908 Offshore Oil and Gas Safety I

Glossary

A

• Abrasive Blasting. A surface preparation technique that removes rust, old paint, and contaminants using abrasive materials propelled by compressed air or water. Operators must wear respiratory protection, goggles, gloves, and protective suits to minimize exposure to silica dust and other harmful particles. Work areas must be contained to prevent environmental contamination, and proper cleanup procedures are mandatory.
• Abandon Platform Drills. Drills conducted to train offshore personnel in emergency evacuation procedures. During these drills, workers don lifejackets, gather at lifeboat or raft embarkation points, and practice boarding safely. The purpose is to prepare workers for emergencies like fires or severe weather, ensuring readiness to evacuate in an orderly and efficient manner.
• Air-Operated Equipment. Tools powered by compressed air, such as drills, grinders, and impact wrenches. Safety practices include checking hoses for damage, ensuring secure connections, and bleeding air pressure before disconnecting. Operators must use hearing protection and goggles, as these tools can generate excessive noise and flying debris.
• Alarm Signals. Standardized audible and visual cues used to indicate emergencies such as gas leaks, fires, or required evacuations. Each type of alarm corresponds to a specific emergency, with unique sounds or flashing light patterns. Workers are trained to recognize these signals and respond appropriately, such as donning PPE or proceeding to muster stations. Regular testing ensures functionality and worker familiarity.
• Annular Preventer. A type of blowout preventer that uses a flexible element to seal around various sizes of pipe, providing well control during drilling operations.
• Anti-Collision Systems. Radar and monitoring systems designed to prevent vessel collisions with offshore rigs and structures.
• Area Designations. The categorization of specific areas on offshore platforms based on the type and level of hazards present:
  
  
  • Free Areas: Zones free from flammable or toxic atmosphere potential.
  • Process Areas: Zones where hydrocarbons or other flammable materials are processed, requiring fire-resistant construction and equipment.
  • Radiographic Areas: Designated spaces for non-destructive testing using radiography, requiring controlled access and protective measures against radiation exposure.
  • Mustering Areas: Safe gathering points for personnel during drills or emergencies, clearly marked and equipped with essential safety supplies.
  • Restricted Areas: High-risk zones requiring authorization for entry due to hazards like high-pressure equipment or confined spaces.
  These classifications help maintain safety and operational efficiency by guiding work permissions and hazard controls.
• Asset Integrity and Reliability. A comprehensive approach to managing the safety, reliability, and performance of critical equipment and systems. Asset integrity programs include inspection, testing, maintenance, and analysis to prevent failures, enhance performance, and ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations. Common standards include API 580 and ISO 55000.
• Asbestos Safety. Procedures for managing or removing asbestos-containing materials (ACM) to prevent exposure to airborne fibers. Workers handling ACM must use PPE, such as respirators and disposable coveralls, and follow containment procedures to prevent cross-contamination. Only certified personnel can perform asbestos removal, and work areas must be sealed and marked with warning signs.

B

• Behavior-Based Safety (BBS). A safety program focused on modifying worker behavior to reduce incidents. Observers identify unsafe behaviors, provide feedback, and encourage adherence to best practices. BBS programs typically include training, positive reinforcement, and continuous improvement based on data analysis.
• Blowout Preventer (BOP). A safety-critical device installed on the wellhead during drilling operations to control pressure and prevent the uncontrolled release of hydrocarbons (blowout). A BOP stack typically includes annular and ram preventers that can seal the wellbore under various conditions. Regular maintenance, pressure testing, and adherence to API standards are required for operational integrity.
• Bloodborne Pathogens (BBP). Microorganisms in human blood that can cause serious diseases such as hepatitis B (HBV) or HIV. Offshore platforms implement exposure control programs to mitigate risks, including providing PPE, sharps disposal systems, and training for employees who may encounter blood or other potentially infectious materials.
• Body Harness. A vital component of personal fall arrest systems (PFAS) designed to secure workers operating at heights. Harnesses distribute arrest forces evenly across the body to reduce injuries during a fall. Used alongside lanyards, anchor points, and self-retracting lifelines, harnesses are essential for compliance with OSHA and ANSI Z359 standards.
• Breathing Air Systems. Portable or fixed systems that supply breathable air during emergencies or hazardous conditions. These are often used in confined spaces or during H2S exposure risks.

