Jackup Rig Collapses off Trinidad, Leaving One Worker Missing

On Sunday, a serious incident occurred off the coast of Trinidad involving a jackup rig. The Rig 110 partially collapsed during drilling operations, resulting in one worker injured and another missing. This event has raised concerns about safety protocols and the well-being of workers in the offshore oil industry. As search efforts continue, the families of those affected are left in a state of anxiety and uncertainty.

Details of the Incident

Early Sunday morning, at approximately 3:00 AM, Rig 110 was engaged in drilling activities at the Heritage Offshore East Field. Suddenly, part of the rig’s deck collapsed, causing chaos among the 75 crew members on board. Emergency protocols were activated immediately, leading to the evacuation of the rig. Local media reports indicate that one worker sustained injuries and received prompt medical attention.

The missing worker, identified as 45-year-old Pete Phillip, has not yet been located. His disappearance has prompted a significant search operation. The Trinidad and Tobago Coast Guard has deployed the cutter TTS Port of Spain, along with the OSV Atlantic Star and eight other support vessels, to assist in the search. Dive operations are currently underway to explore the underwater wreckage of the rig.

In response to the incident, Heritage Petroleum Company Ltd., the operator of the field, has established an incident command center at its marine base in Point Fortin. A dedicated team of 25 staff members is managing the situation, overseeing the evacuation, and providing ongoing drone surveillance to monitor the area. The company has not yet released a public statement regarding the casualties or the incident.

Family Concerns and Community Response

The emotional toll of this incident is profound, particularly for the family of the missing worker. Candacy Phillip, the wife of Pete Phillip, expressed her deep concern for her husband’s safety. She shared her anguish with the Trinidad Daily Express, revealing that their four children are anxiously awaiting news of their father. “The children keep asking for their father. They just want to know if they will find him. He was supposed to come home Christmas morning,” she said, highlighting the family’s distress during this difficult time.

FBX Index September 2023: Carrier discipline wavers and Atlantic has collapsed

The community is rallying around the Phillip family, offering support and prayers as search efforts continue. The incident has sparked discussions about safety measures in the offshore oil industry, with many calling for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collapse. The tragedy serves as a reminder of the risks faced by workers in this sector and the need for stringent safety protocols to prevent such incidents in the future.

As the search for Pete Phillip continues, the hope remains that he will be found safe. The situation is a stark reminder of the dangers associated with offshore drilling and the importance of ensuring the safety of all workers in the industry.