Minor Oil Leak in Jizhou 9-3 West Oilfield Subsea Pipeline

CNOOC (China) has discovered an oil sheen on 14th October 2011 near Jinzhou 9-3 West oilfield in Bohai Bay. Until now, the company has been effectively cleaning up the oil sheen on the sea surface.  

 

According to investigation, the oil spill was caused by the leak from a subsea connecting pipeline damaged by a work vessel during its operations. Initial estimate indicated the amount of leakage was about 0.38 cubic metres.

 

After the incident occurred, CNOOC immediately activated emergency response procedures, shut down the operations at Platform B of the oilfield and cut off the leaking source. In the meantime, the company took measures to clean up the oil sheen as well as sent divers to survey the damaged subsea pipeline and seal the leaking source. Affected by the shutdown, the production is reduced by approximately 1,600 barrels per day.

 

Jinzhou 9-3 West oilfield is an independent oilfield of the company. CNOOC holds 100% interest and acts as the Operator.