BP Oil Spill Cause and Investigation
Investigations have been underway since the April 20 explosion of the Deepwater Horizon. In one of the latest reports by The New York Times, new information from confidential internal reports suggest that there may be safety issues with other gulf rigs owned by Transocean.
The New York Times reports that Transocean commissioned a review of the safety culture of the headquarters in Houston and of three gulf rigs, aside from the Deepwater Horizon, just one month before the explosion.
The article states that the safety assessment followed serious accidents within the organization, and reflects concerns of safety and maintenance among the rigs. Transocean currently has 14 rigs operating in the Gulf and more than 130 worldwide.
The reports suggest that some of the other rigs may have the same problems as the Deepwater Horizon before it exploded; the findings raise concerns, particularly regarding a rig that is being leased by BP to participate in the drilling of one of two relief wells near the recent explosion site.
What Caused the Deepwater Horizon to Sink?
The explosion occurred April 20, 2010 and leaked an estimated 4 million barrels of oil into Gulf waters. Since the explosion, investigations as to why the ship sank have been underway. According to the confidential internal reports obtained by The New York Times, the rig may have sank because of problems with the ballast system.
The ballast system is supposed to keep the rig stable and afloat. Some investigators believe if the Deepwater Horizon hadn’t sunk, the devastating oil leak may not have occurred. The new documents are based on findings from three other Transocean rigs.
According to The New York Times, the reports confirm multiple deficiencies, including problems with the blowout preventer and other equipment that could potentially cause serious injury and/or damage to the environment in the event of malfunctions.
Ballast Problems, Not a First
Records indicate this is not the first we have heard about problems with the Deepwater Horizon’s ballast system. Apparently, some 70 workers were evacuated from the Deepwater Horizon back in May 2008 after the rig flooded. The incident was also linked to problems with the rig’s ballast system.
Who is Liable for the Explosion?
BP, formally British Petroleum, has been taking the majority of the blame for the explosion. In fact, they have agreed to set aside a $20 billion relief fund to compensate people devastated financially by the oil spill. Several lawsuits have been filed against BP. The company has already made an initial deposit of $3 million into the fund.
Information from the confidential internal reports may put more responsibility on other companies involved, including Transocean. Workers, reportedly, said Transocean deferred regular maintenance of the rigs to save money. Some workers expressed their concerns.
The new documents show equipment problems on the Deepwater Horizon, including problems with the hydraulic relays that controlled the watertight doors. The problems were discovered days before the explosion.
Ask an Oil Spill Lawyer
Investigations continue. In the meantime, if you’ve been affected by this disaster, you can seek a legal remedy. Our oil spill lawyers are investigating lawsuits on behalf of people who have been impacted by this tragic event. We are providing free evaluations for workers, business and property owners and others affected throughout the Gulf.
To schedule a free discussion of your circumstances, contact an oil spill attorney today.