Sea Lion Development

Sea Lion Phase 1

Oil Spill Strategy for Offshore Operations

A01 Issued For Review Braemar/Aiuká 26/09/17 L Lindgren 10/10/17 R Lobeck 10/10/17
Rev Reason for Issue Author Date Checker Date Approver Date

This document contains proprietary information belonging to Premier Document Number Rev
Oil and must not be wholly or partially reproduced nor disclosed
without prior written permission from Premier Oil.

The master copy of this document is held electronically within FK-SL-PMO-EV-STY-0007 A01
Premier’s Document Management System. If you are using a paper
copy or a digital issue of this document, it is your responsibility to
ensure it is the latest version.
 Oil Spill Strategy for Offshore Operations
Document No: FK-SL-PMO-EV-STY-0007 REV. A01

Revision History

Amendment Revision Amender Amendment

Date Number Initials

Stakeholders
Stakeholders will be agreed with the Approver during small group review.

Name Position Date Reviewed

Jon Boot Falkland Islands Business Unit Manager

Richard Lobeck Group Head of HSES & Technical Safety

David Hartell Senior Development Manager

Tim Martin Country Manager

Pippa Christie Deputy Country Manager

Lindsey Lindgren Senior Project Engineer - Offtake

Mike Mason Senior Environmental Manager

Sean Hayes Environmental Advisor

Jon Boot Falkland Islands Business Unit Manager

Dominic Murphy Drilling, Logistics and Infrastructure Manager

Tom Andrews FPSO FEED Manager

Related Documents

Document Number Document Name Description of

Content
EIS, FK-SL-PMO-EV-REP-0008 Environmental Impact Statement

FK-SL-PMO-EV-STY-0003 Oil Spill Strategy for Inshore Crude Oil Transfer Operations

FK-SL-PMO-EV-STY-0008 Oil Spill Strategy for Stanley Harbour Operations

FK-SL-PMO-EV-REP-0012 OSOP Report Oil Spill on Paper Workshop Report

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Holds

Hold Number Description of Hold

1
2

4
5

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Table of Contents

Revision History 2
Stakeholders 2
Related Documents 2
Holds 3
Structure of this Document 6
1 Oil Spill Response Strategy Overview 7
1.1 Introduction 7
2 Project Scope 8
2.1 Overview Sea Lion Project Offshore Activities 8
2.2 Infrastructure 9
2.3 Support Vessels 11
3 Oil Inventories and Oil Characteristics 13
3.1 Oil Inventories 13
3.2 Sea Lion Crude Properties 14
3.3 Fuel Characteristics 17
4 Oil Spill Scenarios and Oil Fate and Effects 18
4.1 Overview 18
4.2 Oil Spill Scenarios 18
4.3 Oil Spill Fate Modelling 18
5 Environmental and Socioeconmic Sensitivities 28
5.1 The Environmental Impacts of Oil Spills 28
5.2 Seabirds 28
5.3 Protected Areas 29
5.4 Coastal Sensitivity 31
5.5 Commercial Fisheries 32
5.6 Commercial Shipping 32
6 Industry Standard Mitigation Measures 34
7 Response Measures 35
7.1 Overview 35
7.2 Net Environmental Benefit Analysis 35
7.3 Monitor and Evaluate 35
7.4 Containment at Source 36

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7.5 Containment and Recovery at Sea 36

7.6 Use of Dispersants 39
7.7 Enhanced Natural Dispersion 39
7.8 Well Control 39
7.9 Shoreline Response 42
7.10 Waste Management 44
7.11 Command Structure 46
7.12 Offshore Response Strategy Flow Charts 48
8 Oiled Wildlife Response Strategy 51
8.1 Background 51
8.2 Objectives 51
8.3 Tiered Wildlife Response 52
8.4 General Response to Differing Species 52
8.5 Oiled Wildlife Response Actions 53
8.6 Premier Oiled Wildlife Equipment 56
8.7 Premier Oiled Wildlife Strategy 57
9 Oil Spill Assets and Competency Training 59
9.1 Oil Spill Response Resources 59
9.2 Personnel and Training 66
10 Effectiveness Assessment 68
10.1 Overview 68
10.2 Scenario 1 Effectiveness 68
10.3 Scenario 2 Effectiveness 72
11 Conclusions 77
12 References 78

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STRUCTURE OF THIS DOCUMENT

This document sets out the oil spill response strategy for offshore operations for the Sea Lion project. The
structure of the document is as follows:

Section Content Key Supporting Information

1 Oil Spill Response High-level oil spill response ITOPF Contingency Planning for
Strategy Overview strategy Marine Oil Spills
BEIS OPEP guidance
2 Scope Introduction and background to Project Premise
the Sea Lion Project offshore Environmental Impact Statement
activities

3 Oil Characteristics Understanding the behaviour Oil property test reports (Intertek,
spilled oil. Oilfield Technology Ltd,
SpillConsult).
CEDRE report
Inshore Strategy Document
EIS Document
4 Oil Spill Scenario Worst Case Spill Scenarios EIS Document

5 Environmental Key environmental sensitivities Database of supporting surveys and

Sensitivities baseline information.
6 Mitigation Measures An account of the proposed
mitigation measures
7 Oil Spill Response Details of the response methods Inshore Environmental Modelling
Strategy proposed to contain and recover Report.
oil, for surveillance, to protect Waste Strategy
shorelines, to deal with waste and Expert input
to manage wildlife impacts for IPIECA/IOGP Good Practice JIP &
typical scenarios. ITOPF Guidelines
8 Oiled Wildlife How Premier will respond to an OSOP Report
Response offshore oiled wildlife response Expert input
event
9 Oil Spill Assets and An account of Premier oil spill Expert input
Training response equipment that will be
available in the Falkland Islands
and the levels of competency
training.
10 Effectiveness Test Details of how Premier intends to OSOP Report
respond to a worst case subsea
well blowout
Overall effectiveness of the
response

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1 OIL SPILL RESPONSE STRATEGY OVERVIEW

1.1 Introduction

This document provides an overview of Premier Oil’s, (Premier), offshore response strategy and reviews the
mitigation of risk to environmental and socioeconomic receptors by assessing the impact of two identified
worst case scenarios. The strategy addresses the planned drilling, construction and production phases of
the Sea Lion project.
This document is not an Oil Spill Contingency Plan (OSCP), but an overall strategy. Prior to consent of
drilling or production being granted, an OSCP will be developed as a separate document for FIG approval
and will outline organisational responsibilities, actions, reporting requirements, and resources available to
ensure a timely and effective response in accordance to the following legislative requirements.
- Offshore Minerals Ordinance 1994 (FI)
- Marine Environment (Protection) Ordinance 1995 (FI)
- Offshore Petroleum Activities (Oil Pollution and Control) (Amendment) Regulations 2011 (UK)
- The Merchant Shipping (Oil Pollution Preparedness, Response Co-operation Convention)
Regulations 1998 (OPRC Regulations) (Amendment 2015) (UK)
- The Offshore Installation (Emergency Pollution Control) Regulations 2002 (EPC Regulations) (UK)
- PON 08 Oil Pollution, requires that all release of oil to the sea must be reported as soon as possible
to:
o The Department of Mineral Resources as regulator; and
o The Department of Natural Resources as incident command, National Oil Spill Contingency
Plan (NOSCP).
- Relevant guidance set out in the Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS) Guidance Notes for
Preparing Oil Pollution and Emergency Plans (OPEP), December 2016.
As well as being in accordance with the above legislation, the final OPEP will be compatible with:
- The Falkland Islands National Oil Spill Contingency Plan,
- Premier Oil Spill Contingency Plan for Inshore Crude Oil Transfer Operations
- Vessels Ship of Oil Pollution Emergency Plans (SOPEP),
- Premier Emergency and Crisis Management Plan,
- Contractors Emergency and Crisis Management.
Premier’s preparedness and response capability to an offshore oil spill will be in-line with the tiered response
framework according to the IPIECA/IMO international standard model of ‘Tiered preparedness and
Response’ to ensure that there is sufficient preparedness and response capability to commensurate the risk
to the environmental and socioeconomic receptors.
Tier 1: - An oil spill that will be mitigated solely using the local offshore response resources held by Premier
Tier 2: - An oil spill requiring support from additional Premier resources that are not in the vicinity of the Sea
Lion Field.
Tier 3: - An oil spill incident requiring international resources

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2 PROJECT SCOPE

2.1 Overview Sea Lion Project Offshore Activities

The Sea Lion Field lies in water depths of approximately 450m and is located in Block 14/10 in hydrocarbon
license area PL032, approximately 220 km north of the Falkland Islands. The Phase 1 Development is
proposed as the first phase of the Sea Lion Field development with a field life of 20 years and it is estimated
that approximately 223 million barrels (P50 case) of oil can be recovered in this Phase.
The proposed Phase 1 offshore development is expected to consist of 22 clustered oil production and Water
Injection (WI) wells and a single remote Gas Production / Injection (GPI) well, all of which will be drilled from
a Mobile Offshore Drilling Unit (MODU). However, the development may involve drilling a maximum of 30
wells which will comprise of 28 cluster wells (production and WI wells) and two remote GPI wells.
Production operations will be carried out using a Floating, Production, Storage and Offload (FPSO) unit
located approximately 1.6 km from the Drill Centre (DC), which is the location of the clustered production and
WI wells and approximately 6.5 km and 4.2 km from the remote GPI well(s) located as highlighted in Figure
2.1.

Figure 2.1 Sea Lion Phase 1 configuration (illustrative only)

Once operational, the production wells will produce reservoir fluids to the FPSO. Once the FPSO cargo tanks
are full of stabilised Sea Lion crude oil, the base case for crude offloading is to transfer oil from the FPSO
into a dynamically positioned Offshore Loading Shuttle Tanker (OLST) with a capacity of around 150,000
tonnes (c. 1,000,000 barrels). The capacity is greater than that of the FPSO such that the OLST will receive
one load of oil and will then standby in the field until the FPSO is ready to offload a second cargo. Once the

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OLST has received around 150,000 tonnes of cargo from the FPSO, it will begin its transit to Berkeley Sound
on the east coast of East Falkland to carry out a transhipment of the oil from the OLST to a purchaser’s
Conventional Trading Tanker (CTT), termed Inshore Transfer.
The ability to conduct Inshore Transfer operations is essential for the viability of the project. It is possible
that an alternative option to offload the FPSO directly to a purchaser’s CTT could become viable in the
future subject to further review of the environmental and safety risk, availability and commerciality, but
inshore transfer would nevertheless be required as a contingency.
The approximate project schedule is provided in Table 2.1; however, note that this may be subject to change
following the Front End Engineering and Design (FEED) process.
Table 2.1 Indicative Sea Lion Development Phase 1 project schedule

Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5 Year 6 Yr 7-23 Year 23

Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4

Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4

Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4

Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
Stage 1: Mobilisation of materials and
equipment, drilling (commencing Q3 Year
2) / well construction installation of
subsea facilities commences immediately
a
post sanction, HUC of the FPSO and
‘first-oil’

Stage 2: Post first-oil drilling,

and concurrent production
operations and oil export c.3
years post sanction

Stage 3:
Production
operations
and oil export
Stage 4:
b
Decom
a
Hook Up and Commissioning – physical connection, function testing and introduction of well fluids / hydrocarbons
b
Decommissioning is outwith the scope of this document

2.2 Infrastructure

2.2.1 Mobile Offshore Drilling Unit (MODU)

Drilling operations of Phase 1 will be carried out using a semi-submersible drilling rig.
While in position, a statutory 500m exclusion zone will be established around the MODU in accordance with
safety legislation. Unauthorised vessels, including fishing vessels, will not be permitted access to the 500m
zone unless approved by the MODU OIM. An Emergency Response and Recovery Vessel (ERRV) will be
present while the MODU is on location.
At the time of writing, the contract for the MODU has not yet been awarded for the Phase 1 Development.

2.2.2 Number and type of wells

For the Phase 1 Development, a maximum of 30 wells will be connected (‘tied-back’) to the FPSO.
The maximum 30 development well configuration comprises:

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 20 oil production wells (hereafter referred to as just ‘production’ wells);

 2 dual purpose Gas Producer / Injection GPI wells; and
 8 WI wells.
The production and Water Injector (WI) wells will be drilled around a single (clustered) Drill Centre (DC) for
the base case 22 well configuration. A second Drill centre will be used for the 30 well case. The GPI well(s)
will be drilled as remote wells.

2.2.3 Pre-First-oil wells

Of the maximum 30 wells to be drilled, 13 wells will be drilled and completed pre-first-oil. Depending on the
well type, these will be drilled in batch sequence. The 13 wells will comprise:
 Seven oil production wells (cluster wells tied back to two 10 slot production manifolds);
 Five WI wells (cluster wells tied back to a single eight slot WI manifold); and
 One GPI well (remote well tied back to the FPSO separately).
Once drilling is complete, the FPSO will then flow-back and test these wells and start production (‘First-Oil’).

2.2.4 Post-First-oil wells

Once production has commenced from the first 13 wells, the remaining wells will be drilled and completed
sequentially. These remaining wells will also be drilled from the MODU, comprising:
 Up to 13 oil production wells (cluster wells tied back to two 10 slot production manifolds);
 Up to 3 WI wells (cluster well tied back to the single eight slot WI manifold); and
 Potentially one further remote GPI well.
These wells will then also be tied back, tested and produced through the FPSO.

2.2.5 Subsea construction phase

To facilitate the installation of the subsea infrastructure, it is expected that up to three Large Transport
Vessels (LTVs) will be moored in Berkeley Sound for a period of up to 12 months and will be attended by
subsea construction vessels importing equipment and transporting equipment to and from the field. Each
LTV will have an individual 500m exclusion zone, and Premier will consult with FIG to identify optimum
locations within Berkeley Sound that will cause the least disruption to other users during periods of high
marine traffic in the Sound
The LTVs and attendant vessels will have inventories of MGO and potentially IFO.

2.2.6 Subsea production facilities

The subsea production facilities consist of:
 A X-mas tree located on each well;
 Subsea manifolds and pipelines:
o Two production manifolds;
o One WI manifold;
o Subsea Umbilicals, Risers and Flowlines:
o Flexible flowlines between the manifolds and the FPSO;
o Flexible jumpers between the two production manifolds as well as between wells and
manifolds;
o Hydraulic and electric flying leads between the two production manifolds, the production and
WI manifolds as well as between wells and manifolds;
o Control and chemical injection umbilicals;
 Installation supports:
o Sandbags, grout bags and gravel bags used as markers and construction aids; and
o Temporary clump weights for installation of equipment and downlines for hydrotesting.

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2.2.6.1 Subsea X-mas trees

The X-mas trees used to enable well control during production are installed from the MODU during the well
completion stage. For the wells drilled pre-first-oil, these will be installed in batches to optimise efficiency of
the operation. The post-first-oil wells will be installed sequentially following completion of each well so that
each well can start producing as soon as it is completed.
The X-mas trees will be fully tested on leaving the manufacturer and again onshore in the Falkland Islands
for integrity testing prior to installation rather than conducting the testing offshore. Details on this will be
defined during the FEED.
2.2.6.2 Subsea manifolds and pipelines
The flowlines between the manifolds and FPSO will include both a seabed and midwater (riser) section.
These flowlines will convey:
 Produced fluids (oil, gas and water) from the wells to the FPSO (production); and
 Water and gas from the FPSO to the wells.

2.2.7 FPSO
Premier propose to use a ‘lease and operate’ FPSO for the field-life of 20 years. The FPSO will be a
converted Suezmax oil tanker that will be moored at the Sea Lion Field upon arrival in the Falkland Islands.
The cargo tanks of the vessel will be double skinned and double bottomed and the conversion will involve
the installation of the following onto the tanker hull:
 Processing facilities, utilities and control systems;
 Living quarters; and
 An internal turret mooring system which will be dis-connectable and will enable the FPSO to weather
vane.
The FPSO will operate as a self-sufficient unit with export of produced oil via offloading to a OLST (or directly
to a CTT).

