SBM Offshore Says Norwegian Platform is Safe

by Jon Mainwaring

Rigzone Staff

Friday, July 13, 2012

Dutch oilfield services company SBM Offshore said Friday that it has found "no reason to change its view" that the Yme MOPU STOR platform being constructed in the Norwegian North Sea "is, and has been, a safe operating environment for all project teams".

In spite of this reassurance SBM said that Talisman Energy, the operator of the platform, has decided not to remobilize the facility after it evacuated the platform of its 140 workers late on Tuesday after being concerned about structural issues. The Canadian oil and gas producer said that cracks had been found in the cement grouting of the supporting structure.

A Talisman spokesperson said that these cracks could be fixed, but the company felt it prudent to remove personnel until the issue was investigated further.

On Friday, SBM Offshore – which has been constructing the platform for Talisman – said that it took part in a meeting with both Talisman and the independent certifying authority, Det Norske Veritas, to address issues arising from "potential cracks" in the grouting around the legs of the platform.

SBM reported that the meeting provided for a comprehensive examination of the calculation reports submitted by SBM, a discussion of the potential cracks, their causes and options for treatments. After this meeting, the firm said, its view of the safety of the Yme MOPU STOR platform remains unchanged.

SBM CEO Bruno Chabas described the meeting as "constructive" and said:

"We have to respect that Talisman, as operator, can take this decision. SBM Offshore is committed, now as before, to completing this facility swiftly, efficiently and safely, and bringing it on stream for the benefit of our client and the host authority, Norway. However, we are exploring other avenues to get back on board of the platform and finish the work."

A former engineer, Jon is an award-winning editor who has covered the technology, engineering and energy sectors since the mid-1990s. Email Jon at jmainwaring@rigzone.com.

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