Main factors of offshore platform impact on the environment

Abstract

Object and purpose of research. The paper gives consideration to the main aspects of offshore platforms impact on the environment and qualitative assessment. The main attention is paid to the analysis of the main systems and components that could have the most significant impact on the environment. These include: hull, mooring systems, marine power plant and its systems, drilling equipment. Subject matter and methods. The following types of the offshore platform impacts are considered: on the atmosphere, on the subsoil during the wells construction, on the hydrosphere, as well as on flora and fauna. Main results. Based on enumerated pollution levels for flora and fauna, atmosphere and water, it can be stated that the considered platforms components in the normal operation conditions practically do not have negative impact on the environment. The greatest but also acceptable impact on the environment could have marine power plant and drilling complexes component. Conclusion. This conclusion applies to the accident free offshore platform operation in compliance with all the marine activities governing rules, as well as the equipment installation that meets all the requirements for its technical condition.

Keywords

• environmental impact
• offshore platforms
• emissions into the atmosphere
• emissions into the hydrosphere
• impact on flora and fauna
• drilling complex impact
• impact assessment