2.3 Support Vessels

Table 2.2 identifies the different vessels available throughout the phases of the Sea Lion Project which are
available to support oil spill response activities. The Table includes the MODU and the FPSO as they will
have adequate resources to effectively respond to and remediate small localised spills on the facilities.
Table 2.2 Support vessels able to provide offshore oil spill response throughout the Sea Lion Project

Vessel Vessel purpose Oil Spill Response

Stage 1: MODU Drilling operations

Pre-first-oil drilling. Potential installation of conductors

and, definite installation of casings, wellheads, BOP Tier 1 Oil Spill Response
MODU
and X-mas tree upon well completion for first tranche on the MODU
of wells
Anchor handling tugs Towing and positioning of MODU to the Falkland Utilised for Tier 1 – 3 Oil
(AHTs) (No. 1 and 2) Islands and between the DC and the GPI well locations Spill Response
Emergency Response and Rescue Vessel (ERRV): Utilised for Tier 1 – 3 Oil
ERRV
Provision of standby emergency support for the MODU Spill Response

Stage 2: Concurrent drilling and production

Post-first-oil drilling. Potential installation of conductors

and, definite installation of casings, wellheads, BOP Tier 1 Oil Spill Response
MODU
and X-mas tree upon well completion for remaining on the MODU
wells

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Towing and positioning of MODU to the Falkland

Anchor handling tugs Utilised for Tier 1 – 3 Oil
Islands and between the DC and the GPI well
(AHTs) (No. 1 and 2) Spill Response
locations. Removal of MODU from the Sea Lion Field
FPSO Floating Production Storage and Offloading Facility SOPEP
Provision of supplies to the MODU and FPSO during
SIMOPs and/ or supporting the OLST and CTT as they
enter Berkeley Sound for Inshore Transfer of crude. Tier 1 – 3 Oil Spill
MRSV No. 1
Will be equipped with oil spill response equipment Response
(booms, skimmer and heated waste oil storage
capacity
Emergency Response and Rescue Vessel (ERRV):
Tier 1 – 3 Oil Spill
MRSV No. 2 Provision of standby emergency support for the MODU
Response
and FPSO
SOPEP and Response
On standby in Sea Lion Field awaiting offtake from
equipment to mitigate the
FPSO and transit to Berkeley Sound for Inshore
risk of spills during
OLST Transfer once full (assume maximum of one Inshore
Transfer operations. Also
Transfer per fortnight during Stage 2 at 3.5 days per
h used as tertiary waste
transfer operation
storage.
Purchaser’s vessel used for receipt of Sea Lion crude
CTT SOPEP
and export to market

Escort / assist of the CTT into Berkeley Sound and to

the Mooring Buoy (attached to the CTT throughout). Utilised for Tier 1 – 3 Oil
Will occur every fortnight (during peak production) for Spill Response.
ISV three days per Inshore Transfer. Located in Stanley for Predominately for inshore
rest of time. The vessels will also be equipped with oil transfers but with offshore
spill response equipment (booms, skimmer and heated capability.
j
waste oil storage capacity)

Stage 3: Steady state production

FPSO Floating Production Storage and Offloading Facility SOPEP

Provision of supplies to the MODU and FPSO during
SIMOPs and/ or supporting the OLST and CTT as they
enter Berkeley Sound for Inshore Transfer of crude. Tier 1 – 3 Oil Spill
MRSV No. 1
Will be equipped with oil spill response equipment Response
(booms, skimmer and heated waste oil storage
capacity
Emergency Response and Rescue Vessel (ERRV):
Tier 1 – 3 Oil Spill
MRSV No. 2 Provision of standby emergency support for the MODU
Response
and FPSO
SOPEP and Response
On standby in Sea Lion Field awaiting offtake from
equipment to mitigate the
FPSO and transit to Berkeley Sound for Inshore
risk of spills during
OLST Transfer once full (assume maximum of one Inshore
Transfer operations. Also
Transfer per fortnight during Stage 2 at 3.5 days per
h used as tertiary waste
transfer operation
storage.
Purchaser’s vessel used for receipt of Sea Lion crude
CTT SOPEP
and export to market

Escort / assist of the CTT into Berkeley Sound and to

the Mooring Buoy (attached to the CTT throughout). Utilised for Tier 1 – 3 Oil
Will occur every fortnight (during peak production) for Spill Response.
ISV three days per Inshore Transfer. Located in Stanley for Predominately for inshore
rest of time. The vessels will also be equipped with oil transfers but with offshore
spill response equipment (booms, skimmer and heated capability.
j
waste oil storage capacity)

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3 OIL INVENTORIES AND OIL CHARACTERISTICS

The type of oil can influence the nature of the impact to environmental and socioeconomic receptors. When
oil is released into the marine environment, its physical and chemical properties will change over time.
These changes are dependent on type and quantities of oil spilled and the meteorological and oceanic
conditions to which the oil is exposed to over time. Understanding these changes can assist in determining
the appropriate response strategies and the window of opportunities for effectively responding to a spill.
This section of the document identifies the types and volumes of oils at risk of being spilt, quantity and the
physical and chemical changes that they may experience in the marine environment.

3.1 Oil Inventories

Table 3.1 below shows the estimated oil inventories for the offshore operations.
Table 3.1: Potential maximum hydrocarbon inventories

Source Vessel Inventory Volume / Type

3
Well Well Crude Oil 83,196 m worst case over 77 days
3
Helideck Aviation Fuel Est 10 m Kerosene
3
Base Oil 406 m
3
MODU Unknown Liquid mud 1,657 m (oil based mud, water based mud)
3
Drilling bulks e.g. cement 350 m
3
Marine Diesel Est. 4,631 m
3
123,942 m (note a larger volume has been
Crude Oil
modelled to include for a tanker collision scenario)
FPSO FPSO
3 3
Marine Diesel 3,300 m (stern) and 2,700 m (bow)
3
Total crude volume 165,000 m crude oil in 6 x 2 tank configuration
Offshore 3
Cargo tank 15,000 m crude oil
Loading
Shuttle tanker 3
Fuel bunker 4,500 m IFO
(OLST)
3
Fuel bunker 1,000 m MGO
Tanker
a
traffic 3
Total crude volume 165,000 m crude oil in 6 x 2 tank configuration
3
Conventional Cargo tank 15,000 m crude oil
Trading
3 b
Tanker (CTT) Fuel bunker 4,500 m Intermediate Fuel Oil (IFO)
3 c
Fuel bunker 1,000 m Marine Diesel Oil / Marine Gas Oil (MGO)
3
Tanker Loading hoses 40 m (2 hoses) crude oil
3
MRSV Diesel tanks 600 m
3
Support AHV Diesel tanks 600 m
Vessel
3
ERRV Diesel tanks 600 m

ISV; escort 3
Diesel tanks 600 m
tug

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Large Fuel Bunker 1,340 tonnes Intermediate Fuel Oil (IFO)

Subsea
d Transport
installation
Vessel (LTV) Fuel Bunker 290 tonnes Marine Gas Oil (MGO)

Third-party 3
Jigger Diesel tanks 600 m
vessels
a
Tanker traffic being considered is Suezmax (a standard definition of a tanker capable of transiting the Suez Canal) comprising 6 x 2
cargo tanks. Each cargo tank typically 15,000 m 3
b
Intermediate Fuel Oil (IFO) is a viscous fuel oil that is often blended with marine gas oil or diesel to use in engines in transit.
c
Marine Gas Oil (MGO), marine diesel and diesel are available in a number of different forms with similar properties and all represent a
light, dispersible and evaporative fuel. d Subsea installation vessel is not part of the inshore transfer operation but will be located at the
inshore transfer site for a limited period prior to operations commencing.

3.2 Sea Lion Crude Properties

3.2.1 Overview
Sea Lion crude is atypical given its extremely high wax content. Crude oils with high wax content tend to
congeal rapidly on release as they cool to ambient temperature. Tests were undertaken to determine the
weathering, behaviour and potential impacts of Sea Lion crude, and a summary of results is presented
below, for full details see (CEDRE, 2017).
Table 3.2 Results of CEDRE Sea Lion crude oil tests (CEDRE, 2017)

Aspect Test results Implication for risk assessment and

/ or spill response
Specific Gravity SG is 0.833, i.e. the density is 0.833 tonnes per cubic Less dense than seawater (S.G 1.027
(S.G) metre and readily floats
Wax content Very high wax content of 42.3 % measured by The crude is solid at ambient
gravimetric analysis temperature and resists physical
breakup into smaller particles.
Pour point Oil remains solid until heated to 39 °C The crude is solid at ambient
temperature and on the sea surface
and does not spread once cooled. It
must be heated to >39°C to flow under
the action of gravity. At higher
pressures, it can be pumped at lower
temperatures e.g. 25°C for oil
recovery.
Physical state Immediately solidified in contact with water at As above. Individual oil masses do
when in contact Falklands seawater temperature not tend to coagulate together once
with water / cooled.
ambient air
temperature
Evaporation True Boiling Point data indicates that at 140 °C up to In the event of a spill, very little will
2.8 % volume of the crude evaporates (this is evaporate so the mass of oil spilled
extrapolated to the fraction lost over a weathering will not reduce greatly as the crude
period of approximately 0.5 – 1 day in reality). The weathers at sea. The density of the
maximum evaporation was found to be 11.7 % volume, oil will increase slightly by
which represents evaporation over 3-7 days evaporation, but not enough to sink in
weathering in reality. seawater.
Dispersion In a test environment, the oil was released in simulated Masses of oil from an oil spill would
open sea conditions: not break up after weathering at sea
 Approximated to Beaufort sea state 3 but remain in discrete clumps
(corresponding parameters in the ‘polludrome’ (test
environment) were wave height 20cm, mean period
3s, current speed 40cm/s, wind 5m/s, volume of
3
seawater 7 m );
 Sea temperature 8 °C;
 Solar energy was created using UV light; and
 Water continuously circulated for 7 days.
No dispersion of the oil into the water column or

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Aspect Test results Implication for risk assessment and

/ or spill response
significant breakup of the oil masses was recorded.
The test environment energy was then increased to
breaking wave conditions for 3 days, and no difference
in the oil behaviour was observed.
Response to The oil does not respond to chemical dispersants. Chemical dispersants will not be
chemical Dispersants did not penetrate the surface of cooled oil. effective on spilled oil and are not
dispersion recommended
Biodegradation The high alkane content of the oil means it will If not recovered, the oil would remain
biodegrade but due to the high wax content this is in the environment as a solid (for at
expected to take some time. least seven days) until eventually
breaking up and biodegrading
Interaction with Tests at 5 and 100 parts per million (ppm) showed that This indicates that at low
suspended solids after 5 days there was no interaction between the oil concentrations such as at sea, the oil
and the suspended solids at 5 ppm, and some is unlikely to interact with suspended
particles were adsorbed onto the surface of the oil at solids and fall into the water column.
100 ppm but the oil remained floating At much higher concentrations, there
will be some interaction, and over long
periods of exposure to suspended
solids e.g. near beaches, the oil may
eventually sink to the seabed
Adhesion to Adhesion to feathers was tested by dipping feathers In the event of a spill, the
feathers from nine species found around the Falklands into two concentration of oil will affect the
oil spill scenarios and one produced water discharge amount of oil adsorbed by birds’
scenario: feathers.
2
Spill scenario At concentrations of 1kg/m all
 Feathers were dipped into a concentration of species tested were stained but thin-
2
100g/m oil in sea water: billed prion and imperial feathers
showed greater adhesion, suggesting
o No oil was adsorbed by feathers; and these species may be more
o No structural damage was observed. susceptible
 At a concentration of 1 kg/m :
2 Emulation of produced water
discharge caused adhesion of oil
o All feathers were stained by the oil and two particles to all species of feathers
species (thin-billed prion and imperial shag) tested
had microparticles stick to them; and
In all scenarios tested no structural
o No structural damage was observed. damage to the feathers was observed
Produced water scenario although the barbules (the ‘feathery’
linkages in between the feather
 At a concentration of dispersed oil at 10 mg/l with oil
structure) were dis-arranged
droplets of ~100 microns:
o Oil particles were observed on all feathers;
o All species adsorbed similar amounts of oil;
and
o No structural damage was observed.
Pelt and fur Tests are planned for pelt and fur adhesion TBC
adhesion
Sheen formation TBC TBC
and visibility
Emulsification See above test conditions for ‘Dispersion’. During release, and to some extent
Around 5 % emulsification was observed, although in during dispersion, the volume of oil is
the form of water trapped in solid oil rather than a true likely to increase by around 5 % due
emulsion. to water trapped in the oil
Dissolved See above test conditions for ‘Dispersion’. Water column impacts are more likely
fractions in the No PAH dissolved into the water column after seven to arise from ingestion of oil rather
water column days than contamination of the water
column from any dissolved
components of the oil.
Low risk to shellfish which tend to
accumulate PAH.
Ecotoxicity Tests on the marine algae Skeletonema costatum Sea Lion crude is unlikely to impact
(diatoms) were carried out for 72 hours to determine the upon phytoplankton
concentration which results in 50 % inhibition of growth
rate.
Diatom growth was not affected by Sea Lion crude

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Aspect Test results Implication for risk assessment and

/ or spill response
Ecotoxicity Tests on the copepod Arcatia tonsa were carried out This indicates that Sea Lion crude
(copepods) for 48 hours to determine the lethal toxicity of the crude may impact upon zooplankton in the
to copepods. 20.7g/l of Sea Lion crude in seawater is water column in the event of a spill,
the concentration at which 50 % of test organisms died dependent on the concentration of oil
when compared to a control. This is expressed as
‘EL50 48 hours > 20.7g/l’

Ecotoxicity Tests on the amphipod Corophium sp were carried out This indicates that Sea Lion crude
(amphipods) for 10 days to determine the lethal toxicity of the crude may impact upon benthic
to amphipods. 392 mg/kg of oil in sediments is the assemblages in the event of a spill,
concentration at which 50 % of the test organisms died but at a relatively high concentration
when compared to a control. This is expressed as of oil in the sediments. Amphipods
‘LC50 10 days >392 mg/kg’ are recognised as good indicators of
oil pollution.
Ecotoxicity (fish Tests on embryonic zebra fish (Danio rerio) were This indicates that Sea Lion crude is
eggs) carried out for 96 hours to determine the lethal toxicity unlikely to impact fish eggs in the
of the crude to fish eggs. At all concentrations tested event of a spill
no toxic effects were observed on the fish eggs when
compared to a control. Slight subacute toxicity (<3 %)
was noted.

Adhesion to Three types of seaweed were tested for oil adhesion: Spills that are direct to the beach, and
seaweed sea lettuce (Ulva), Laminaria and Fucus. with the oil still hot would mean
Adhesion to the three seaweeds was tested with hot oil substantial adhesion to seaweed,
to emulate a spill of crude directly onto the beach at though this scenario is very
low tide, though it should be noted that this scenario is unrealistic.
very unrealistic as any spills at sea would mean the oil Spills to water, which then drift onto
solidifies before reaching the shore, even in the case the beach are unlikely to adhere to the
of a tanker grounding, the vessel would ground a seaweed if they reach the shore at
distance from the shore due to its hull depth. high tide or if they reach seaweed that
Oil that had solidified and cooled having been spilled is permanently immersed.
to sea (to emulate a spill which had drifted onto the If cold oil reaches shallow water at the
beach at high tide) was also tested. shore at low tide (i.e. where waves are
Adhesion to the seaweed at low tide can be substantial mixing oil and seaweed on a beach) it
but at high tide interaction was very limited. may strongly adhere to exposed sea
At high hide, the oil remained on the surface of the lettuce and Laminaria.
water and did not stick to the seaweed. Roughness of the seaweed plays a
For cold oil directly applied to seaweed, adhesion to role in the adhesion of the oil.
sea lettuce and Laminaria was strong but less so with
Fucus.
Hot oil directly applied to the seaweed adhered well to
sea lettuce and Fucus but not as much to Laminaria,
with the roughness of the seaweed being important in
the amount of oil adhesion.
Adhesion to Tests were carried out to assess the oil adhesion to If a spill occurs at high tide (i.e. to
shoreline different substrates; two tidal cycles were emulated. water) the oil will stay on the surface
When the crude was spilled at high tide (i.e. to water), of the water and little adhesion to the
the oil solidified on contact with the water and no shoreline should be observed.
contact occurred between the oil and sediments. After If a spill occurs at low tide, directly
two tidal cycles, no adhesion was observed and the oil onto the coast (as noted above an
stays on the water’s surface. unrealistic scenario), adhesion should
When the crude was spilled at low tide (i.e. directly be consequent in rocky and cobbled
onto the substrate which, as noted above is very areas but for sandy sediment,
unrealistic) the oil stayed stuck to the rocky and adhesion should be limited and oil
cobbled shores and was laid on the sandy sediment. easily removed.
After three hours, the oil lifted off the sandy sediments It should be noted here that the tidal
but stayed stuck to the rocky and cobbled shores. range around Berkeley Sound is
After one week, a small amount of oil resurfaced from relatively small.
the rocky sediment but the majority of oil stayed stuck.
After one week, the majority of oil resurfaced from the
cobbled sediment but a small portion remained stuck.
Around 31% of the sediment was stuck to the oil
After one week, no adhesion was observed to the
sandy sediment and all oil remained on the surface of
the water.

