Office/Division Program
TCP
Project Number
5031
Peer Review Type
Not Influential/Waived
Peer Review Type Clarification
Not representing BSEE's Official Position due to data gathering without direct influence on BSEE decisions
Category
Research Initiation Date (Award Date)
Research Completion Date (POP End)
Research Performing Organization
Argonne National Labs (ANL)
Research Principal Investigator
Erna Gevondyan
Research Contracting Agency
Research Contract Award Value
$5,000,000.00
Description
see Final Research Abstract
Latest progress update
complete
Final Research Abstract
Offshore oil and gas operators increasingly use Coiled Tubing (CT) technology to conduct well interventions with greater safety and efficiency. To enhance oversight of these operations, the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE) partnered with Argonne National Laboratory and industry representatives to develop a risk‑informed inspection approach focused on CT equipment and well control practices. Using Argonne’s Risk‑Informed Decision-Making (RIDM) framework—centered on Multiple Physical Barriers and Success Path analysis—the project identified critical components and conditions that elevate risk during CT operations. A Failure Modes, Effects, and Criticality Assessment (FMECA) highlighted the need for an independent hydraulic safety system and informed revisions to the upcoming 2nd Edition of API RP 16ST.
A major project outcome was a comprehensive, risk‑informed CT Equipment and Operations Checklist to support BSEE inspectors and engineers during permitting and field inspections. This tool formed the basis of a 32‑hour CT training program delivered across the Gulf of Mexico Region, improving staff understanding of CT configurations, operational hazards, and emerging safety issues. The collaboration strengthened industry awareness of risk‑based equipment specification and redundant safety elements, offering a model for future risk‑informed regulatory partnerships.
A major project outcome was a comprehensive, risk‑informed CT Equipment and Operations Checklist to support BSEE inspectors and engineers during permitting and field inspections. This tool formed the basis of a 32‑hour CT training program delivered across the Gulf of Mexico Region, improving staff understanding of CT configurations, operational hazards, and emerging safety issues. The collaboration strengthened industry awareness of risk‑based equipment specification and redundant safety elements, offering a model for future risk‑informed regulatory partnerships.