Learning Objectives

Upon successful completion of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Fundamentals of Offshore Rig Move Management

• Understand the operational and logistical complexities of offshore rig moves.
• Identify different types of offshore drilling rigs and their mobility (jack-up, semi-submersible, drillship).
• Learn about the key stakeholders involved in rig moves (rig operators, marine logistics teams, tow masters, regulatory authorities, and classification societies).

2. Pre-Move Planning and Risk Assessment

• Conduct site assessment and location surveys before rig relocation.
• Develop rig move plans considering environmental, structural, and logistical factors.
• Identify potential hazards and mitigation strategies (weather conditions, subsea obstructions, mooring limitations, emergency contingencies).

3. Marine and Towage Operations for Rig Moves

• Understand towage principles, bollard pull calculations, and towing configurations.
• Learn about the role of anchor handling tug supply (AHTS) vessels in rig relocation.
• Implement dynamic positioning (DP) systems for controlled rig movement.
• Ensure safe mooring, anchoring, and stability during transport.

4. Regulatory Compliance and Permitting

• Ensure compliance with international maritime and offshore drilling regulations:
• IMO (International Maritime Organization).
• MARPOL (Marine Pollution Prevention).
• SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea).
• Flag state and coastal state regulatory requirements.
• Obtain permits for transit, anchorage, and final site positioning.

5. Offshore Rig Positioning and Installation

• Perform rig positioning using GPS, sonar, and remote sensing technologies.
• Understand pre-load testing for jack-up rigs before operations commence.
• Implement ballast control, anchoring, and dynamic positioning adjustments for semi-submersibles.

6. Safety and Emergency Preparedness During Rig Moves

• Apply safety protocols for personnel and equipment handling.
• Develop emergency response and contingency plans for tow failure, weather disruptions, and mechanical breakdowns.
• Follow LOLER (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations) for crane and lifting operations.

7. Logistics, Cost Management, and Project Efficiency

• Optimize logistics for crew transfer, fuel supply, and operational efficiency.
• Manage cost factors related to tow vessel selection, insurance, and risk premiums.
• Utilize real-time tracking and monitoring systems for project efficiency.

8. Case Studies and Practical Applications

• Analyze real-world offshore rig move challenges and success stories.
• Participate in simulated rig move planning and execution exercises.
• Develop a customized offshore rig move checklist and safety plan.

Target Audience

• Offshore rig move coordinators and marine logistics professionals
• Drilling and marine operations managers
• Tow masters and vessel operators
• Offshore project planners and engineers
• Safety officers and compliance personnel