ExxonMobil Shuts Down Corbia Platform in Bass Strait

Exxon Mobil Corporation reported that it has shut down the Corbia platform in Bass Strait, off Australia after observing a sheen on the water close to the platform.

"Esso staff responded immediately in accordance with our Oil Spill Response Plan. Following an initial investigation, the Cobia platform was shut down and it will remain shut down while the matter is investigated. An aerial inspection of the area this morning indicated that the sheen has dispersed naturally," the company said in a press release Monday.

"An investigation is underway as to the cause of the incident and we regret that this incident has occurred," it added.

ExxonMobil was not available for further comments on the oil spill when contacted by Rigzone Tuesday.

The incident has resulted in a spill of 750 liters or 5 barrels of oil at the Cobia platform, The Australian reported Tuesday.

The Cobia platform, which belongs to an equal joint venture between ExxonMobil and BHP Billiton and operated by the former, is located about 43.4 miles (70 kilometers) offshore from Longford.