Automation of emergency response management group operation at major pipeline facilities

Abstract

The efficiency of actions of emergency response personnel at major pipeline facilities is a key factor in minimizing accident consequences. In this paper the authors analyze command post exercises aimed at preparing for emergency responses (oil and petroleum products spill) with personnel working at Transneft enterprises. Shortcomings in organizing the operation of emergency response management groups have been identified. The main ones are as follows: lack of proper interaction and the necessary concurrence of actions of management group representatives; no algorithm for preparing reports and hence the failure to meet deadlines for submitting such reports to regulatory authorities. To some extent, these deficiencies have been minimized through the development and implementation of emergency reporting logs in routine practices of management groups. However, many processes have still been highly dependent on the human factor leading to errors, and the emergence and spread of false and contradictory information in the course of emergency response activities. An appropriate automated information system has been designed in order to minimize the effect of the human factor in organizing the work of emergency response management groups. The article presents its model, describing the algorithm of its operation and functionality. The system was introduced into production at Transneft Far East, LLC and was highly effective in terms of quality of document processing, optimizing time spent on report completion and submission, organizing data retrieval, and monitoring emergency response actions. The application of the developed information system has significantly reduced the number of demerits related to organizing the work of emergency response management groups. The system is unique in Russia: it can be used in real-life emergencies or for training personnel to act using the system’s training mode.