§ Mr. DoranTo ask the Secretary of State for Energy what regulations are in force in relation to secondary means of evacuation from offshore oil and gas installations.
§ Mr. Peter MorrisonThe Offshore Installations (Construction and Survey) Regulations 1974 (SI 1974/289), the Offshore Installations (Emergency Procedures) Regulations 1976 (SI 1976/1542) and the Offshore Installations (Life-saving Appliances) Regulations 1977 (SI 1977/486).
§ Mr. DoranTo ask the Secretary of State for Energy what tests are undertaken by his Department, independent of the oil industry, in assessing the safety, quality and effectiveness of all means of evacuation from offshore oil and gas installations generally, and in relation to individual installations.
§ Mr. Peter MorrisonMy Department utilises the experience of the marine surveyors of the Department of780W Transport to ensure that all life-saving appliances are of an approved type, are suitably located, properly maintained and in good working order. Certifying authorities also carry out independent surveys of offshore installations and their equipment, including escape routes. In addition, independent contractors undertake research and development projects sponsored by my Department.
§ Mr. DoranTo ask the Secretary of State for Energy whether he has any proposals to introduce regulations or guidance in relation to the provision of smoke hoods on offshore oil and gas installations.
§ Mr. Peter MorrisonA research and development programme has been commissioned jointly by my Department and the oil and gas industry to establish performance specifications for smoke hoods to be used offshore and for a test procedure for assessment purposes. Subject to the outcome of this programme, consideration will be given to the introduction of a statutory requirement for the provision of smoke hoods or other devices capable of performing the same or a similar function.