Incidents that lead to discharge of hydrocarbons can result in exposure of the involved personnel to various chemicals. Exposure can occur both in connection with the actual accident, mitigation operations and in connection with clean-up. Several of these chemicals can lead to unfortunate health effects.
Cooperation was established between the DwH Project and the Chemical Project in Norwegian Oil and Gas Association. The recommendations from the DwH Project are based on findings and results from investigation reports, in addition to experience and expertise from the Chemical Project. A working meeting was organised in 2011 to draw up industry recommendations in the event of exposure hazards in connection with accidental spills of hydrocarbons, as regards both mitigation and clean-up work.
The working meeting made the following recommendations:
Before the incident – in connection with preparation of emergency response plans
All players’ emergency response organisations at various levels should emphasise:
1. Clarify responsibilities in the emergency response plans
The emergency response plans should clearly indicate who is responsible for occupational health measurements, risk assessment, health examinations and health follow-up in connection with accidents where own personnel, other active personnel and third parties are exposed to chemicals with potential health hazards.
Operators are to develop uniform systems for measurements, health exams and follow up.
2. Access to the right expertise
Access to competent personnel who enable implementation of occupational hygiene measurements, risk assessments and health examinations, where relevant.
Ensure that necessary measurement equipment is available.
3. Relevant education and training
Scenarios where personnel are trained for accidents which lead to chemical exposure. Personnel who take part in oil spill response campaigns are educated about potential health hazards and how to protect themselves against them.
Information packets can be prepared for use as HSE topics, etc. on the facilities.
4. Access to adequate protective equipment
For the various exposure scenarios, emphasis is placed on identifying adequate personal protective gear, including both respiratory protection, skin protection and any other equipment. This equipment must be readily available for use during campaigns.
During the incident – initiate emergency response plans
5. Implement exposure measurements and risk assessment
Exposure measurements are done quickly and preferably continuously, by competent personnel, so that necessary risk assessment can be carried out and personnel can be equipped with adequate protective gear. This will also be the foundation for rapid and precise information to affected parties.
An evaluation should also be made of whether biological exposure data should be obtained.
6. Provide access to adequate protective equipment
Based on plans and risk assessments, ensure that correct protective equipment is used.
For vessels used in oil spill response, it is recommended that active coal filters are available and used in the fresh air intake for ventilation air.
7. Ensure rapid and precise information
Rapid and precise communication of information about potential chemical exposure and any ensuing health effects. This is important both for the involved personnel, and also in relation to other affected parties. Reliable scientific information should be emphasised. Information will reduce uncertainty and can help prevent stress reactions.
After the incident – follow-up
8. Ensure that the exposure is documented
It is important that all information about possible exposure is retained with a view towards possible delayed effects, for learning and research purposes.
9. Ensure necessary monitoring and follow-up of health
Emphasis is placed on systematic gathering and subsequent evaluation of necessary health information, where this is considered appropriate. In the event of major accidents involving exposure of many people, it is recommended that a systematic health monitoring and follow-up program be implemented by competent professionals over an extended period.
Need for research and studies
Short-term high exposure
Chemical exposure in short, intense doses can be difficult to measure. The health impact of this type of exposure is largely unknown.
Odour
Health effects resulting from odours should be studied in more detail as this is often described as a problem. Also, in many cases there will not be a connection between measurement of chemical exposure and experienced discomfort with pronounced odours.
We also know that somatic reactions can be triggered by an unpleasant experience, uncertainty, fear, etc.
Health effects in connection with acute exposure to hydrocarbons
More knowledge is needed about exposure and health effects in connection with hydrocarbon leaks on installations, e.g. long-term follow-up of exposed personnel in connection with blowouts.
Exposure and health effects in connection with clean-up work
In the wake of the clean-up work following the Deepwater Horizon accident, we will gain a lot of new knowledge about exposure and health effects. Several studies are underway.