Investigation Report
Drilling Fluid Released During Diverter Bag Testing
07-19-2009 20:00 G06886 VK/783 Pollution
- BSEE
- Investigation Report
- Unknown
- Environmental protectionHuman factorsHydrocarbon release
- Drilling
- Operator displays and control interfaces
- Functional testing
- Upstream oil and gas
- Marine waters
Summary
This investigation examines a drilling-fluid pollution event during testing of a newly installed diverter bag. The driller left the panel in drilling mode rather than test mode and subsequently started circulation. An estimated 6.5 barrels of synthetic-based mud entered Gulf waters. Unfamiliarity with the rig and equipment contributed.
Classifications: Environmental protection; environmental safety; pollution prevention.
Classifications: Human factors; human performance; ergonomics.
Classifications: Hydrocarbon release; hydrocarbon leak; oil and gas release.
Classifications: Drilling; well drilling.
Classifications: Operator displays and control interfaces.
Classifications: Functional testing; function test.
Classifications: Upstream oil and gas; oil and gas extraction; upstream petroleum.
Classifications: Marine waters.