Fire Occurs During Cutting Operation to Install Casing Head
Effective Date: 7/24/1986
 | 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.