This project will develop a methodology and tools that will allow the MMS to readily compare the risks of offshore systems that introduce new technologies with the risks of existing systems. The permitting process for a deep water offshore project requires operators to complete a Deep Water Operating Plan (DWOP). A portion of the DWOP describes the new technologies incorporated in the project, and the operator is required to show that the proposed system with the new technologies is at least as reliable as existing systems. Results of this project will 1) allow the consistent comparison of a system that introduces new technologies with existing systems at both the overall system level and at subsystem or operational levels; 2) illustrate the impact of the new technologies at the subsystem or operational level; and 3) illustrate the impact of selected risk mitigation options (such as modifying hardware or changing operations) on overall system risks.
All four joint industry workshops have taken place. The relative risk between the four facility systems are being evaluated and compared with other sources to ensure the compatibility with existing data. A paper was given at the OTC meetings and the project is completed.