Fire Occurs During Cutting Operation to Install Casing Head

Effective Date: 7/24/1986

U.S. Department of the Interior
Minerals Management Service
Gulf of Mexico OCS Region

Notice No. 150

July 24, 1986

Fire Occurs During Cutting Operation to Install Casing Head

A fire occurred on a production platform during drilling operations while drive pipe and 13 3/8-inch casing were being cut to install the casing head. Slag fell to the lower deck, igniting gas emitting from the level controller on the sump tank. Using a portable dry chemical extinguisher, the fire watch quickly extinguished the fire.

The gas flow to the level controller was cut off, the area was checked with a gas detector, and the sump tank was covered with a wet tarp before the cutting operation was resumed.

No injuries, damage, or pollution occurred.

To prevent a recurrence of this type of accident, the operator will bleed down all equipment in the vicinity and closely monitor the welding and cutting operation.