Investigation Report
Synthetic Oil-Based Mud Discharge During Drilling After Mud Pump Replacement
04-19-2013 00:30 G25780 KC 93 Pollution
- BSEE
- Investigation Report
- Unknown
- Environmental protectionHydrocarbon releaseLoss of containmentPressure systems
- Drilling
- PumpsStorage tanksValve
- Operating and work proceduresPressure relief
- Upstream oil and gas
- Marine waters
Summary
This investigation examines a synthetic oil-based mud discharge during drilling after a replacement mud pump retained a lower relief-pressure setting. Findings identify an unsecured overflow-tank hatch, closed pneumatic-pump air valves and failure to follow documented alignment procedures. The report recommends a thorough valve-alignment walkdown.
Classifications: Environmental protection; environmental safety; pollution prevention.
Classifications: Hydrocarbon release; hydrocarbon leak; oil and gas release.
Classifications: Loss of containment; containment loss.
Classifications: Pressure systems; stored pressure; pressurised systems; pressurized systems.
Classifications: Drilling; well drilling.
Classifications: Pumps.
Classifications: Storage tanks; atmospheric tanks.
Classifications: Valve; valves.
Classifications: Operating and work procedures.
Classifications: Pressure relief; overpressure protection.
Classifications: Upstream oil and gas; oil and gas extraction; upstream petroleum.
Classifications: Marine waters.