Our procedures for chemical management have been revised to suit the whole group.

The business areas are establishing an improved picture of existing chemical exposure in their operations. This includes systematic and thorough occupational hygiene measurements and risk assessments of work processes where exposure to hazardous chemicals is possible.

In 2008, we increased research and development activities relating to chemical working environment. A joint industry project related to hot work respiratory protection was finalised in 2008, to which we were one of the main contributors. The project has gained important knowledge about the effectiveness and use of respirators during hot work. In the ongoing research project "aerosol and vapours from drilling fluids", we have finalised construction of a full-scale test centre for drilling fluids technology. The first characterisation pilot study has been carried out, and more studies are planned in 2009.

Development and implementation of new technology to improve the chemical working environment is a prioritised area. We have constructed a pilot system for a promising new technology called MudCube which is expected to improve the working environment in drilling fluid processing areas significantly. Qualification of the technology is being carried out in the drilling fluid test centre, and an offshore pilot test is planned in 2009.

We are contributing to the petroleum industry project "Chemical Working Environment in the Oil and Gas Industry", through close cooperation and direct involvement in project management and in specific activities. The project aims to provide a holistic picture of existing and historical chemical exposure as well as increasing knowledge and improving the industry's ability to manage chemical health risks.