A supply vessel struck an oil platform in the North Sea, in an event that reportedly has not led to any spillage. More than 100 miles away from the Scottish coast, the Forties Echo site was involved in a collision with the incoming ship. According to the Herald Scotland, half of the crew on the platform were evacuated after a successful muster and there were no injuries reported among the present crew.
This platform is operated by Apache Corporation, who has shut down operations temporarily while damage is assessed. The vessel involved, the Sea Falcon, is said to have caused minor damage during unloading, but was later free to journey back to port. The source features comments from a statement by Apache North on the response procedure that took place following the incident.
"An initial visual inspection has been carried out from the platform's standby vessel and a specialist inspection team is being mobilized to assess the damage to the platform," this statement said. Non-essential personnel were involved in a "precautionary controlled downmanning," during which time the half of the crew that wasn't evacuated remained onboard.
In addition, an unnamed spokesman for Apache North Sea told the Scottish Daily Record that their "priority is to work with the authorities to ensure the safety of all platform personnel." An Aberdeen coast guard representative said that the vessel merely "drifted" into the platform.
Oilfield insurance helps operators recompense themselves in the wake of unforeseen disasters. Even minor incidents can leave significant structural damages behind. These damages are in addition to the normal risks of running an ocean oil facility, which include malfunctions, erosion, general wear and other pressing concerns. Serious losses can befall a company and demand serious solutions in return.