Archer nets Talisman Sinopec job

Archer (UK) Limited announced today the award of a three-year contract with two times two-year extension options, for the provision of platform drilling services for Talisman Sinopec.

The contract will see Archer provide onshore rig operations, maintenance and QHSE management, and offshore operations and maintenance supervision on the Claymore, Clyde, Fulmar, Piper B, Saltire and Tartan platforms in the UK sector of the North Sea.

“We are delighted to have been awarded this substantial contract from an operator like Talisman Sinopec, which has such a major presence in the UK North Sea. This agreement represents a significant opportunity for Archer to demonstrate its expertise in, and commitment to, delivering safe operations in the region,” says Kenny Dey, Managing Director of Archer UK. “We look forward to working closely with Talisman Sinopec and delivering an efficient programme of services to our valued client, to support the success of their ongoing and planned drilling activity.”

Following the award of this contract, Archer will operate a total of 38 platforms in the North Sea, Greece and Brazil. The company did not reveal the financial details of the contract, which is expected to start in November.

This is Archer’s second North Sea contract in a little more than a month. The company in September said it won an extension with Apache for the provision of Platform Drilling Services for a period of one year.

The drilling services company has not been immune to the drop of oil price. Due to the lack of spending by its customers, the company has so far this year laid off more that 1.500 workers.

During its quarterly presentation on July 31, Archer said it would be forced to cut its workforce by another 300 employees, leading to a total reduction of over 21% compared to the headcount at the end of December 2014.

Offshore Energy Today Staff