§ Mr. MeacherTo ask the Secretary of State for Energy how many oil rigs have ceased operation as a result of the flexible hose in blow-out prevention equipment being found not to be able to withstand pressures of up to 15,000 lb per sq in; how many rigs in the North sea use this equipment; and what new advice he is issuing about use of these hoses.
§ Mr. Peter MorrisonTwo oil rigs have ceased operation.
There are 23 oil rigs operating or currently available for use in controlled waters on the United Kingdom continental shelf and which are fitted with 15,000 pounds per square inch (psi) blowout prevention systems. The majority of these are engaged in operations where pressures above 10,000 psi will not be encountered.
442WMy petroleum engineering division has advised oil companies using such equipment at higher pressures to define the maximum temperatures and pressures expected to occur in individual well operations and fully assess them against the flexible hose specifications. If a company is able to provide sufficient evidence to show that it is safe to continue or to resume operations I will consider giving the consent necessary under the terms and conditions of their licence. The division is also consulting interested parties with a view to issuing general guidance about the way in which this equipment should be used to ensure that it is safe at higher pressures.