API recommends safety, environmental management framework for offshore wind projects

A landmark standard released on July 2 by the American Petroleum Institute (API) provides a comprehensive framework for safety and environmental integrity in offshore wind operations.

“By drawing on our expertise developing standards for the offshore oil and natural gas industry, we are helping to ensure safe and responsible development of offshore wind,” said API Senior Vice President for Global Industry Services Anchal Liddar.

API’s first edition of API Recommended Practice 75W (API RP 75W), Safety and Environmental Management System for Offshore Wind Operations and Assets , establishes a performance-based approach to systematically review and manage risks and promote the safe operation of offshore wind energy.

Specifically, the API RP 75W provides companies engaged in offshore operations in the offshore wind energy sector with a framework for establishing, implementing, and maintaining a Safety and Environmental Management System (SEMS) to manage and reduce risks associated with safety and the environment and prevent incidents and unplanned events.

The recommended practice applies, in part or whole, to companies engaged in offshore operations through the project life cycle, says API.

“API RP 75W sets a new benchmark for safety and environmental management in the offshore wind industry, upholding the highest standards of safe and sustainable operations,” Liddar added.

The document, which was developed in collaboration with the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE) and industry stakeholders, covers all aspects of safety and environmental management, including risk assessment and procedures for safe work management, according to API, which represents all segments of America’s natural gas and oil industry.

It also includes safe work practices, management of change, emergency preparedness, and incident investigation, as well as guidance for evaluating assets and operations to better identify risks.

The document, which accounts for evolutions in technology, operations, and knowledge, may be used globally for offshore wind operations, said Liddar.

BSEE Director Kevin Sligh pointed out the regulatory significance of API’s document, noting that the bureau has been working with offshore wind developers and standards development organizations for over a decade to develop offshore wind standards.

“BSEE shares API’s dedication and commitment to fostering a clean energy future, one where safety is the No. 1 priority for the offshore wind industry and workers on the Outer Continental Shelf,” he said.

API’s document is available for purchase at its online webstore .

The post API recommends safety, environmental management framework for offshore wind projects appeared first on Daily Energy Insider .