Tragedy Strikes Chevron’s Oil Platform Off Angola

On May 20, a devastating fire occurred on Chevron’s oil platform off the coast of Angola, leading to a tragic loss of lives. Initially, it was reported that all personnel had been safely evacuated. However, the subsequent events have unfolded a harrowing tale of loss and sorrow.

The fire, which originated in the basement of the Benguela Belize Lobito Tomboco (BBLT) oil platform during scheduled maintenance, has claimed the lives of three workers. Two workers succumbed to their injuries on May 24 and May 27, respectively, while the search for a missing worker ended tragically with the discovery of the body on the ocean floor.

The incident also left 17 workers injured, with four in critical condition. All injured personnel received medical attention onshore, with some being transported to South Africa for further treatment.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation, raising concerns about safety protocols and emergency response procedures on offshore platforms. The Angolan National Agency for Oil, Gas, and Biofuels is overseeing the investigation to determine the root cause of this tragic event.

The BBLT platform, located in the Block 14 concession off the Cabinda coast, is operated by Chevron’s Angolan subsidiary, Cabinda Gulf Oil Company. The platform plays a crucial role in the region’s oil production, highlighting the importance of maintaining high safety standards to protect workers and prevent such incidents in the future.

As the industry mourns the loss of lives and reflects on the need for stringent safety measures, our thoughts are with the families of the victims and the affected workers. May this tragedy serve as a reminder of the risks involved in offshore operations and the paramount importance of prioritizing safety above all else.