An inquiry report on an Oct. 20 problem well on Statoil's Huldra field in the North Sea is critical, but concludes that alarm and response systems functioned well.
Gas began flowing into the well while completion work was being carried out from the jackup Maersk Gallant. High downhole pressure activated the topside blowout preventer. The report by an internal inquiry team drawn from Statoil and rig owner Maersk described the incident as "very serious."
The report said that the Huldra problem well could have had even more far-reaching consequences had safety systems failed to function. The well was under very high pressure, which made drilling operations extremely complex, according to Huldra's project director.
Statoil had taken a number of steps before spudding the well, and had installed a new BOP. The report concluded that requirements for safe and acceptable operations were not adequately met, and that signals from the well were misinterpreted by drilling supervisors.
However, once the danger was spotted, the well was swiftly sealed in accordance with safety procedures.
The inquiry team has not been able to identify deficiencies in the emergency response to the incident. Leadership, alerts and demobilization functions satisfactorily and with a high degree of professionalism.
November 21, 2000
© 2000 Mena Report (www.menareport.com)
