SBM Offshore, Talisman Hold a Meeting over Yme Platform Evacuation

A scheduled meeting took place Thursday 12 July between the representatives of SBM Offshore, Talisman, and their respective consultants as well as the independant certifying authority, Det Norske Veritas (DNV), at the SBM Offshore headquarters in Schiedam, The Netherlands.

As planned, the meeting addressed the issues arising from potential cracks in the grouting around the legs of the Yme MOPU STOR platform, as well as the decision taken by Talisman as the operator to de-mobilise the platform and evacuate it some 48 hours earlier.

The meeting provided for a comprehensive examination of the calculation reports submitted by SBM, a discussion of the potential cracks, its causes and options for treatment. In concluding, DNV, the appointed independent third party assessor, undertook to produce a near term report for both Talisman and SBM Offshore on the safety of the platform.

As a consequence of the discussion with all concerned, SBM Offshore has found no reason to change its view that the platform is, and has been, a safe operating environment for all project teams. However, Talisman as operator of the facility has sole responsibility for mobilisation of the facility or withdrawal of personnel and has decided not to remobilise yet.

Bruno Chabas, CEO of SBM Offshore commented:

“Today’s meeting was a constructive discussion. We have to respect that Talisman, as operator, can take this decision. SBM Offshore is committed, now as before, to completing this facility swiftly, efficiently and safely, and bringing it on stream for the benefit of our client and the host authority, Norway. However, we are exploring other avenues to get back on board of the platform and finish the work.”

[mappress]

Press Release, July 13, 2012