Investigation of Pollution Incident Area 6B, Block 5165, Platform A, Lease OCS-P 0241

摘要

Between the hours of 0400 and 0700 hours on the morning of December 7, 2008, a pollution incident occurred on Platform A, Lease OCS-P 0241, Area 6B, Block 5165. A hole, approximately 12 inch in diameter, developed on the no. 4 shipping pump can, at a height of 10-12 feet above the water line. It is estimated that between 20 - 30 barrels were released to the Pacific Ocean in the Santa Barbara Channel. Eleven vessels responded to the spill, and an estimated 20 barrels of crude oil/emulsion were recovered. This investigative panel has concluded that the hole was caused by accelerated corrosion of the pump can in the area of the location of the stability clamp. This corrosion resulted from the exposure to the elements near the water line, the age of the pump can, and the lack of an effective preventive inspection and maintenance program. The panel recommends that the MMS develop immediate and long-term plans to address the utilization of pump cans, verify the status of existing pump cans, investigate the possible requirement of containment and protection systems (riser guards), and consider the decommissioning of remaining systems. The panel recommends that MMS consider working with API to issue guidance on pump can (or similar systems) installation, operation, inspection, and maintenance.