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Aspect Test results Implication for risk assessment and

/ or spill response
Removal of oil Hot oil was spread onto standardised granite tiles If spilled directly on rocks (very
from rocky shores manually and allowed to cool. Pressure washing was unlikely), the Sea Lion crude oil could
carried out at 15 °C, 50 °C and 50 bar and 100 bar be efficiently treated by using a high-
pressures. pressure water washer by using hot
Pressure did not seem to play an important role for any water (50°C). It should be noted that,
of the oils but hot water was much more efficient. in real conditions, rocks are not totally
Cleaning efficiency seemed to be slightly better for the cleaned and an oil film will remain, to
Sea Lion crude oil than the heavy fuel oil. be weathered over time.

3.3 Fuel Characteristics

The properties of diesel, IFO and MGO are significantly different to Sea Lion crude and well documented
throughout the oil spill response industry. The physical and chemical properties of the oils undergo a series
of changes due to different weathering processes.
Diesel containing lighter hydrocarbon compounds compared to MGO and IFO will readily spread in the
marine environment where it will change under the processes of dissolution, evaporation and dispersion.
IFO containing heavier hydrocarbon compounds is known to be more ‘persistent’ in the marine environment
remaining visible and undergoing the weathering processes at a slower rate.
When diesel is spilled in the marine environment, it spreads very quickly to form a thin film of iridescent and
silver sheens. MGO and IFO may form a thicker film of dull or dark colours. The fuel oils are less dense than
water, and therefore, it is not possible for diesel to sink and accumulate on the sea floor unless adsorption
occurs with sediment. When dispersed in the water column, it does adhere to fine grained suspended
particles, which can settle out on the sea floor; however, this is less likely to occur in the open marine
settings.
IFO contains Asphaltene giving a moderate tendency to form stable water in oil emulsions when mixed with
sea water. In terms of response measures this is a negative processes as emulsified oils are highly viscous
and can increase the volume of the oil fivefold.
Diesel, IFO and MGO have much lower wax content, compared to Sea Lion crude, and will adhere to
surfaces, fur and feathers, penetrate substrates much more easily.
A summary of physical properties is given in Table 3.3. IFO will be very viscous and tarry at ambient
temperatures, while MGO will continue to flow readily even at very low temperatures.
Table 3.3: Summary of typical fuel properties

Oil type API (°) Specific Gravity Viscosity (cP) Pour point

IFO-380 (typical) 15.2 0.965 10,000 cP at 13 ºC 20C

MGO (typical) 36.4 0.843 3.9 cP at 13 ºC -36C

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4 OIL SPILL SCENARIOS AND OIL FATE AND EFFECTS

4.1 Overview

Sources of oil pollution from the oil and gas industry are many and varied and include catastrophic spill
events as well as small scale releases. During an Environmental Impact Identification (ENVIID) workshop a
number of oil spill scenarios were identified (Premier 2017d).
The two worst-case offshore oil spill scenarios were identified as a subsea well blowout during the drilling
phase and a full inventory loss of the FPSO plus two ruptured tanks from an offloading tanker. These two
scenarios are the baseline study for this strategy document following guidance provided by the UK
Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (DBEIS) guidance on how to develop an OPEP
document and raised concerns by stakeholders. Response strategies to ensure an effective and timely
management of a worst-case spill will be discussed and reviewed throughout this document.
Understanding the likely trajectory of spilt oil helps in identifying the risk to the surrounding environment,
preparing response strategies, and establishing preventative measures to mitigate the consequences of an
oil spill.
The two worst case offshore oil spill scenarios were identified and modelled to determine:
 The severity of an oil spill without a response;
 Fate of the hydrocarbons in terms of the relative amounts dispersed, evaporated, beached,
biodegraded and deposited in sediments;
 Probability of hydrocarbons on the surface or reaching the shore;
 Characteristics of hydrocarbons dissolved in the water column;
 Overall likely transport of oil at sea in terms of density, direction and time.
The model used, input parameters and information obtained from the model plots is discussed throughout
this section of the document.

4.2 Oil Spill Scenarios

4.2.1 Scenario 1 well blowout during drilling phase

Scenario 1 is a subsea well blowout of crude oil at the Sea Lion field during drilling phase. In the unlikely
event that all the preventative industry-standard safeguards and controls fail, it is possible that crude oil
could ‘kick’ into the wellbore leading to an uncontrolled release or blowout. Once drilling finishes, the
likelihood of a well blowout decreases.
This scenario is referred to as Scenario 4 in the Oil Spill on Paper Report, (2017f).

4.2.2 Scenario 2 Full inventory Loss from the FPSO, plus two OLST tanks

Scenario 2 is the worst case possible in terms of inventory loss during simultaneous operations as is
presented in the EIS. Scenario 2 assumes that the full inventory of the FPSO is lost along with 2 tanks from
an offloading tanker. The only credible event that could cause such a release is from a collision with a large
vessel or from an iceberg; however, to illustrate the outer envelope in terms of spill response, the modelling
assumes that the inventory is lost over a 24hr period. There is no credible event that could cause the full
contents of the FPSO to be released on the surface in 24hrs, and again, this is only presented as a
maximum possible case.

4.3 Oil Spill Fate Modelling

The oil spill modelling was used to produce stochastic and deterministic outputs to understand the following:

 Probability of hydrocarbons accumulating on the surface or reaching the shore;

 Characteristics of hydrocarbons dissolved in the water column;

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 Fate of the hydrocarbons in terms of the relative amounts dispersed, evaporated, beached,
biodegraded and deposited in sediments; and
 Overall likely transport of oil at sea in terms of density, direction and time.
For a detailed account of the differences of Stochastic and deterministic modelling refer to the (Premier
2017d), but for the purpose of this document a brief description of the characteristics of each model are
provided below.
Stochastic modelling - carried out by running individual discharge scenarios multiple times over different
time periods (thereby utilising different wind and current conditions) and aggregating the results in order to
report behaviour in some probabilistic or statistical manner.
Deterministic modelling - conducted over a particular time frame which is selected based on the results of
the stochastic model results, deterministic modelling is used to highlight hydrocarbon behaviour over a
specific time frame

4.3.1 Model used

To assess the potential impacts of offshore oil spills on environmental receptors, the release scenarios were
modelled by Premier using the Oil Spill Contingency and Response (OSCAR) model. OSCAR is a
sophisticated 3-dimensional dispersion and fate model developed by Norwegian scientists at the Trondheim
oil weathering laboratories over 30 years and validated with laboratory and full scale tests involving crude oil
such as the DeepSpill JIP tests in 2000 (Johansen et al., 2001).
It utilises detailed information on the environment including metocean, wind, temperature, bathymetry,
coastline and seabed type to predict the transport of oil and the changes in its properties over time and
through energetic weathering processes. It allows response vehicles to be entered into the simulations to
recover oil using real-world properties of vessel speeds, boom types, wave limitations, etc. so that different
response strategies can be compared.
Full details on the OSCAR model and methodology are provided in the EIS, and Environmental Modelling
Report (Premier, 2017).
The ability to model the fate and effects of a spill event is incremental to Premier’s offshore oil spill response
strategy. The Premier Sea Lion incident and emergency management teams located in Stanley and
Aberdeen will have 24-hour access to modelling capability through Tier 3 response providers.
The OSCP document will contain information and procedures for the onshore teams to request oil spill
trajectory models.

4.3.2 Discharge parameters and assumptions used in the modelling

The release parameters used in the oil spill dispersion modelling for each scenario are summarised in Table
4.1. These parameters are based on worst-case scenarios to set an upper boundary in relation to potential
effects. The release duration of 77 days for Scenario 1 is the envisaged time frame for well control activities
to be successful.
Table 4.1 Parameters included in the oil dispersion modelling for the oil and diesel spill scenarios

Fluids Release Release

Release volume Release Release Model run Worst-case
Scenario dischar temp. diameter
(tonnes) duration location duration assumptions
ged (°C) (mm)
Release
Worst case duration
Sea declining rate: assumes 77
1: Well
Lion 1,695 – 954 days to employ
blow-out 77 days Sea bed 68 230 137 days
crude tonnes/d a well capping
scenario
oil (73.462 tonnes device.
total) Worst case
declining flow

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Fluids Release Release

Release volume Release Release Model run Worst-case
Scenario dischar temp. diameter
(tonnes) duration location duration assumptions
ged (°C) (mm)
rate used

Release
volume based
on
specifications
2: FPSO Sea of the proposed
crude oil Lion Surface FPSO tanker
122,419 1 day 60 n/a 140 days
inventory crude release loss of total
loss oil inventory and 2
cargo tanks at
60°C storeage
temperature
over one day

4.3.3 Modelling results

4.3.3.1 Scenario 1: subsea blowout

The model results for Scenario 1 predicted that due to the buoyancy of the crude oil it will surface very
quickly from the subsea discharge. Figure 4.1 shows the behaviour of Sea Lion crude over a 140 day period.
The Figure provides an indication of the degree of weathering which the crude undergoes and if shoreline
oiling occurs. After approximately 30 days, oil begins to leave the modelling grid. This is initially through the
northern boundary due to strong northerly currents and then after 54 -60 days also via the eastern boundary.
It is expected that oil leaving the model gird is highly dispersed and therefore not perceived as a risk or
recoverable in terms of oil spill response.
Figure 4.2 shows the stochastic model for the probability of oil appearing on the sea surface above the
2
threshold of 1 g/m throughout the whole model run. Due to the buoyancy of the oil masses, there is a high
probability that oil will appear above this threshold, increasing the encounter of rate and overall effectiveness
of containment and recovery strategy in terms of corralling and recovering oil. The oil masses are predicted
to travel on the sea surface primarily in a northerly direction due to predominant surface current direction.
Some oil is predicted to be found in a south east direction towards the northern Falkland Islands shoreline,
giving a 5 -10% probability of oil stranding to occur.
2
Figure 4.3 shows the minimum arrival times of Sea Lion crude above the threshold of 1 g/m on the sea
surface. In most conditions the Sea Lion crude can potentially travel up to 30 km with one day of being
discharged, 105 km within five days and up to 260 km within ten days. It is predicted that the oil will be in a
very dispersed state after ten days. These are important factors when planning an effective response
strategy for the Sea Lion Field located 24 hrs sailing away from the Stanley Harbour, 96 hours for the arrival
of international oil spill response resources, and 15 – 25 days for vessels of opportunity (VOO).
A deterministic snapshot is provided in Figure 4.4 to give relevance to Figure 4.2 and Figure 4.3
demonstrating what the predicted surface coverage of the oil could be like after 30 days for Scenario 1
occurring.
Figure 4.5 show the probability of oil reaching the Falklands coastline, the results indicate that there is a low
probability of oil masses reaching the shoreline. As can be seen the northern coastline of the East Falkland
Island is predicted to have the highest probability of shoreline oiling (stranding). From the 51 individual
stochastic simulations run only 5 were predicted to have shoreline impact, which is the result of prolonged
northerly winds.

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The worst case maximum shoreline oiling is predicted to be 2,500 tonnes. The model predicted a minimum
shoreline arrival time of 80 days. This is important information in developing an effective response strategy
and ensuring there is sufficient response capability to reduce the risk to the shoreline environment. It is
envisaged that due to the prolonged shoreline arrival time the risk to environmental receptors can be
reduced by Tier 3 resources.

Figure 4.1 Behaviour of oil over time during the modelled blow-out

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2
Figure 4.2 Scenario 1 - Probability of surface contamination above threshold of 1 g/m for worst-case
well blow-out scenario

Figure 4.3 Scenario 1 - Minimum arrival times of Sea Lion crude above 1 g/m2 on the surface

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Figure 4.4 Scenario 1 - A Deterministic example snapshot of surface wax above 1 g/m2 at 30 days

Figure 4.5 Scenario 1 - Probability of shoreline oiling for a worst case blowout

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4.3.3.2 Scenario 2: full inventory loss from the FPSO

The predicted overall behaviour of Sea Lion crude over a 140 day period is shown in Figure 4.6. Unlike
Scenario 1, the release is straight onto the sea surface as shown in Figure 4.6. Similar to Scenario 1, the
model predicts that the oil will move outside of the modelling grid after approximately 40 days and as
previously stated the oil is expected to be highly dispersed and therefore not perceived as a risk or
recoverable in terms of oil spill response.
Figure 4.7 shows the stochastic model for the probability of oil on the sea surface above the threshold of 1
2
g/m throughout the whole model run. Due to the high buoyancy, wax content and persistent nature of the
Sea Lion Crude oil there is a high probability that the oil will be found on the sea surface at large distances
from the initial release point. The model predicts that the surface oil is likely to spread in a northerly direction
from the FPSO influenced by the predominant northerly currents. The oil predicted to appear in the south-
east locations of the release point is likely to be moved by wind-driven surface currents.
2
Figure 4.8 shows the minimum arrival times for Sea Lion crude above the threshold of 1 g/m on the sea
surface. In most conditions, the crude oil can travel up to 35 km within one day, 97 km within five days and
up to 170 km in ten days. The results for the 5 day period post release are not too dissimilar from Scenario 1
which is beneficial in planning the overall offshore response strategy allowing for an all-encompassing
strategy to be developed for both Scenarios.
A deterministic snapshot is provided in Figure 4.9 to give relevance to Figure 4.7 and Figure 4.8
demonstrating what the predicted surface coverage of the oil could be like after 30 days for Scenario 2.
Figure 4.10 shows the probability of oil reaching the Falkland Islands coastline. The results indicate that
there is low probability of the crude oil reaching the reaching the shoreline. As can be seen, the northern
coastline of East Falkland is predicted to have the highest probability of shoreline oiling. From the 51
individual stochastic simulations run only 4 were predicted to have shoreline impact. The worst case
maximum shoreline oiling is predicted to be 19 tonnes of which 9.5 tonnes becomes stranded. The model
predicted an average shoreline arrival time of 66 days. This is a shorter time period when compared to
Scenario 1, since in Scenario 1 the blowout droplets rise through a zone of strong northerly currents before
they reach the surface. In the unlikely event that shoreline oiling occurs, oil arriving at the shore would be in
a highly-dissipated state.

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Figure 4.6 Scenario 2 - Predicted overall behaviour of Sea Lion crude oil after FPSO inventory loss

Figure 4.7 Scenario 2 - Surface probability for FPSO Inventory Loss

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Figure 4.8 Scenario 2 - Minimum arrival times of Sea Lion crude above 1 g/m2 on the surface

Figure 4.9 Example snapshot of surface wax above 1 g/m2 at 30 days

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Figure 4.10 Scenario 2 - Probability of shoreline oiling for an FPSO inventory loss

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5 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIOECONMIC SENSITIVITIES

This section of the document describes some of the environmental sensitivities in the Sea Lion field. More
detail on the environmental sensitivities of the Sea Lion field is documented in Environmental Impact
Statement (Premier 2017d).

5.1 The Environmental Impacts of Oil Spills

A summary of environmental impacts relevant to Falkland Islands offshore sensitivities is given in Table 5.1
(after IPIECA, 2000).
Table 5.1: Environmental impacts of oil spills

Class Summary of impact

Mammals It has been rare for whales, dolphins, seals and sea lions to be affected following a spill. Fur seals
may be more vulnerable due to their fur structure.

Birds Birds using the water-air interface are at risk, including divers and penguins, and penguins are at
risk in their use of contaminated shorelines. Badly oiled birds usually die, and many cleaned birds
also die within one season. The thermal and waterproofing properties of feathers are lost in
contact with oil, and oil is preened off and digested, with toxic effects. Recovery of populations
depends either on the existence of a reservoir of young non-breeding adults from which breeding
colonies can be replenished or a high reproductive rate. There is little evidence that an oil spill can
permanently damage overall seabird populations, but species with very local distributions could be
at risk.

