document preview

Abstract

The Exploration and Production Coordination of Shell International Petroleum Maatschappij B.V. (SIPM-EP, a service company to the Royal Dutch/Shell Group of companies) has led a number of environmental audits on request of Group E and P Operating Companies since 1983. The essential steps end methods for conducting such environmental audits are discussed as well as the main topics covered in an audit.

Almost all recommendations made in the audits have been implemented. Environmental audits carried out with SIPM EP assistance have helped managements of audited Operating Companies control the quality of existing and future operation. and develop strategies for improvement. in anticipation of fixture demands. Consequently, environmental performance has improved through such audits. performance has improved through such audits. Common findings have been identified and where necessary Group action has been taken. SIPM-EP has also learnt many lessons from these audits providing useful feedbacks for improving the audit process and the management of environmental matters.

Introduction

The Royal Dutch/Shell Group "Statement of General Business Principles" and the "Policy Guidelines on Health, Safety and Principles" and the "Policy Guidelines on Health, Safety and the Environment" call for giving proper regard to the conservation of the environment.

In line with the Group policy guidelines, the Exploration and Production Coordination of Shell International Petroleum Production Coordination of Shell International Petroleum Maatschappij B.V. (SIPM-EP) has used environmental auditing as one of the tool to achieve effective environmental management and improve environmental performance since 1983, it complements baseline studies and environmental impact assessments, both of which are being implemented for the planning phase of projects.

Two main types of environmental audit can he distinguished in the SIPM-EP:

1. an SIPM-EP led environmental audit, and

2. an internal environmental audit conducted by Operating Companies.

SIPM-EP led environmental audits are at the request of Operating Company management and are a service offered by SIPM-EP.

The principal differences between internal and SIPM-EP led audits are:

SIPM-EP led environmental audit is one where the team leader is appointed from SIPM-EP;

. SIPM-EP led environmental audits generally involve other

. SIPM-EP staff and staff from other Operating Companies in addition to representatives of the Operating Company to be audited, while the internal audits involve own Operating Company staff only;

SIPM-EP led environmental audits assist Operating Company management to evaluate compliance with the policies and standards recommended for general use/application by SIPM-EP over and above the Operating Company own policy and targets which are addressed specifically by internal audits;

. SIPM-EP led environmental audits are carried out according to a long term programme. Internal audits have a higher frequency.

Since 1983, SIPM-EP as a service company, has led some 25 environmental audits on request of E and P Operating Companies. The facilities and activities audited ranged from seismic operation to complex production facilities. This paper refers to the audits led by SIPM-EP. It describes the essential steps and methods used for conducting an environmental audit and the main topics covered. Some of the common findings and recommendations and subsequent improvement in environmental performance are discussed.

Definition and Outline

In this paper the term "Environmental Auditing" as defined in "Environmental Auditing" of the International Chamber of Commerce (1989) is adopted:

P. 621