The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has condemned Repsol Sinopec following a gas leak and shutdown of the Piper Bravo platform, which came after failing to carry out major repairs.
The D turbine which was the system which was faulty was 30,000 hours past its overhaul date which occurs once it has been running for 56,000 hours.
The platform owner Repsol Sinopec has until the 30th September to comply with the HSE Improvement Notice for the platform.
A risk assessment identified that there was potential for a “catastrophic failure” if the exhaust system was left running beyond the overhaul date. The HSE said other turbines onboard the platform were either overdue for an inspection or out of service.
Responding to the incident, Repsol Sinopec Resources UK said – “proactively engaging with the regulator to manage the issues identified”.
A spokesperson for the company said- “Safe operations in all company activities is a priority and we are committed to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all personnel who work on our sites.”