multiwell platforms to reduce the chances of multiple blowouts 

 and fires resulting from a single failure. Also, development 

 of more automatic drilling equipment and improved training 

 could reduce human error (Kash et al . , 1973: 114-118). 



Producing wells account for far fewer accidents than drilling- 

 operations . The major area of concern is the trend to multiwell plat- 

 forms . In addition to separating wellheads as already mentioned, 

 there is a need for methods to identify which wells are on fire in 

 the event of an accident. Further development of equipment 

 such as gas and flame detectors, fire control equipment, and 

 personnel escape systems is also necessary. Also, due to 

 possible human error, there needs to be increased emphasis on 

 automatic and fail-safe features of equipment. Finally, the 

 development of automated subsea production systems would reduce 

 the threat of storm damage, avoid conflict with surface uses 

 such as shipping and fishing, reduce aesthetic objections, and 

 reduce the likelihood of human error (Kash et al . , 1973: 118-123) 



Transportation of OCS production consists almost entirely 

 of pipelines. While pipeline transportation is relatively safe, 

 pipelines are subject to corrosion which leads to leaks, and 

 the dredging and channelization of wetlands in order to lay 

 pipelines has severe environmental impacts. Therefore, the 

 major technological needs involving pipelines include methods 

 for detecting weak points and flaws to prevent leaks, wider 

 use of mass flow monitoring systems to alert an operator when 

 a major break does occur, and a more environmentally acceptable 

 method of laying pipelines in the wetlands. Other needs 



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