WITH Guyana positioned to become one of the largest oil producers in the region, strong emphasis continues to be placed on safety in offshore operations, particularly as it relates to production optimisation.
This refers to the process of gradually increasing production levels beyond the target initially envisioned, through debottlenecking activities that are conducted after thorough engineering studies to ensure it is safe to do so. In the oil sector, this process is strategic and controlled, allowing companies to scale their operations in response to various factors such as market demand, resource availability, infrastructure readiness, and regulatory considerations. It may involve deploying additional equipment to optimise production processes while ensuring that safety and environmental standards are upheld throughout the expansion.

Currently, the Liza Destiny oil production vessel produces approximately 160,000 barrels daily, while it was recently disclosed by ExxonMobil Guyana that peak production at the Liza Unity FPSO saw 252,000 barrels produced per day. While production optimisation is not a new phenomenon globally, media reports locally continue to focus on whether this process is being undertaken safely by ExxonMobil.

Debottlenecking, mentioned earlier, plays a crucial role in ensuring the safe and effective ramp-up of production by addressing constraints in the production process that can impede efficiency and safety. By alleviating pressure points within the system, debottlenecking reduces the risk of equipment failure and hazardous conditions, significantly enhancing safety. For instance, when workloads are balanced and evenly distributed, there is less chance of overloading any single component, thereby minimising the potential for accidents.

Moreover, debottlenecking optimises the flow of materials and processes, leading to smoother operations and reducing the likelihood of operational disruptions that could compromise safety. This streamlined process minimises downtime, a critical factor during the ramp-up phase, as fewer interruptions translate to fewer opportunities for safety incidents.

Enhanced monitoring and control systems are also a byproduct of debottlenecking, allowing for real-time tracking and quick identification of any emerging safety issues. Improved control systems ensure that all operations remain within safe parameters, further safeguarding the production environment.

The process also contributes to increased reliability by reducing mechanical stress on equipment and lowering the incidence of breakdowns and maintenance issues. This proactive maintenance approach not only increases the overall reliability of the production system but also ensures that any maintenance needs are addressed before they escalate into significant safety concerns.

Additionally, debottlenecking allows for a controlled increase in production capacity, ensuring that safety systems can adapt and respond effectively without being overwhelmed. This controlled ramp-up supports sustainable growth in production capacity, ensuring that safety protocols and infrastructure keep pace with the increased output.

Workforce safety is another area significantly improved through debottlenecking. Simplified and streamlined processes reduce complexity and the potential for human error, a leading cause of industrial accidents. During the debottlenecking process, workers are often retrained on new procedures, reinforcing a culture of safety and awareness.

Environmental protection also benefits as efficiently managed production processes reduce the risk of spills and leaks, critical for maintaining both safety and regulatory compliance.

Finally, debottlenecking leverages data-driven decision-making to enhance safety and effectiveness. The integration of real-time data analytics allows for better decision-making and quicker responses to safety issues, while predictive maintenance ensures that equipment failures are prevented before they occur. This proactive approach not only ensures a safer production environment but also supports continuous improvement in operational efficiency.

Complementing debottlenecking are other rigorous protocols such as mandatory daily safety briefings and comprehensive emergency response drills. These measures are complemented by regular inspections and audits to ensure that all equipment and procedures meet or exceed industry standards.

Additionally, Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, has also made it clear that the Environmental Protection Agency and the Ministry of Natural Resources review optimisation plans to ensure that it is safe to proceed.
By employing these strategies, both the Government of Guyana and ExxonMobil are demonstrating a strong commitment to safety. These efforts not only aim to protect the environment and the well-being of the workforce but also ensure that revenues coming to Guyana are maximised through the increase in oil production.