BP’s deepwater floating production facilities in the Gulf of Mexico include one tension-leg platform, three spar platforms, and one semi-submersible. In addition, two semi-submersible platforms are in the final stages of construction and commissioning. This total inventory of seven floating platforms in water depths ranging from 3000 to 7000 ft includes a wide range of riser types. In some cases the risers set industry records for design parameter combinations such as depth and diameter. They are thus of particular interest from an integrity management viewpoint

BP is in the process of implementing a risk-based integrity management program for risers operating on these deepwater producing facilities. This paper explains the process to be applied, drawing on experience from similar processes used for pipeline systems and topside equipment. Some of the risers have instrumentation and monitoring systems which will be of value for long term integrity management, as well as day to day operations monitoring.

Examples of actions arising from an integrity management process are discussed along with challenges in implementation. The paper concludes with a summary of advantages for existing operations and the potential benefit for future riser system design arising from this program.