Fairfield Reports Hydrocarbon Sheen Near Osprey Subsea Manifold

Fairfield Energy confirms that a hydrocarbon sheen was reported in the vicinity of the Osprey subsea manifold at approximately 20:30 hrs, Tuesday 10th July.

All relevant authorities were notified and a regular dialogue including daily reports is being maintained with the Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC).

The two online Osprey wells were closed and a vessel was deployed to observe the area. An ongoing series of aerial observations was commissioned.

Efforts continue to identify the source of the oil. A specialist vessel with an ROV (remotely operated vehicle) onboard was scheduled to be on location late afternoon Saturday 14th July. Remedial actions will be defined by the ROV survey.

It is estimated that a maximum of 8.7 tonnes of hydrocarbon may have been lost in the initial incident which dispersed naturally in the prevailing weather conditions. Very small quantities of oil are being released intermittently to the surface. This oil is dispersing readily and aerial surveillance this morning was unable to find any presence of oil.

The event presents no risk to personnel and DECC has concluded that the spill has no impact on the environment.

Production from this manifold will not resume until the cause has been identified and remedial action taken.

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Offshore Nieuws Staff, July 16, 2012; Image : Fairfield