IO for Proactive Environmental Protection (IOPEP):Smart solutions for development, visualisation & integration of dependable work processes

During the last two years, the oil industry on the NCS (Norwegian Continental Shelf) had two significant incidents with considerable environmental impact and potential for major accident. The oil discharge from Statfjord OLS-A resulted in the second large st oil spill from the petroleum activities on the NCS. The hydrocarbon leak in the utility shaft on Statfjord A had far less oil spill, but a clear potential for developing into a major accident. Underlying causes are pointed out be unclear and inadequate risk assessment, inadequate responsibility, and inadequate risk comprehension. Lessons learned and long-term actions from the incidents are directly relevant for management of the work process system, how to do experience transfer, and governing document ation. Seen from this angle, processes improving management and sharing of knowledge, use of expertise and risk assessment are required components for proactive environmental protection. The objective of this project is to provide knowledge and IO-based (Integrated Operations) tools for monitoring and proactive protection of the environment potentially affected by oil&gas installations on the NCS, including the Arctic regions. The project will address upper levels of environmental IO, i.e. collaborative work processes and decision-making. The research efforts will contribute to the development of next generation intelligent, interactive, and potentially automated digital work process and knowledge management systems adapted to environmental needs. The chosen demonstrator process is environmental management with focus on efficient utilisation of distributed competence (IO support centres, dedicated specialists in operational departments, and local experts), opportunities for more efficient integration a nd management of regulations, and enforecement of compliance to environmental regulations and requirements.