Solving Community Protection for Inhabited Areas Surrounding a Drilling Site: A Case Study in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Abstract A key Oil and Gas player required H2S safety solutions for their new onshore drilling project. A major challenge was protecting a community of approximately 500 homes situated within the 5km Emergency Planning Zone (EPZ). Preventing the potentially fatal consequences of an H2S release was of the utmost importance. A cutting-edge community protection solution was implemented composed of eight units of gas and environmental monitors linked together to control the conditions within the EPZ. The innovative perimeter monitoring solution allowed environmental conditions to be monitored online in real-time. Training was done to ensure that the operator was supplied with qualified and trained H2S safety personnel and all other safety personnel during critical operations. Equipment such as gas detections system, handheld monitors, and breathing air packs were provided to ensure that all safety aspects are covered in this critical operation. The customization and installation of a reliable, online perimeter monitoring system allowed continuous data stream that made remote monitoring of the vicinity, based on both RF and web technology available for instant tracking and monitoring. Real-time information accessible from anywhere in the world allowed the operator to be aware and be prepared for any emergencies that might occur. SMS notifications were also programmed in case of any emergency to ensure a prompt response. The system also provided a reliable data log for future analysis. The fact that the operator took considerable measures to look out for the community's safety helped improve relations with the public. Members of the affected community felt assured by the degree of precaution implemented, knowing that they would be warned promptly in the event of an emergency. This case study presents an analysis of conventional and newer community protection systems and discusses in detail the significance of this innovation in dealing with rapidly expanding production near communities. The case study outlines how to make communities feel safe and how to conduct EPZ monitoring efficiently using state-of-the-art technologies and customizing equipment to suit unique worksite requirements.