Dissolved Methane Monitoring During a Well Control Problem at the West Venture Site, Winter 1984-85

This paper reports on the author´s experience while monitoring dissolved methane in seawater during the West Venture well control problem in the winter of 1984-85. For six months the program provided daily reporting to the rig, for safety purposes, of methane in water concentrations. Log sheets, laboratory sheets, and reporting sheets are discussed. Problems of ship type and gear in maintaining quality are noted. The effects of repetitive work and cold weather on mistakes and potential accidents are also discussed. There was a need for backup gear (in triplicate) due to cold weather, chloride corrosion problems and general dampness. Emergencies, such as personnel injuries and replacement of personnel, were encountered. In summation over 2,000 tests were undertaken, all with traceable quality assurance and quality centrol.