BGP, a subsidiary of China National Petroleum Group (CNPC) is entrusted to undertake the seismic acquisition project in Block M, Brunei. For the purpose of better knowledge of the latest progress, Mr. Lai especially paid his visit to the Labi operation site during his attendance in the quarterly meeting.

After talking with the field workers, Mr. Lai has understood the focus of BGP’s operation program and the difficulties they confront. According to their introduction, the top 3 types of landforms, including mountains, jungles and flat terrains, which impede the onshore oil & gas exploration the most. Unfortunately, the topographic features of Block M combine jungles and mountains, which is a big challenge even to the experienced BGP. BGP has hired thousands of employees from Indonesia so as to finish the seismic acquisition work on schedule.

As required by the robust Management System of Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) in Block M, and the strict compliance of BGP, the workers are all equipped with safety helmets and uniforms with long sleeve and pants. Colors of the uniforms are strictly classified by different function of works, although the temperature is up to 34°in the field. People in orange uniform are general workers; those in red are from dynamite team, while those in white are medical care personnel and people in blue are from drilling team.

The well is drilled by drilling team in measured areas with a length of 1m for each drilling bit and at least 15 drilling bits into each well, i.e. the depth of each well is at least 15m. After drilling, the dynamite team would be responsible to bury the explosives and fuse, and mark for future explosion.

After mountain trip, Mr. Lai went to the biggest camp for inspection and snet greetings to workers living there. This camp can accommodate 420 workers. After field work, the Indonesian workers return there for shower and meals.

Jim McRae, the Seismic Project Manager of Tap Energy states that due to bad living conditions of the Indonesian workers, the secret for well management is to provide delicious rice. If not, the emotions of workers might be easily affected. The contract duration of Indonesian workers is six months, with higher salaries than those earned in Indonesia locally. Frazer has asked privately how they would use their money after back to hometown, and buying motorcycles or getting married is almost their common answer.

In addition, it’s also necessary to take good care of the employees’ health. Even such a trifle thing as toothache may trigger inquietude among the camp workers. Thus, BGP has set up a medical station in the camp, and engaged a specialized doctor to look after them.

Tap Energy, the operator of Block M, indicates that the seismic acquisition project in Block M contracted by BGP will greatly support the control on operation cost and process. After inspection, Mr. Lai also concurs with this comment, and looks forward to a great breakthrough in Block M as soon as possible.

Updated：2009-07-31