Regulations and Standards

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Regulations and Standards

This chapter describes how offshore safety regulations are developed and managed. Different approaches, including the distinction between prescriptive and non-prescriptive systems are outlined, as well as the different types of enforcement used.

The ‘Regulator’s Dilemma’ is explained, particularly in non-prescriptive regimes. The various agencies that have jurisdiction in US waters are listed, along with a description of the role of each one. Important industry organizations, such as the Center for Offshore Safety and the American Petroleum Institute are also described. The chapter includes information about critical engineering standards, including the API RP ‘family’.

Table of Contents

Introduction
Types of Regulation
   Prescriptive Regulations
   Non-Prescriptive Regulations
   Time Required
Enforcement
   Enforcement Approaches
   SEMS
   Reporting Requirements
   The Regulator’s Dilemma
   Responsible Parties
Offshore Regulatory Agencies (U.S.)
   Outer Continental Shelf
   State Jurisdiction
   Minerals Management Service (MMS)
   Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE) 
      30 CFR Part 250
      NTLs
      Inspections
Other Agencies
   Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
   Department of Transportation
   National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
   Army Corp of Engineers
   The Jones Act
   Coast Guard
   SAMS (California)
   PFEER (UK)
Industry Organizations
   Classification Societies
   OGP — International Association of Oil & Gas Producers
   SOLAS
   American Petroleum Institute (API)
   Center for Offshore Safety (COS)
   Offshore Operators Committee
Engineering Standards
   API RP 14C
      Structure
      Contents
   API RP 14H
   API RP 14J
      Contents
      Purpose
      Design Safety
      Reference Documents
      Hazards Analysis
      Checklists
   API RP 14G
   API RP 521
      Analysis
      Two Thirds Rule
      Documentation