Fish Oil is unlikely to significantly affect adult fish populations in the open sea. Even when many larvae
have been killed, this has not been subsequently detected in adult populations, possibly because
the survivors had a competitive advantage. Wild adult fish may be made unmarketable because of
tainting.

Invertebrates Invertebrates include shellfish (both molluscs and crustaceans), worms of various kinds, sea
urchins and corals. All these groups may suffer heavy casualties if coated with fresh crude oil. In
contrast, it is quite common to see barnacles, winkles and limpets living on rocks in the presence
of residual weathered oil.

Planktonic Serious effects on plankton have not been observed in the open sea organisms. This is probably
because high reproductive rates and immigration from outside the affected area counteract short-
term reductions in numbers caused by the oil.

5.2 Seabirds

The waters around the Falkland Islands are highly productive and provide globally important feeding areas
for significant aggregations of seabirds (White et al., 2002). The Islands themselves hold internationally
important breeding populations of several seabird species and productive coastal and offshore waters
support numerous species of non-breeding visitors (BirdLife International, 2014a).
The most sensitive time of year for seabirds around the well sites are January, February, May, June and
August, when vulnerability to surface oil pollution was considered to be ‘high’ in some proportion of the area.
Vulnerability was generally ‘moderate’ for the remainder of the year, and ‘moderate’ to ‘low’ during
December, when relatively few seabird species were present in low densities. The area around the well sites
was not considered to be of ‘very high’ vulnerability during any period of the year, although an adjacent area
to the south was of ‘very high vulnerability during January.

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5.3 Protected Areas

There are no designated marine protected areas in Falkland Islands waters. Several candidate marine
Important Bird Areas (IBA) have been proposed but not accepted at present. On land, a number of IBAs
have been designated on account of the breeding seabird populations that they support. Additionally, a
network of National Nature Reserves and Important Plant Areas protect many of the most important seabird
breeding sites and areas supporting native flora. Conservation areas are shown in Figure 5.1 and Figure 5.2.

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Figure 5.1 Conservation areas for birds

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Figure 5.2 Onshore Conservation Areas

5.4 Coastal Sensitivity

Coastline sensitivity mapping has been undertaken (SAERI, 2014) to identify shoreline types and sensitivity
as illustrated in Figure 5.3. Sensitivity maps are a tool to help develop an oil spill strategy synthesizing
information and providing location of the most sensitive sites to prioritise in a response using a widely
accepted Environmental Sensitivity Index (ESI) ranging from 1 (low sensitivity) to 10 (high sensitivity).
Risk analysis combined with oil spill trajectory modelling identifies the location of high risk areas combining
higher probability of being impacted by oil stranding and potential major consequences. Figure 5.3 identifies
the northern coastline of the Falklands to be mostly characterised by exposed rocky shore (1A), exposed
wave cut platforms (2A), fine to medium grained sand beaches (3A) scraps and steep slopes of sand (3B)
and small areas of gravel beaches, granules and pebbles, (6A).

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Reviewing the modelling results in Section 4.3.3, and the sensitivity map there is a relatively low probability
of shoreline oiling following a worst case accidental oil spill suggesting a low vulnerability for environmental
receptors on the North Falkland Islands Coastline.

Figure 5.3 Shoreline sensitivity - Environmental Sensitivity Index

5.5 Commercial Fisheries

The two most important fisheries within the Falklands EEZ are the jig fishery for Argentine shortfin squid and
the trawl fishery for Patagonian long-finned squid (Doryteuthis gahi), which accounted for 54% and 15% of
the 2013 catch by weight respectively. There is also a fleet of trawlers that operate over the Falklands
continental shelf that target a range of finfish species. Currently, the only other fishery in the Falklands EEZ
is the longline fishery for Patagonian toothfish, which operates in the deeper waters.

5.6 Commercial Shipping

Commercial shipping routes within 10 nautical miles of the Sea Lion location are summarised in Table 5.2
and illustrated in Figure 5.4. The majority of vessel traffic comprises fishing vessels travelling to and from
fishing grounds and reefers operating between ports in the area. Over 90% of these vessels are below 5,000
tonnes dry weight, with the remaining 10% of vessel traffic exceeding 40,000 tonnes dry weight and
accounting for the tankers operating on Route 3 to West Africa (Anatec, 2013).
Table 5.2 Ship Routes Passing within 10 nautical miles of the Sea Lion Field (Anatec, 2013)

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Figure 5.4 Shipping Route Positions within 10 nautical miles of the Sea Lion area (Anatec, 2013)

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6 INDUSTRY STANDARD MITIGATION MEASURES

Premier will have in place industry standard offshore mitigation measures in the development and production
phase for activities with potential to result in an accidental release of oil. Table 6.1 highlights the mitigation
measures for the two scenarios addressed in this document. The EIS provides further information on the
mitigation measures for other accidental oil spill scenarios.
Table 6.1 Industry-standard mitigation measures

Scenario Industry-standard mitigation (and base-case) measures

 All activities with the potential to result in an oil spill will be carried out by competent
personnel in accordance with operational controls, the permit to work system, the
requirements of the Premier HSES-MS and Premier’s Drilling Management System.
 Development of the Safety and Environmentally Critical Equipment (SECE) register with
appropriate performance standards.
 Offshore spills, large or small will be reported in compliance with the FIG PON8 using the
General supplied pro forma and
 Offshore spills will be managed in line with the Sea Lion Field OSCP which will be submitted
to FIG as a separate document for approval prior to the commencement of operations. The
offshore OSCP will be developed, in line with the FIG NOSCP, response and preparedness
levels will be organised according to the IPIECA / IMO international standard model of
“Tiered preparedness and response”. While full details will be provided in the OSCP, spills
occurring offshore at the Sea Lion Field will be defined and managed.
The drilling operations will follow established drilling safety standards to minimise the risk of loss
of well control. Well control systems and procedures will be in place as per all Premier and
drilling contractor well control guidelines. Preventative and mitigation controls include:
 The drilling crews will be adequately experienced, trained in well control techniques and
supervised at all times. Training will be ongoing and continuous with regular emergency drills.
 Well designs will be reviewed by an independent well examiner.
 Primary well control is achieved by:
o Development of an appropriate well design for the expected pore pressures with regard
to casing etc.
o Use of appropriately weighted drilling muds to maintain a hydrostatic pressure in the
1: wellbore greater than the pressure of the fluids in the formation being drilled, but less
Subsea than the formation fracture pressure and
well o The use of appropriate mud additives to prevent problems when drilling which can lead to
blow-out the well becoming underbalanced e.g. lost circulation, fluid loss. The requirement for mud
additives e.g. lost circulation material is assessed based on the expected qualities of the
reservoir formation.
 During drilling a BOP will be in place and will be subject to regular maintenance and testing.
BOP equipment / controls and emergency / contingency controls will be tested both prior to
and immediately after deployment onto the wellhead. The BOP will be subject to a third party
verification and audit prior to drilling operations commencing.
 During production a subsea xmas tree will be in place on each well.
 In the event of a sub-sea well blow-out (i.e. failure of primary and secondary well control), a
capping device would be sourced to stem the flow. This is assumed in the modelling
parameters to take a maximum of 77 days (worst-case scenario) and has been incorporated
into the initial assessment.
 A 1,275 m radius Safety Zone will be established around the FPSO;
2: FPSO  An ERRV (MRSV) vessel will be on permanent stand-by to intercept any vessel that enters
inventory the Safety Zone or assist in the event of emergency situations; and
loss  Use of AIS / radar surveillance and radio broadcasts to mariners (advising on the position of
the rig and the exclusion zone).

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7 RESPONSE MEASURES

7.1 Overview

This section of the document provides a high-level overview of the response strategies which are undertaken
throughout the oil spill response industry and identified as available to Premier in the unlikely event that an
accidental spill occurs offshore.
In case of significant accidental releases of oil, it is likely that different response strategies may be deployed
simultaneously to reduce the risk to environmental and socioeconomic receptors. Brief descriptions of how the
response strategies would be utilised in the Falklands with the response assets outlined in Section 9 is
provided where applicable. Oiled wildlife response strategies and tactics are addressed in detail in Section 8.

7.2 Net Environmental Benefit Analysis

The primary objective of an oil spill response is to safely undertake actions to reduce the risk to environmental
and socioeconomic receptors. When determining the most environmental beneficial response option the
advantages and disadvantages of differing response strategies need to be compared with the potential for
natural recovery. The process of choosing the optimum response strategy to reduce the overall consequences
of an accidental spill is called Net Environmental Benefit Analysis (NEBA).
NEBA is a fundamental principle in planning for and responding to oil spills taking into account the
circumstances of a spill, the practicality of response options, receptors at risk and the relative impact of the oil
spill and clean-up options.
The aspects for NEBA in preparedness and response are described in IPIECA/IOGP (2015) and in summary
the following four stages apply:
1. Compile and evaluate data to identify an exposure scenario and potential response options, and to
understand the potential impacts of that spill scenario.
2. Predict the outcomes for the given scenario, to determine which techniques are effective and
feasible.
3. Balance trade-offs by weighing a range of ecological benefits and drawbacks resulting from each
feasible response option.
4. Select the best response options for the given scenario, based on which combination of tools and
techniques will minimize impacts.
These principles combined with the analysis and assessments conducted over the development of the Project
have resulted in determining the available response options, resources and strategies for responding to
accidental offshore oil spill by reviewing the two worst case scenarios.

7.3 Monitor and Evaluate

Monitor and evaluate is the primary response strategy to all oil spills of any size. It is fundamental in
determining the source of the spill, estimating the volume of oil spilled, the location of the spill, and the
environmental and socioeconomic receptors at risk.
The process of monitoring and evaluating should be undertaken throughout the duration of an oil spill
response with observers having available a range of resources and techniques to plot spill trajectories and
estimate the volume of oil on the surface of the water.
The operational OPEP will contain detailed instructions on how to effectively review aerial photographs,
tabulate information gained and calculate spill trajectories. The information will allow the Incident Management
Team to conduct a NEBA assessment, prioritise response strategies, effectively command assets and

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prepare incident action plans. The OSOP Report (Premier 2017f) details the importance of aerial surveillance
throughout a response.
Access to satellite imagery, low flying aircraft, and skilled observers is instrumental in effectively monitoring
the movement of oil and commanding any at sea mechanical containment and recovery. Throughout the
drilling and production phases, a minimum of two crew change helicopters will be available to undertake aerial
surveillance in the unlikely event that an accidental oil spill occurs. During Inshore Transfer operations,
response teams will have access to an aerostat balloon which can be deployed from a response vessel
providing continual surveillance of the incident. Satellite imagery will be available through Tier 3 service
providers.
In many spill scenarios, monitor and evaluate with concurrent oiled wildlife response measures may be the
only response strategy initiated due to the remote location of Sea Lion field, prevailing metocean conditions
precluding any at sea containment and recovery operations and the low probability of shoreline oiling.

7.4 Containment at Source

Containment at source is a strategy which is crucial in mitigating the overall impact of an oil spill as it reduces
the degree of oiling and contains the oil in one location close to source. Containment at source for an offshore
spill is likely only to be available for a small localised spill on the vessels or MODU.
For large spills containment at source will involve well control operations or preventing further releases from
the FPSO or subsea connections.
A description of Premier’s well control commitments is discussed later in this section, see Section 7.8.

7.5 Containment and Recovery at Sea

Containment and recovery at sea can be considered one of the most ideal response strategies as it aims to
physically remove oil from the marine environment. The response tactics/actions require the deployment of
floating containment booms and specialised skimmers, as recovery devices, to corral and recover oil.
It must be noted there are significant constraints and limitations of the effectiveness of this strategy in open
waters offshore due to the nature of spilled oil, encounter rate, and ability to operate safely and effectively in
rougher sea conditions. These parameters have been taken into consideration to ensure suitable response
equipment has been resourced to effectively deploy the strategy.
The spread of oil poses a challenge to the success of containment and recovery operations at sea. To prevent
the spreading of oil, booms can be deployed in a range of configurations as illustrated in Figure 7.1.
Throughout all phases of the Sea Lion project sufficient response resources will be available to deploy 300m
of heavy duty offshore boom in at U, or J-configuration.
The success of the strategy is dependent on the vessels’ ability to store waste. During the drilling phase, the
AHVs will be equipped with temporary waste storage floating bladders, whilst through the production phase
the MRSVs will have the ability to heat recovered oil. Further details on the waste storage bladders is
provided in Section 7.10.
The ability of the field support vessels to contain and recover oil forms an integral part of the Tier 1 – 3
Premier response plan for Sea Lion.

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Power pack

Boom Reel

Skimmer

Offshore Boom

J Shape Configuration U Shape Configuration Side Sweep System

Figure 7.1 Boom Configurations

At a high level, containment and recovery strategies will be deployed as follows throughout the different
phases of the project. A detailed account of the response process can be found in the OSOP report (Premier,
2017f).

7.5.1 Drilling phase

• The AHV will have on board, 300m of containment boom, mechanical skimmer with a recovery rate of
30 tonnes per hour, a weir skimmer with a recovery rate of >30 tonnes per hour, and two temporary
waste storage tanks with a 100-tonne capacity.
• The Master of the AHV will communicate with the ERRV which will act as a towing vessel. Note, if life
was at risk, the ERRV will be involved in emergency rescue operations which will delay the
deployment of boom as the secondary AHVs will be required. For Scenario 1, it is also assumed that
vessels around the MODU will be occupied with source control and rescue for a minimum of 24 hrs
following an incident.
• Boom would be deployed in a J-configuration between two vessels with an encounter width of 50 m.
Observations will be undertaken from the highest point of the vessel or by an aerial surveillance asset
to judge the performance of the operation and ensure there was no loss of oil under the boom.
• Oil will be recovered from the collection point within the boom configuration into an offshore temporary
waste storage bladder on the AHV (primary storage) until the maximum capacity of the waste storage
on the AHV is reached (2 x 100 tonne bladders).
• The AHV will sail to Stanley Temporary Docking Facility (TDF) where it will moor the temporary waste
storage bladder to be either transferred into a large 1,000 tonne temporary waste storage bladder, or
left in situ for waste disposal. It is likely to take up to 48 hours to offload the bladder and return to the
field.

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• In the unlikely event that a Tier 3 incident occurs, international responders and equipment will be
mobilised with recovery vessels arriving on site after 20 days and up to a further 10 suitable recovery
units.
• For a prolonged response, an oil tanker will be chartered to collect/remove the oil from the temporary
waste storage facility and act as tertiary storage throughout the response.

7.5.2 Simultaneous operations phase

The process outlined in the Section above would be similar during simultaneous operations; however, an
MSRV could be used as the oil recovery vessel as it has heated storage capacity. The MSRVs also have the
possibility to deploy side sweep systems with an encounter width of 36m.
The additional vessels would enable the use of additional recovery units during the initial response and allow
for boom to be deployed in a U-configuration increasing the encounter rate to 100m. If inshore transfer is
operational, the Inshore Support Vessel (ISV), with heated storage capacity, will also be available. Figure 7.2
shows the potential deployment options to undertake an effective containment and recovery operation during
simultaneous operations.
If the OLST isn’t the cause of the incident, it could be used as the secondary storage facility providing an
alternative option to the 1,000 tonne temporary waste storage bladder.

MRSV deploying side MRSV and AHV

arm sweep system J-configuration
ISV and AHV
J-configuration

Figure 7.2 Potential maximum deployment of containment and recovery strategy during simultaneous
operations until the arrival of Tier 3 Resources.

7.5.3 Production phase

During the production phase, the response would be the same as the process outlined for the drilling utilising
the MRSVs instead of the AHV’s. The MRSVs will have the ability to deploy the side are sweep system.
Therefore, the use of temporary waste storage bladders as primary storage would not be required. If Direct
Offtake proves to be viable and is operational, the recovered oil will still be transferred into large 1000 tonne
bladder located at the TDF, whereas if Inshore Transfer is operational, the OLST could be utilised as a waste
storage unit if it was not the cause of the incident.

