Since the publication of the current edition of UK CAP 437 in July 2021, OEG Offshore's (OEG) UK aviation team has supported helideck owners and operators with the complete removal of monitor elements from offshore helicopter refuelling systems to meet the latest requirements of the standard.
The change in the filtration requirements outlined in CAP 437 is in response to evidence that Super-Absorbent Polymer (SAP) contained in monitor elements has been the cause of aircraft operability issues in several commercial aircraft incidents. Therefore, elements containing SAP are no longer suitable for use within Jet A-1 fuel delivery systems.
With the hard deadline of 1st July 2023 on the horizon for complete cessation of use, a growing number of UKCS and global energy operators, platform owners, and drilling contractors are calling on OEG's experienced aviation team to deliver cost-effective and system-specific solutions to ensure compliance of equipment on their oil and gas assets.
Stevie Skinner, Technical Manager for OEG Offshore's aviation division comments, “With safety at the forefront of these changes, although many successful transitions have already been completed, we are currently supporting several UK operators to assess requirements and develop management of change for removal and replacement of monitor elements in their refuelling systems ahead of the deadline next year.
We'd always recommend that helideck owners or operators contact OEG if they are unsure if their current helicopter refuelling package is compliant, and we can discuss ways we can help them achieve CAP 437 compliance.”
As regulations change, OEG continues to keep customers informed of requirements for continued compliance with CAP 437 and industry best practice.
OEG design, manufacture, install and commission standard and bespoke helicopter refuelling packages as well as offering refurbishment and upgrade services for all helifuel systems and components.
Image Caption L to R: Project Engineers Oliver Moore and Derek Wallace inspecting an example of a modified legacy filter monitor vessel at OEG Offshore's Cairnrobin workshop facility.