API RP 14J

Abstract

This document recommends minimum requirements and guidelines for the design and layout of production facilities on open-type offshore platforms, and it is intended to bring together in one place a brief description of basic hazards analysis procedures for offshore production facilities. This recommended practice discusses several procedures that could be used to perform a hazards analysis, and it presents minimum requirements for process safety information and hazards analysis that can be used for satisfying the requirements of API RP 75. <br>The concepts contained herein recognize that special hazard considerations exist for offshore production facilities. As a minimum, these include: <br>1. Spatial limitations that may cause potential ignition sources being installed in or near production equipment. <br>2. Spatial limitations that may result in quarters being installed near production equipment, pipeline/flow line risers, fuel storage tanks, or other major fuel sources. <br>3. The inherent fire hazard presented by the release of flammable liquids or vapors, whether during normal operations or as a result of any unusual or abnormal condition. <br>4. The severe marine environment, including corrosion, remoteness/isolation, and weather (i.e., wind, wave and current, ice). <br>5. High-temperature and high-pressure fluids, hot surfaces, and rotating equipment located in or near operating areas. <br>6. The handling of hydrocarbons over water. <br>7. Large inventories of hydrocarbons from wells/reservoirs and pipelines connected to or crossing a producing platform. <br>8. Storage and handling of hazardous chemicals. <br>9. Potential H₂S releases. <br>This recommended practice is directed to those permanent and temporary installations associated with routine production operations. The guidelines presented herein should provide an acceptable level of safety when used in conjunction with referenced industry codes, practices and standards. <br><strong>PURPOSE</strong> <br>The purpose of this recommended practice is to assemble into one document useful procedures and guidelines for planning, designing and arranging offshore production facilities, and performing a hazards analysis on open-type offshore production facilities. This will promote safe, pollution free and efficient production of oil and gas. This publication is only a guide and requires the application of sound engineering judgment. Furthermore, it is not intended to override or otherwise supersede any existing code or governmental rule or regulation, nor is it intended as a comprehensive document containing all useful and appropriate information.