Understanding the potential pitfalls of offshore decommissioning
During Offshore Seminar, Croes-Schalken will discuss the challenges of offshore decommissioning.
Croes-Schalken explains: “Decommissioning is an inherently hazardous exercise, one that requires meticulous planning, experienced management and an extremely defined skill-set, if it is to be executed safely. Comprehensive planning lies at the heart of every successful decommissioning project, but the challenges are undeniably greater. Offshore structures degrade much faster than a similar asset on an inland location, due to their exposure to the elements.
This adds to the difficulties associated with establishing their ‘known state’ and understanding the potential pitfalls that lie ahead. Upon first arrival on site, it is therefore imperative to assess the structural integrity of the remaining assets and, equally important, the level of the residual product, as well as any loss of containment.”
Waste management program
Another challenge related to offshore decommissioning lies in the transport of materials, Croes-Schalken says: “Decommissioning experts are by now adept at delivering projects with almost 100% material reuse and recycling rates, to the point where such high environmental standards are now becoming the norm. Consideration should, however, be given to the waste management program for offshore works, especially because there is the added – yet manageable – challenge of transporting materials (including hazardous substances) back onshore.”