGR, Decom North Sea established the SIG in 2012 in response to the needs of a variety of EEEGR members and stakeholders in the East of England Region. The SIG aims to influence and shape the delivery and management of joint activity in developing the SNS decommissioning sector and to drive supply chain engagement across the UK in co-ordination with other low carbon energy activities, e.g. oil & gas exploration & production and offshore renewables.

The SIG has a steering group, chaired by Glenn Hurren (ASCO), with members including Karen Seath (Decom North Sea), Julian Manning (Baker Hughes), Richard Innes (Eni Hewett Limited), Frederic De Meo (Perenco UK Ltd) and Martine

Watker (EEEGR). The steering group is always looking for enthusiastic and capable members who can drive forward various events and initiatives.

The SIG has to date held 7 well supported events, focused on developing the East of England supply chain to deliver decommissioning solutions for the Southern North Sea and beyond.

The next Southern North Sea Special Interest Group will take place on Wednesday 26th November 2014 and will follow a “meet the buyer” approach. The following SIG will be on Tuesday 27th January 2015.

For further details, please contact Izzie Bryce on ibryce@decomnorthsea.com

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www.decomnorthsea.com 7

DECOM NORTH SEA

Decom North Sea Project Initiatives; Delivering Decommissioning Solutions It is an exciting time at Decom North Sea - our passion is to deliver projects with clear benefits and demonstrable results: achieved through addressing industry needs and working closely with our members and stakeholders. Our project selection and delivery process is managed by our Board Project Sub Committee who support the delivery and help ensure the focus of each of the projects. This new reporting format will give regular project updates, augmenting presentations at the Conference and other events: with more information available online on the DNS website.

In the wider industry context, our project delivery focus fully supports the recommendations of the Wood Review and the Scottish Government’s “Total Value Add” report.

TITLE Re-Use

OUTCOMES Reuse Case Studies will be launched at the Conference.

Reuse Guidelines – these will be delivered by the appointed Technical Author (see right) at a ‘Launch’ and Learn event planned for Q4 2014 Oil & Gas Industry engagement in the ‘Circular Economy’ and promotion of Equipment Reuse during Decommissioning.

TITLE Decom Decision Planning Framework

OUTCOMES The framework provides excellent planning documents and other resources from Senior decom professionals from work group members Shell, BP, TAQA, AMEC, Aker, Wood Group & Marathon.

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All our projects have been implemented as a result of consultation with our members and I am privileged to lead the facilitation and delivery of meaningful results. Whilst we have made significant positive progress in the last 12 months, there is work to be done and as a small team, we must ensure we can access the resource and support required to deliver successfully across the project portfolio.

As many members will be aware, we have a wide range of collaborative projects underway, suggested, developed and delivered with the expert help of you, our members and partners. Decom North Sea’s role as project facilitator is made much easier with your continuing and committed support, for which we are extremely grateful.

OPPORTUNITIES ZWS are keen to engage across the oil and gas industry and would be delighted to hear from you.

Please contact ZWS staff: Cheryl Marshall on Cheryl.Marshall@ zerowastescotland.org.uk Mob: 07715 065868 DD: 01786 239786 Maurice Golden on Maurice.Golden@ zerowastescotland.org.uk Mob: 07540 518131 DD: 01786 433930

DELIVERABLES Wood Group design team are assisting DNS by creating an embedded online framework which will be demonstrated at Conference and available on the new DNS website.

Dorothy Burke, Decom North Sea

As always, please get in touch with any questions, Email: dburke@decomnorthsea.com Mobile: 07825 854850

NEWS DNS met Zero Waste Scotland at their Head Office in Stirling to plan ongoing collaboration for 2014/15 and 15/16.

WHAT’S NEXT We will be seeking Expressions of Interest from DNS members for Technical Authoring of the Reuse Guidelines during Q4.

Zero Waste Scotland Director Iain Gulland will present at the October conference.

We will be seeking Outline Proposals from DNS members on potential Phase 2 Reuse Projects for 2015.

Iain was voted Resource Magazine’s ‘Person who Most Influenced the Waste Industry in 2013’

DNS had recent discussions with Scottish Enterprise re potential European Funding for Reuse Initiatives.

BENEFITS This will be a fantastic resource for both operator and supply chain members involved during late life and pre-CoP planning of a decom project

WHAT’S NEXT? Potential Phase 2 to further populate framework with tools and resources from wider membership and industry.

DNS are extremely grateful to the workgroup members for their time and dedication to this project.

This also has great potential as a template and framework for future collaborative projects.

DECOM MEMBER NORTH NEWS SEA

TITLE Lessons Learned

OUTCOMES DNS has collated Lessons Learned data from a range of completed decommissioning projects across the North Sea. This data will be available exclusively to members via our new website.

NEXT STEPS Collect and update additional market data and create definitive knowledge base.

FUTURE PLANS Update and refine Lessons Learned and Benchmarking data.

TITLE Market Intelligence

OUTCOME Operator template agreed and populated to share upcoming Decommissioning project data in a standard format via our new website

FUTURE PLANS This will be populated and updated

by DNS during regular visits to its operator members and from public domain data shared on operator websites, or via presentations at events and conferences

DELIVERABLES This data will be published on the member area of the Decom North Sea website so that supplier members can assess upcoming projects and engage with the operators at the right stage in their decommissioning planning process.

TITLE EIA Template Update

BENEFITS Significant efficiencies in the development and assessment of an EIA.

UPCOMING ACTIVITIES Meet DECC Environmental team to develop collaborative approach in conjunction with industry partners.

FUTURE PLANS Agree a collaborative approach and establish a Workgroup in Q4.

Liaise with DECC Decom Unit aound interfaces with the Streamlined Decommissioning Programme Template (itself successfully delivered via a collaborative project with DNS and industry partners in 2013 – a Finalist in the Working Together Award at the Offshore Achievement Awards)

Collaborate to deliver the template.

TITLE Early Contractor Engagement

BENEFITS Collaborative approach, win-win strategy.

OUTCOMES Pilot initiative to trial various methodologies.

NEXT STEPS Establish a workgroup representng operators and contractors to develop successful approaches; commercial and contractual.

TITLE Multi-Party Well P&A

BENEFITS The project is centred around a campaign approach to the plugging and abandonment of wells, offering the potential to lower costs to operators, improve the utilisation of rigs and other equipment and improve the scheduling opportunity for contractors.

OUTCOMES Enhance incentivised contracting approaches, and importantly share knowledge and best practice gained through steadier and more repetitive operations.

NEXT STEPS A September workshop explored the next steps on this project.

OTHER INITIATIVES Standard Contracts for Decommissioning

BACKGROUND Initiative within Oil & Gas UK. Decom North Sea is assisting towards an industry-wide approach.

CURRENT STATUS OGUK Aim is to release drafts for consultation in around 6 months.

An update will be provided at the St. Andrews Conference in a presentation entitled “The New LOGIC Decommissioning Standard Form: Progress and Analysis”

DNS ACTIVITIES DNS to offer a review and endorsement from our organisation and members

Dick Lagerweij of Boskalis and Kirsti Olsen from MMS will continue to support as DNS Sponsors.

www.decomnorthsea.com 9

FEATURE ARTICLE

A Clean and Clear Seabed for the Safety of Fishermen The prospect of large-scale oil and gas decommissioning in the North Sea is initially welcomed with open arms by Scottish fishermen. The removal of subsea infrastructure and safety zones will give a much needed boost to fishing opportunities by reducing restrictions on an already constrained industry.

However, past experiences of snaggings and damaged gear have made Skippers cautious about returning to areas where oil and gas related subsea infrastructure has been removed.

