API Issues New Safety Standard for Upstream Layflat Hoses
The American Petroleum Institute (API) (Washington, DC, USA) has issued a new standard aimed at driving safety and environmental protection in upstream operations that use layflat hoses. The API describes these hoses as unique, high-pressure equipment used to transport water associated with onshore oil and natural gas production operations.
“Safety often begins with the manufacture of equipment to API’s stringent specifications and is fostered by the proper operation and consistent safe use of that equipment throughout oil and natural gas operations,” says Debra Phillips, senior vice president of API’s global industry services division.
“By setting the first global standard for safe operation of layflat hoses, API’s new standard aims to improve workplace safety, process reliability, and environmental protection,” Phillips adds.
Recommended Practice 15WT, Operations for Layflat Hose in Oilfield Water Applications, is API’s first global standard to address the safe use of layflat hoses in oilfield water applications by incorporating best operating practices. According to API, compliance with the recommended practice ensures operators and users are handling and deploying the equipment to maintain the integrity of layflat hoses when transporting water at consistently high volumes and under high pressures.
The new API RP 15WT includes workplace procedures and protocols aimed at driving safe use of production equipment by calling for users to:
- Conduct thorough risk management evaluations in advance of layflat hose deployment to account for environmental impacts when using these hoses;
- Avoid operating layflat hoses under water;
- Install pressure gauges and alarm systems at water transfer pumps to provide continuous operator feedback and alert personnel of overpressure or abnormal changes in pressure;
- Perform pre-job and hydraulic testing; and,
- Prepare a spill response plan to mitigate environmental and operational risks associated with spills.
RP 15WT also outlines proper actions for storage and transportation, including the retrieval and respooling of layflat hoses and actions that need to be taken to protect on-site workers during draining and pigging operations.
In addition to RP 15WT, a new product specification for the manufacture of layflat hose assemblies is forthcoming from API. The specification will also include performance requirements for layflat hose materials and couplings. Together, the recommended practices and specifications are aimed at further driving the safety, reliability, and environmental integrity of layflat hoses.
Source: API, www.api.org.