Advanced Oil Spill Modelling in the Offshore Oil & Gas Industry: Improving the Emergency Response Management along the Project Life-Cycle

Abstract

Abstract In recent years, advances in computer technology allowed the development of sophisticated software applications able to simulate the effects of oil spills on the marine environment. The need for such modelling arises from the perception of oil spills as long lasting and highly damaging events because of their wide range of potential impacts on the environment, human health and economic activities. Modelling tools can predict the consequences of these events and allow a targeted Response Planning to be made. This paper presents an innovative application of oil spill modelling tools aimed at supporting the Emergency Response System along the different stages of the project life-cycle. Three case studies are presented, from exploration, to response planning during production, to contingency response during an emergency. The oil spill modelling approach for each case study is detailed, as well as the specific support provided to the decision making process. Two different methods for oil spill modelling and environmental consequences assessment in eni exploration & production activities are shown. Preventive modelling, based on a statistical approach, identifies the range of possible outcomes of an event. Through this simulation, the consequence assessment of a spill provides useful information for a targeted Emergency Response Planning. Emergency modelling, on the other hand, is based on a deterministic approach and simulates the evolution of a single event, whose characteristics are known. In this case, oil spill models can predict the fate of an oil spill in an emergency, providing an insight on its future evolution and driving the decision on the most appropriate response actions. The results highlight the contribution of oil spill modelling in making the Emergency Response System an active player during all the project life-cycle, enabling its complete integration within the project management structure. Oil & Gas operators may benefit of this advanced approach that contributes to the improvement of their Emergency Response Management system. Through a prompt and proper response, the effect of oil spills can be excluded or mitigated, saving human lives as well as protecting the environment, the facilities and Company's reputation.