Spill reported from Husky rig offshore eastern Canada

Canadian oil and gas company Husky Energy has reported a spill of Blowout Preventer (BOP) control fluid from semi-submersible drilling rig Henry Goodrich offshore Newfoundland and Labrador.

Husky estimated that more than 40 barrels (6,397 litres) of the fluid – comprising 68% water, 28% Glycol and 4% of brand name product Stack Magic – escaped into the water.

The substance is a hydraulic fluid developed specifically for use in BOP systems. Its qualities include stability, corrosion protection, anti-wear lubrication and resistance to microbiological attack.

At the time of the spill the Henry Goodrich had been disconnected from the BOP and moved off the well because of anticipated bad weather. It was at a spot northwest of the main White Rose field.

Canada’s offshore safety body C-NLOPB will monitor Husky’s investigation of the incident.

The 1985-built Henry Goodrich is owned by Transocean, and contracted to Husky until May 2018 at $275,000 per day.