Slimhole Drilling in the Lake Izabal Area: A Minimum Impact and Maximum Safety Approach

Abstract

Abstract This paper discusses the approach taken by Shell Exploradora and Productora de Guatemala B.V. (SEPG) to drill a 1600 m slimwell on the eastern shore of Lake Izabal, in a cost effective manner, with maximum regard to safety and environmental protection, and still make such a small project attractive to the drilling contractor. SEPG holds a production sharing contract (PSC) covering the Lake Izabal watershed, with the Government of Guatemala since end 1990. 500 km of seismic lines have been shot late 1991/early 1992, both in the lake and on land, and the contract calls for a well to be drilled to 1600 m before the end of 1993. Most of the contract area is environmentally very sensitive and the need for environmental protection is very publicised in Guatemala. A complex web of environmental organisations (Governmental and nonGovernmental), with different roles, motivations and ultimate goals, exist in the country. The law requires approval by the National Environmental Commission (conama) of an Environmental Impact Assessment (eia) prepared by independent consultants registered in CONAMA, before the start of any potentially impacting project. Smooth approval of the well eia was secured by establishing good communication with all environmental agencies, Governmental and non-Governmental, and by ensuring their involvement in (or at least their awareness of) the preparation of the EIA. To carry out the activities with minimum disturbance to the environment and maximum safety it is essential (1) to evaluate all the actions required and clearly define objectives, scope of work and HSE requirements, both in the tender documents and in the contract documents, and (2) to supervise and manage the activities with strong emphasis on the HSE side of the business.