Addressing Safety Risks Associated with Confined Space Activities: A Case Study of Water Ballast Tank-FSO Unity

Confined space activities (CSA) is a critical yet high-risk activity in the oil and gas operations which can occur during tasks such as tank cleaning, inspection and integrity repair work. These activities are essential to maximize storage capacity, maintaining operational integrity and safety compliance of operations and minimizing potential accelerated corrosion. For the Oil and gas industry, confined spaces activities expose workers to high-risk hazards which are characterized by limited entry and exit points, restricted ventilation, and spatial constraints which including atmospheric risks such as oxygen deficiency, presence of hydrocarbon and toxic gas accumulation, physical risks like engulfment, and ergonomic stress. This paper investigates the health and safety risks associated with confined space entry activities in the water ballast tank of a Floating Storage and Offloading vessel—focusing on the pre-entry safety requirements, work preparations and repair works, safety requirements, provides monitoring, and review of working safely inside a confined space. Key findings reveal that addressing safety risks associated with confined space activities must include; measures of safe system of work such as work permits, atmospheric testing, and personal protective equipment (PPE) including workers competencies, emergency preparedness and real-time monitoring are widely used. The study underscores the transformative potential of emerging technologies, including continuous gas & heat intensity monitoring systems, robotic inspection tools, in addition to fostering a proactive safety culture and robust emergency protocols to enhance worker safety and minimize risks in confined space operations.