C

• Cathodic Protection Systems. Systems used to prevent corrosion on metal structures like pipelines, tanks, and offshore platforms. They work by diverting electrical currents that cause corrosion. Workers must evaluate whether the system should remain active during maintenance and adhere to safety protocols when operating near energized systems. Regular inspections ensure effectiveness.
• Catwalks. Narrow walkways on rigs providing access to equipment and work areas. Catwalks must include guardrails and anti-slip surfaces to ensure worker safety.
• Christmas Tree. A complex valve assembly installed at the wellhead to control oil or gas production. It includes valves, gauges, and chokes to manage flow rates and pressures.
• Compressed Gas Cylinders. High-pressure containers used to store gases like oxygen, nitrogen, and acetylene. Safe handling includes securing cylinders in an upright position, segregating incompatible gases, and inspecting valves for leaks. Workers must always use valve caps during transport and keep cylinders away from heat or open flames.
• Confined Space Entry. Operations that involve working in spaces with restricted entry and potential hazards, such as low oxygen levels or toxic gases. Workers must follow strict procedures, including obtaining entry permits, testing the atmosphere, providing ventilation, and stationing an attendant outside the space. Confined space rescue plans and training are mandatory.
• Crane Assisted Personnel Transfers. A specialized method for transferring workers using personnel baskets attached to cranes. Safety measures include pre-use inspections, ensuring weather conditions are suitable, and training operators to comply with industry standards like API RP 2D. Workers must wear Type 1 lifejackets and be securely positioned in the basket.
• Crane Operator Qualifications. Certification requirements for crane operators, ensuring they are trained and authorized to handle lifting operations safely. Operators must meet API RP 2D standards, participate in regular safety drills, and maintain logs of crane inspections, operational hours, and maintenance records.

D

• Derrick. The tall tower structure on a drilling rig used to support the drill string and other equipment. Derricks are equipped with load-bearing components like crown blocks and traveling blocks.
• Drilling Mud Systems. Circulatory systems that transport drilling fluid (mud) to the wellbore to lubricate the drill bit, maintain pressure, and carry cuttings to the surface.

E

• Electrical Safety Practices. Protocols for safely working on or near electrical systems. Workers must isolate power sources, use insulated tools, and verify de-energization before starting work. Adherence to the National Electrical Code (NEC) and API RP 14F standards ensures compliance and reduces the risk of electrical shock or arc flash incidents.
• Emergency Response Plans (ERP). Detailed procedures for managing emergencies such as fires, spills, or blowouts on offshore rigs. ERPs must be reviewed regularly and tested during drills.
• Escape Capsules. Enclosed lifeboats designed for rapid evacuation during emergencies. These capsules are heat-resistant, self-righting, and equipped with survival supplies.
• Evacuation Routes. Pre-designated pathways and methods for safely exiting offshore platforms during emergencies. Evacuation routes lead to muster stations, lifeboats, and escape capsules. Clearly marked signage, lighting, and regular drills ensure personnel can quickly locate and follow these routes under stress.
• Exposure Control Plan. A plan implemented to protect workers from exposure to hazardous substances, such as bloodborne pathogens or toxic chemicals. It includes PPE requirements, hazard communication, medical follow-up procedures for exposure incidents, and employee training. These plans comply with OSHA regulations, including 29 CFR 1910.1030 for bloodborne pathogens.
• Eyewash Stations. Safety installations that provide immediate access to clean water for flushing eyes exposed to irritants, chemicals, or debris. Stations must be located within 10 seconds of high-risk areas, deliver a continuous flow of water for 15 minutes, and meet ANSI Z358.1 standards.

F

• Fall Protection Systems. Safety systems designed to prevent falls or mitigate their impact when working at heights. Components include harnesses, lanyards, self-retracting lifelines, guardrails, and anchor points. Regular training ensures workers can use fall protection equipment effectively and safely.
• Fire and Gas Detection Systems. Integrated systems that detect fire or gas leaks and trigger alarms or shutdown procedures. These include flame detectors, heat sensors, and gas monitors.
• Fire Watch. Personnel designated to monitor areas during and after hot work activities (e.g., welding, grinding). Fire watchers are equipped with extinguishers, trained to recognize potential hazards, and required to remain on-site for at least 30 minutes after work concludes.
• Flare Stack. A vertical pipe used to safely burn excess hydrocarbons during production or emergencies, reducing pressure or preventing venting into the atmosphere.

