The Oil Rig

In 1988, a tragic explosion occurred on the Piper Alpha oil platform in the North Sea, resulting in 165 fatalities. The platform, which was constructed and operated from 1972 to 1976, produced 250,000 to 300,000 barrels of oil per day. A gas conservation module was installed in the North Sea to meet UK gas conservation requirements, with modules B and C capturing gas for transport to St Fergus in Scotland. During Phase 2 production, Tartan and Claymore pumped gas to Piper Alpha, then to the mcp1 gas compressing platform for further transport. Unfortunately, the failure to follow safety procedures led to the explosion on the Piper Alpha platform. Engineers neglected to properly check safety valve instructions before starting pump A, resulting in gas leaks and subsequent explosions. The shift manager's oversight of safety precautions allowed pump A to start, leading to catastrophic consequences.

The Piper Alpha platform experienced explosions and fire, resulting in a devastating event. Able-bodied men were able to escape after gas and oil extraction ceased due to the explosion, as no evacuation instructions could be given with the control center destroyed. The tragedy on the Ocean Ranger rig was attributed to poor training, bad design, and extreme weather conditions. The Ocean Ranger rig's reliance on technology ultimately led to a deadly sequence of events. America's Odo's rig was chartered to Mobile Oil Canada, which is the world's largest semi-submersible platform. The Ocean Ranger crew prepared for a severe winter storm after receiving a weather forecast indicating an approaching severe storm linked to a major Atlantic Cyclone. The crew secured loose equipment, sealed doors, and checked ballast tanks for rig stability before the storm arrived. Unfortunately, the rig started listing due to the crew's inability to control the ballast tanks. The crew faced challenges in manually controlling the ballast due to water damage and lack of training. Emergency procedures were put in place, including halting drilling operations, preparing for potential evacuation, and shutting down non-essential systems. The Coast Guard sequestered support vessels for emergency assistance, requesting their help in the dangerous winter storm conditions. As a last resort, the crew considered abandoning the rig due to the complexity of the evacuation process.

A helicopter rescue attempt was made in dangerous conditions, with Captain Clark guiding support vessels through the impossible rescue conditions. Tragically, the Ocean Ranger crew was lost at sea, and only 22 bodies were recovered. The Deepwater Horizon explosion resulted in 87 deaths and the largest marine oil spill in history. The salvage operation of Ocean Ranger led to fatal accidents due to gas ignition and metal debris. The Deepwater Horizon rig, which had advanced technology for deep-sea drilling, was owned by Trans Ocean and operated by BP. Trans Ocean's failure to conduct essential maintenance has resulted in a potential disaster. The blowout preventer is long overdue for inspection due to risky drilling conditions in the Gulf of Mexico. Neglecting maintenance practices has significantly increased the risks of pressure kicks and challenges in well control. Drilling operations had to be stopped for 9 days due to equipment malfunctions. BP executives and Trans Ocean officials are currently in discussions regarding safety performance and rig scheduling. Conflicting opinions on critical pressure test results have raised serious concerns. The detection of spreading gas has further heightened safety apprehensions. There is a risk of engine failure due to gas intake, which has triggered alarms.

The removal of the automatic evacuation feature has led to crew members expressing safety concerns. It is crucial to rely on human judgment when activating the emergency shutdown system. This system is responsible for shutting down ventilation fans, electrical equipment, ignition sources, and engines. Despite disagreements on system automation, crew members at Trans Ocean are urged to act swiftly and accurately under stressful conditions. The crew of Horizon is facing a challenging battle for survival following the second explosion. After the initial explosion, the head of the Lifeboat deck assumed that crew members were deceased and began making his way to the bridge. Unaware of the imminent danger, crew members are struggling to escape the explosions, gas, and fire, with some falling victim to the hazardous conditions.

Amidst chaos and explosions, efforts are being made to regain control of the rig. There are challenges in activating the emergency disconnect system to prevent sinking, as well as issues with standby generators and firefighting systems. Crew members are undergoing training to recognize the severity of situations and respond appropriately to prevent further escalation. It is essential to consider the design of the blowout preventer for a more rapid response in the future. Additionally, the platform is being repurposed as a floating hotel for rig personnel. Accommodating 348 crew members, the rig is connected to the platform via Sea Bridge.

It is equipped with a helipad for transportation to and from land and other platforms. Jansen and his colleagues face challenges in securing the lifeboats during extreme weather conditions. The intense rain and cold wind create treacherous conditions on the deck of the rig. Securing the lifeboats becomes even more difficult due to shifting weight and the challenge of lowering them into the sea. As the rig capsizes, crew members struggle for survival, jumping into freezing waters without life jackets or survival suits. They must resist the urge to gasp for air as the rig rolls over, trapping some men underwater. Despite the sinking vessel, the crew on the Eder platform attempts a rescue mission.