Shell Global Standard for Temporary Pipework: What You Need to Know
Temporary pipework is a common feature of many oil and gas operations, especially during well interventions, testing, and maintenance activities. However, temporary pipework also poses significant risks to the safety of people, assets, and the environment if not properly designed, installed, and managed. That's why Shell has developed a global standard for temporary pipework (EPS 3758) that defines the minimum requirements and best practices for using this equipment.
shell global standard for temporary pipework
The Shell Global Standard for Temporary Pipework covers the following aspects:
Temporary connection: This refers to the temporary connecting of pipework, metal pipe, and tubular structures as prescribed in IEC 60607. The standard specifies the types of temporary connections that are acceptable, such as flanged, threaded, clamped, or welded connections. It also provides guidance on how to select, inspect, test, and maintain temporary connections.
Temporary sealants: This refers to the use of sealants to prevent leakage from temporary connections or damaged pipework. The standard outlines the criteria for selecting and applying temporary sealants, such as compatibility with fluids and materials, pressure and temperature ratings, curing time, and removal methods.
Pipework connections and interfaces: This refers to the interface between temporary pipework and permanent pipework or equipment. The standard requires that all interfaces are clearly identified, labeled, and isolated. It also stipulates that all interfaces are compatible in terms of size, pressure rating, material specification, and design code.
Hazard identification and mitigation: This refers to the process of identifying and assessing the potential hazards associated with temporary pipework, such as leaks, fires, explosions, dropped objects, or environmental impacts. The standard mandates that a risk assessment is conducted before installing or using temporary pipework. It also provides recommendations on how to mitigate the identified hazards, such as using barriers, alarms, monitoring systems, or emergency response plans.
Operational guidelines: This refers to the general rules and procedures for operating and managing temporary pipework. The standard covers topics such as roles and responsibilities, documentation and records, inspection and testing, maintenance and repair, removal and disposal, and auditing and assurance.
The Shell Global Standard for Temporary Pipework is intended to ensure the safe use of temporary pipework for operations that use this equipment. It also ensures that the associated pipework connection interfaces are applied and used correctly. By following this standard, Shell aims to reduce the risk of incidents and injuries related to temporary pipework and to protect its people, assets, reputation, and the environment.
The Shell Global Standard for Temporary Pipework also brings several benefits to Shell and its contractors, such as:
Improved safety performance: By following the standard, the likelihood and severity of incidents related to temporary pipework are reduced. This protects the health and safety of workers, contractors, and communities, as well as the integrity and availability of assets and equipment.
Enhanced operational efficiency: By following the standard, the quality and reliability of temporary pipework are improved. This reduces the need for rework, repairs, or replacements, and minimizes downtime and delays. It also optimizes the use of resources and materials, and lowers operational costs.
Increased compliance and assurance: By following the standard, the alignment and consistency with Shell's policies and principles are ensured. This demonstrates Shell's commitment to operate in a responsible and sustainable manner, and meets the expectations of regulators, stakeholders, and customers.
The Shell Global Standard for Temporary Pipework is applicable to all Shell-operated well activities that use temporary pipework. It is also applicable to contractors who provide temporary pipework services to Shell. The standard is mandatory and must be complied with at all times. Any deviations from the standard must be approved by Shell through a formal management of change process.
The Shell Global Standard for Temporary Pipework is part of Shell's continuous efforts to improve its performance in health, security, safety, environment, and social responsibility. By adhering to this standard, Shell and its contractors can achieve their shared goal of delivering safe and efficient well operations.
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