Able Seaton Port, UK
Background
The Brent Charlie Platform ceased production in 2022, and the topside was transported to Able Seaton Port in 2024 for decommissioning, disposal, and recycling. It was determined that Naturally Occurring Radioactive Material (NORM) may be present within the pipework and associated processing equipment.
Cyclife UK were tasked with completing a NORM survey of the Platform to ensure safe and efficient decommissioning.
The Challenge
The Brent Charlie Platform had four main decks totalling to 47 modules to survey in varying stages of decommissioning.
To overcome concerns over structural integrity and the nature of accessibility, a methodological approach was developed, starting at the top of the platform and working downwards.
Our Proposal
Prior to surveying, Cyclife UK’s RPA/RWA Consultants produced a Radiation Risk Assessment using previous NORM data.
From this, bespoke documentation was produced to ensure a strategically efficient survey.
Customer Benefits
The NORM survey was crucial for Able’s due diligence, and the results submitted also underpinned the decommissioning and dismantling works.
The results informed the updated RRA and guided the destruct team, ensuring a more effective dismantle process when segregating contaminated metal.
Results
After thorough Risk Assessments and Method Statements, our team conducted a non-intrusive radiation survey throughout the Platform.
Cyclife UK monitored all external surfaces, focusing on areas likely to accumulate NORM contamination.
Electrical equipment and accessible open pipework were also surveyed.
Any NORM-contaminated items (or items with inherent radioactivity) were physically marked and recorded in a detailed survey report.