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7.6 Use of Dispersants

The purpose of dispersants is to transfer oil from the water surface into the water column and to reduce
droplet size and promote dissolution and breakdown, often to minimise the potential impact to birds and to
minimise the presence of oil films at the shoreline that can coat organisms.
The dispersants themselves have an element of toxicity, although they may be restricted to approved lists
such as the Marine Management Organisation (MMO) approved list in the UK whereby marine and coastal
toxicity tests are undertaken. In the case of Sea Lion crude, oil laboratory analysis of dispersant application
has demonstrated that it is not an effective response technique (CEDRE, 2017).
Dispersant use has therefore not been selected for spills of Sea Lion crude.
Dispersant use for MGO spills is typically not preferred as it will increase water column contamination of oil
and dispersant for a small decrease in surface risk, since diesel will tend to spread and dissolve relatively
quickly.
Dispersant use for heavier fuel oils spills is a viable strategy. The balance of NEBA considerations is not
obvious and will depend on specific sensitivities at the time of year, the nature and trajectory of the spill and
weather conditions. The use of dispersants at this planning stage is left open and would be dependent on the
regulatory approval on a case by case basis.
Premier will have access to dispersants via Tier 3 response providers; however, as discussed above, it is
unlikely that this technique will be used at Sea Lion.

7.7 Enhanced Natural Dispersion

Enhanced natural dispersion is a response strategy where the bow wave, propeller, or firefighting systems of
a response vessel are utilised to break up the oil into smaller fragments. The smaller fragments are more
susceptible to the effects of natural weathering and therefore the overall impact to the environment can be
reduced.
This strategy is generally utilised on light refined hydrocarbons and would not be a valid response to Sea Lion
crude oil. If deemed appropriate this strategy could be undertaken by any vessel near the spill with support
from aerial surveillance assets to assess the effectiveness of the strategy and direct the vessel to visible
surface oiling.

7.8 Well Control

Premier’s commitment to overall management of a well control incident can be summarised in Figure 7.3
below and is in line with industry best practice.

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Figure 7.3 Well incident response model (OGP, 2011)

7.8.1 Well control

A contract will be in place with a well control contractor to provide specialist response support in a blowout
situation. The time of response for a well control contractor to be present in Premier’s London and/or
Aberdeen offices is 48 hours.
Procedures for responding to a well control incident will be documented in a well capping and containment
plan which will be produced before drilling operations commence.

7.8.2 Well Cap and Shut-In

Premier will have a contract with a well control contractor, which will provide access to well control specialist
support and specialist cutting equipment that may be required to undertake a capping operation.
The capping device is a dual barrier system that will be compatible with the well head and Blowout Preventer
(BOP) stack connections that will be used on the development wells. The capping device is capable of being
deployed over a well with a flow rate of up to 100,000 bbls / day flowing rate.
The decision to mobilise and deploy the capping device would be made by Premier’s Emergency
Management / Response Team. In the event of a well blowout, the incident management team would include
technical drilling personnel within Premier who are familiar with the well design and the reservoir.
The capping device would be deployed from a dynamically positioned dive / construction support vessel (DSV
/ CSV) using a heave compensated crane with control umbilical to valve / choke functions. The capping
device has a flow outlet and choke outlet. The cap would be deployed with both flow paths open and
positioned above the wellhead using the deployment vessel. Once in place over the flowing well, the capping
device connector would be attached, the main bore flow path would be shut, and the flow from the well would

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be shut off using the choke whilst pumping hydrate suppressant. It is estimated that it may take 77 to stop the
flow as highlighted in Table 7.1.
Table 7.1 Duration of Capping Device Deployment Operations

Capping device operations Expected case (days) Worst case (days)

Decision to deploy capping device 2 5

Mobilise capping device team 2 4
Source appropriate vessel for capping device deployment 5 10
Transport capping device to well location 33 50
Deploy capping device 1 3
Cap well 3 5
Total time 47 77

7.8.3 Relief well

If primary and secondary well control is lost by way of a blowout and oil flows uncontrollably from the well to
the environment, then a relief well may be required to stop the flow of oil and bring the well back under
control. During a blowout, the Sea Lion MODU drilling rig may be damaged meaning that a replacement
drilling rig may be required to conduct the relief well operations.
If an alternative rig is required to drill a relief well, Premier would source a rig from its other worldwide
operations or alternatively source a rig on the open market. Many alternative semi-submersible rigs are
capable of drilling in this environment and geological conditions.

7.8.3.1 Relief well timings

Assuming co-operation from other Drilling Rig Contractors and Government Agencies, it is estimated it may
take 172 days to drill the relief well and stop the flow as highlighted in Table 7.2.
Table 7.2 Duration of Relief Well Drilling Operations

Relief well operations Expected case (days) Worst case (days)

Decision to drill relief well 2 5

Engage & source rig 5 10
Secure rig’s current well 5 10
Mobilise to relief well location 30 87
Run anchors (unless DP) 0 3
Drill well 36 50
Well kill 4 7
Total Time 82 172

Planning for the relief well will also include a review of why the blowout occurred and consequent changes to
well design, well equipment and operating procedures included in the relief well drilling programme.

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Preparation of equipment, programmes and consent applications will be conducted in parallel to sourcing a
suitable replacement drilling rig.
An inventory will be maintained by Premier and their contractors to ensure that stocks of all materials required
for a relief well are available at short notice. To facilitate the spud of a relief well, Premier would need the
support of the FIG to process and urgently expedite permitting and consent applications.

7.8.3.2 Relief well location

Before drilling commences Premier will identify suitable relief well drilling locations, which will be detailed in
the OPEP and agreed by the regulators.

7.9 Shoreline Response

The modelling results in Section 4 of this document predict that there is a low probability of shoreline oiling
following both worst case incidents; however, understanding that there is still a possibility, albeit a low one,
Premier will include an element of shoreline response to the overall offshore response strategy.
Throughout the drilling and production phases if Direct Offtake is proven viable, Premier will not stock
response assets in country to mount a shoreline response given that an average of 75 days is predicted
before any shoreline oiling might occur. This allows adequate time for Tier 3 response contractors to deploy
equipment to the Falklands. During the production phase if Inshore Transfer (base case) is operational,
shoreline clean-up equipment will be stored in the Falklands to supplement the Tier 3 response stockpile.
The sections below describe the techniques and equipment required to mount an effective shoreline
response.

7.9.1 Shoreline clean-up

Oil spill modelling predicts a low probability of shoreline oiling following both worse case scenarios at the Sea
Lion field. Any oil that does arrive on shore will be removed from shorelines as quickly as possible. As time
passes and the oil weathers, it may become mixed or buried in sediments.
There are three stages of shoreline clean up:
 Stage 1 - bulk oil is removed from the shore to prevent remobilisation.
 Stage 2 - removal of stranded oil and oiled shoreline material - often the most protracted part of
shoreline clean-up; and
 Stage 3 - final clean-up of light contamination and removal of stains, if required.
The methods that would be used for different shoreline types are shown in Table 7.3 (per ITOPF guidance).
Shoreline clean up involves assessing the shoreline and appropriate techniques, followed by cleaning as
appropriate. Effective methods are described in:
 IPIECA/IOGP A guide to oiled shoreline assessment (SCAT) surveys (2014)
 ITOPF Technical Information Paper 07 Clean-up of oil from shorelines (2011).
The Sea Lion field OSCP will contain information on how to overcome the logistical challenges with accessing
the Falkland Islands northern coastline to complete SCAT surveys and undertake any oil recovery operations.
Table 7.3: Shoreline clean-up methods

Accessible shoreline Inaccessible shoreline

Stage 1 Rock/boulders Skimmers/pumps; vacuum trucks; flushing Manual removal; manual

removal using sorbents

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Accessible shoreline Inaccessible shoreline

Cobbles Skimmers/pumps; vacuum trucks; flushing Manual removal; manual

removal using sorbents

Sand beaches Skimmers/pumps; vacuum trucks; Manual removal; manual

manual/mechanical removal; trenching; removal using sorbents
flushing

Stage 2 Rock/boulders Pressure washing; sorbent materials; Natural cleaning; hand wiping
natural cleaning

Cobbles Flushing; surf/cobble washing; mechanical; Natural cleaning; hand wiping

natural cleaning

Sand beaches Flushing; surf washing; manual/mechanical Natural cleaning; manual

Stage 3 Rock/boulders Natural cleaning; pressure washing Natural cleaning

Cobbles Natural cleaning; surf/cobble washing Natural cleaning

Sand beaches Natural cleaning; surf washing; ploughing Natural cleaning

and harrowing; beach cleaning machines;
sand sieving

7.9.2 SCAT shoreline response technique

As part of oil spill response strategy, Shoreline Clean-up Assessment Technique (SCAT) teams will
systematically survey the area affected by the spill to provide rapid accurate geo-referenced documentation of
shoreline oiling conditions. These teams will consist of either trained and competent Premier personnel or
third party Tier 3 responders.
The primary objectives of an oiled shoreline assessment programme are to:
 define the location, extent and character of the oiling;
 develop shoreline treatment recommendations;
 support operations during the treatment programme; and
 provide closure once the shoreline treatment objectives have been met.

This is achieved through:

 standardised procedures;
 good management practices;
 collection of data which are scientific, systematic, accurate, consistent, complete and defensible;
 provision of data, information and support to decision makers and operations personnel; and
 engagement of stakeholders.

It is envisaged SCAT teams will be deployed to the field after notification of shoreline oiling or aerial
surveillance observations to detect oil in the vicinity of the shoreline.

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7.9.3 Shoreline waste management

The challenges that are faced by a clean–up operation along the Falkland Islands shoreline arise as a result
of the relative inaccessibility of the foreshore and the nature of the shoreline.
Oil recovered from accessible shorelines would be contaminated with a highly variable amount of rock, sand,
silt, kelp, vegetation and other organic material. Some may be recovered relatively cleanly, e.g. using spades,
whilst other material may only be oil in a small fraction. The following process would be followed:
• Waste holding areas will be identified local to the spill. For wastes liable to leach oil or other
contaminants, depressions will be used or dug and impermeable membrane will be installed to control
leachate.
• Waste will be recovered into waste sacks then into one-tonne flexible IBCs for onward transport by
boat or helicopter (underslung);
• Wastes will be returned to a dedicated waste site that is properly established in line with MCA STOp
notice guidance (Waste Management Guidance Following a Maritime Pollution Incident in the UK,
October 2016);
• Final disposal will be evaluated once volumes and waste streams are identified, but will be separated
into
• material that is recognisably oil;
• heavily oil-contaminated inert material (rock or sand);
• lightly oil-contaminated inert material (rock or sand);
• oil-contaminated organic material;
• oil-contaminated PPE, sorbents, sacks, rope, etc.
• Maximum effort will be given to managing waste streams to segregate and minimise waste
generation.

7.9.4 Shoreline remediation

Should shorelines be oiled, initial action will be taken to remove gross oil and contaminated sediments.
The Northern coastline is in most places a high-energy environment reflected in the predominance of rock and
cobble shorelines and natural washing of rocky shores will return them to a productive state.
Long term recovery of shorelines and sediments will be monitored via the Environmental Management and
Monitoring Programme.

7.10 Waste Management

Premier will manage waste generated from an oil spill in a safe and environmentally responsible way in
accordance with Premier’s corporate environmental standards which is to follow the waste hierarchy and 5R
principle outlined in the Sea Lion Phase 1 Waste Management Strategy (Premier 2017e).
An initial detailed account of how Premier intends to manage waste arising from an oil spill can be found in
Appendix 2 of Sea Lion Phase 1 Waste Management Strategy, (Premier 2017e) which is briefly described
through this section of the response strategy.
Following a significant release of Sea Lion Crude Oil, Premier will charter crude oil tankers to act as the
tertiary waste storage units. The crude oil tankers can be located in the field reducing the requirement for
recovery vessels to return to Stanley TDF. Liaison with oil tanker shipbrokers suggest Suezmax and Aframax
tankers will have to be sourced from the Gulf of Mexico or Europe with a lead in time of 20 – 25 days which
will coincide with the arrival of international vessels of opportunity.

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The AHV vessels and ERRV contracted to support the drilling phase will not have heated liquid storage
capacity. To prevent the contamination of vessels, the AHVs are to be equipped with two 100 tonne capacity
offshore floating temporary waste storage bladders. An additional two 100 tonne capacity bladders will be
stored at the warehousing facility in Stanley. Once at full capacity, the bladders will be transported to the TDF
and exchanged with the bladders stored in the warehouse facility reducing the turnaround time in Stanley.
TDF personnel will then transfer the oil from the 100 tonne capacity bladders to a large 1,000 tonne capacity
bladder stored at the TDF. Images of the bladders are shown in Figure 7.4.
The highly viscous, solidified, oil will be transferred from the smaller bladder to the larger bladder utilising
gravity, suspending the small bladder in the air via the TDF crane, and mechanical transfer with a screw
pump, steam injection and water sleeves system. The turnaround time for an AHV from stopping recovery
operations, leaving the Sea Lion Field to sail to Stanley, and recommencing recovery operations in the Sea
Lion field is estimated to be 48 hours.

1,000 Tonne 100 Tonne

Figure 7.4 Imagery of the proposed temporary waste bladders

The treatment and disposal options chosen will depend upon the amount and types of oil and contaminated
debris (Ref: IPIECA, 2014). The preferred option for final disposal of the collected residues is secure burial in
a specially prepared landfill cell. A final spill waste storage facility will need the following considerations:
 The identification of locations for potential landfill sites, the environmental and legal considerations,
the available infrastructure and the likely costs involved;
 A surface area and volume to take the worst case volume of material identified;
 The potential to have a partially developed site identified, ready for mobilisation in the event of the
activation of an oil spill contingency pollution response plan;
 How the three main categories of waste handling may be defined, i.e. pre-treatment, treatment and
final use/disposal;
 The site management, its reinstatement and long term monitoring programme.

Approaches to spill waste management will be consistent with the Falkland Islands National Oil Spill
Response Plan and associated arrangements, together with Premier's Waste Management Standard
objectives and the Sea Lion Oil Spill Contingency Plan (OSCP).

Recovered fuels and contaminated materials (e.g. rags, absorbents and, where necessary, clothing) will be
disposed of in an incinerator if possible. Wastes not suitable for incineration include: petrol or petrol soaked
materials; inflammable materials and liquids or soaked materials where the liquid is more water than fuel or
oil. Guidance will always be sought on the use of incinerators for oil spill waste disposal to make sure it is a
compatible feedstock.

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7.11 Command Structure

To effectively respond and manage a prolonged oil spill response, Premier will ensure an effective emergency
response command and control structure is in place throughout the Sea Lion Project.
A detailed management structure with roles and responsibilities will be defined in an Oil Spill Contingency
Plan to be prepared closer to operations. These will be prepared in line with our corporate requirements
detailed in
 Crisis and Emergency Planning Standard (Premier 2017a)
 Crisis Management Procedure (Premier 2017b)
The principal actions of the command team are:
 To ensure primacy for the overall incident response will be taken by Premier’s Emergency Response
Team
 Work within the framework of the Falkland Islands NOSCP; the FI authorities (via the Harbour Master)
will be party to the oil spill response management and have the right to step in;
 Work in close liaison with the Harbour Master throughout any response;
 Vessel Masters retain primacy for the safety of their vessels;

 Vessels that are not under Premier control (e.g. the CTT) are legally responsible for pollution from
their vessels; and
 Apply its spill response resources to spills from a third-party vessel (e.g. the CTT).
A member of the Premier’s Incident Management Team in the Falklands will be trained and exercised as the
Oil Wildlife Specialist. This person will have the responsibility of activating the oiled wildlife plan, notifying the
local oiled wildlife response team, guiding the incident management team in terms of wildlife receptors, and
overseeing the construction of the rehabilitation centre (see Section 8).
A typical command structure is shown in Figure 7.5.

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Figure 7.5: Premier management structure for incident response

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7.12 Offshore Response Strategy Flow Charts

The flow charts below illustrate the sequence of steps taken to mount an effective response using the response measures described throughout this section..