Debris left behind and an uncertainty of what lies beneath, poses a significant hazard to North Sea trawlers. SFF Services Limited have devised a solution – conducting overtrawlability trials in areas of concern.

Established by the Scottish Fishermen’s Federation (SFF) in 1986, SFF Services Limited (SFFSL) provides vessel and offshore personnel services to offshore marine industries. Fishing vessels have been primarily hired to guard vulnerable subsea infrastructure or to support seismic survey operations. More recently, SFF member vessels have been utilised to undertake post abandonment trawl sweeps and overtrawlability verification work; with the objective to confirm if areas are free of hazards and give assurance to fishermen that normal operations can resume.

Using a local fishing vessel that operates in the area in question, trawl sweeps are undertaken initially using a chain mat – a simple but effective piece of kit designed to simulate fishing activity. The stronger chain is more durable and easier to recover than a typical trawl net, minimising potential safety risks. After a series of passes are made and if the Skipper is then confident there is minimal snagging potential, the vessel’s trawl net will be deployed for a final sweep of the location. Once an area is declared clear for normal fishing operations to resume, SFFSL issue a certificate which frees the operator of future compensation liability in that location.

SFFSL and Hess recently collaborated on such a project, at the Fife, Fergus, Flora and Angus (FFFA) fields in the Central North Sea.

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SFFSL has supported Hess during the six year decommissioning of the area with the provision of guard vessels to patrol and monitor the fields in order to protect other users of the sea from the remaining seabed wells, manifolds and pipeline infrastructure prior to their final removal.

On final removal of all seabed infrastructure, the project culminated in SFFSL completing a detailed programme of Overtrawlability Trials and Trawl Sweeps over the whole FFFA area to prove the seabed to be completely free of oil and gas related snag hazards and in a fit condition to be returned back to all users with unhindered access. Hess worked closely with SFFSL throughout to develop the trawl sweep programme which was very successful with very little additional small items of debris being recovered. With experienced Skipper, Adam Tait at the helm, twin rig trawler MV “Rebecca” FR143 deployed the chain mat and trawl net in each of the key locations within the FFFA Field. The result was the entire area being declared safe for fishermen to return to.

Hess commented on the value and benefits of working in partnership with SFFSL throughout the project life-cycle and the quality of service received, both in the provision of the guard vessels and execution of the trawl sweep programme. Lorne Taylor of the Hess Decommissioning Project Team said “We have enjoyed an excellent working relationship with SFFSL throughout the FFFA project, which also included agreeing and finalising a rock dump berm design. The trawl survey involves a lot of manual handling on the vessel, and was executed safely with no incidents, which is a number one priority for Hess. The overall programme was a great success for both parties and proves the worth of working in partnership.”

FEATURE ARTICLE

SFFSL have also worked closely with Oil & Gas UK in promoting trawl sweeps at abandoned wellhead locations. When a suspended well is abandoned, it is removed from the Kingfisher Information Systems databases and is no longer highlighted as a hazard to fishermen. Although a post-abandonment survey out to 100 metres may show an area is clear, industry-related debris has been recovered by fishermen up to 500 metres from a wellhead location, often leading to claims being filed with the Oil & Gas UK Fishermen’s Compensation Fund. It was therefore agreed that trawl sweeps should be conducted post-abandonment to ensure the areas are clear and safe for trawling.

Over the last two years, overtrawlability trials have taken place at over 30 abandoned wellhead locations, with another charter planned for Autumn 2014. The result has been the issuing of Clearance Certificates at the vast majority of sites, which fishermen can now confidently trawl over. However, the occasional issue of a Foul Certificate and the recovery of considerable quantities of debris highlights the importance of this task. The safety of fishermen cannot be compromised by assuming abandoned wellheads or other decommissioned areas are safe of snagging potential.

Equally as important as conducting the trawl sweep operations is distributing results to the fishermen. Specific details are posted on the SFFSL website and passed on to Seafish to include in the Kingfisher Fortnightly Bulletin.

Yet, even in this modern technological world, old fashioned word-of-mouth remains a powerful tool of the fishing industry. Results of trawl sweeps will soon be heard around the harbours when fishing grounds are reopened for business. www.sff.co.uk

“”

The SFF remains committed to returning grounds to fishermen, while at the same time ensuring that safety is of the highest importance. The cooperation of oil and gas companies in trawl sweep operations and efforts to ensure the seabed is left clean and clear after decommissioning are acknowledged and appreciated by fishermen.

Long may this effective working relationship between the two industries continue.

John Watt, SFF Industry Advisor

www.decomnorthsea.com 11

MEMBER POINT OF VIEW

A Day in the Life of a Deployed Forecaster Ken McEwan is a Senior Operational Meteorologist at The Met Office. Ken has shared his personal account of a typical day in the life of a deployed forecaster offshore.

Background Information Whilst onshore, I am based at the Met Office’s Marine Centre of Excellence in Aberdeen and I lead a team of meteorologists that provide forecasts for marine clients, aviation, government agencies, the public and the BBC, but I am also part of the offshore forecaster team.

As a deployed forecaster I can be deployed either offshore on a range of vessels or platforms, or to an onshore environment. My job is to offer guidance on weather conditions that could affect vessel movements and other operations, in particular concerning the construction or decommissioning of offshore installations.

I am usually deployed in the North Sea or Norwegian Sea, but most recently I was onboard a crane vessel in the Arabian Gulf.

My Morning The day of an offshore weather forecaster is different from the moment you wake up. You live onboard the operating vessel and so when you wake up at 5am you are already at work!

Breakfast is available in the galley from 5.30am, but I usually just eat an apple on the climb up the stairs to the bridge - sometimes six levels above the deck - and have a snack mid-morning instead. The bridge is where most operations are co-ordinated and most of the control systems are here as well as the display of motion response and some weather data. I have a little desk space on the bridge where I set up my laptop and work on the forecasts.

I take a walk around the outside of the vessel to assess the current weather conditions and I then note down the wind and sea data recorded on the bridge systems overnight.

Throughout my day I repeat this process to keep up to date with the current conditions and this is - in many ways - the most important part of the forecast process. Observations of what is happening now are vital to forecasting what will happen in the future.

My colleagues at the Met Office in Aberdeen send regular model data files to my laptop as well as actual weather details from the

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surrounding area. I study the data along with satellite information and use it as the basis for my forecast. I apply some calculations to the data and use my meteorological knowledge and forecasting expertise to produce a forecast of wind, sea and weather details and issue it to various personnel onboard and on the shore.

The project I worked on most recently was very sensitive to weather and we needed to have five days of favourable conditions and two days to notify the local authorities of the work, so my forecasts have to give details for the next eight days.

After issuing the forecast at around 8.30am I would go to the various offices of key personnel to discuss aspects of the forecast that could impact operations and at 9am I would brief all concerned personnel at the daily meeting.

I usually give a brief overview of expected conditions and point out anything that may cause concern, such as strong winds.

After the morning meeting it’s then time for a cup of tea, a banana and sometimes a biscuit or two. The next few hours are spent looking over any new data and keeping an eye on current conditions and preparing for the next forecast issue in the afternoon.

My Lunchtime I break for lunch around 12 noon and I change into my running clothes as I like to pay a visit to the onboard gym, although this is not always possible, as depending on the state of the sea, a moving vessel does not always offer a stable running environment!

My Afternoon After my lunch I’ll grab a quick shower and then head back to the bridge to note down the latest conditions and download the latest data files to my laptop. I normally compile an updated forecast and issue this around 2pm. I give an updated brief to the captain, construction superintendent, project engineers and the chief mate. After this I continue to monitor the weather and any incoming data files to make sure the forecast is going to plan, but if the weather is good and I am not needed to give

Ken McEwan, Senior Operational Meteorologist, The Met Office advice for any specific operations, I can take another break around 5.30pm. I usually eat my main meal at 6pm. I find that I often have ice cream for pudding, sometimes two helpings and that’s why I need to run every day!

