Oil and Gas Technical Expertise

  . Beyond the Checkbox: Why a Smart Written Scheme of Examination (WSE) is Critical for Safety and Compliance In high-stakes industries like oil and gas, a simple inspection checklist just won't cut it. To truly ensure safety and regulatory compliance, you need a robust, structured framework: the Written Scheme of Examination (WSE) . A well-designed WSE is more than paperwork—it's the backbone of an effective integrity management system, providing a clear roadmap for inspecting and maintaining safety-critical equipment. What is a WSE and Why Does it Matter? A WSE is a formal, detailed document that sets out how safety-critical equipment must be inspected to remain fit for service. Unlike a basic maintenance schedule, a WSE defines five key elements: What is to be examined (the scope). How it will be examined (methodology). When inspections must occur (intervals). Who is qualified to do it (competence). What to do with the results (records & reporting). For hydrocarbon...

  From Chatter to Catastrophe: The Priolo Incident and Why Tier 3 Process Safety Events Matter The hum of an industrial plant is a symphony of controlled chaos. But sometimes, a single discordant note—like the rapid cycling of a pressure safety valve (PSV)—can signal a fundamental flaw that threatens the entire operation. The 1985 Priolo PSV chattering incident serves as a stark reminder of this, highlighting how an unheeded warning sign, a Tier 3 process safety event , can escalate into a full-blown disaster. The Anatomy of an Incident: The Mechanics of Failure In 1985, a catastrophic explosion at a facility in Priolo, Italy, was traced back to a seemingly minor issue: a chattering PSV. Chattering is the rapid opening and closing of a PSV, which generates severe vibrations. These vibrations, in turn, damaged the connected piping , leading to a leak of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) that eventually ignited. The post-incident investigation revealed a combination of design and operat...