Crane failure disrupts operations on Ithaca’s North Sea platform

Workers express worries about food and water shortages amid crane repairs.

The Captain field in the North Sea, operated by Ithaca Energy, is currently facing significant operational challenges following a crane failure on its wellhead protector platform (WPP). This incident has led to the removal of drilling crews and raised serious concerns about the availability of essential supplies, particularly food and drinking water, for those still on board.

Concerns about food and water supply

Union members stationed on the offshore platform have voiced their apprehensions regarding the dwindling supplies of food and water. Reports indicate that workers are now relying on limited resources as they await evacuation. One crew member described the situation as a “sh*t show,” emphasizing that they are down to their last food supplies.

The operator, however, has downplayed these concerns, stating that the issue is not significant.

Despite the operator’s reassurances, Unite the Union has countered this narrative, asserting that the situation is indeed serious and indicative of broader maintenance issues within the company.

The union has highlighted that the crane, which is crucial for transporting supplies from supply vessels, has been out of commission, exacerbating the supply challenges faced by the crew.

Alternative supply measures in place

In response to the crisis, Ithaca Energy has initiated alternative measures to ensure that essential supplies reach the platform. The operator plans to transport food and water from a neighboring platform via a bridge connecting the two sites. This makeshift solution involves shuttling containers of food across a 150-meter bridge, a process that one union member described as “absolutely nuts.”

Additionally, a temporary water supply has been established using a 300-meter hose connected to provide water to the platform. While Ithaca claims that the platform remains well supplied, the union warns that hygiene could become a pressing issue if water supplies continue to dwindle.

Impact on operations and crew welfare

The crane failure has led to the removal of non-essential drilling personnel, a move that Ithaca believes will alleviate pressure on the platform’s operations. However, the union has raised concerns about the potential implications for crew welfare, particularly during the holiday season when workers typically expect to be well cared for.

As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how Ithaca will manage the ongoing challenges. The Captain field, located approximately 90 miles off the coast of Aberdeen, has been operational since 1997, and this incident highlights the critical importance of maintenance and supply chain management in offshore operations.

Union representatives have called for immediate attention to the maintenance issues that have led to this crisis, emphasizing that the crew deserves better treatment, especially during challenging times. The situation on the Captain field serves as a reminder of the complexities and risks associated with offshore energy operations.