The Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE) has released its investigation report on the January 30, 2022 fire that occurred on the Main Pass 73 A C/F Production Platform (MP73) in the Gulf of Mexico. The platform is operated by Cox Operating LLC.
According to the investigation report, on the morning of the incident platform lost power. A platform operator investigated and found that the generator on the platform was not operating. A flame was observed in the generator, requiring the operator to use a fire extinguisher. During the investigation, BSEE learned that the flame triggered a Temperature Safety Element (TSE) initiating an Emergency Shut Down (ESD) of the platform.
The BSEE report determined the probable cause of the incident:
• Equipment Failure – Flawed equipment design or construction: When the piston rod broke, a hole was created, allowing the engine oil to escape and come into contact with hot exhaust.
Ultimately, the necessary safety equipment and precautions on board the platform prevented this incident from being much worse. Fires and explosions on offshore platforms are known risks, which is why precautions and safety protocols must be in place beforehand. The safety equipment and emergency shut down prevented this incident from turning tragic. Safe offshore companies must insure that adequate precautions are taken, including proper communication between workers, and adequate supervision from the managers on site.
This was the second fire to occur on the MP 73 A Platform in January, following one on January 27, 2022.
Our attorneys have extensive experience in maritime injury and wrongful death litigation in courts across the country and the skills needed to represent the families of loved ones who have lost their lives as a result of the negligence of another party, or been seriously injured. We have handled numerous cases involving injuries that occurred following fires or explosions on offshore platforms. The experienced offshore accident attorneys at Spagnoletti Law Firm can help you understand your rights if you or a loved one was a victim of an offshore accident. Please contact us online or call 713-804-9306 or to learn more about your legal rights.