About governing offshore oil and gas operations in federal waters, the US Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement made a proposal to amend its regulations. In the regulations to address recent technological advances, the proposed rule would revise 30 CFR 250 Subpart H, Oil and Gas Production Safety Systems in the Aug. 22 Federal Register.

 “We are proposing the common-sense changes, and we will address issues such as production safety systems, subsurface safety devices, and safety device testing. These are great help to the regulator to keep up with changing technologies. And further more, technology makes the industry to explore and develop resources in deeper waters,” BSEE Director James A. Watson said.

As we continue to make effort for safety at all levels, at all times. Industry leaders are deploying the best practices, and the rule implements it. He added.

In its announcement, the US Department of the Interior agency said the regulations have not experienced a major revision since they are first published in 1988.But the proposal will change the situation.

During that period, the offshore oil and subsea trees used in gas industry has evolved or become more popular, BSEE said.

“Foam firefighting systems; electronic-based emergency shutdown systems, subsea pumping, waterflooding, and gas lift; and new alloys and valves for high-temperature and high-pressure wells are included in these devices and materials,” it noted.