The Norwegian Petroleum Directorate • is a governmental specialist directorate and administrative body • was founded in 1972 • reports to the Ministry of Petroleum and Energy • has its main office in Stavanger, Norway and office in Harstad • has about 230 employees The primary objective of the Norwegian Petroleum Directorate is to contribute to the greatest possible values from the oil and gas activities to the Norwegian society, through efficient and responsible resource management. Health, safety, the environment and other users of the sea are important considerations in this work.