My Evening I use my free time to read a little and play games on my tablet before going back up to the bridge around 7.30pm to gather more information and compile my last forecast of the day. This is issued around 9pm and I brief everyone once more before returning to my desk to write up my logs of the day’s weather and events.

My working day finishes between 9.30 and 10pm. I then go to my cabin, sometimes stopping off at the galley for supper. The night shift breakfast is just starting to be served so I might have boiled eggs or an omelette before retiring for the night, going to sleep around 11pm.

Being an onboard forecaster is a rewarding job - you get to meet new people from all parts of the globe and you are a respected part of a team that delivers results. www.metoffice.gov.uk/marine

MEMBER POINT OF VIEW

(NORM) Waste Strategy in the UK In this article, Mark Lyons of L2 Business Consulting Limited will focus on the key implications for the UK Offshore Oil & Gas Industry with reference to the Strategy for the Management of NORM Waste in the UK. This new policy will have significant impacts not only on NORM wastes produced by operating installations, but also on future North Sea oil & gas decommissioning. One of the key aims of the policy is to provide clarity to encourage the supply chain to invest in future radioactive waste management facilities to avoid a medium-to-long term capacity shortfall.

The aim is to achieve this by: • Reforming the regulatory framework to ensure it is clear, coherent and effective • Removing policy barriers to the development of a robust and efficient market for NORM waste management • Supporting efforts by waste producers and the waste management supply chain to generate better data and information about current and future NORM waste arisings Overall, the aim of the policy is to promote effective regulation that ensures the protection of the environment and human health, while enabling more efficient waste management

practices. The new policy for radioactive wastes applies to all forms of NORM waste (solid, liquid and gaseous).

The new policy contains a series of new measures and clarification on practices including Averaging and Characterisation, Conditioning to Facilitate Disposal, Access to Information about Exempt Radioactive Waste, Compilation of Data on Waste Arisings and Waste Management Plans.

The new policy also identifies a number of potential areas which could impact and alter future policy, due to their impact on mediumto-long term market waste management capacity issues, these include: • Oil & Gas Decommissioning – the timing and volume of NORM wastes is currently unknown and hence is likely to have medium term impact on the waste management supply chain capacity • Unconventional Oil & Gas – the scale of development of unconventional oil & gas recovery means it is currently unclear on its impact on future NORM waste arisings

Mark Lyons is a Director of L2 Business Consulting Limited, a member company of Decom North Sea who provide independent consultancy advice on radioactive waste management, decommissioning, radiation safety and regulatory compliance.

• End to Discharge of NORM wastes to Sea there is a potential for OSPAR to revisit the practice of disposal to sea of solid NORM waste that arises from the maintenance and cleaning of offshore equipment in the oil/ gas sector. This would lead to significant additional volumes of solid NORM waste being brought ashore needing a disposal route. www.l2businessconsulting.com

Save the Date

Wednesday 27th May 2015 | AECC

Following from the success of Decom Offshore 2014, planning is now underway for Decom Offshore 2015, returning to the Aberdeen Exhibition and Conference Centre on Wednesday 27 May 2015. This event will bring together professions from all tiers of the decommissioning industry to discuss and debate how future projects can be undertaken in the safest and most environmentally and cost effective ways.

For more information about the event as well as exhibitor and sponsorship opportunities contact Izzie Bryce on 01224 914044 or ibryce@decomnorthsea.com

www.decomnorthsea.com 13

PARTNER NEWS

East of England’s Team Effort for Offshore Europe Energy companies across Suffolk and Norfolk are being urged to join forces to make maximum impact when chasing business at the Offshore Europe Exhibition in Aberdeen next year.

Up to 20 companies can join a shared stand which will also celebrate the fact that 2015 marks the 50th anniversary of Great Yarmouth and Lowestoft’s involvement in the offshore gas sector.

The continuing opportunities presented by the Southern North Sea gas industry over the coming decades will also be a prime focus of the stand at the biennial exhibition on September 8-11th, 2015, which last time attracted 63,000 delegates from 100 countries.

“Bringing together businesses from across our region gives us a higher profile at one of the world’s leading exhibitions for the sector,” said James Gray, inward investment director for EEEZ, the East of England Energy Zone.

“Our ‘community’ stand - organised by EEEGR, Great Yarmouth Borough Council and Waveney District Council - will be in the prestigious red zone of the exhibition centre, close to many of the key offshore operators and major oil and gas companies,” he said.

“By joining forces we can create a much more prominent, eye-catching presence with lots of buzz and bustle and a one-off calling point for people interested in our area.”

A range of supply chain companies are expected to join the stand which will highlight the depth and extent of offshore energy skills and the logistical advantages which the region has developed since North Sea gas was first discovered off Norfolk in September 1965.

“”

“Bringing together businesses from across our region gives us a higher profile at one of the world’s leading exhibitions for the sector.

James Gray, Inward Investment Director, East of England Energy Zone

www.eeegr.com

Decommissioning on the Agenda at Energy: A Balanced Future 2015 The debate surrounding decommissioning and the life extension of oil & gas assets will be high on the agenda at Energy: A Balanced Future 2015.

The subject will be discussed in the Energy Futures Panel Debate at the NOF Energyorganised conference and exhibition, which takes place in North East England on 11th March 2015.

It will form part of a discussion about the future of the energy market and the new technologies required to support emerging energy resources including shale gas, geothermal and tight gas.

NOF Energy’s national conference, which is being held at Sage Gateshead, will welcome

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speakers and panellists from across the oil & gas, nuclear and offshore renewables sectors, along with hundreds of delegates from the supply chain.

It will focus on the need for a balanced energy mix in the UK and will highlight future opportunities and challenges for the supply chain, as well as being an ideal location for networking.

Caroline Lofthouse, Business Development Manager at NOF Energy, said: “Achieving a balanced energy future is essential for the UK

to achieve security of supply and the supply chain has a central role to play. Energy: A Balanced Future will provide the ideal forum to discuss the opportunities for the supply chain across the range of energy sources including the debate surrounding maximising North Sea oil & gas through life extension alongside the essential role of the decommissioning sector.” www.energyabalancedfuture.com

ADVERTISEMENT

CLAXTON MAKES IT HAPPEN ON TYRA EAST. By completing what is believed to be the first rigless recovery of a stuck bottom hole assembly (BHA), Claxton took away a significant operational headache on the Tyra East field during a recent slot recovery.

Our rigless approach reduced costs for the field operator and our experience, tooling and personnel enabled their conductor to be recovered four days faster than planned.

Read the case study for this project at: www.claxtonengineering.com/stuckBHA

Pictured: A Claxton 300te tension ring securing the Tyra East conductor during pinning, cutting and recovery

www.decomnorthsea.com 15

MEMBER NEWS

Augean North Sea Services As part of their ongoing commitment to decommissioning, Augean North Sea Services’ have begun the refurbishment of the former Scomi OilTools site at Greenhead Base in Lerwick.

The initial works include the large tank farm to provide safe storage for bulk liquid

wastes and washings arising from cleaning and decontamination activities. The site is scheduled to be open for business in September and recruitment of operational personnel is well underway.

In addition, ANSS have made two key appointments to assist with their Decommissioning Strategy; Mark Lister, Business Development Manager, is joining ANSS with over 28 years experience in waste management both upstream and downstream for the Oil & Gas Industry. Mark will work in partnership with Augean PLC in England to develop opportunities for decommissioning as well as handling ongoing production wastes.

