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§ 59 Characterisation of oil and condensate

If oil or condensate is proven in connection with exploration activity, the oil or condensate shall be characterised as soon as possible. The results of the characterisation shall in case of future activities be included in the basis for assessment of environmental risk associated with acute pollution and in the decision basis for risk reduction, including dimensioning and development of emergency preparedness.
The characterisation shall cover physical and chemical properties, including weathering and fate in a marine environment under relevant external conditions.
Oil and condensate that can occur as acute pollution, shall be measured regularly as regards physical and chemical parameters. If such measurements show significant changes, a new characterisation shall be performed.
Section last changed: 01 February 2019

To be able to characterize as soon as possible as mentioned in the first subsection, in the event of a discovery, the oil or condensate should immediately be sampled with a sample volume sufficient to characterize physical and chemical properties. If possible, the sample volume should be sufficient to perform meso scale weathering studies. Whenever possible, the results of the meso scale weathering studies should be available prior to start-up of production drilling.
Prior to new activities in the same reservoir or in the event of field development, a full weathering study should normally also be completed.
The results of the characterization constitute, inter alia, an important basis for implementing simulations of drift and dispersion, cf. Section 17 of the Management Regulations, and for obtaining a correct description of the efficacy of current emergency preparedness material, cf. Section 42 of the Facilities Regulations.
Weathering as mentioned in the second subsection, means how the chemical and physical properties of the oil/condensate change over time as a result of the external conditions it is subjected to. Relevant external conditions include expected wind and wave conditions on the location, and the possible occurrence of ice on the sea surface.
Oil and condensate that can occur as acute pollution as mentioned in the third subsection, also mean blends of different production streams.