ABSTRACT
The onshore development in Arctic and cold regions is challenged by severe climatic conditions characterized by strong winds, low temperature, drifting snow, precipitation, etc. In such a climate, a strong blizzard is capable of more or less paralyzing a region by blocking most of the traffic and outdoor activity on land, at sea and in the air. Most critical for the operability and maintainability of onshore facilities in the Arctic climate is the cold environment’s impact on outdoor activity, i.e. outdoor operations, emergency response and evacuation, transportation, etc. Processing facilities and plant infrastructure are often affected by strong winds and severe drifting snow conditions. Exposure to cold stress and the combined effects of precipitation and icing affect comfort and human health. Snowdrifts, icing and low visibility may physically hinder or block outdoor activity and the functionality of equipment. Special considerations are often necessary during the design and fabrication of onshore facilities and infrastructure in cold regions. Winterization includes all design, layout and operational measures made with respect to safe operability and maintainability in a cold climate.
