IOGP publishes updated version of the guidelines for the conduct of offshore drilling hazard site surveys

The International Association of Oil and Gas Producers (IOGP) has published an update to the Guidelines for the conduct of offshore drilling hazard site surveys, reflecting feedback on the original document from regulators around the world, IOGP member companies, contractors, verification bodies and consultants.

A dedicated task force of the IOGP’s Geomatics Committee has worked closely with marine survey industry representatives to review the feedback received. This resulting document reflects the continued development of drilling hazard site survey rationale and the latest technologies and techniques being applied for all relevant water depths and geological settings around the world. The document also includes an updated glossary of terms.

IOGP first published the guidelines, which describe good practices for conducting geophysical and hydrographic site surveys of proposed offshore drilling locations, in 2013. In 2015 IOGP issued a supplementary report Conduct of offshore drilling hazard site surveys – Technical Notes (‘technical notes’; IOGP Report No. 373-18-2) that provides supporting technical information. The updated guidelines have been reviewed to ensure alignment with the technical notes and other Geomatics Committee publications.

While the guidelines and the technical Notes were developed for drilling hazard site surveys, the techniques described may also be applied in the planning and delivery of other types of seabed surveys, such as those for pipeline and cable routes.