The Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the American Petroleum Institute (API) to adopt safety standards and guidelines for the expanding local oil and gas sector.
GNBS Executive Director (ag) Ramrattie Karan, in brief remarks at the signing ceremony, held in the conference room of the agency’s Sophia headquarters, said that the MoU will strengthen the knowledge and cooperation on standards, safety guidelines and other requirements for the local petroleum industry.
As part of the MoU, the GNBS will be adopting a list of API standards and access training and capacity building as well as other opportunities based on the needs of the bureau and the petroleum industry. Karan said tht GNBS and API will be exchanging information on regulations that may be applicable to the industry in Guyana, thereby enhancing the understanding and implementation of the API manual of the Petroleum Management Standard that is issued onboard an FPSO.
Karan noted that standards are important as Guyanese businesses venture into the oil and gas industry and the bureau sees its role as critical to ensure success. “We look forward to partner with API to standardize the practices and the procedures through the adoption of API standards and other guidelines for the petroleum industry,” she said.
Vice President of the API Segment Standards & Services Global Industry Services Alexa Burr noted that signing of the MoU marks the first official agreement between API and GNBS and the start of a long term collaboration. “Between API’s 600+ members and our 7000+ standards combined with GNBS decades of experience, we have a significant opportunity to share knowledge across the industry’s safety, sustainability and environmental protection practices,” she said.
Meanwhile, Ministry of Natural Resources representative Bobby Gossai disclosed that working with GNBS is very critical for the development of the oil and gas industry, especially as it relates to good quality practices, petroleum management standards and the overall development of the industry in Guyana. He said that the implantation of the standards will also ensure that Guyana adheres to international best practices for the industry.
Gossai disclosed that the Ministry has set-up a working group at the GNBS to look at the type of petroleum management standards that will be applicable to Guyana, noting that best practices is important as it will ensure that the industry grows, and workers and investors protected.
