A global trend has developed toward the application of risk-based assessment (RBA) techniques for managing environmental risks and considering potential effects of produced-water (PW) discharge. The main objective of the complete paper is to achieve harmony in the means by which operators execute RBA for offshore PW discharges. This coordination is likely to enhance broader understanding and acceptance of RBA techniques internationally.
RBA Techniques
Key Principles. An RBA approach to managing PW begins with an assessment objective (e.g., demonstrating no adverse effect outside an accepted zone). The RBA characterizes the risk (i.e., the likelihood that adverse effects may occur) to the environment of a PW discharge given the exposure resulting from effluent discharge and the sensitivity of the receiving environment to exposure.