G

• Gangways. Movable bridges connecting platforms to vessels or between rig sections. Gangways must have secure handrails and anti-slip features to ensure safe access.
• Gas Detectors (Portable). Handheld devices used to detect the presence of hazardous gases, such as methane or hydrogen sulfide. Regular calibration is required for accuracy, and workers must be trained to interpret readings and respond to alarms. Auxiliary pumps or sampling lines may be used for confined space monitoring.
• Gas Lift Systems. Artificial lift methods that inject gas into the wellbore to reduce hydrostatic pressure, facilitating hydrocarbon flow to the surface.

H

• H2S Safety Protocols. Guidelines for detecting, managing, and mitigating hydrogen sulfide gas exposure risks. These include gas detectors, alarms, evacuation routes, and PPE like SCBAs.
• Hazardous Energy Control (LOTO). Lockout/Tagout procedures to isolate energy sources, including electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and mechanical systems. Workers secure locks and attach tags to control points, preventing accidental activation. Verification of zero energy states is mandatory before work begins.
• Helideck Operations. Procedures for helicopter landings and takeoffs on offshore rigs. Helidecks must meet weight, size, and safety lighting requirements under regulatory standards.
• Hot Work Permit. A formal authorization required for performing tasks involving ignition sources in potentially hazardous areas. Permits outline safety precautions, including the presence of a fire watch, use of fire-resistant blankets, and continuous gas monitoring to ensure safe operations.

I

• Inspection and Maintenance (I&M) Programs. Scheduled programs to inspect and maintain critical rig equipment such as cranes, BOPs, and fire suppression systems. These programs ensure compliance with safety standards and operational readiness.
• Isolation Procedures. Safety protocols for isolating energy sources, such as electrical, hydraulic, or pneumatic systems, before performing maintenance. These procedures often involve Lockout/Tagout (LOTO).

J

• Jack-Up Rig. A mobile offshore drilling unit (MODU) with extendable legs that can be lowered to the seabed, elevating the platform above the water’s surface for stability during drilling operations.
• Jib Crane. A type of crane with a horizontal arm (jib) used for lifting and moving loads within a limited radius. Commonly used for equipment handling on offshore platforms.
• Job Safety Analysis (JSA). A step-by-step evaluation of job tasks to identify potential hazards and implement controls. JSAs are used for high-risk tasks like lifting, confined space entry, or chemical handling. The process includes task breakdown, hazard identification, control implementation, and worker training to ensure adherence.

K

• Kelly. A square or hexagonal pipe at the top of the drill string that transfers rotational energy from the rotary table to the drill string. It is integral to drilling operations on conventional rigs.
• Kill Line. A high-pressure pipeline used to pump heavy drilling mud or fluids into the wellbore to control pressure and prevent blowouts. Kill lines are part of the well control system.

L

• Ladders. Tools used to access elevated work areas on offshore platforms. Safety protocols include inspecting ladders before use, ensuring proper placement, maintaining three points of contact while climbing, and avoiding overloading. Workers must use ladders that meet OSHA and ANSI standards for safety and load capacity.
• Life Buoys. Circular flotation devices used for emergency rescues when personnel fall overboard. Life buoys are equipped with reflective tape and attached to man-overboard alarms.
• Life Rafts. Inflatable emergency flotation devices stored on offshore rigs for evacuation. These rafts are equipped with survival supplies, such as water, food rations, and first aid kits.
• Life-Saving Equipment. Includes lifejackets, lifeboats, ring buoys, and survival capsules used in emergencies. These devices must meet regulatory standards, such as those set by the U.S. Coast Guard and BSEE, and are regularly inspected for readiness. Workers receive training on their location and use during safety drills.
• Lightning 30-30 Rule. A safety guideline used to mitigate risks associated with lightning on offshore platforms. Workers are instructed to stop outdoor work if the time between lightning flashes and thunder is less than 30 seconds and to wait 30 minutes after the last thunderclap before resuming operations.
• Lockout/Tagout (LOTO). A safety protocol that ensures equipment is de-energized and secured before maintenance or repair. Workers use locks and tags on energy control points to prevent accidental startup or release of hazardous energy. LOTO programs include training, equipment inspection, and compliance with OSHA regulations.

