Management of Structural Risks in Oil and Gas Facility Construction in Akwa Ibom State

Oil and gas facility construction in Akwa Ibom State in the South South geopolitical zone involves complex structural engineering challenges compounded by high-consequence failure scenarios, aggressive environmental exposure, and the multi-contractor project delivery models common in the energy sector. This study examines structural risk management practices in seven onshore oil and gas facility construction projects in Akwa Ibom State, focusing on the identification, assessment, mitigation, and monitoring of risks specific to structural systems including process platform frames, storage tank structures, pipe racks, and flare support structures. Data were collected through structured interviews with project HSE leads, structural engineers, and construction managers, supplemented by review of risk registers, inspection test plans, and non-conformance reports. Risk management maturity was assessed using a framework derived from ISO 31000:2018 and the Energy Institute's High Integrity Protection Systems guidelines. Findings indicate that the completeness of structural risk identification in project risk registers was rated as adequate in only three of the seven projects, with risks related to temporary works stability and lifting operations on structural frames frequently absent. Non-conformance reports for structural steelwork connection deficiencies were issued at a rate 2.8 times higher on projects where structural risk was not formally assessed at the temporary works stage. Two projects experienced unplanned structural modifications to accommodate late process layout changes, introducing unassessed load path alterations. The study recommends integration of structural risk workshops into project execution plans at the FEED stage and mandatory temporary works coordination plans on all energy sector structural projects. Keywords: structural risk management, oil and gas construction, Akwa Ibom State, temporary works, non-conformance.