The Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE) has released its investigation report on the January 27, 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 date of the incident, an open flame was observed near the starter on a rented gas compressor. The report documented the firefighting efforts on the platform once the flames were observed:
Four platform operators in the area of the compressor grabbed handheld fire extinguishers and headed towards the fire while the rest of the POB went to their primary muster station. It took operators approximately three minutes to extinguish the fire from the time it was first observed. The four operators remained by the compressor to monitor for any flare-ups while the Person In Charge (PIC) gave the all-clear for the rest of the POB to return from their muster station. The compressor was locked out awaiting an investigation and repairs made.
During an investigation after the incident, it was determined that a fitting connecting the exhaust hose on the starter had not been properly tightened. As a result, a small amount of natural gas was able to collect in that area. The BSEE report determined the probable cause of the incident:
Human Performance Error – Inattention to task: Earlier maintenance performed on the compressor failed to properly tighten the JIC fitting which caused it to back off over time.
Ultimately, the necessary safety equipment and precautions on the platform prevented this incident from being much worse. Fires and explosions on offshore platforms are known risks, which is why precautions must be taken, and safety protocols be put in place beforehand. Skilled operators prevented this fire from spreading and potentially turning deadly.
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.