‘For some time now, we have been looking into how we can make sure that what is reported are the most relevant and important facts. The project that Statoil has initiated is unique and it meets all NPD requirements and we have therefore actively supported it.’
In letters to operators in the North Sea as well as at international conferences, the NPD has pointed out that this is a good method that can be introduced to demonstrate to the authorities that action is taken to ensure safety of ageing platforms.

According to Gunnar Berge, there is an increasing need for such assessments: ‘In general, we have seen trends indicating a decrease in the overall safety level, and now we want proof of the opposite from the operators before we can say that we are back on track. Also, we have had incidents in the North Sea where subsequent investigation has shown that the technical safety has not been up to the standards and not as good as at start-up, when the installations were initially approved.

‘The openness about the findings indicates a commitment from Statoil. For companies that are secretive about their safety status, the price to pay is lack of trust in their operations,’ warns Gunnar Berge.