UK Operations

BP EXPLORATION

SUBJECT:

GUIDELINES FOR
DRILLING OPERATIONS

Section

0120/GEN

Rev.

3 (10/95)

Page

6 of 46

H2S (HYDROGEN SULPHIDE) PROCEDURES

b) Portable Equipment
In addition to the fixed automatic H2S detection system, portable detectors, both electronic and
manual, should be available.
Portable Continuous Monitor (Electronic)
The instrument provided should be continuous and automatic in operation, tamper proof and
suitable for use by non-technical personnel. The instrument should give a clear audible and visual
alarm in the presence of H2S concentrations at or above 10 ppm. Additionally the unit should be
suitable for hazardous areas, of robust construction, easily handled in one man operation, integral
power supply and internal function testing.
Typical models are:
-

Compur 4100.
TAC Model 701.

Two detectors should be provided, one in the toolpushers/OIMs office and one in the control
room.
H2S Detector Tubes (Manual)
H2S detector tubes should meet the current British Standard BS 5343 (1976) Gas Detector Tubes.
The detector should be accurate and simple to operate. It should incorporate a hand-operated
aspirating pump and colour indication tube graduated directly in ppm H2S.
At least one detector set should be provided and normally kept in the contractor toolpusher/OIMs
office.
A minimum of 6 tubes are to be kept with the detector at all times.
A minimum stock of 50 tubes, range 0 - 60 ppm, of H2S should be maintained on board in a cool
place below 68F.
c) Sensor Testing and Calibration (Fixed and Portable)
All H2S detection systems and equipment should be tested and calibrated, in accordance with
manufacturers instruction manuals, on installation and weekly thereafter or as often as necessary
depending on the reliability of the detectors. Tests should be a functional simulation to test both
accuracy and operational efficiency of the system and equipment. Detector tubes should be
checked that they are not out of date, and are suitable for H2S. This will be the responsibility of
the OIM.
d) Records
All testing and calibration results should be recorded. These records should be available for
inspection at all times.
e) Alternative Detection Methods
Smell
Sense of smell is not a reliable method of detecting H 2S (see Appendix 1). If any crew
member believes that they can smell H2S, they should immediately inform the Contractor
toolpusher/OIM. He will then arrange for the area to be investigated using Draeger tubes, or
similar devices.