M

• Management of Change (MOC). A process for managing alterations to equipment, systems, or procedures to ensure safety. MOC includes evaluating risks, obtaining approvals, documenting changes, and training affected personnel. This process helps maintain operational integrity and compliance with regulatory standards.
• Manifold. A system of pipes and valves used to direct and control the flow of fluids, such as oil, gas, or drilling mud, to and from various parts of the rig or production facility.
• Man-Overboard Drill. A training exercise designed to simulate and practice responses to a person falling overboard. Procedures include raising alarms, throwing ring buoys, maintaining visual contact, notifying rescue vessels, and using retrieval equipment. These drills ensure preparedness and efficient response in real emergencies.
• MODU. An offshore Mobile Offshore Drilling Unit (MODU) is a vessel or platform used in the exploration and drilling of underwater oil and gas resources. These units are designed to be movable and include various types such as jack-up rigs, semi-submersibles, and drillships.
• Monkey Board. A platform on the derrick where the derrickman works to handle drill pipes and other equipment during drilling operations. Safety harnesses are mandatory due to the height.
• Marine Debris Policy. A policy aimed at preventing pollution by prohibiting the disposal of waste into the ocean. Offshore workers are trained to properly handle, store, and dispose of waste according to international and local environmental regulations, such as MARPOL.

N

• Nitrogen Purging. A process of introducing nitrogen gas into pipelines or equipment to remove oxygen, moisture, or hydrocarbons, reducing fire and explosion risks.
• Noise Monitoring. The practice of measuring sound levels in offshore environments to protect workers from noise-induced hearing loss. Methods include personal dosimetry, area sound level measurements, and equipment noise testing. Results guide the implementation of controls, such as engineering modifications, hearing protection, and training.
• Non-Destructive Testing (NDT). Inspection methods, such as ultrasonic, radiographic, or magnetic particle testing, used to evaluate the structural integrity of rig components without causing damage.

O

• Offloading Systems. Equipment and procedures used to transfer oil or gas from rigs to transport vessels or pipelines. These systems include flexible hoses, loading arms, and spill containment measures.
• Operator Safety Zones. Designated areas where only authorized personnel are allowed during hazardous operations, such as crane lifts or pressure testing. These zones minimize exposure to risks.

P

• Perforating Guns. Devices loaded with shaped charges used in well completion to create openings in casing and cement for hydrocarbon flow. Safety protocols include barricading work areas, grounding the gun assembly, and halting operations during electrical storms to reduce detonation risks.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Essential safety gear, including hard hats, gloves, steel-toe boots, flame-resistant clothing, and hearing protection, worn to minimize exposure to workplace hazards.
• Pigging. A pipeline maintenance process involving the use of "pigs" to clean, inspect, or remove debris from the interior of pipelines. Workers must ensure the line is depressurized before inserting or removing pigs and establish exclusion zones to prevent injuries from unexpected pig ejection.
• Pig Launcher/Receiver. Devices used in pipeline maintenance to insert or retrieve cleaning or inspection pigs. Workers must ensure pipelines are depressurized before operations.
• Platform Cabling. Guidelines for the installation and maintenance of electrical cabling on offshore platforms. Workers must secure cables to prevent sagging, inspect for damage regularly, and follow API RP 14F standards for wiring practices to prevent electrical shorts, fires, or mechanical damage.
• Preventive Maintenance (PM) Programs. Maintenance schedules designed to prevent equipment failures and extend machinery life. PM programs include regular inspections, condition monitoring, lubrication, and parts replacement. These programs reduce downtime, enhance reliability, and ensure compliance with operational safety standards.

Q

• Quick-Disconnect Systems. Coupling mechanisms designed for rapid detachment of hoses, pipelines, or equipment in emergencies. These systems minimize downtime and prevent spillage during disconnection.
• Quarantine Zones. Designated areas where equipment or materials suspected of contamination or defects are isolated to prevent hazards or further use until cleared by inspection.

