The US Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE) issued a total of 41 incidents of noncompliance (INC) resulting from an investigation into a 2012 explosion and fire on a Gulf of Mexico platform operated by Black Elk Energy Offshore Operations.
Three workers died in the blast on Black Elk West Delta Block 32 Platform E about 17 miles off Grand Isle, La. (OGJ Online, Nov. 16, 2012).
Following an investigation, BSEE issued INCs to Black Elk Energy Offshore Operations, Wood Group Production Service Network, Grand Isle Shipyard, and Compass Engineering Consultants. A complete listing of the INCs can be found on BSEE’s web site.
A panel investigation team of BSEE and US Coast Guard representatives earlier this month released its investigative report finding the incident stemmed from a number of decisions and actions by the operator and its contractors during construction operations (OGJ Online, Nov. 5, 2013).
The INCs address violations of specific federal regulations. BSEE’s Enforcement Program allows for a 60-day appeal period for INCs. The INCs will be reviewed for possible assessment of civil penalties.