Oil
Spill

Waste Management
Assess oil spill and When offshore waste storage capacity is reached
determine source, type on the vessels they will return to Stanley to
of oil and quantity offload into a 1,000 tonne temporary waste
Notify Stanley IMT storage bladder .
The sailing to Stanley to offload and return to
the field is estimated at 48 hrs
Determine spill For Tier 3 spills an oil tanker will be chartered
trajectory (OSCP and
computer modelling)

Activate OWR Plan

Tier 1 –
Tier 3
Localised Spill 48 hrs Well blowout

Containment and Notify Second AHV

Recovery

Yes Notify ERRV and AHVs Are recovery Activate well

to deploy boom in operations containment plan
Is wildlife at risk
J- configuration and complete after
1 - 2 hrs use appropriate bladder is full?
AHV and ERRV Containment and Containment and
skimmer and waste 24 hrs 20 days >77 days
undertake SAR/Fire Recovery Recovery
No bladder Demobilise Resources
Fighting Two AHVs deploy Deploy OSRL resources
1 recovery unit
boom in on vessels of
After agreement with
J-configuration and use opportunity (ten
Enhanced Natural Monitor and Evaluate FIG demobilise
mechanical skimmer additional recovery
Yes Dispersion resources
Is enhanced and waste bladder units)
dispersion an Deploy aerial assets to 1 recovery unit 10 recovery units
1 hrs Notify ERRV or AHVs to undertake aerial
option
sail through slick, or Surveillance continue
No use FiFi systems to oil is dissipated

2- 3 hrs 75 days
Monitor and Evaluate no
Is Shoreline Impact
Deploy aerial assets to Possible
undertake aerial
surveillance continues Yes
until oil is dissipated 1 day

Continued
Deploy Shoreline
Environmental
Response Teams Demobilise Resources >3 days
SCAT SURVEY 2 days >140 days monitoring/
Remediation
Determine an effective After agreement with
Task OSRL personnel to
shoreline response FIG demobilise
complete SCAT Conduct post spill
strategy based on SCAT resources
assessment environmental
assessment
monitoring

Figure 7.6: Response Strategy Flow Chart Drilling Phase

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Oil
Spill

Assess oil spill and Waste Management

determine source, type When offshore waste storage capacity is reached on
of oil and quantity the vessels they will return to Stanley to offload into
Notify Stanley IMT OLST if inshore transfer is operational, or a 1,000
tonne temporary waste
Determine spill storage bladder if direct offtake is viable.
trajectory (OSCP and The sailing to Stanley to offload and return to the
computer modelling) field is estimated at 48 hrs
For Tier 3 spills an oil tanker will be chartered if the
OLST is unavailable
Activate OWR Plan

Tier 1 Tier 3
Localised Spill No

Containment and Notify Second AHV/

Containment and MRSV
Recovery
Recovery
Notify ERRV and AHV/ Are recovery Activate well
Yes Notify second AHTV
MRSV to deploy boom operations containment plan if
and MRSV to locate to
Is wildlife at risk in complete after blowout
field and either deploy
1 - 2 hrs J- configuration or side 24 hrs J-configuration or side waste holding
sweep system and use capacity reached
sweep system and Direct Offtake Inshore Transfer
appropriate skimmer
No support ERRV/AHV
and waste bladder AHV/MRSV and ERRV Containment and

–

recovery units 24 hrs Containment and
1 -2 recovery units Yes undertake SAR/Fire Recovery Containment and
Recovery
Fighting AHVs, ERRV, ISV deploy Recovery
AHVs and ERRV deploy 20 days Deploy OSRL resources >77 days Demobilise Resources
boom in
Enhanced Natural boom in
J-configuration MSRV on vessels of
Dispersion J-configuration and use After agreement with
Is enhanced Yes deploy side sweep use opportunity (ten
Monitor and Evaluate mechanical skimmer FIG demobilise
dispersion an mechanical skimmer additional recovery
Notify ERRV or AHVs to and heated storage resources
option 1 hrs and heated storage units)
sail through slick, or Deploy aerial assets to tank
tank 10 recovery units
use FiFi systems undertake aerial 2 recovery units
No 3 recovery units
Surveillance continue
to oil is dissipated
Monitor and Evaluate 2- 3 hrs
75 - 80 days
Deploy aerial assets to
- Is shoreline Impact
undertake aerial
surveillance continues Possible
until oil is dissipated
Yes
1 day

Continued
Deploy Shoreline
Environmental
Response Teams Demobilise Resources >3 days
SCAT SURVEY 2 days >140 days monitoring/
Remediation
Determine an effective After agreement with
Task OSRL personnel to
shoreline response FIG demobilise
complete SCAT Conduct post spill
strategy based on SCAT resources
assessment environmental
assessment
monitoring

Figure 7.7: Response Strategy Flow Chart Drilling and Production Phase

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Oil
Spill Waste Management
When offshore waste storage capacity is reached
on the vessels they will return to Stanley to
Assess oil spill and offload into OLST if inshore transfer is
determine source, type operational, or a 1,000 tonne temporary waste
of oil and quantity storage bladder if direct offtake is viable.
Notify Stanley IMT The sailing to Stanley to offload and return to
the field is estimated at 48 hrs
For Tier 3 spills an oil tanker will be chartered if
Determine spill the OLST is unavailable
trajectory (OSCP and
computer modelling)

Activate OWR Plan

Tier 1 –
Tier 3
Localised Spill FPSO Inventory Loss

Notify MRSV

Containment and
Recovery Containment and Notify ISV
Recovery
Notify ERRV and MRSV Are recovery
Yes to deploy boom in Notify ISV to locate to operations
Is wildlife at risk J- configuration or side field and either deploy complete after Containment and
sweep system and use 24 hrs J-configuration or side waste holding MRSV and ERRV Containment and Recovery Containment and
30 mins 24 hrs
appropriate skimmer sweep system and capacity reached undertake SAR/Fire Recovery ISV and MRSV deploy Recovery
- 2 hrs Demobilise Resources
recovering into waste support MRSV Fighting MRSVs deploy boom in boom in J configuration 20 days Deploy OSRL resources
No tanks 2 or 3 recovery units J-configuration, or side or side sweeps, second on vessels of
After agreement with
1 or 2 recovery units sweep and use MRSV deploy side opportunity (ten
FIG demobilise
mechanical skimmer sweeps and use additional recovery
Monitor and Evaluate resources
and waste tanks mechanical skimmer units)
Enhanced Natural 1 or 2 recovery units and waste tanks 10 Recovery units
Deploy aerial assets to
Yes Dispersion 2 or 3 recovery units
Is enhanced undertake aerial
dispersion an Surveillance continue
1 hrs Notify ERRV or MRSV to oil is dissipated
option
to sail through slick, or
No use FiFi systems 80 days

2- 3 hrs Is Shoreline Impact

Monitor and Evaluate
Possible
Deploy aerial assets to
- Yes
undertake aerial 1 day
surveillance continues
until oil is dissipated Continued
Deploy Shoreline
Environmental
Response Teams Demobilise Resources >3 days
SCAT SURVEY 2 days >140 days monitoring/
Remediation
Determine an effective After agreement with
Task OSRL personnel to
shoreline response FIG demobilise
complete SCAT Conduct post spill
strategy based on SCAT resources
assessment environmental
assessment
monitoring

Figure 7.8: Response Strategy Production Phase

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8 OILED WILDLIFE RESPONSE STRATEGY

8.1 Background

Premier has previously developed a Wildlife Response Procedure to be followed in the event of oiled wildlife
in relation to the 2015 Exploration Wells campaign,(Premier 2015). This covers the practical procedures to be
followed in the event of oiled wildlife. A similar plan would be developed prior to the Sea Lion operational
phase. The Strategy on which these plans will be based is outlined here.
Several factors influence the response, including:
 Type of spill (waxy crude, IFO, MGO) - IFO presents the most risk of fouling animals, followed by
diesel;

 Location of spill and trajectory;

 Time of spill - concentration of wildlife at the location at the time of year; and

 The behaviour of the wildlife and the likelihood of oiled wildlife being found.
All oil spill response activities will be coordinated in a manner compatible with Premier’s emergency response
procedures and integrated with other response activities.

8.2 Objectives

The aim of a wildlife response is to provide effective protection and care of wildlife threatened or affected by a
release of oil into their environment (habitat) to the maximum extent practicable. As such, the response will
aim at minimising the impact on wildlife populations and individual animals via the following priorities:
 Making sure that human health and safety is never compromised by any oiled wildlife response
activities.
 Minimising damage to marine wildlife and other resources by combating oil at sea and attempting to
avoid impact to habitats and areas where animals are known to congregate.
 Giving proper consideration to wildlife issues in Net Environmental Benefit Analysis for oil spill
response operations.
 Preventing, where possible, the oiling of wildlife using appropriate pre-emptive capture or
hazing/deterrence techniques.
 Minimising the disturbance of wildlife via proper planning of clean-up activities.
 The collection of live oiled animals from the shoreline or marine environment with a view to attempting
rehabilitation where possible.
 The collection of dead animals from the shoreline in order to:
o Carry out a scientific population impact assessment;
o Dispose of polluted carcasses in a safe and environmentally friendly way; and
o Reduce the effects of secondary oil pollution via scavenging.

Response activities may include the assessment of wildlife risks, real-time monitoring of the whereabouts of
wildlife in relation to the oil, protection of nesting/haul-out sites, hazing and deterrence (scaring animals away
from oil), pre-emptive capture of un-oiled animals if feasible and for species of high conservation value,
collection and analysis of corpses, euthanasia and/or rehabilitation of live oiled animals.
Wildlife response may have both offshore and onshore components and is best initiated at an early stage after
oil has spilled. Early notification and mobilisation will allow real-time wildlife threats to be assessed so that
possibilities for prevention of wildlife oiling can be maximised as part of offshore oil recovery activities. Early
activation is also crucial for timely preparation of the near and on-shore activities and to maximise the time to:
 mobilise hands-on and trained wildlife expertise;

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 plan for, and operate surveys, hazing and deterrence and/or recovery (search and collection)
activities; and
 Identify potential field stabilisation areas and logistic challenges

Successful rehabilitation of oiled animals is dependent on available expertise, using the network of known
oiled wildlife responders, applying pre-defined and well proven protocols and principles in handling and care,
and most importantly ensuring that the response is well resourced and managed both in the field at
emergency mobile stabilisation stations and at treatment and rehabilitation facilities.

8.3 Tiered Wildlife Response

A Tier 1 offshore oil spill response is very unlikely to trigger a wildlife response, although the vessel masters
will be requested to survey wildlife. The locally trained wildlife responders, as described further below, will be
put on standby.
A Tier 2 offshore oil spill response is likely to trigger a wildlife response which will utilise locally trained
resources that are available in country via the pool of Premier wildlife responders (15 trained responders).
International wildlife resource providers are likely to be put on standby to provide more equipment and
personnel.
A Tier 3 offshore oil response will involve mobilisation of additional international wildlife response resources
(mobilisation time 96 hours).

8.4 General Response to Differing Species

8.4.1 Seabirds

Seabirds can be rehabilitated in dedicated facilities or ‘buildings of opportunity’, but the expectation of a high
release rate (meaning that most animals can be released in a healthy condition close to their pre-oiling
condition) is highly dependent on the level at which the rehabilitation can be carried out professionally
(overseen by an appropriate team of subject matter experts, supported by sufficient resources and specialised
facilities). Amongst seabirds, there is a high variability to the extent to which captured animals will react
positively to the rehabilitation treatments offered. Penguins are known to respond well to treatment and are
relatively easy to keep as they can be kept in groups. Other seabirds will require separate and specific caging,
different to that of penguins. Species that cannot be kept in groups will require a much higher proportion of the
available resources for the total population in a facility.
Generally, with professional oiled wildlife response managers in the key positions, as well as adequate
staffing and resources, oiled wildlife responses can be highly successful, even when there are high
percentages of species other than penguins. Internationally recognized oiled wildlife response managers have
the expertise to rehabilitate a wide range of species successfully.

8.4.2 Cetaceans

The rehabilitation of oiled whales is impossible. Also, the rehabilitation of live stranded oiled dolphins normally
is not undertaken as meeting the requirements for transport, captivity treatments and facility needs for any
single animal is not feasible in relation to the resources available to the whole of the wildlife response.

8.4.3 Seals

Oiled seals would come ashore and can be rescued and rehabilitated in specialised facilities. Seal casualties
are normally outnumbered by seabird casualties, but each single seal will need individual attention whereas
seabirds will benefit from herd management.

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8.5 Oiled Wildlife Response Actions

8.5.1 Survey

Surveys are extremely important to calibrate the wildlife response. Using the data collected from the field team
reports, it is possible to confirm and verify baseline information, determine the number of wildlife affected or
potentially affected, identify priority species and habitats, monitor the impacts of the oil spill on wildlife over
time. Field assessments and surveys can be undertaken on foot, by vehicle, by boat or by aircraft. They
should be conducted across the oiled areas, through areas at risk of becoming oiled or where affected wildlife
is likely to arrive onshore. It is crucial to account for live and dead animals.
Survey and monitoring activities should continue for the duration of active wildlife response operations and
post-release of rehabilitated animals. It is essential to document every field survey using GPS, binoculars,
standard spreadsheets and notebooks. Record keeping and documentation is an important routine and serves
as the basis for reports and analyses of the spill impacts.
Field surveys also assist in the conduction of concurrent activities developed during an oiled wildlife response
like hazing, deterrence and collection of affected wildlife.

8.5.2 Carcass retention and drift experiments

The collection and scientific processing of carcasses found during an oil spill is an important element in
making a more accurate estimation of the impact on wildlife (numbers and species affected).
Pro-active and systematic collection of carcasses will be completed where possible to avoid scavenging and
the secondary pollution of un-oiled animals that are attracted to the carcasses. To make a scientifically
reliable estimate of animals impacted by the spill, collected carcasses should be labelled with references to
location (GPS coordinates if possible), date and time.
Ideally, drift experiments should be conducted at the same time to account for carcasses that remain at sea.

8.5.3 Hazing and deterrence

Hazing is the act of disturbing animals in a non-harmful way to make them leave the area predicted or
observed to be impacted. High-use areas threatened or impacted by the oil are priority targets for hazing. The
knowledge of the species is important since some methods are species-specific, like effigies, distress and
alarm calls. The techniques should be undertaken by trained personnel, as the effects of a poorly performed
hazing program could be ineffective and cause additional damage. The most common methods include:
 Human disturbance;
 Vehicle disturbance;

 Visual disturbance (lights, reflector, flags, effigies, balloons, etc.);

 Auditory disturbance (noise generators, propane cannons);

 Pyrotechnics;
 Physical structures (fences, barriers).
In some circumstances, to protect flightless species, fencing off the oiled area may be considered.
Hazing and deterrence techniques have variable efficacy. Animals easily become habituated to the disturbing
effect that is used, therefore techniques need to be changed frequently, sometimes every hour to be effective.
It is important to ensure that hazing and deterrence does not result in animals escaping towards or into the oil.
Before any hazing is attempted, a hazing plan will be developed. This will include the locations to which
animals will be hazed and will consider the needs of individual species and their current lifecycle stage.

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Specifically, if the animals are being hazed from their feeding grounds, the identified location must provide an
equivalent food source.
If the animals are on their nesting grounds, it is highly unlikely that hazing will be effective as birds have an
extremely high nest site tenacity and fidelity. Life cycle, seasonality status and weather conditions may impact
with planning and chosen methodology.

8.5.4 Capture of oiled animals

The Sea Lion crude has been shown to be much less adhesive to feathers than typical crude oils and the
capture of animals that have been oiled offshore is very unlikely. There is a small possibility, in the event of
oil finding its way to shore, that animals could be oiled by contact on the shoreline, but this is an unlikely
outcome for a spill so far offshore.
When animals become oiled, they need to be captured. It is a rare instance that an oiled animal will live if it is
left in the field, untreated. The collection of affected wildlife will occur during the shoreline and beach surveys
or using Rapid Inflatable Boats (RIBs) at specific areas determined by the Incident Management Team. With
trained responders, animals can be captured using hand-held nets according to their size and species and
then placed in pet carriers or cardboard boxes. It is essential to minimise chasing time and to free the animals
quickly from the net. The transport container must provide enough room to fit the animal comfortably.
Compatible species can be housed together. Affected penguins on sandy beaches can be fenced in for
manual capture. Professional wildlife responders will evaluate each situation, since their expert advice will
allow them to assess risks and make recommendations regarding the collection of animals.
Once oiled animals are collected, they will be stabilised as close to the capture site as possible and when
stable, transported to the wildlife rehabilitation facility for full examination and rehabilitation. No triage
decisions are made in the field but only once a full examination and blood work has been done at the
rehabilitation centre will those decisions be taken.
Pre-emptive capture, to prevent contamination, may also be an option.