R

• Radioactive Materials and Equipment. Materials and devices emitting ionizing radiation, often used for non-destructive testing (NDT). Storage areas must be marked with radiation warning signs, and handling requires specialized training. Workers must use dosimeters to monitor exposure levels and adhere to ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) principles.
• Respiratory Protection Equipment (RPE). Devices used to protect workers from inhaling harmful substances or working in oxygen-deficient environments. Examples include NIOSH-certified respirators, SCBA (self-contained breathing apparatus), and air-purifying respirators. Regular fit testing, training, and equipment maintenance are essential.
• Riser Systems. Pipelines or conduits connecting the subsea wellhead to the offshore platform, facilitating the transport of oil, gas, or drilling fluids. Risers are critical components in deep-water drilling and production.
• Rig Floor. The primary working area on a drilling rig where operations like tripping pipe and operating drilling equipment occur. Safety measures include anti-slip surfaces, guardrails, and clear communication protocols.

S

• Safety Data Sheets (SDS). Comprehensive documents providing information about the hazards, safe handling, storage, and disposal of chemicals. Workers must consult SDS before using any chemical and ensure these sheets are accessible at all times on offshore platforms.
• SCBA (Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus). Respiratory protective equipment providing breathable air in environments with toxic gases or low oxygen levels. Essential during emergencies like H2S leaks or fire response.
• Shear Ram Preventer. A type of blowout preventer equipped with rams that shear through drill pipes to seal the wellbore in emergencies. Often used as the last line of defense in well control scenarios.
• Shut-In Procedures. Steps taken to halt well production temporarily to control pressure or perform maintenance. This involves closing valves on the Christmas tree or using BOPs to secure the well.
• Slip and Cut Program. A routine procedure to replace worn sections of the drilling line by slipping and cutting a predetermined length of wire rope, ensuring even wear distribution and extending the line’s lifespan.

T

• Tag Lines. Ropes attached to crane loads to guide and stabilize them during lifting operations. Workers must handle tag lines with gloves to avoid hand injuries, ensure lines are of appropriate length, and never tie them to their bodies. Proper use prevents uncontrolled swinging or spinning of loads.
• Top Drive System. A mechanical device mounted on the derrick or mast that provides rotational force to the drill string, replacing the traditional rotary table and kelly drive. Top drives enhance efficiency and safety in drilling operations.
• Trailing Hand Technique. A stair-descending safety practice where workers hold the handrail behind them. This technique provides better stability and reduces the risk of falling, especially on slippery or steep stairs.
• Turnaround (TAR). A scheduled shutdown of rig operations to conduct inspections, repairs, and equipment upgrades. Turnarounds are planned to minimize operational downtime while ensuring safety and compliance.

U

• Umbilical Cables. Multi-functional cables used to supply power, communication, and control signals to subsea equipment. Umbilicals also transport hydraulic fluid for controlling valves and other devices.
• Underbalanced Drilling. A drilling technique where the pressure in the wellbore is intentionally kept lower than the formation pressure to enhance production and reduce formation damage.

V

• V-Door. A sloped opening on the rig floor that allows pipe or other drilling equipment to be brought from the pipe rack to the drill floor.
• Variable Bore Ram (VBR). A type of blowout preventer ram that can seal around a wide range of pipe sizes, providing flexibility in well control operations.

W

• Walking Working Surfaces. Areas where workers walk or stand, such as platforms, stairs, and ladders. These surfaces must be kept free of debris, dry, and equipped with anti-slip materials to prevent slips, trips, and falls, which are common hazards in offshore environments.
• Well Control. Procedures and equipment used to maintain pressure in the wellbore to prevent blowouts. This includes the use of blowout preventers (BOPs), drilling mud, and shear rams to manage formation pressures during drilling operations.
• Workover Rig. A specialized rig used for maintaining or enhancing existing wells. Workover rigs perform tasks like repairing casing, replacing pumps, and cleaning out obstructions to restore production.

X

• X-Mas Tree (Christmas Tree). A valve assembly installed on top of a wellhead to control the flow of hydrocarbons. The tree includes a series of valves, spools, and chokes to manage pressure and regulate production flow.
• X-Ray Inspection. A non-destructive testing (NDT) method using X-rays to detect internal flaws or defects in metal components, pipelines, and welds on offshore rigs.

Y

• Yoke. A structural component of a drilling rig that supports and aligns the rotary table or top drive system. Yokes must be inspected regularly to ensure structural integrity and safety.

Z

• Zone Isolation. The process of using packers, plugs, or cement to isolate specific zones within a wellbore to prevent fluid migration between formations or undesired production zones.
• Zero Emission Systems. Technologies and practices used on offshore rigs to minimize greenhouse gas emissions, including flare gas recovery systems and carbon capture and storage (CCS) solutions.

Source: AIDC