China: CNOOC Announces Oil Leak in Subsea Pipeline in Bohai Bay

CNOOC Limited announced that, on October 14, an oil sheen was discovered 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 meters.

After the incident occurred, CNOOC Limited 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 effective 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 Limited holds 100% interest and acts as the Operator.

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Source: CNOOC ,October 16 , 2011