Van Oord has once again suspended drilling operations for the pin piles for foundations on the Saint-Brieuc offshore windfarm in France after a technical problem occurred
The incident led to hydraulic fluid being observed on the deck of the vessel conducting the work, Aeolus, and in the water around it.
Developer Ailes Marines said the incident was reported by the master of the vessel on 28 July 2021. The incident was reported to the Regional Operational Centre for Surveillance and Rescue.
In a statement, Ailes Marines said, “During drilling at position SB57, a technical problem was observed on one of the ship’s three drills.
“Van Oord halted all drilling activity from Aeolus and decided to reassemble the drill.
“During the ascent of the tool, Panolin HLP Synth 46 hydraulic fluid was observed on the deck of the vessel and in the marine environment.” The hydraulic fluid is designed to be readily biodegradable.
Ailes Marines said it immediately implemented enhanced environmental protocols and tools it decided to use after another similar incident in June 2021.
Three surveillance vessels were deployed to the area. Two of those vessels, Rem Trader and Bon Secours 7, searched for evidence of hydraulic fluid on the surface. Rem Trader also took several samples of seawater.
Rem Trader, which is equipped with absorbent booms, and another vessel TSM Penzer, which is equipped with a floating boom, also intervened with their oil spill equipment.
Ailes Marines conducted two helicopter flights over the area, but personnel on the aircraft did not observe any oil. The maritime authorities also carried out an overflight of the area.
Resources mobilised by Ailes Marines will continue surveillance for several days, in collaboration with the maritime authorities.
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