ABSTRACT
This chapter identifies some generic properties of Integrated Operations (IO) in the offshore oil and gas industry. It explores some of the implications for major accident prevention in an IO context, showing both positive and negative effects. The chapter shows that the introduction and application of IO solutions creates both opportunities and challenges for the prevention of major accidents. S. Larsen et al. claim that the definition of IO ‘is by no means limited to the petroleum industry, and works very well when addressing integrated operations in the other sectors’. IO can be understood as new work practices in the offshore oil and gas industry that are made possible by use of Information and Communication Technology and digital infrastructure. IO solutions have the potential to improve risk assessment and management. This may be achieved through an improved knowledge base for carrying out assessments, access to interdisciplinary expert knowledge, improved presentation of risk-related information and access to updated information.
