§ Mr. WallaceTo ask the Secretary of State for Energy whether he is considering any further proposals to enhance safety on offshore oil installations in advance of the report by Lord Cullen into the Piper Alpha disaster; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Peter MorrisonWe are continuously looking to improve offshore safety standards. Regulations requiring emergency shutdown valves on offshore installations were introduced in June 1989, as were regulations requiring the election of offshore safety representatives and safety committees. Regulations relating to revised arrangements for first aid offshore were made in September 1989.Further regulations relating to sub-sea isolation systems are being prepared. Discussion documents have been issued detailing proposals for a review of the requirements for life-saving appliances, work permit procedures and fire and explosion protection on offshore installations, together with proposals requiring formal safety assessments to be applied as a continuous process at all stages of an installation's life cycle. In addition, a number of safety notices have been issued drawing the attention of the industry to specific areas of concern. The Government have made it clear that any improvements to safety recommended by the Piper Alpha public inquiry will be acted upon.