Shell Prelude FLNG: Offshore regulator NOPSEMA says hazardous gas issue needs fixing

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Shell Prelude FLNG: Offshore regulator NOPSEMA says hazardous gas issue needs fixing

Shell has copped a warning from the oil and gas regulator after hazardous gases at the Prelude LNG vessel likely sent workers to the sick bay.

An inspector from offshore watchdog NOPSEMA has told the super-major there was a safety risk at the facility off the Kimberley coast because hazardous gases were likely not being dispersed in low-wind conditions.

A warning notice from the National Offshore Petroleum Safety and Environmental Management Authority — obtained by The West *********** — said the issues had been ongoing for several years.

Low wind conditions occurring about two months per year would “potentially lead to exposure of the workforce to the inadequately dispersed hazardous gases”, the note said.

“Personnel on the facility have presented with symptoms of respiratory and eye irritation, typical of (but not exclusive to) hydrogen sulphide and benzene exposure,” the warning said. Benzene can cause ******* after extended exposure.

It’s understood some staff have attended the onboard medical team with minor symptoms, and have not needed treatment. None have suffered long-term effects.

NOPSEMA’s report suggested that an acid gas vent on the plant was not working as required.

Shell said work was under way for a long-term engineering solution at the vessel.

“The health and safety of our people is our number one priority,” a spokeswoman said.

“Air quality issues are experienced periodically on Prelude during low wind conditions.

“We have identified potential sources, implemented interim mitigation measures when air quality issues are present to limit exposure, and are looking at longer term engineering solutions to address the source of the issue.”

The $US10 billion-plus Prelude was among the world’s first floating liquefied gas processing ships but has been plagued by safety worries.

Prelude suffered a catastrophic failure in late 2021 after a fire, emergency shutdown, and loss of power.

About 18 months later, The West *********** revealed NOPSEMA had alleged workers were exposed to a fire or explosion risk working on a tank.

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