Andrew Yule, Technical Manager, has over 24 years experience both on and offshore and has extensive experience in waste management, industrial services and specialised activities such as NORM descaling, platform maintenance and decommissioning, and brings a wealth of project development experience. www.augeanplc.com/ANSS

“”

These two key appointments will help drive our plans to offer complete waste services to the industry, having built a solid reputation based on the abilities and competencies of our employees. With the development of new technologies and processes, ANSS is committed to being the company in the Oil & Gas industry that can offer true cradle to grave services for all waste streams, including NORM treatment and disposal, arising from future decommissioning.”

Simon Gibb, Managing Director, Augean North Sea Services

Claxton Focuses on Global Growth with New VP Claxton Engineering Services, an Acteon company, has appointed Martin Jolley as vice president sales and commercial to spearhead its global sales and commercial strategy.

Providing leadership and vision to direct the company’s sales, marketing, commercial and tendering divisions, Jolley will be based in Claxton’s UK head office, overseeing commercial development aimed at expanding the business worldwide.

Jolley’s appointment underlines Claxton’s commitment to global expansion and growth of operations. Claxton recently secured its biggest ever riser contract – for the development of the Hanz field, offshore Norway.

Jolley, who has a master’s degree in industrial economics and a degree in engineering science, was previously business development director for

16 Decom News: Issue 18

Martin Jolley, Vice President Sales and Commercial, Claxton Engineering Services Camellia plc., where he was responsible for AKD Engineering Ltd and five other companies within the Camellia group.

Laura Claxton, managing director, Claxton, said, “Our ongoing aim is to extend the responsive, high-quality engineering services that we deliver in the North Sea into new markets. Martin will play a leading role in this and ensure that we deliver the same high levels of customer and market focus in Norway, South East Asia and the UAE. His experience and leadership capabilities will prove invaluable in our continuing international expansion and we are delighted to have him onboard at Claxton.”

Claxton holds one of the largest stocks of subsea risers with a wide array of bore, pressure and complete system options. The company has also pioneered rigless well abandonment operations and has installed approximately 5,000 structural centralizers globally. www.claxtonengineering.com

ADVERTISEMENT WellOps A4 Rev 09_Layout 1 09/05/2014 13:19 Page 1

A global leader in subsea well intervention Helix Well Ops UK will increase its fleet of well intervention assets in late 2016 with the introduction of Q7000, a DP class 3 semisubmersible.

The heavy intervention, work-over and well decommissioning rig will expand the firm’s service and capabilities in Europe and Africa, and enhance the service offering of its existing fleet of mono-hull light well intervention vessels – MSV Seawell, Well Enhancer and Skandi Constructor.

Helix Well Ops UK is committed to providing E&P operators with non-MODU based solutions for heavy well intervention, well work-over and end of field well decommissioning. Efficiency and operational excellence are at the centre of this.

Q7000 is a purpose-built unit with modular handling systems. Key features include dedicated wireline and coiled-tubing units for well intervention, which maximises efficiency in operations. This means that Q7000 will offer between 30-60% time savings over a conventional MODU when performing similar tasks, additionally, without the costs of towing/anchor handling, supply and stand-by vessels.

wellopsenquiries@helixesg.com

www.helixesg.com

PRODUCTION ENHANCEMENT • WELL INTEGRITY/MAINTENANCE • XT DEPLOYMENT/RECOVERY • SATURATION DIVING • WELL ABANDONMENT/FIELD DECOMMISSIONING •

www.decomnorthsea.com 17

MEMBER NEWS

MSIS New Appointment MSIS, the independent specialist cleaning services provider, has appointed Kenneth Salmon as General Manager in their oilfield services division to bolster the team in support of the continued growth of the company.

Having worked in the oil and gas industry for the majority of his career, Mr Salmon brings vast experience in the areas of sales and business development. Additionally, he is experienced in multi-location specialist equipment rental, servicing, response and training, as well as health and safety.

Upon his appointment, Mr Salmon commented: “I’m very much looking forward to

playing my part in the continued expansion and development of the MSIS business. With a strong performance in 2013, I will be working with the team to continue pushing forwards throughout 2014 by developing the turnkey project management and specialist rental business for new and existing clients.

“The experience within our team and the willingness to embrace new challenges and technologies is second to none, which we will continue to develop. As such, we are already introducing new processes to further improve our quality systems, and look forward to launching this to market very soon.”

Ian McPherson, Director of Oilfield Services at MSIS said: “We are delighted to welcome Ken to our senior management team in a role which was identified as key to our plans to sustain and grow our market leading position.

“He brings a wealth of operational experience and leadership skills from within the oil and gas industry, and this will undoubtedly help take the business to the next stage in growth.” www.msisgroup.com

Jee Ltd Further Strengthens BP Relations Jee Ltd is a subsea engineering and training firm with extensive decommissioning expertise gained from a multitude of projects completed for global operators.

Recently, Jee assisted BP on the North West Hutton decommissioning project, which included client representation during the decommissioning, as well as facilitating the closeout and handover process following the project.

Further to this, Jee has been awarded a three-year contract renewal from BP with potential value in excess of £4.5 million.

Trevor Jee, Managing Director of Jee, said: “This contract extension is a testament to our relationship with BP as well as the quality of our engineering work. We have developed a strong

18 Decom News: Issue 18

reputation at Jee for our expertise and are proud to provide our whole life-of-field capabilities to support the company across such a wide international scope.”

The two companies have had a support contract in place for 10 years, with Jee providing global operations and project support to BP in locations including Aberdeen, Grangemouth and London in the UK and Angola, Azerbaijan, Norway and Trinidad. The contract extension will continue this work, with the annual value ranging from £1 million to £2 million, depending on the level of activity.

The ongoing scope of work has included corrosion management, span assessment and intelligent and operational pigging support of BP’s pipelines. Jee has also assisted in third party verification and ad-hoc technical support including data management, involving the collation, management and production of documentation, such as preparedness response schemes for BP’s assets. www.jee.co.uk

Kenneth Salmon, General Manager - Oilfield Services, MSIS

“”

Jee has provided an exemplary service throughout the duration of the contract.

The renewal is a result of the flexibility and reactive service provided, coupled with the range of engineering capabilities, from exploration to decommissioning, available. We look forward to continuing this successful relationship.

Paul Benstead, Pipeline Engineering Manager of Subsea Operations, BP

MEMBER NEWS

Evaluating Decommissioning Options ENVIRON was recently engaged by a major oil and gas exploration and production company in Southeast Asia to develop and deliver an internal workshop to develop the client’s understanding of the environmental issues associated with the requirement and strategic approaches to decommission some of their fields.

The audience consisted of 20-30 engineers and environmental staff involved in offshore development. The workshop covered a range of issues from assessing baselines, to the potential for re-use of existing platforms and other infrastructure (e.g. rigs-to-reefs). Our primary focus was on the use of ecosystem service valuation within a Net Environmental Benefit Analysis (NEBA) framework to define the best project specific approach for decommissioning the jacket, pipelines and associated infrastructure, and seabed deposits. The NEBA framework incorporates ecological, social and economic considerations in a comparative options analysis to help demonstrate environmental sustainability and stewardship.

The workshop included the following topics: Overview of ecosystem services valuation, NEBA Framework and incorporation of NEBA into the site decommissioning decision-making process,

balancing the risks, benefits, and trade-offs between alternatives for jackets, pipelines and seabed deposits, rigs-to-reefs applications and understanding biodiversity implications. www.environcorp.com

Lifting Moving Surveying Weather affects your business every day.

World class science and forecasting expertise to meet the challenges of decommissioning.

