Shallow Gas Blowout
Effective Date: 1/5/1984
 | Minerals Management Service Gulf of Mexico OCS Region |
Notice No. 123
January 5, 1984
Shallow Gas Blowout
Conductor hole was drilled to 975 feet on a platform well in 313 feet of water and the drill pipe was being tripped out of the hole. After pulling five stands of pipe, without filling the hole, the mud pump was started to fill the hole. While pulling the sixth stand with the mud pump running and only 11 strokes on the counter, the well started flowing (bit at 439 feet MD). The annular BOP was closed, one of two diverter lines were opened, the drill pipe safety valve was installed, and all engines were shut down.
The crew abandoned the platform by crossing a connection bridge to another platform. Gas, salt water, and sand were observed blowing out of the diverter line. The well bridged over and ceased blowing after approximately 45 minutes. The crew returned to the platform and turned on one generator for lighting, and the rig and platform were washed down. There was no sign of pollution nor any fires or personnel injuries. The diversion was considered a success.
In order to safely drill the conductor hole section of future wells planned in this area, the operator recommends the following precautionary procedures be strictly observed:
1. The Drilling Foreman (or Supervisor) be on the drill floor at all times while drill pipe is being pulled.
2. Prior to pulling drill pipe, check for evidence of underbalanced conditions or balled-up bit and circulate until drill pipe will pull without swabbing.
3. Pull drill pipe slowly to prevent swabbing. Stop pulling pipe and completely fill hole at frequent intervals to minimize reduction in hydrostatic head and assure that the swabbing is not occurring.
[signed] D.W. Solanas
Regional Supervisor
Rules and Production