98.87% recycled, 0% NORM: Flexible waste management for 18 multi-field wellheads
A leading subsea energy services provider required a reliable waste management partner to support a multi-field wellhead severance project covering the Chestnut, Birch, Larch, Sycamore and Appleton fields. The scope included 18 recovered wellheads of varying configurations, all requiring compliant handling, NORM monitoring and environmentally responsible disposal.
The project carried risk with offshore weather uncertainty, changeable recovery schedules, oversized structures, and the potential for operations to extend through the Christmas period. Our client needed certainty, flexibility and full regulatory compliance.
Client
Subsea energy services provider
Scope
Decommissioning, Waste Management, NORM
Location
Aberdeen South Harbour, UK
Duration
November–December (4 port calls)
At a glance
- Delivered a flexible, end-to-end solution that maintained continuity across multiple port calls despite significant offshore delays and changing operational conditions.
- Managed complex recovery challenges, including oversized structures and constrained transport requirements, through rapid on-site adaptation and controlled handling strategies.
- Ensured full compliance and environmental performance through continuous monitoring, achieving high recycling rates with zero NORM detection and zero incidents.
Approach
We delivered a detailed waste management plan covering receipt, handling, downsizing, transport and disposal for each port call. While two port calls were originally planned, the strategy allowed rapid adjustment as offshore delays extended the project to four port calls and a late-December demobilisation.
We embedded Radiation Protection Supervisors offshore throughout the project. Continuous monitoring ensured full compliance and protected both vessel crew and port operations from NORM contamination.
When recovered structures proved larger than expected and unsuitable for road transport, we adapted immediately. A laydown area was identified, and materials were safely laid down and downsized on a permitted quayside, enabling onward transport without delaying the vessel or hampering the wider port operations.
Weekly reporting gave full visibility of waste volumes, disposal routes and NORM results throughout the project.
Impact
Our client received a fully controlled, compliant waste solution despite worsening weather, extended schedules and multiple scope changes. Offshore operations continued without interruption, port congestion was avoided, and all regulatory requirements were met.
No NORM was detected at any stage. Environmental performance exceeded expectations, with almost all material recycled. Flexibility was key and we ensured service reliability in a rapidly changing, challenging environment.
Results:
- 212.46 tonnes of material received
- 98.87% recycled, 1.13% sent to landfill
- Four port calls completed at Aberdeen South Harbour
- Zero NORM detected
- Zero safety or environmental incidents