8.5.5 Field stabilisation

Once animals are captured, it is crucial that they are provided with medical stabilisation as soon as
practicable. Depending on where the wildlife rehabilitation facility is located relative to the field, it may be
necessary to have stabilisation units set up near the wildlife collection activities to provide immediate care for
the captured oiled wildlife. Field stabilization units must provide shelter (out of the elements), should be
temperature controlled and provide space to store oiled wildlife until they are stable for transport.
Basic supplies to support gavage feeding for fluids and PPE will be stockpiled at the stabilization unit. Field
stabilization units are often used to co-locate field operations and provide a place where field teams replenish
capture supplies such as nets, animal carriers and PPE. Pre-identified potential field stabilisation locations will
be addressed in the operational oiled wildlife plan.

8.5.6 Transportation

Once animals are medically stable enough to travel, transport will be set up to move animals from the field to
the local wildlife rehabilitation facility. It is unlikely that large numbers of animals would be recovered.
Transport options include small boats and 4 x 4 vehicles.

8.5.7 Rehabilitation

Oiled wildlife response and rehabilitation is a complex endeavour and will be undertaken by qualified and
experienced personnel.

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Once animals are thermo-stable and hydrated, they can be transported from the field or field stabilisation site
to the wildlife rehabilitation facility. Upon arrival, veterinary staff or qualified wildlife rehabilitation staff will
conduct full examination and documentation. Animals will be logged onto a Live Admission Log to record a
consecutive numerical listing of all animals received at the wildlife rehabilitation facility. Once the intake
examination is finalised, animals will be provided with fluids and housed in the pre-wash care area, where
they are held for a minimum of 24-48 hours before being evaluated for cleaning. While in the pre-wash area,
wildlife will be provided fluids and nutrition on alternating schedules throughout the day. Internationally agreed
protocols for the care of oiled wildlife will be applied to ensure animals are receiving the best achievable care.
During the rehabilitation process, husbandry of animals is very important and different substrates will be
utilised depending on the species of wildlife in care. It is most important to ensure that wildlife moves through
the rehabilitation process as quickly as they are medically ready to do so. Once animals are cleaned of both
the oil product and the detergent, the reconditioning fur and feathers will begin. Conditioning for release may
require days or weeks in an appropriate enclosure before they are ready to be evaluated for release.
The first goal of this phase is to get the animals back to their natural state as quickly as possible. For oiled
seabirds, that means getting them clinically stable, to enable them to be washed and then back on water, in
conditioning pools, at soon as possible.
During oiled wildlife rehabilitation the utilisation of “herd health” protocols is imperative to provide the best
possible care for the most number of animals. Utilising an incident management system will provide forward
planning, meaning the next phase of the rehabilitation process for the animals will already be in motion and
ready when the animals upgrade through the process.

8.5.8 Release

Once animals have regained their waterproofing, they will be evaluated for release. Clinical evaluation
includes behaviour, body weight, body condition, blood parameters, absence of respiratory problems,
waterproofing or natural conditioning of pelage or feathers.
Once animals have been deemed clinically approved and ready for release, the appropriate release location
will be established in consultation with local wildlife stakeholders. Generally, animals are marked before
release to assist in determining post-release survivability. The animals are generally released in the morning
to enable them to become oriented to their surroundings and assist them in finding food.

8.5.9 Euthanasia as a response option

While the intention in wildlife response is to successfully rescue and rehabilitate animals affected by oil, those
animals that will not benefit from any further rescue or rehabilitation should be euthanised to prevent further
suffering. At the beginning of an oiled wildlife event, agreement with the Falkland Islands local veterinary
service and response veterinarians will be sought to agree on euthanasia protocols in conjunction with the
Falkland Islands local veterinary service and the agreed protocols.

8.5.10 Legal, safety and security requirements

In the view of the above it should be assumed that any mobilised national or international wildlife response
personnel will need to be authorised/ licenced by FIG for their work before they interact with any wildlife as
part of the response. This is not only crucial for hazing activities, capture, handling and transport of wildlife,
but also when euthanasia must be applied, even more so if protected species are involved.
Safety is Premier’s priority for any incident. All Premier activities, including any response to an incident would
be carried out in line with Premier’s HSES Management System, which includes performing appropriate risk
assessments for all work. Wildlife responders must observe all hygiene safety precautions agreed during risk
assessments. In addition, health and safety issues related to working with (oiled) animals need to be
considered:

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 Working in facilities: a site safety plan will be developed before any facility is used; all who work there
must receive instructions as to how to keep safe (slips, trips and falls; water and electricity, etc.)
 Working with animals includes danger from bites, pecks, etc. This will be mitigated via PPE (e.g.
safety glasses, gloves), and expert instruction on potential aggressive behaviour of all species in care
and related handling techniques

Animals may have infectious diseases that could be transmitted to humans, known as “zoonosis”.
Veterinarians are best placed to assess disease risks and to advise on protective measures. If the risks are
potentially high (e.g. an outbreak of transmittable bird flu is known or suspected in the response area) it
should be considered carefully whether animals suspected to be infected should be admitted into the facilities
or should be removed from care by euthanising them.

8.6 Premier Oiled Wildlife Equipment

A specific oiled wildlife response equipment list will be developed whilst developing the operational oiled
wildlife plan and done so in consultation with stakeholders like Falklands Conservation. At the very minimum,
there will be the items listed below:

 1x Oiled wildlife rehabilitation facility/ warehouse (See Figure 8.1)

 1 x Survey, search and rescue package
 1 x Hazing/ deterrence package
 1 x Wildlife medical package
 1 x Cleaning and rehabilitation package
 1 x PPE package
 1 Senior Oil Spill Response Manager – Premier Oiled Wildlife Specialist
 15 Trained Oiled Wildlife Responders - the responders will have previous knowledge and experience
in the wildlife equipment and will be able to assist in the setting up of the equipment and facility
 International qualified responders will be mobilised accordingly

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Figure 8.1 Proposed Premier Proposed Wildlife Facility

8.7 Premier Oiled Wildlife Strategy

A summary of Premier’s proposed oiled wildlife strategy is shown in Figure 8.2 which will be extrapolated in
the operational oiled wildlife plan. The process in Figure 8.2 is intended to reduce the consequence of a small
spill and would continue to apply to larger spills with Premier having in place the measures to enhance the
oiled wildlife response within 96 hours, in terms of equipment and personnel.
Premier is committed to ensuring sufficient levels of competency in oiled wildlife response present in the
Falkland Islands through training and exercising a pool of residents. This capability will be further enhanced
by having sufficient resources to recover, stabilise and treat up to 200 birds.
As can be seen in the Figure 8.2, there will be up to a 24-hour period before oiled wildlife resources are
deployed to the field, this is to allow for sufficient information to be gained from surveys, development of a
comprehensive incident action plan, and prepare resources.
The long-term response is likely to consist of a continuous process with the actions repeating until the end of
the response with the main difference being the quantity of people involved in the oiled wildlife response
fluctuating.

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Figure 8.2 Premiers Oiled Wildlife Strategy Summary

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9 OIL SPILL ASSETS AND COMPETENCY TRAINING

This section of the Strategy Document address the equipment Premier will have available in the Falkland
Islands and the proposed personnel training and exercising schedule that will be followed as a minimum to
ensure that an effective response can be initiated in the unlikely event that an oil spill occurs.

9.1 Oil Spill Response Resources

The Oil Spill Response (OSR) equipment that have been selected for the drilling campaign is a refined version
of the oil spill response equipment which was acceptable during the exploration phase. The equipment has
been refined based on the information received from CEDRE on oil characteristics and following the OSOP
workshop in Stanley.

The equipment in Table 9.1 and Figure 9.1 will be available throughout the drilling phase, and Table 9.2 and
Figure 9.2show the resources available during the production phase if inshore transfer is undertaken.

The Tables (Table 9.1 and Table 9.2) provide a brief description of the equipment and the reasoning for
selecting the equipment over potential alternatives.

Due to Premier Oil procurement procedures, exact names of the equipment could not be displayed, but it is
fully expected that Premier will consult with the supplier to ensure optimum operational potential of response
equipment for responding to Sea Lion crude oil and operating in the Falkland Islands.

Table 9.1: OSR resources available in support of drilling phase

Number of
OSR resource Description
items
Surveillance equipment
Crew change helicopters will be utilised to conduct aerial surveillance. For this
Helicopter
2 to be effective a number of Premier personnel will be trained in aerial
surveillance
surveillance.
A tracking buoy will be stored in the warehouse and transported to the field when
Tracking Buoy 1 required. The tracking buoy will accurately track a surface oil spill dependant on
prevailing Metocean conditions.
Satellite 1 Premier have access to satellite surveillance through membership with OSRL.
Vessels
150m (1,500 mm overall height) of heavy duty oil containment boom,
constructed of robust material for example moulded rubber, neoprene or similar
material, and formed of individual floatation chambers to provide additional
1 resilience. The size of 1,500 mm was chosen due to the ease of handling and to
ensure the FRCs can tow the boom using the guiding principles in the IMO,
nd
Section IV, Combating Oil Spills 2 edition, 2005. Can operate in conditions up
to Beaufort scale force 4.
Large belt skimming system: was selected due to the ability to recover the
Anchor Handling highly viscous crude oil. The belt will have two options either the spiked belt or
Tug Support (AHV) oleophilic brush. Belt systems when operated correctly are proven to reduce
water intake. The skimmer will have the ability provide steam and water injection
to aid pumping.
1 The skimming system will be accompanied with a heavy duty multipurpose
3
Archimedes screw pump with a minimum proven transfer rate of 30 m per hour
for highly viscous oils and with water injection to aid oil transfer.
Both the skimmer and pump will be powered by a compatible, diesel driven,
intrinsically safe, hydraulic power pack. Can operate in conditions up to Beaufort
scale force 4.

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Number of
OSR resource Description
items
100 tonne capacity free floating waste storage bladders: The floating
bladder is towable, and collapsible being stored in a small container on the deck
2 of the vessel and when deployed can be towed at a maximum speed of 5 knots.
The bladder is equipped with an integrated pump to assist in the transfer of
recovered product.
AHV N. A Will act as a boom towing vessel.
A remotely operated underwater vehicle (ROV) a tethered underwater mobile
MODU 1
device.
A remotely operated underwater vehicle (ROV) a tethered underwater mobile
ERRV 1
device.
100 flexible IBCs, 4x 100 tonne floating bladders, 500 hazardous waste sacks, a
pressure washing system, oil snares, oil snares on rope, steam generator, range
Warehouse of hand tools for shoreline recovery (rakes, shovels, spades). Sufficient PPE for
5 days of offshore and shoreline response, signage to prevent unauthorised
access.
1,000 tonne capacity floating bladder, 2 x100 tonne capacity floating bladders Oil
TDF Response 3
1 Skimmer, 150m Inshore inflatable boom, 10 m waste storage tank, 7 oil spill
Equipment
response fish totes, chemical response totes, 2 trailers, and hand tools.
 Warehouse 25 x 30 m ready to stabilise, clean and recondition 200 birds;
o Unlimited quantities of soft, warm water (39–41 °C/102–110 °F) of good
pressure (60–80 psi)
o Good ventilation to prevent excessive oil fumes and humidity, and to
help prevent diseases
Oiled Wildlife o Temperature control to maintain a draught free, warm environment (24–
1
Response Facility 29 °C)
o Electrical capability, min. 200 amps, 120/240 volts
o Adjacent outdoor area for pools, physical reconditioning and response
expansion
o Means to dispose solid and liquid contaminated waste

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Figure 9.1 Premier Proposed Offshore Response Assets During Drilling Phase

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Table 9.2 OSR resources available during production

The resources shaded in blue relate to the Inshore Transfer offtake options and may not be available if the
option of Inshore Transfer is not retained.
Number of
OSR resource Description
items
Surveillance equipment
Helicopter Crew change helicopters will be utilised to conduct aerial surveillance. For this
2
surveillance to be effective several Premier personnel will be trained in aerial surveillance.
A tracking buoy will be stored in the warehouse and transported to the field when
Tracking Buoy 1 required. The tracking buoy will accurately track a surface oil spill dependant on
prevailing Metocean conditions.
Satellite 1 Premier have access to satellite surveillance through membership with OSRL.
Helium aerostat (balloon) fitted with optical and infrared sensors to monitor oil
trajectory and location day and night. Data link back to command centre. This
Aerostat
1 system was chosen over a remote controlled aerial droid surveillance due to the
surveillance system
reduced training requirement and robustness of the system being able to
withstand 50 knot winds.
Vessels
300m (1,500 mm overall height) of heavy duty oil containment boom,
constructed of robust material for example moulded rubber, neoprene or similar
material, and formed of individual floatation chambers to provide additional
1 resilience. The size of 1,500 mm was chosen due to the ease of handling and to
ensure the FRCs can tow the boom using the guiding principles in the IMO,
nd
Section IV, Combating Oil Spills 2 edition, 2005. Can operate in conditions up
to Beaufort scale force 4.
Large belt skimming system: was selected due to the ability to recover the
highly viscous crude oil. The belt will have two options either the spiked belt or
oleophilic brush. Belt systems when operated correctly are proven to reduce
water intake. The skimmer will have the ability provide steam and water injection
to aid pumping.
2 The skimming system will be accompanied with a heavy duty multipurpose
3
archimedes screw pump with a minimum proven transfer rate of 30 m per hour
for highly viscous oils and with water injection to aid oil transfer.
Both the skimmer and pump will be powered by a compatible, diesel driven,
intrinsically safe, hydraulic power pack. Can operate in conditions up to Beaufort
Multi-Role Support scale force 4.
Vessel (MRSV) The large diameter free floating weir skimming device has been chosen to
respond to IFO and MGO spills. The weir skimming device is to be self-levelling
with the ability to recover oil from the surface of the water. The pump attached to
system will be an Archimedes screw pump with a minimum proven transfer rate
3
of 30 m per hour with water injection to aid pumping. This allows the pumps to
1
be interchangeable between skimmers to increase the resilience of equipment
during a response.
Both the skimmer and pump will be powered by a compatible, diesel driven,
intrinsically safe, hydraulic power pack which can also power mechanical belt
skimmers. Can operate in conditions up to Beaufort scale force 4.
2 Fast response craft (FRC) to tow/work the boom
Side sweep boom around 8m width have been selected for rapid deployment
the side sweep systems are to be on a robust marine grade aluminium outrigger
with a maximum length of 8m. The boom is to be constructed from moulded
2 rubber, neoprene or similar material, and formed of individual floatation
chambers to provide additional resilience and not exceed 1,500mm. The
previously mentioned skimmers will be deployed into the arching containment
areas. Can operate in conditions up to Beaufort scale force 4.

