The Atomic Model approach to operational assurance
Mark Utgard A , Howard Thomas B , Arvin Singh C and Jacek Narozny DA AMEC.
B Clough AMEC.
C AMEC Larastia.
D AMEC Larastia, presenter only.
The APPEA Journal 53(2) 449-449 https://doi.org/10.1071/AJ12060
Published: 2013
Abstract
There is an inherent risk in transitioning project personnel out and transitioning the incoming operating crew in with minimal disruption to operations and ensuring the integrity of the design. The key to mitigating this risk is to execute operational readiness assurance (ORA) processes, which provide confidence that a facility has seamless transition from design into operation, and that production targets are met in the first years of the asset’s life. It is a rigorous process spanning engineering, construction, commissioning, handover, and operations; this ensures confidence in operation and asset life cost.
This extended abstract focuses on a proven methodology to this aspect; it is highlighted using the Atomic Model approach, which is being implemented on the Wheatstone Processing Platform for Chevron. The atomic model consists of a nucleus (operability, reliability, and maintainability [ORM]) that provides the positive charge that will hold the whole process together; it also presents a consistent and operable asset to the operations and maintenance crew. The electrons—being the component parts—include competency, process safety, process control, operating and maintenance procedures, and maintenance management system. Together, these fully ensure operability.
The enemy of ORM is complexity and the Atomic Model is a systematic approach to this complexity. Implemented by a team that views the project holistically, this approach produces a facility that is operated and maintained in a uniform manner. This consistent and disciplined approach to operations, maintenance, and reliability is the positive charge needed in the nucleus for the path towards seamless start-up.
Mark has a various experience in offshore and onshore oil and gas projects. His experiences include project and engineering management and supporting project delivery in the early phases of a project lifecycle through to operational startup. He has been with AMEC for 12 years, starting in the Houston office and then transferring to Perth in 2008 to lead a major project. He has since made Australia his home and is now the Greenfield project director for Asia Pacific. |
Howard quit chemical engineering at University after two years to work as an operator with Dow Chemicals. He returned to university to complete the degree when he was satisfied he understood the practicalities of a chemical process. Howard joined Exxon Chemical Olefins Inc in 1989. His practical experience in process operations lead to a rapid specialisation in process optimisation, helping to take an ethylene plant from 1,800--2,100 t/d without physical modification. These results lead to a rapid progression within Exxon, eventually coupling reliability science with process modelling analysis to extend optimisation from the process, to a combination with maintenance, improving not only efficiency but also availability. ExxonMobil still follow these practices worldwide. After leaving Exxon, he learnt the ropes of consultancy before establishing his own businesses. Ultimately AMEC acquired PI in January 2009. He expanded the PI team into southeast Asia and is now expanding Clough AMEC. His skills bring a unique dimension to an asset support business. |
With significant consultancy experience, Arvin has successfully delivered various projects across industries, including hydrocarbons (onshore and offshore), mining, and infrastructure. He has executed various roles, providing consultancy excellence to resources majors in creating and managing teams across full life-cycle of projects: design, construction, commissioning , inspections, and testing/auditing. He is involved in presenting and running both workshops and conferences, bringing the real world challenges to the classroom environment. Key areas of focus include strategic asset management, operational readiness and assurance, turnaround and risk management, and competency training and development. |
Jacek Narozny is a seasoned engineering consultancy professional with a long-term passion for intelligent asset management and operational excellence. He has been involved in the delivery of performance-improvement initiatives with companies in the mining, resources, and hydrocarbons sectors across four continents. Transitioning from operations to consultancy, he has managed knowledge and systems engineering projects from concept through to benefits evaluation and assurance. He was a key member of the leadership team on the Chevron Wheatstone Operability, Reliability and Maintainability project for Clough AMEC, with particular responsibility for the training and competency development scope on the project. He is presently manager of the performance improvement (PI) consultancy services group in Clough AMEC, focusing on the delivery of specialist engineering services in operational assurance, asset management, process optimisation, and competency-based training. |
