Offshore staff
OSLO, Norway – Petroleum Safety Authority (PSA) Norway has approved Statoil’s plans for modifications to the Snorre A platform in the North Sea. These involve upgrades and replacement of drilling modules.
Production from Snorre started in 1992. The changes are needed to extend the working lifespan of the drilling facilities until 2040, and to improve the working environment, safety, and regularity on the platform. They should also reduce the risk of discharges to sea. Work is scheduled to start in October and be completed in 2015.
Additionally, PSA has authorized Statoil to use the semisubmersibleOcean Vanguard to drill exploration well 16/2-17 B on the North Sea Johan Sverdrup field.
This will be a side track to appraisal well 16/2-17 S, drilling of which started on March 21, in 111 m (364 ft) water depth. Total duration, including the side track, could be up to 150 days.
In the Norwegian Sea, PSA has sanctioned use of theMSV Regalia accommodation rig alongside the Draugen platform.
Operator Norske Shell is performing upgrades on the platform, including to the living quarters and lifeboat system. TheRegalia, which will provide increased accommodation capacity, will remain on station through Oct. 31.
5/07/2013