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Number of
OSR resource Description
items
3
Dedicated heated recovered oil capacity of 200 m with option to free up
3
additional 500 m of non-heated storage on demand. This is to prevent further
solidification of recovered oil and allow for free movement of the oil into the
barge or OLST.
1 300m (1,500 mm overall height) of heavy duty oil containment boom,
Large belt skimming system, with Archimedes screw pump, and compatible
2
powerpack system.
Inshore Support Large belt skimming system: was selected due to the ability to recover the
a 2
Vessel (ISV) highly viscous crude oil.
1 Fast response craft (FRC) to tow/work the boom
2 Side sweep boom system with 8m swath width
3
Dedicated heated recovered oil capacity of 150 m
19 – 24m long vessel with the ability to securely tie the storage barges
1
alongside.
The vessel is to be permanently fitted with either a typical paddle,
1 oleophilic brush, or spiked belt skimmer. This system is best to recover
Dedicated Oil Spill highly vicious oils similar to the characteristics of Sea Lion Crude Oil.
Response Vessel The vessel will be equipment with solid floatation boom and marine grade
a
(DOSRV) 2 aluminium outriggers which can be deployed at the front of the vessel to
increase the recovery rate.
3
Dedicated heated recovered oil capacity of 50 m to assist in the transfer of
1
oil from the DOSRV to the storage barges
1 Archimedes screw pump with water injection to aid pumping.
Workboat with primary duty of handling mooring lines during berthing operations.
a
Workboat 1 Secondary duty is to act as tow vessel during spill response operations, for
storage barges, and shoreline response boom.
3
Floating oil storage barges with a capacity of 250 m each. Fitted with
2
heating coils to heat recovered oil to enable transfer to tertiary storage.
Shoreline response boom. The Premier workshop for the deployment of
coastal booms suggests the boom should be solid floatation boom due to the
following properties, high durability, rapid deployment, ability to store on boom
reel, and low maintenance requirement. The boom width should not exceed
Oil storage barges
a 6 1100mm and be 250m in length made up of 10 x 25m interconnected sections
(2)
constructed of either PVC or Polyurethane.
The containment booms will be stored on the hydraulic boom reels which should
make for easy deployment and recovery onto the barge. Can operate in
conditions up to Beaufort scale force 4.
Barges to have anchors and winch system installed so can be stored at differing
2
suitable locations in the sound during a response.
Large belt skimming system, with Archimedes screw pump, and compatible
1
powerpack system.
1 Fast response craft (FRC) to support oiled wildlife response and logistics
Ship to Ship self-regulating air inflated containment boom system for
deployment in-between fender 2 and 3. Constructed of double faced neoprene
1
or similar abrasion resistant material with a freeboard of 715mm and a draft of
90mm.
Offshore Loading
Shuttle Tanker 150 of fast deployment boom which can be deployed within 2 – 5 minutes
once deployment vessels are in place. To be stored in a fast deployment bag.
1
Requirement for fast deployment once notified of a spill during a transfer
operation.
Yokohama fenders with the primary function to protect the vessels and the
4 secondary function of containing spilt oil between the vessels. The fenders will
be 3.3m x 5.5m
3
Heated recovered oil capacity of 150,000m

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Number of
OSR resource Description
items
100 flexible IBCs, 500 hazardous waste sacks, a pressure washing system, oil
snares, oil snares on rope, steam generator, range of hand tools for shoreline
Warehouse
recovery (rakes, shovels, spades). Sufficient PPE for 5 days of offshore and
shoreline response, signage to prevent unauthorised access.
3
TDF Response Oil Skimmer, 150m Inshore inflatable boom, 10 m waste storage tank, 7 oil spill
Equipment response fish totes, chemical response totes, 2 trailers, and hand tools.
 Warehouse ready to stabilise, clean and recondition 200 birds;
o Unlimited quantities of soft, warm water (39–41 °C/102–110 °F) of good
pressure (60–80 psi)
o Good ventilation to prevent excessive oil fumes and humidity, and to
Oiled Wildlife help prevent diseases
Response Facility o Temperature control to maintain a draught free, warm environment (24–
1
(see also Section 29 °C)
11) o Electrical capability, min. 200 amps, 120/240 volts
o Adjacent outdoor area for pools, physical reconditioning and response
expansion
o Means to dispose solid and liquid contaminated waste

a
These vessels are capable of responding inshore or close to shore and are not suitable for response operations offshore at the Sea Lion
field.

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Figure 9.2 Premier Proposed Oil Spill Response Assets During Production

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9.2 Personnel and Training

Premier will ensure there is a high level of competency in the personnel tasked with responding to a spill
event. The high level of competency expected will be achieved through training and exercising of key
personnel outlined in Table 9.3 and Table 9.4.
To maintain competency, the exercise schedule in Table 9.5 will be undertaken as a minimum throughout the
duration of the project.
The resilience of the response teams is critical throughout a response as it can be a demanding environment
with additional pressures. Premier has committed to the following training to ensure resilience of personnel
throughout a response.
Upon notification of a significant incident, Premier will start arranging for an adequately trained and exercised
relief team to relieve the team in the Falklands.
Table 9.3 Training for Incident Management Teams

Position Requirement Refresher

MODU OIM On-scene Commander BEIS level Repeat every 3 years

1 equivalent
Premier Drilling Supervisor On-scene Commander BEIS level Repeat every 3 years
Offshore 1 equivalent

Rig Duty Manager Corporate Management BEIS Repeat every 3 years

level 2 equivalent
Support Vessel Master (MRSV, MCA 4P/IMO level 2 Oil Spill Repeat every 3 years
ISV, AHV, OLST) Response training

FPSO Crew Video on oil spill response Repeat every 3 years

Support Vessel Crew (MRSV, ISV MCA 2P training course Repeat every 3 years
AHV)

Premier Duty Corporate Management BEIS Repeat every 3 years

level 2 equivalent
EMT – Duty Manager Onshore Emergency Responder Repeat every 3 years
(BEIS level 3 equivalent)

BST – HSE Team Onshore Emergency Responder Repeat every 3 years

(BEIS level 3 equivalent)

Premier – IMT Member (x4) Aerial Surveillance – Skilled Repeat every 3 years
Observer
Premier – IMT member (x4) SCAT Training Repeat every 3 years

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Table 9.4 Training for Oiled Wildlife Teams

Position Responsibility Training

Oiled Wildlife Specialist Will be responsible for managing - Incident Management Training
the response to oiled wildlife. - Oiled Wildlife Response Management

Oiled Wildlife Responsible for safely surveying, - Oiled Wildlife First Responder Training
Responders hazing/ deterring, capturing and - Oiled Wildlife Rehabilitation Training
rehabilitating oiled wildlife.
- Hazing and Capture of Oiled Wildlife

Table 9.5 Minimum Exercise Frequency

Position Frequency Description

Offshore OSCP 1/shift Ensure familiarisation with the
OSCP
TIER 1 OSR Equipment Practical Monthly Function and deployment check.
deployment The equipment is tested, not the
dispersant.
Onshore 1/year To include communications to site
and simulate interaction with
regulators

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10 EFFECTIVENESS ASSESSMENT

10.1 Overview

The OSCAR model has been used to predict the effectiveness of the response measures discussed
throughout this document. Pessimistic assumptions have been used in both scenarios as in reality more
resources may be made available by utilising national vessels of opportunity or sourcing vessels from
locations within 20 days sailing.
For both scenarios, containment and recovery is the principal response strategy deployed concurrently with
monitoring and evaluating measures (spill trajectory modelling and aerial surveillance). Dispersant application
would prove ineffective due to the properties of the Sea Lion Crude Oil, and expert opinion to date suggests
that and at sea burning may not be ineffective. The effectiveness of containment and recovery is limited due
to only being able to operate in wave heights up to 2m.
In the background to both response scenarios, a series of incident management functions would be actively
ensuring responder safety, determining additional resources, and conducting NEBA assessments to ensure
the most effective response is initiated throughout the response.

10.2 Scenario 1 Effectiveness

The response measures in Figure 10.1 were used to assess the effectiveness of Premier’s response to
Scenario 1 (subsea well blowout with 77 day release) and include:
- AHVs deploying offshore boom and a mechanical belt skimmer, in a J-configuration, after 24 hours;
- Once the 200 tonnes waste storage capacity is reached, the vessels return to Stanley then return to
the field after 48 hours;
- The response is enhanced after 20 days by VOO’s and Tier 3 equipment;
It is envisaged that the support vessels will be undertaking emergency rescue operations for the first 24 hours.
In the unlikely event that shoreline oiling occurs teams will complete SCAT surveys and determine the most
appropriate method of shoreline clean-up.
Concurrent oiled wildlife response measures such as surveys (at sea and shoreline), and hazing will be
undertaken.

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=
AHVs J-configuration

AHV units
available after
24 hours
48 hr
Sail to Stanley,
offload waste Release Point
and return to
the field.

Additional 10
recovery units
after 20 days.

Figure 10.1 Response assumptions for Scenario 1

10.2.1 Stochastic modelling

Key comparisons for the assumed response and no response are shown in Table 10.1 with a geographical
representation shown in Figure 10.2. As can be seen, the response is modest in terms of reducing the overall
consequence of the incident. There are some sufficient noticeable advantages of the response mostly in the
reduction in shoreline oiling by 220 tonnes, and the 12% total recovered oil, which is in line with industry
standards of effectiveness for containment and recovery offshore.
Table 10.1 Scenario 1 Tier 1 Effectiveness - Stochastic model outputs summary

Scenario 1 Tier 1 Effectiveness - Stochastic Summary

Parameters No Response With Response
Proportion of scenarios reaching shore 10% 10%
Maximum mass of oil on shore 2,500 tonnes 2,200 tonnes
Average mass of oil on shore 1,070 tonnes 850 tonnes
Average proportion of oil recovered Zero 12%

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Reduced
Probabilities

Figure 10.2 Scenario 1 Effectiveness No Response – Comparison of Surface Probability

10.2.1 Deterministic modelling

A deterministic simulation with the worst probability of shoreline oiling was used to assess the response
measures. The results showed a modest improvement mostly in the reduced surface oiling. Figure 10.3
shows the fate of oil over time for the no response case.
Geographic representation of the decreased surface volume is shown in Figure 10.4 and Figure 10.5. It can
be seen that the response measures reduce the concentration of oil at the point of release which may prove
advantageous during well control operations.

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Figure 10.3 Scenario 1 worst case deterministic oil behaviour no response and response

Geographic representation of the decreased surface volume is shown in Figure 10.4 and Figure 10.5. It can
be seen that the response measures reduce the concentration of oil at the point of release which may prove
advantageous during well control operations.

Point of Point of
relase relase Reduced
Densities

Figure 10.4 Scenario 1 Cumulative swept area of oil on surface no response and response

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Reduced Densities

Figure 10.5 Scenario 1 Deterministic snap shot at 30 days response and no response

10.3 Scenario 2 Effectiveness

The response measures in Figure 10.6 were used to assess the effectiveness of Premier’s response to
Scenario 2 (FPSO full inventory loss and 2 offtake tanker cargo tanks) and included:
- AHVs, or AHV and MRSV, deploying offshore boom and a mechanical belt skimmer, in a J-
configuration, after 24 hours;
- Once the 200 tonnes waste storage capacity is reached, the vessels return to Stanley then return to
the field after 48 hours;
- The response is enhanced after a 20 days by VOO’s and Tier 3 equipment;
It is envisaged that the support vessels will be undertaking emergency rescue operations for the first 24 hours.
During joint operations, the MRSVs would be able to deploy an additional J-configuration boom or deploy side
sweep systems depending on the prevailing wind and oceanic conditions. This has not been considered in
this model, which also allows the model outcomes to represent the same scenario during production only.
During production only, a similar response would be mounted but with MRSVs.
In the unlikely event that shoreline oiling occurs, teams will complete SCAT surveys and determine the most
appropriate method of shoreline clean-up.
Concurrent oiled wildlife response measures such as survey (at sea and shoreline), and hazing will be
undertaken.

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=
AHVs J-configuration

AHV units
available after
48 hr 24 hours

Sailing to
Stanley offload Release Point
waste and
return to the
field.

Additional 10
recovery units
after 20 days.

Figure 10.6 Response assumptions for Scenario 2

10.3.1 Stochastic modelling

Key comparisons for the assumed response and no response are shown in Table 10.2 with a geographical
representation shown in Figure 10.7 . As can be seen the response is modest in terms of reducing the overall
consequence of the incident. There are some sufficient noticeable advantages of the response mostly
removing the probability of shoreline oiling occurring, therefore removing the risk to the highly productive and
in some areas sensitive shoreline environment. Not having to implement a shoreline response reduces the
risks to responders, and minimises waste generated.
As can be seen the average proportion of recovered oil is 2% with a response this is due to the dispersion and
spreading of the oil after 20 days, reducing the effectiveness of the additional recovery units.
Table 10.2 Scenario 1 Tier 1 Effectiveness - Stochastic Summary

Scenario 1 Tier 1 Effectiveness - Stochastic Summary

Parameters No Response With Response

Proportion of scenarios reaching shore 8% Zero

Maximum mass of oil on shore 19 tonnes Zero

Average mass of oil on shore 9.5 tonnes Zero

Average proportion of oil recovered Zero 2%

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Reduced
Probabilities

Figure 10.7 Scenario 2 Effectiveness of Response – Comparison of Surface Probability

Note: although surface oil does not appear to reach the coastline in either output, oil can still arrive at low
densities, or in the water column, which is predicted for the no-response case.

10.3.2 Deterministic modelling

A deterministic simulation, run with the same weather parameters that resulted in the worst probability of
shoreline oiling in the Scenario 1, was used to assess the assumed response. The results showed a modest
improvement when compared to a simulation run without a response, shown in the geographic representation
of in Figure 10.9 and Figure 10.10. The reduced amount of surface oil could reduce the overall risk to birds
that use the northern waters.

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Figure 10.8 Scenario 2 worst case deterministic oil behaviour no response and response

Figure 10.9 Scenario 2 Cumulative swept area of oil on surface - no response and response

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Reduced Densities

Figure 10.10 Scenario 2 Deterministic snap shot at 30 days - no response and response

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11 CONCLUSIONS

Given the likely sea states at the Sea Lion field, the ineffectiveness of dispersant on the crude oil and the
limited evaporation and dissolution/dispersion into the water column, response options for major oil spills far
offshore events are limited and will have limited success.
Nevertheless for a prolonged (77 day) subsea blowout at the maximum flow rates predicted for any well at any
time of the development, the adopted response is predicted to be able to recover 12% of the oil released on
average and thereby mitigate the environmental effects and reduce the amount of oil that might reach the
shores of the Falkland Islands.
For a large inventory loss, the response recovers 2% of the oil on average, and is sufficient to prevent oil
reaching the shores of the Falkland Islands.
Several conservative assumptions have been made regarding the availability of additional response units,
which in practice could be available to increase recovery capability.

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12 REFERENCES

Arctic Council (2009) Guidelines and Strategies for Oily Waste Management in the Arctic Region.
Health and Safety Executive (2001) Reducing Risk, Protecting People.
Johansen, O., Rye, H., Melbye, A.G., Jensen, H.V., Serigstad, B. and Knutsen, T. (2001). Deep Spill JIP
Experimental Discharges of Gas and Oil at Helland Hansen. SINTEF Technical Report No: STF66 F01082.
Premier (2014) Falkland Islands Wildlife Response Procedure 2015 Exploration Campaign FK‐BU‐PMO‐EV‐
PRO‐001
Premier (2015) Exploration Oil Spill Response Plan FK-SL-PMO-EV-PLN-0002.
Premier (2017a) Crisis and Emergency Planning Standard CP-BA-PMO-HS-ZZ-ST-0007
Premier (2017b) Crisis Management Procedure CP-BA-PMO-HS-ZZ-PR-0002.
Premier (2017c) Inshore Environmental Modelling Report FK-SL-PMO-EV-REP-0010.
Premier (2017d) Sea Lion Development - Phase 1 Environmental Impact Statement FK-SL-PMO-EV-REP-
0008.
Premier (2017e) Sea Lion Phase 1 Waste Management Strategy FK-SL-PMO-EV-STY-000
Premier (2017f) Oil Spill on Paper Report, FK-SL-PMO-REP-0012
Premier (2017g) Oil Spill Strategy for Inshore Crude Oil Transfer Operations, FK-SL-PMO-EV-STY-0003.
NOAA (2002) Technical Memorandum NOS OR&R 11. Environmental Sensitivity Index Guidelines Version
3.0.
IPIECA (2000) Guidelines on Biological Impacts of Oil Pollution.
IPIECA/IOGP (2013) Oil spill risk assessment and response planning for offshore installations.
IPIECA/IOGP (2014) Oil spill waste minimization and management Good practice guidelines for incident
management and emergency response personnel.
IPIECA/IOGP (2015) Response strategy development using net environmental benefit analysis (NEBA).
Good practice guidelines for incident management and emergency response personnel.
IPIECA/IOGP (2015) Tiered preparedness and response.
ITOPF (2011) Clean-up of Oil from Shorelines. Technical Information Paper 07.
ITOPF (2011) Contingency Planning for Marine Oil Spills. Technical Information Paper 16.
Maritime and Coastguard Agency (2010) RP 549: Planning the Processing of Waste arising from a Marine Oil
Spill: Part 1: Local Authority Guidance.
Maritime and Coastguard Agency (2016) Waste Management Guidance Following a Maritime Pollution
Incident in the UK. Scientific, Technical and Operational Advice Note - STOp 3/16.

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