Contact us at our Marine Centre of Excellence in Aberdeen 01224 629831 / marine@metoffice.gov.uk www.metoffice.gov.uk/marine

www.decomnorthsea.com 19

MEMBER NEWS

£20m Investment in Shetland Shetland is bidding to become a global leader in a multi-billion pound industry as a result of over £20million of investment announced by Cabinet Secretary John Swinney.

A set of multi-million pound investments

by Lerwick Port Authority and international energy logistics company Peterson aims to create a decommissioning centre of excellence around Lerwick. Lerwick Port Authority (LPA) is undertaking a £11.95m quayside infrastructure project at Dales Voe South in order to support the development of oil and gas decommissioning in Shetland. The expansion will support around 120 permanent island jobs.

In addition, Peterson (United Kingdom) Ltd is proposing investments up to £8.64m in its ‘Deep Water Shetland’ project to further support and expand its existing decommissioning

capability. Working jointly with its partners in decommissioning, Veolia, the project could create around 67 high value jobs and add around £10m to the local economy.

The growing oil and gas decommissioning industry has a current market value of between £30 billion and £40 billion in the North Sea. These two strategic investments will secure Shetland’s place as a globally-significant decommissioning centre of excellence, in support of a hugely successful oil and gas supply chain in Scotland.

The facility will be the only one of its kind in Scotland, placing Shetland at the international forefront of an emerging sector which promises many more decades of lucrative activity for the industry.

Both projects are supported by the Scottish Government and economic development agency Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE).

Announcing this investment, Cabinet Secretary for Finance, Employment and Sustainable Growth John Swinney said: “As recently highlighted by Scotland’s independent Expert Commission on Oil and Gas, the

decommissioning of North Sea assets presents a huge opportunity for the Scottish oil and gas supply chain. The Scottish Government is committed to working with the industry to mobilise investment by the oil and gas supply chain to ensure that the Total Value Added from decommissioning expenditure is optimised, generating both jobs and growth for the Scottish economy.

Murdo MacIver Board Director of Peterson Offshore Group said: “This support shall secure and enhance Shetland’s position to become a leading hub for decommissioning works in the Northern North Sea. The investment Peterson has made in facilities and capabilities in Shetland is part of a wider growth strategy where the decommissioning market is a particular focus.

Along with our partner Veolia, we already have valuable experience in the completion of a number of decommissioning projects and we believe this experience, matched with greater facilities will earn Shetland the position as a world leader.”

www.hie.co.uk

IHC Investing in Equipment Royal IHC (formally IHC Merwede) is engaged in an extensive Research & Development project focused on special-purpose equipment and tooling for Inspection Repair and Maintenance [IRM] and Subsea Decommissioning.

20 Decom News: Issue 18

Based on vast dredging knowledge, IHC is developing subsea dredging technology. This technology can be applied to equipment for infrastructure deburial and to drill cuttings removal. The R&D projects are dedicated to improving the efficiency of the systems with physical testing continuing into 2015.

Equipment for concrete mattress decommissioning is being developed, which includes mattress deburial, cutting and handling equipment. Drawing on in-house expertise, IHC provide systems for subsea grouting removal and relocation. The recently developed Hi-Traq vehicle - the result of a previous £1m R&D project - provides an ideal multi-tool platform from which to perform decommissioning operations.

An array of interchangeable tooling makes HiTraq suitable for a range of operations, including pipeline deburial and cutting operations.

With continuous R&D, IHC is aiming to collaborate with equipment operators to develop specific tooling packages as required.

IHC has had great success with recent R&D projects and is now looking to further develop decommissioning-specific equipment in order to meet the industry requirements for new and innovative technology to facilitate decommissioning operations.

William Stephenson, Product Manager Subsea Vehicles at IHC said of the ongoing work “We’ve already made great progress. Now we need to intensify our engagement with subsea contractors and other stakeholders. That is the best way to optimise new equipment and to improve productivity and reduce costs. This is our aim.” www.ihceb.com

MEMBER NEWS

Reeling in Flowlines and Umbilicals Decommissioning the North Sea’s oil and gas infrastructure will present many challenges, and involve the recovery, cleaning and disposal of thousands of miles of umbilicals and flowlines.

Aberdeenshire energy industry equipment manufacturer and service provider, Flowline Specialists, has a range of equipment that can handle this process either onshore or offshore.

The Oldmeldrum-based firm has developed a unique reel carrier that is capable of lifting, moving and turning reels of up to 300Te without the need of a crane. This innovative piece of equipment moves reels loaded with product requiring decommissioning from the quayside to the desired location for unspooling and shearing. The powered rollers allow the product to be unspooled without requiring the reel to be removed from the carrier frame. Once emptied, the reel can be returned to the quayside.

Tensioners and shears are available to handle and cut up the product as required.

Offshore, Flowline Specialists can supply the complete suite of equipment required to recover the product for onshore handling, including reel drive systems, spoolers, tensioners and overboard chutes, or alternatively shear the product into suitable lengths onboard the vessel.

Experienced technicians are always available to operate the equipment.

This year Flowline Specialists has invested ÂŁ2.5million in expanding its equipment fleet, purchasing a 300Te reel drive system and manufacturing a four-track 50Te tensioner. www.flowlinespecialists.com

Front End Spectrum Front End Spectrum is the front end services offering from Aker Solutions. We provide studies, FEED and consultancy services for all stages throughout the entire life of the field, from exploration, field development and production to decommissioning.

With our unrivalled end-user awareness, Front End Spectrum offers a consultant mentality to provide front end technical expertise to studies of all sizes. Our in-house systems, access to out-turn information and our extensive experience, linked to offices around the world, allows us to uniquely provide technically and commercially robust consultancy services.

Based in Aberdeen and London, our team is innovative, dynamic and motivated to deliver outstanding solutions to any challenge.

Talk to us today for further details: Aker Solutions Freedom House Old Ford Road Aberdeen AB11 5RJ

Aker Solutions Building 6, Chiswick Park 566 Chiswick High Road London W4 5HR

Tel: +44 (0) 1224 287200 Fax: +44 (0) 1224 287210

Tel: +44 (0) 208 9872000 Fax: +44 (0) 207 4020702

E-mail: frontendspectrum@akersolutions.com

www.akersolutions.com

www.decomnorthsea.com 21

MEMBER NEWS

X-Subsea X-Subsea, the global leader in precision dredging and excavation, have recently carried out an integrated seabed intervention work scope at the Ekofisk field in the North Sea. As part of the removal of redundant structures in the field, it has been necessary to gain access to the piles of these structures below the mud line, in order to attach and operate diamond wire cutting equipment.

The scope of work commenced in April 2014, when combined equipment spread of the T8000 Controlled Flow Excavation Tool and a Scandredger were mobilised.

Since then, X-Subsea have successfully deployed a varied seabed intervention spread which has allowed the client a flexible approach to the seabed intervention requirements, as a result of X-Subsea’s uniquely diverse range of tools and services.

As well as supporting the client in selecting the ideal tool for each scope of work, the opportunity to change excavation spread as the work scope developed also reduced costs for the client.

Rohan Inglis, X-Subsea’s Country Manager in the UK commented “this decommissioning project has allowed X-Subsea the opportunity to demonstrate how the variety of tools and techniques in the company, coupled with the wealth of experience of the team, can be harnessed to ensure the most efficient execution of the work scope. “ X-Subsea operate the world’s largest fleet of controlled flow excavation tools as well as an unparalleled suite of precision dredging solutions, and can assist clients in planning and executing all seabed intervention requirements in the decommissioning arena. www.x-subsea.com

22 Decom News: Issue 18

Sureclean Invests in New Equipment International industrial cleaning contractor, Sureclean, is investing £3million in its equipment fleet in support of its domestic and international operations.

