Shell has been working with SSI (OEM of the survival craft utilized at Robert Training Center) on a meeting at Shell Robert Training Center to discuss and display lifeboat launching alternatives.  Shell has offered to utilize this as a Lifeboat Workgroup event and publicize it to OOC subcommittee members and all other Lifeboat OEM’s to attend.  We ask that those interested in attending please keep company attendance limited in an effort to keep discussions focused as much as possible.  We would like to get good representation from operators of fixed platforms with lifeboats as well as this issue impacts both fixed and floating facilities.

Meeting Purpose

The purpose of the meeting will be to facilitate discussion around suitable alternatives that exist (or are readily attainable) to satisfy lifeboat equipment testing and personnel competency development requirements.  Other well-regulated offshore areas in the world have established no-launch protocols with their respective regulators and equipment manufacturers in the GOM also have presence in those other offshore areas.  The concept of alternatives for launching and personnel training is not new but has not been explored in the GOM with any coordinated effort until now.

As we all know, the challenges and risks with operating this equipment from a floating or fixed production facility are greater due to a variety of factors.  We know that many operators are starting to work on alternatives so we felt this would be a good opportunity to meet and attempt to gain as much alignment as possible.

Virtual Marine Technology (VMT) will also be in attendance and will have their stand-alone desktop training demo on display for those interested in pursuing a virtual training option.

It is intended that we use this time to share mutual concerns, attempt to align on efforts, and work as an industry to advance practical solutions the regulator can accept.