Investigation Report
Oil Storage Tanks Exploded During Separator Relocation and Torch Cutting
05-21-2010 16:00 G09529 VR/398 Pollution - Explosion - Incident >$25K
- BSEE
- Investigation Report
- Unknown
- CorrosionExplosionHydrocarbon release
- Hot work
- Storage tanks
- Ignition source controlPreventive maintenance
- Upstream oil and gas
- Offshore installation
Summary
Investigation of two oil storage tanks exploding on the VR 398 A offshore platform during separator relocation and torch cutting. The report identifies obstructed flame-arrestor venting and considers cutting sparks a likely ignition source. It discusses crude oil losses, tank-system deficiencies, hot-work separation and periodic flame-arrestor servicing.
Classifications: Corrosion; corrosion damage.
Classifications: Explosion; explosive atmospheres.
Classifications: Hydrocarbon release; hydrocarbon leak; oil and gas release.
Classifications: Hot work; welding and cutting.
Classifications: Storage tanks; atmospheric tanks.
Classifications: Ignition source control; ignition prevention.
Classifications: Preventive maintenance; preventative maintenance; planned maintenance.
Classifications: Upstream oil and gas; oil and gas extraction; upstream petroleum.
Classifications: Offshore installation; offshore platform; offshore rig.