Aberdeen and Alness based Sureclean, is evolving its camera inspection service and has expanded its equipment fleet by purchasing 5 next generation camera systems. Specifically designed to complement their range of services, Sureclean uses the latest technology to provide their clients with inspection and maintenance surveys.

Using Inuktun components, their wide selection of camera systems are designed to operate across a diverse range of process pipework, from 25mm through to 600mm diameter and tethers up to 300m.

Sureclean also has submersible camera systems, rated up to 300m water depth, to enable internal riser and caisson monitoring or post clean inspections.

Alan Stewart, Projects Director commented “Our investment in our camera systems has allowed us to expand our inspection capabilities

Linjebygg Offshore UK North Sea First

and continue to support our clients using the latest technology. The versatility within our camera fleet allows us to carry out this service within hazardous areas, confined spaces and underwater.

“Through programmed investment in research and development, we can ensure that as technology improves, we are simultaneously advancing our services in order to maintain our position as a market leader.”

In addition to the camera systems, Sureclean has also made significant investment into their confined space safety equipment including ATEX certified LP breathing air compressors, personal and area gas monitoring equipment and LED portable lighting. www.sureclean.com

LBO - Linjebygg Offshore, based at the Energy Park in Aberdeen, are celebrating a recent contract award for the use of LBO’s innovation ATEX approved Zone 1 rated, diamond wire cutting equipment.

MEMBER NEWS

TETRA - EOT Cutting Services EOT Cutting Services, a TETRA company, has launched a new version of its popular diamond wire saw with upgrades aimed at enhanced performance in North Sea conditions. The new saw is referred to as the 360 SL Series DWS, where SL stands for slim line, and is a lighter-weight option than conventional diamond wire saws.

The 360 SL Series DWS can accommodate clamping diameters of 400mm/16in to 916mm/36in, and can operate at depths up to 350m. The saw can also be operated from the surface, or outfitted for ROV hydraulic control.

EOT’s 360 SL Series DWS is just the latest addition to the company’s portfolio of solutions. With more than 25,000 successful cuts completed to date, EOT has a unique ability to design and fabricate standard and customized equipment, as well as manage a variety of cutting solutions. www.tetratec.com

With an aluminum body and frame, the 360 SL Series DWS is lighter than competitor’s steel frame saws. A new body design also accommodates greater amounts of floatation foam than previous EOT diamond wire saws. Together, these features add up to a light weight, buoyant tool that can be placed by small ROVs, and can be easily maneuvered by divers.

LBO will undertake a small decommissioning operation for a leading North Sea Operator. This will be the first time the equipment is used in the UKCS North Sea, although it has been used several times on Norwegian installations with great success.

LBO researched and developed the innovative system after spotting a niche market for cold cutting with diamond wire equipment. The ATEX certified diamond wire is specially manufactured for LBO by the Austrian contractor - Tyrolit. The diamond wire is driven by a small but powerful ATEX HPU - Hydraulic Power Unit. The system is highly mobile and is easy to use, especially in confined spaces or areas that are difficult to access. This makes the equipment quite unique for topsides cutting, cutting underdeck or at height.

LBO’s diamond wire cutting technology is efficient for cutting black steel, super duplex, S316, titanium, as well as embedded steel structures in concrete, making it an ideal tool for all types of decommissioning projects large or small. www.lbo.no

Sky-Futures Sky-Futures, the leading industrial UAV inspection company for Oil and Gas, recently completed a successful inspection using innovative techniques in the North Sea.

They were asked by the client to inspect a remote mooring offloading structure in the North Sea. Located a mile off the main platform in the North Sea, it required the team to carefully pre-plan the inspection with their in-house engineers and UAV operators, before deciding to utilise a two-man UAV operating team and inspection from a support vessel. The vessel took the team across to the remote structure and once the vessel became static roughly 30 meters from the structure the team carried out a full inspection including: Helicopterdeck structure, boom and access ladder.

The full inspection took 4 hours and was followed up by a full inspection report by one of Sky-Futures in-house engineers. This inspection technique utilises innovative high definition video and imagery, as well as thermal imagery, and innovative inspection techniques.

Chris Blackford, Operations Director said, “Our UAV inspection service allows such inspections to take place, without the need for personnel on the platform, saving clients time, money and helping them to maintain high safety standards. This is why our inspection service lends itself so well to the decommissioning sector, as our UAV technology and expertise allows inspections to take place in hard to inspect areas, in tough conditions, speeding up the decommissioning process.” www.sky-futures.com

www.decomnorthsea.com 23

SPOTLIGHT ON NEW MEMBERS

ADTI

Process Safety Solutions

Applied Drilling Technology International (ADTI) is an integrated Project Management and Turnkey business focusing on the design, drilling, completing and testing of oil and gas wells since its conception in 1979.

Process Safety Solutions (PSS) provide engineering, consultancy, systems, support and software services to the Oil & Gas, Nuclear and Renewables industry.

2014 has been a significant year for ADTI. Early in 2014 the company was acquired by Sun European Partners from Transocean for an undisclosed value.

The acquisition by Sun European Partners marked an important transition in ADTI’s history, as the company turned its focus on strategic plans to grow both internationally and the services on offer.

With the increasing regulatory pressures to reduce redundant wells inventory in the North Sea, ADTI is growing its existing workover and decommissioning service provision. ADTI has a wealth of knowledge and experience to ensure that well decommissioning operations are planned and executed expertly in full compliance with the Oil & Gas UK Well Suspension and Abandonment Guidelines and with all necessary regulatory requirements.

July also marked a significant milestone in the history of ADTI, having achieved 2 years of operations without a Lost Time Incident. Andrew Stannard, CEO noted that “this has only been achieved with the commitment, dedication and effort that ADTI staff and its contractors put into their work every day.”

Over this two year period ADTI have recorded approximately 1,650,000 man hours, working on 7 different drilling units from 5 different drilling unit owners, covering over 1050 days of rig based operations with 6 different customers.

ADTI is looking forward to further success and growth both in the remainder of 2014 and the future. www.adti.com

24 Decom News: Issue 18

Established in 2010, PSS are an independent team of highly skilled engineers specialising in the delivery of safety, control & instrumentation and electrical projects from concept through to close out. Services include Greenfield, Brownfield and Decommissioning projects.

PSS operate throughout the UK at three strategically located offices, ensuring they maintain a “local” service to their clients, these are: • Wick – The Caithness office is located to provide services to the Far North Sea, West of Shetland developments and also the Dounreay Nuclear plant.

• Aberdeen – Located to provide a local service to Oil & Gas clients with assets throughout the North Sea. • Colchester – Providing services to the Southern North Sea as well as land based sites throughout England.

As a specialist engineering services company, Process Safety Solutions joined Decom

North Sea for the opportunity to network with other like minded innovative companies to jointly deliver cost effective, quality solutions to clients decommissioning projects. PSS understand their clients’ challenges when faced with phased decommissioning and eventual abandonment of Oil & Gas and Nuclear plants. Their area of expertise is every aspect of the Control, Safety and Instrumentation systems that, for years, have ensured safety of the sites and more importantly the personnel working on them.

Services • Consultancy – Obsolescence, FEED & Feasibility studies relating to E,C&I decommissioning work scopes.

• Engineering – Full detailed design services for entire plant and phased decommissioning projects.

• Systems – Modification work scopes to maintain Safety and Control systems during phased decommissioning works. www.pssuk.co.uk

New Members

We are pleased to welcome the following new members: Applied Drilling Technology Ltd (ADTI) Enviroco IRM Systems Orion Group Osbit Power Full membership of Decom North Sea is open to any commercial organisation involved with decommissioning.

