Oil Rig Evacuated Following North Sea Vessel Collision

A late-night collision in the North Sea prompted the evacuation of over 50 offshore workers from the Valaris 120 oil rig, located roughly 150 miles east of Aberdeen. The incident occurred at 10:18 pm on Sunday, 24 November, when a supply vessel collided with the installation. Thankfully, no injuries were reported, and the rig remains safe.

In a statement released on Monday, Harbour Energy confirmed that 52 non-essential personnel were safely evacuated from the platform as a precautionary measure. The company assured the public that the situation was under control and that the safety of workers was their top priority.

“Harbour Energy can confirm that as a precautionary measure, 52 non-essential personnel have been downmanned from the Valaris 120 installation located at Block 30/7A,” a spokesperson said.

While the details surrounding the circumstances of the collision are still under investigation, Harbour Energy emphasised that the quick response and adherence to safety protocols helped ensure a smooth evacuation process.

The offshore oil and gas industry is no stranger to challenging and potentially hazardous environments. Incidents such as this underline the importance of stringent safety measures, robust protocols, and well-drilled evacuation procedures. It’s a testament to the preparedness of the crew and Harbour Energy’s operational standards that the situation was managed without injury or significant disruption.

The Valaris 120 rig is a key part of operations in the North Sea, situated at Block 30/7A. Offshore rigs like Valaris 120 are integral to the region’s oil and gas output, which plays a significant role in the UK’s energy landscape. The evacuation of non-essential workers ensures that critical operations can continue with a smaller, more focused crew, while minimising risk during the investigation and recovery period.

While collisions and evacuations are relatively rare, they serve as a reminder of the complex logistics involved in offshore operations. The North Sea, a hub for oil and gas activity, has a robust safety culture, honed over decades of experience. From advanced monitoring systems to regular drills, every effort is made to prevent and manage incidents.

Incidents like this, though concerning, highlight how far safety standards have come in ensuring the well-being of offshore workers. Harbour Energy’s swift action in the wake of this collision reflects the industry's commitment to maintaining these high standards.

Investigations are likely already underway to determine the cause of the collision between the supply vessel and the Valaris 120 rig. These will involve both Harbour Energy and relevant regulatory bodies, as they work to identify any procedural lapses or technical failures. Findings will help prevent future occurrences and enhance operational safety across the board.

The evacuated workers will likely remain offsite until it’s deemed safe for them to return. Meanwhile, essential personnel will continue to monitor the rig's condition and ensure any necessary repairs or adjustments are completed without delay.