Investigation Report
Shale-Shaker Motor Failure Released Synthetic-Based Mud During Wellbore Circulation
02-01-2007 17:15 G15607 GC/743 Pollution
- BSEE
- Investigation Report
- Unknown
- Environmental protectionLoss of containmentMechanical failure
- Drilling
- Alarm management
- Upstream oil and gas
- Marine waters
Summary
An investigation records a shale-shaker motor failure during wellbore circulation, leading to three barrels of synthetic-based mud entering the Gulf. Missing alarms delayed recognition; limited staffing was a possible contributing factor. The rig planned additional staffing pending warning-light installation, while the district made no recommendations to the Regional Office.
Classifications: Environmental protection; environmental safety; pollution prevention.
Classifications: Loss of containment; containment loss.
Classifications: Mechanical failure; equipment failure.
Classifications: Drilling; well drilling.
Classifications: Alarm management.
Classifications: Upstream oil and gas; oil and gas extraction; upstream petroleum.
Classifications: Marine waters.