Associate membership is open to non-commercial organisations and individuals who wish to be kept informed of Decom North Sea activity and attend networking events and conferences.

For further information visit www.decomnorthsea.com

SPOTLIGHT ON NEW MEMBERS

Solutions Store Strengthens Team Aberdeen-based people development consultancy, Solutions Store has announced the appointment of Louise Clark as Senior Development Consultant, as a result of continued growth.

Louise Clark, Solutions Store

Louise brings extensive business development and customer service experience to the new role, having previously worked with international clients across a range of sectors.

In her role as Senior Development Consultant, Louise will be dedicated to specific customer projects, allowing Solutions Store to sustain an integrated model as it continues to grow.

Emma Spence, Director of Solutions Store said: “We are delighted to welcome Louise to

the team. She has acquired a wealth of industry experience in her previous roles and I am confident that her expertise will add great value to the business.

“Louise has an excellent understanding not only of change management, but also the connected disciplines of people development, performance management and leadership coaching. It is her strong skills in these disciplines that position her as an ideal fit for the role.

“Decommissioning is a key sector for Solutions Store and one that we are incredibly passionate about. Growing our team of experienced consultants ensures we are well positioned to help shape and develop strong leadership skills for the next generation of industry professionals.”

Solutions Store offers a range of people orientated business solutions which include personal development training, leadership coaching, change management, conflictresolution and personnel systems. www.solutionsstore.co.uk

Want to Raise Your Profile?

The Decom Website offers a range of opportunities for companies looking to get themselves noticed within the offshore decommissioning industry.

• Widely regarded as the hub for information, news and events about the offshore decommissioning industry and over 40,000 views every year • With a growth of over 35% in website traffic, there has never been a better time to advertise on the Decom website

11 December 2014 Sprowston Manor, Norwich Pamper Session or Golf Day followed by Christmas Dinner & Party in the evening

For more information on rates and availability email: advertising@ decomnorthsea. com Sponsor sought for Golf Day: contact Martine on 01493 446534

Revellers book now: www.eeegr.com/events

www.decomnorthsea.com 25

UPCOMING EVENTS

Events Update SAVE THE DATE - Decom Offshore 2015 AECC, Aberdeen, 27th May 2015

Following from the success of Decom Offshore 2014, planning is now underway for the third Decom Offshore Event.

Decom Offshore 2015 will bring together professions from all tiers of the decommissioning industry to discuss and debate how future projects can be undertaken in the safest and most environmentally and cost effective ways. The event will highlight the latest industry developments and the many and varied technologies and techniques required within the sector, providing the supply chain with an excellent opportunity to showcase their skills and capabilities to key decision makers within the offshore decommissioning industry. The event comprises of interactive plenary sessions, exhibition stands, 1-2-1 meetings and networking.

Oil & Gas UK, PILOT Share Fair AECC, Aberdeen, 5th November 2014

Decom North Sea are exhibiting at this year’s PILOT Share Fair event and welcomes visits from potential or existing members to discuss opportunities in the offshore decommissioning market.

Find us at stand number 40.

OPITO National Oil & Gas Skills Week 11th - 14th November 2014

Decom North Sea are sponsoring a series of skills and training workshops being held on the final day of OPITO’s National Oil & Gas Skills Week at the Doubletree by Hilton in Aberdeen. These workshops assist in the learning and development of workforce capabilities in the oil & gas industry.

Southern North Sea Special Interest Group Norwich, 26th November 2014

Decom North Sea and East of England Energy Group (EEEGR) have formed a Special Interest Group focused on Decommissioning in the Southern North Sea. The SIG will influence and shape the delivery and management of joint activity in developing the SNS decommissioning sector and drive supply chain engagement across the UK in co-ordination with other low carbon energy activities.

TRAINING COURSE

From Planning through Execution

Are you new to decommissioning? Do you want to learn more about the sector?

Could you benefit from having a broader understanding of what is involved in the whole lifecycle of a decommissioning project? Could you benefit from understanding lessons learned in past decommissioning projects? Would you like to discuss and debate how decommissioning can be undertaken more efficiently?

Decom North Sea in partnership with Strategic Decom Limited have created a training course focused on Offshore Decommissioning. The overall objective is to inform participants of the background, scope and cover some of the key issues associated within the decommissioning sector over a two day period.

Dates for your Diary: > 19th & 20th of November, Aberdeen > 28th & 29th of January, Norwich > 25th & 26th February 2014, Aberdeen If you are interested in booking, more information or would like to participate at one of these events, please visit our website www.decomnorthsea.com or contact Izzie Bryce on 01224 914044 or ibryce@decomnorthsea.com

26 Decom News: Issue 18

Lunch & Learn This series of events give members and non-members from across the UK and Europe the opportunity to hear about developments whilst networking with key players from the decommissioning sector.

12th November 2014

This event will include presentations from Babcock International Group, Maclay Murray & Spens, Scotoil Services Limited and West Oil Tools Limited.

10th December 2014

This event will include presentations from BISN Oil Tools Ltd, Fugro Subsea Services Ltd, Lucion Marine and the Met Office.

21st January 2015

This event will include presentations from Helix Well Ops UK, Natas Highlands Ltd and Subsea Deployment Systems Ltd.

18th March 2015

This event will include presentations from Intertek, Solutions Store and Weatherford.

Get involved!

We are looking for supply chain members to present at our 2015 Lunch and Learn Series.

Please contact Izzie Bryce on 01224 914044 or ibryce@decomnorthsea.com for more information.

