Selection of emergency isolation systems for risers and flowlines

Development of a guideline to support the selection of emergency isolation systems for risers and flow lines in floating offshore facilities operating in deep water environments

Challenge

The installation of a Subsea Isolation Valve (SSIV) is recognized as one of the most effective safety measures to prevent hydrocarbon backflow and to contain and mitigate the consequences of accidental releases from the riser system.

However, in deep and ultra-deep water installations, a substantial volume of hydrocarbons may remain between SSIV and SDV topside battery limit valves, offering limited risk reduction in the event of an emergency release. In such cases, the cost and operational complexity associated with SSIV installation may outweigh the potential safety benefits.

At present, operators often rely on internal procedures and engineering judgment informed by diverse, non-standardized parameters. This lack of alignment can result in inconsistent decision-making or overly conservative design choices.

Objective

This Joint Industry Project (JIP) aims to harmonize offshore emergency isolation practices by developing a unified guideline that supports the decision-making process for implementing emergency isolation systems, such as Subsea Isolation Valves (SSIVs) and Riser Isolation Valves (RIVs), in risers and flow lines of offshore facilities operating in deep water environments.

Scope of work

The JIP is structured into four dedicated work packages (WPs):

• WP 1: focuses on defining the foundation of the guideline through collaboration with JIP participants. Key deliverable: basis of work summary report
• WP 2: aims to evaluate the risk and economic impact of SSIV and RIV solutions on selected scenarios. Key deliverable: risk and economic assessment report of a selected scenario
• WP 3: focuses on developing technical requirements for emergency isolation systems based on previous findings. Key deliverable: draft version of the guideline requirements
• WP 4: consolidates all findings into a final guideline document. Key deliverable: final version of the Emergency Isolation System Selection Guideline.

Time schedule

The JIP will be carried out over a period of approximately 18 months, with the following tentative schedule:

• Target starting: December 2025
• WP1: Kick-off, basis of work definition: 3-4 months
• WP2: Risk assessment and cost-benefit analysis: 5-6 months
  WP3: Requirements development: 3-4 months
• WP4: Guideline finalization and close-out: 3-4 months
• Target close out: June 2027

Participation and costs

Based on the scope of work and a target budget of EUR 450,000. The expected participation fees are:

• Major energy players / EPC contractors: EUR 75,000 + VAT
• Manufacturers: EUR 30,000 + VAT

The JIP will be officially launched once the minimum required budget is secured and a sufficient number of participants is confirmed to ensure the technical relevance and robustness of the outcomes.

Participation from universities and research centers is also encouraged, with the aim of fostering innovation, promoting knowledge exchange, and enhancing the overall value of the initiative.