February 10 - A cross industry workgroup has published the latest edition of the 'Best Practice for the Safe Packing and Handling of Cargo to and from Offshore Locations' handbook.
The publication, which was developed by participants from a number of oil and gas companies, was launched to industry representatives at a private event held by oil and gas safety training specialists Survivex in Aberdeen.
Chaired by ASCO project manager Paul Logue, the workgroup has also launched a website alongside the handbook, which will act as a central hub for cargo handling best practice. The site provides access to an electronic version of the publication in addition to a catalogue of relevant industry resources and templates.
Alan Brown, group ceo of ASCO, which handles over three million tonnes of outbound deck cargo in support of offshore operations annually, said: "Keeping up-to-date with industry guidelines and safe working practices is vital to the company in terms of improving safety performance, operational procedures and the services we provide to our customers.
"The adoption of a cross industry collaborative approach has enabled us to develop a leading-edge supply chain solution securing inbound and outbound compliance with safe and effective logistical working practices."
Supporter of the handbook, Robert Paterson, health, safety and employment issues director at Oil & Gas UK, said: "The revised and updated cargo handling guidelines are essential reading for all involved in the safe packing of containers and the safe movement of goods and equipment to and from offshore installations."
The cross industry workgroup consists of representatives from ASCO, BP, Britannia, EnerMech, DNV-GL, Nexen, Peterson, Shell, Statoil, Swire Oilfield Services, Talisman Sinopec, TAQA and TOTAL; and is supported by Oil & Gas UK and the Marine Safety Forum.
