October 2, 2010 abstract-deepwaterhorizonlessonslearnedpresentation-101027060226-phpapp02

Deep Water Horizon Lessons Learned-

A Study of the BP Accident Investigation Report By J. Madison “J.M.” Drake, P.E. CSP CQE F.NSPE

Abstract:

This presentation provides an overview of the Deep Water Horizon Macondo Well Accident

Investigation Report. The two session briefing follows the four lines of inquiry pursued by the

accident investigation team and covers the following topics:

Investigation Lines of Inquiry

Key Events of the Accident Timeline

Macondo Well Details, Geology and Well Design

Eight Critical Factors Leading up to the Accident Estimates of the Total Spill Size

Recommendations to Prevent Recurrence

The objective of this presentation is to communicate lessons learned from the accident investigation

to provide attendees knowledge, and understanding of the events, and actions that could prevent

similar accidents in the future. The Executive Summary of the Investigation Report released Sep 8,

2010 contained the following description of the accident: “On the evening of April 20, 2010, a well

control event allowed hydrocarbons to escape from the Macondo well onto the Transocean’s

Deepwater Horizon, resulting in explosions and fire on the rig. Eleven people lost their lives, and 17

others were injured. The fire, which was fed by the hydrocarbons from the well, continued for 36

hours until the rig sank. Hydrocarbons continued to flow from the reservoir through the wellbore

and the blowout preventer (BOP) for 87 days, causing a spill of national significance.”

This study clearly demonstrates that the Deep Water Horizon accident was preventable. With the

sound application of engineering and safety practices, similar accidents need never occur again.