INPEX said it became aware on 22 March that a worker who had been on the Maersk Deliverer offshore drilling rig off Western Australia’s Kimberley coast had tested positive for the virus shortly after returning to his home overseas.
The rig was on its way to an offshore gas field to begin a drilling campaign for the Ichthys project when the positive test was returned.
“As a precaution, all non-essential personnel from the Maersk Deliverer are being transferred from the rig to start 14 days’ self-isolation either in Broome or their home location,” said INPEX Deputy Vice President Corporate Coordination Bill Townsend.
“As a business we’re acutely aware of maintaining the integrity and continuity of our operations. But the health and welfare of our people remain our highest priority.”
About 25 essential staff are expected to remain onboard the rig, with up to 135 contract works currently being transferred off to self isolation.
INPEX said it was continuing to take advice from the WA Department of Health through a dedicated crisis management team and applying it to locations in Perth, Broome, Darwin and offshore.
Social distancing, screening temperatures and ensuring strict health and hygiene practices are among the safety protocols the company is enforcing across operations.
For more information visit the INPEX website.
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