Costly Errors to Avoid When Planning an Offshore Shutdown

We work with clients across the world to support their shutdown projects, and we frequently learn from their experiences with past offshore operations. Over the years, we’ve identified recurring themes in discussions with oil and gas industry experts regarding plant shutdown planning. Their feedback often highlights choices that affect the cost efficiency of a shutdown project.

When it comes to reducing shutdown impact, careful planning and selecting the right equipment can help prevent issues such as:

  • Unexpected delays: Often caused by insufficient planning for challenging work environments.
  • Equipment failures: For example, using equipment that lacks the proper marine specifications to stay water-resistant and anti-corrosive can lead to malfunctions.
  • Operational interruptions: These can occur when lighting and power supplies aren’t durable or reliable enough to meet the project’s demands.

Clearly, the success of plant shutdown work hinges on thorough planning and, most importantly, the performance of equipment critical to operations in harsh conditions.

Streamlining Industrial Shutdowns and Turnarounds

Given the critical importance of staying within budget, we’ve put together a straightforward checklist. Proper budgeting ensures that shutdowns are completed efficiently, safely, and on time, minimising costly delays and resource mismanagement. 

Our experts believe these shutdown efficiency tips are essential for anyone involved in refinery shutdown projects.

1. Maximise Equipment Versatility

Tasks like confined space entry, hot work, general maintenance, inspections, and habitat work all require adequate light, air, and power. Without proper planning, you risk duplicating equipment unnecessarily. Instead, choose modular, portable equipment that can be used across various tasks. This multi-use approach not only improves ROI but also streamlines transport planning.

2. Minimise Trailing Cables

Every minute saved on site contributes to a safer and more cost-effective task. Overlooking opportunities to reduce the handling and presence of trailing cables is a missed opportunity.

For example, using a rechargeable floodlight designed for demanding work environments can save time and enhance safety, leading to quicker task completion and a cleaner, more organised work area.

3. Avoid Unnecessary Generator Use

Relying on a generator can drive up costs, complicate logistics, and reduce performance. Consider the SA POWERNET EX 3.8KVA Transformer, a lightweight, hard-wearing unit, under 100kg, and with marine-grade construction. It offers a reliable and cost-effective alternative to traditional generators.

4. Plan for Equipment Manoeuvrability

Focusing solely on large equipment can lead to delays if smaller, portable items aren’t planned for in advance, resulting in onsite delays or last-minute searches for tools. 

Familiarise yourself with portable, EX-certified equipment for tasks such as heat, light, air, and power. Knowing what’s available simplifies planning and ensures all essential items are accounted for.

5. Prioritise Quality Over Cost

Choosing the cheapest equipment can compromise safety and quality, leading to higher costs if items fail or can’t be reused. Prioritise high-quality, certified equipment, even if it comes with a higher upfront cost. This ensures durability and minimises the risk of downtime or rework.

Equipping well for a shutdown project offers benefits:

  • Before: Transport considerations and avoiding delays
  • During: Speed and safety
  • After: Future, multi-purpose use of equipment

Taking the time to choose the right equipment upfront pays dividends in multiple ways.

Certified, High-Spec Shutdown Equipment

SA POWERNET Transformer

Since the 1920s, we’ve been providing equipment known for its uncompromising performance and reliability in offshore shutdown projects. Trusted by professionals worldwide, our highly recommended products are essential in the oil and gas sector.

SA Equip products are purpose-built for hazardous areas, featuring ATEX, UKEX, and IECEx certified units designed for exceptional efficiency. Our range of portable heat, light, air, and power solutions is ideal for both industrial and hazardous environments.

With an in-house product development team, we also offer bespoke solutions tailored to your specific needs. 

For UK projects, we offer a convenient rental service on many of our products. Contact us or speak to a member of the SA Equip team to select the right portable equipment for your hazardous area project.