Brunei’s proactive approach to offshore decommissioning is setting a strong regional precedent. The Sultanate’s Decommissioning & Restoration (D&R) Guidelines provide a robust, systematic framework for managing end-of-life offshore oil and gas structures, with a strong emphasis on safety, environmental stewardship, and regulatory clarity. Originally archived from https://web.archive.org/web/20230610063809/https://shena.gov.bn/assets/publication_and_resources/chapter-1-overview-of-the-decommissioning-&-restoration-guidelines-1678167154.pdf
A Framework Rooted in International Standards
Brunei’s guidelines align closely with global best practices, including recommendations from the International Marine Contractors Association (IMCA) and the International Association of Oil & Gas Producers (IOGP). The objective is to ensure that decommissioning and restoration projects uphold high standards of safety and operational integrity throughout the project lifecycle.
Project Phases and Governance
The D&R process is broken down into five critical phases: 1) Planning, 2) Engineering, 3) Preparation, 4) Execution, and 5) Monitoring & Restoration. Each phase is supported by detailed procedural guidance and mandatory submissions to the Safety, Health and Environment National Authority (SHENA). This phased approach supports informed decision-making and enables a structured review of all risks, controls, and environmental impacts.
Stakeholder Engagement and Approvals
SHENA requires operators to submit a Decommissioning and Restoration Plan (DRP), which is reviewed through a multi-agency engagement process. This includes consultation with environmental agencies, fisheries departments, and maritime authorities, ensuring holistic oversight and alignment with national policies and environmental protection goals.
Safety and Environmental Focus
A hallmark of Brunei’s framework is its attention to safety and the environment. Operators are mandated to perform Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs), Risk Assessments (RAs), and provide Safety Cases before project commencement. Mitigation strategies for well abandonment, seabed clearance, and waste management are integral to the approval process.
Implications for Southeast Asia
Brunei’s structured and transparent guidelines are paving the way for responsible decommissioning across Southeast Asia. By prioritizing safety, environmental stewardship, and multi-agency collaboration, the country is establishing a benchmark that regional neighbors can reference and adapt to fit their own regulatory and ecological contexts.