DECOM MEMBERS

Our Members Full membership of Decom North Sea is open to any commercial organisation involved with decommissioning. Associate membership is open to non-commercial organisations and individuals who wish to be kept informed of Decom North Sea activity and attend networking events and conferences. For further information, visit www.decomnorthsea.com AS AT 10TH SEPTEMBER 2014 • ABB CONSULTING • ABERDEEN HARBOUR BOARD • ABERDEENSHIRE COUNCIL • ACCENTURE • ACORN COACHING AND DEVELOPMENT LTD • ACUMEN ENERGY LTD • APPLIED DRILLING TECHNOLOGY INTERNATIONAL LTD (ADTI) • AF DECOM OFFSHORE AS • AGGREKO UK LTD • AKD ENGINEERING LTD • AKER SOLUTIONS • ALLSEAS GROUP S.A. • AMEC • ANATEC • ARCADIS (UK) LIMITED • ARGON ISOTANK LTD • ASCO UK LTD • AUBIN LTD • AUGEAN PLC • AXIS ENERGY PROJECTS LIMITED • AXIS WELL TECHNOLOGY • BABCOCK INTERNATIONAL GROUP • BAKER HUGHES • BAUER WATER • BIBBY OFFSHORE • BISN OIL TOOLS LTD • BMT CORDAH LTD • BOND DICKINSON LLP • BONN & MEES • BOSKALIS OFFSHORE • BP • BROWN AND MAY MARINE LIMITED • BURGES SALMON LLP • CAPE INDUSTRIAL SERVICES LIMITED • CARBON60 LIMITED • CASHMAN EQUIPMENT CORP. • CENTRICA ENERGY • CHEVRON NORTH SEA LIMITED • CLAXTON • CLYDEPORT OPERATIONS LTD • CNR INTERNATIONAL (UK) LTD • CONOCOPHILLIPS • COOPER LOMAZ RECRUITMENT • CORTEZ SUBSEA LTD • CROMARTY FIRTH PORT AUTHORITY • CSL • CURRIE & BROWN • CUTTING UNDERWATER TECHNOLOGIES LTD • CYBERHAWK INNOVATIONS • D3 CONSULTING • DANBOR SERVICES • D-COMMS (SCOTLAND) LIMITED • DECO( DIVING, ENGINEERING & CONSULTANCY OFFICE )• DECOMMISSIONING PROJECT SERVICES LTD • DNV GL - OIL & GAS • DUNDEE DECOMMISSIONING LIMITED • DUTTON INTERNATIONAL LIMITED • E.M.W CONSULTANCY LTD • ENERMECH • ENI HEWETT LIMITED • ENVIROCO • ENVIRON UK LTD • EPEUS GROUP LTD. • ERM • ETHOS ENVIRONMENTAL LTD • EXPRO NORTH SEA LTD • EY • FALCK NUTEC • FLOWLINE SPECIALIST LIMITED • FRASER OFFSHORE LIMITED • FRAZER - NASH CONSULTANCY • FUGRO SUBSEA SERVICES LTD • GARDLINE • GCG SHOTBLASTING SERVICES LTD • GENESIS GMBH • GEOSEA • GLACIER • GLOBAL ENERGY GROUP • GP DECOM LIMITED • GRC RECYCLING • GREAT YARMOUTH PORT COMPANY LTD T/AS EASTPORT UK • GULFSTREAM SERVICES INTERNATIONAL UK LTD • HALLIBURTON • HARDY AVARR LIMITED • HAWK ENVIRO LTD • HEEREMA MARINE CONTRACTORS • HELIX • HESS LTD • IHC ENGINEERING BUSINESS • IKM TESTING (UK) LTD • IMENCO • INCE & CO SERVICES LTD • INFIELD SYSTEMS LIMITED • INTERWELL UK • ITS TESTING SERVICES UK LTD ( INTERTEK ABERDEEN ) • IRM SYSTEMS • IW-DECOM • JAMES FISHER OFFSHORE LIMITED • JEE LTD • JOHN LAWRIE (ABERDEEN) LTD • JUMPSTART LIMITED • JX NIPPON EXPLORATION AND PRODUCTION (U.K.) LIMITED • KAEFER INTERNATIONAL OFFSHORE LTD • KCA DEUTAG DRILLING LTD • KDC • KISHORN PORT LIMITED • KONGSBERG MARITIME LTD • KOTUG OFFSHORE BV • L2 BUSINESS CONSULTING LIMITED • LBO - LINJEBYGG OFFSHORE • LEDINGHAM CHALMERS • LERWICK PORT AUTHORITY • LLOYD’S REGISTER EMEA • LUCION MARINE • MACAULAY SCIENTIFIC CONSULTING • MACLAY MURRAY & SPENS • MACTECH EUROPE LTD • MAERSK OIL UK LTD • MAIDMAR • MAMMOET SALVAGE BV • MARATHON OIL U.K. LLC. • MCDERMOTT INTERNATIONAL • MCLEOD AITKEN • MET OFFICE • MONTROSE PORT AUTHORITY • MSIS GROUP • MWAVES LTD • NALCO • NATAS HIGHLANDS LTD • NEOPOLIA • NETWORK INTERNATIONAL • NEXEN PETROLEUM U.K LIMITED • NORISOL • NORSEA GROUP (UK) LTD • N-SEA OFFSHORE • NUVIA SITA NORM LTD • OCEAN KINETICS LTD • OCEANEERING INTERNATIONAL • OFFSHORE DESIGN ENGINEERING LTD • OFFSHORE INSTALLATION SERVICES LTD (OIS) • OIL STATES BARROW • OILMAC.COM • O’KELLY BROTHERS DEMOLITION & ENVIRONMENTAL CONTRACTORS • OPTIMUS (ABERDEEN) LTD • ORION GROUP • OSBIT POWER • PACTEC EPS LTD • PANDA ROSA METALS • PASTOOR OFFSHORE • PDL SOLUTIONS (EUROPE) LTD • PERENCO UK LTD • PETERHEAD DECOMMISSIONING LIMITED • PETERSON ( UNITED KINGDOM ) LIMITED • PETROFAC • PIPETECH • PORT OF DUNDEE • PORT OF FREDERIKSHAVN • PREMIER OIL PLC • PRIMA UNO PLANNING AND PROGRAMMING LTD • PROCESS SAFETY SOLUTIONS • PROJECT DEVELOPMENT INTERNATIONAL (PDI) LTD • PROJECT, TIME & COST INTERNATIONAL LTD • PROSERV • QUICKFLANGE UK LTD • R.U.M CONSULTANCY LTD • RED 7 MARINE OFFSHORE • RIGMAR SERVICES LIMITED • RLG • ROBERTSON METALS RECYCLING LIMITED • ROEMEX SPECIALITY OILFIELD CHEMICALS • ROMAR INTERNATIONAL LTD • RPS HSED • RVA GROUP • RWE DEA UK • SABRE SAFETY LTD • SCANMET A.S • SCHLUMBERGER - SMITH SERVICES • SCOPUS ENGINEERING LTD • SCOTOIL SERVICES LIMITED • SCOTTISH ENTERPRISE • SEAFOX CONTRACTORS BV • SEAJACKS UK LTD • SEAROUTE GROUP LTD • SEAWAY HEAVY LIFTING • SENERGY (GB) LTD • SFF SERVICES LIMITED • SHELL UK LIMITED • SHEPHERD O’BRIEN • SIMMONS & COMPANY INTERNATIONAL • SIMON STORAGE LTD • SKY FUTURES • SLR CONSULTING • SMRU LTD • SOLUTIONS STORE • SP-1 • SPARTAN SOLUTIONS LTD • SPD LTD • SPEX SERVICES LTD • SQUIBB GROUP LTD • STANLEY HYDRAULIC TOOLS • STENA RECYCLING STAVANGER AS • STORK TECHNICAL SERVICES • STRATEGIC DECOMMISSIONING CONSULTANTS LIMITED • SUBSEA DEPLOYMENT SYSTEMS LTD • SUPERIOR - WILD WELL ENERGY SERVICES LTD • SURECLEAN LIMITED • SVITZER • SWIRE OILFIELD SERVICES LTD • TALISMAN ENERGY (UK) LIMITED • TAM INTERNATIONAL NORTH SEA • TETRA TECHNOLOGIES LTD • THOMAS MUIR (ROSYTH) LTD • TINNE CONSULTANTS LIMITED • TRAC OIL&GAS • TRACERCO LTD • TULLOW OIL PLC • TWMA • UNDERWATER CUTTING SOLUTIONS • UNIVERSAL PEGASUS INTERNATIONAL (UK) LTD • URS CORPORATION • VANHECK • VEOLIA ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES • VIKING SEATECH • WEATHERFORD • WEST OIL TOOLS WELL SERVICES LIMITED • WESTLORD ASSOCIATES UK • WICK HARBOUR AUTHORITY • WOOD GROUP PSN • WORLEY PARSONS • XODUS • X-SUBSEA

PARTNERS CAITHNESS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE • CARBON ENERGY CLUB • DANISH MARINE AND OFFSHORE GROUP • EAST OF ENGLAND ENERGY GROUP (EEEGR) • ENERGY NORTH • IRO • NOF ENERGY • SCOTTISH RENEWABLES

www.decomnorthsea.com 27

Abandon your P&A concerns.

When you plan to plug and abandon (P&A) your well, Baker Hughes works with you to make sure it is done safely, reliably, and cost-effectively.

We have partnered with Gulf Marine Services to combine its jack-up barge services with our advanced P&A technologies and project management expertise. This collaboration provides you with an economical, fully-integrated P&A solution.

Call us or visit BakerHughes.com/WellAbandonment and learn how the Baker Hughes – Gulf Marine Services collaboration lets you focus on production while we take care of your well abandonment concerns.

+1 713-268-6218 or +44 2070 483646

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