NEW ORLEANS — The Unified Command successfully completed a line integrity test on the Main Pass Oil Gathering (MPOG) company's pipeline system Friday, near Plaquemines Parish, southeast of New Orleans.
Following a successful line integrity test of the MPOG line, the Unified Command has stood down its work to respond to the oil release observed on November 16.
MPOG and the Unified Command identified a failed subsea connector on the MPOG line that did not hold pressure after conducting an integrity test of that connector. The Unified Command has not confirmed whether the connector is related to the November 16 release, and other sources of that event may be identified.
MPOG and the Unified Command developed a comprehensive plan, which MPOG executed, to safely extract and replace the spool piece, which included the failed connector, with a top focus on safety and protecting the environment. The spool piece including the connector was successfully replaced on February 21.
Following the replacement of the spool piece, and with Unified Command approval, MPOG conducted an integrity test on the majority of the MPOG line to ensure the system was able to maintain containment by slowly pressurizing the pipeline system in stages using an inert gas. The integrity test, which was completed on Friday, did not identify any other segments requiring further assessment as the line was able to maintain pressure.
The removal and replacement of the spool piece and the subsequent integrity test of the MPOG line were conducted under the close supervision of the Unified Command and Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration. During both operations, spill response vessels were on site, along with divers, remotely operated vehicles, helicopters equipped with trained oil observers and multi-spectral imaging cameras, and other containment and recovery equipment. No material discharge of oil was observed during these operations.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is the lead federal agency for the ongoing investigation into the source of the November 16 release. Inquiries about the investigation should be directed to NTSB’s media relations at mediarelations@ntsb.gov.
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