PSA audits communications on BP’s Ula (Norway)

From 11 to 13 June 2014, the Petroleum Safety Authority Norway (PSA), with technical assistance from Telenor Maritim Radio, Radioinspeksjonen, carried out an audit of the Ula platforms.

The objective of the audit was to assess whether BP Norge AS meets the regulatory requirements within emergency preparedness, communication, communications equipment, maintenance and competence.

One non-conformity was identified in connection with UHF/VHF radio equipment.

In addition, seven improvement points were identified in connection with: Radio equipment in lifeboats; Maintenance of antennas; Competence; Evacuation routes; Lifeboats; Life jackets; Emergency preparedness role.

The Ula oil field is located in about 70 metres of water. The field has three platforms – living-quarters, drilling and production -which lie in a straight line, linked by bridges.