Pacific Region

Losses of Well Control - 1998

March 7, 1998 – Torch Operating Company

Remarks: A loss of well control occurred during workover operations to remove and replace the annular SCSSV on well A-14. After releasing the packer, and pulling 30 feet of tubing, the well began flowing natural gas and seawater through the tubing/casing annulus. The flow pushed the tubing 30 feet up the well, damaging the tubing and flowline from the BOPE to the active mud pit. The well flowed for 30 seconds prior to BOPE shut-in.