Origin restarts CSG drilling after asbestos scare

Origin, the operator of the Australia Pacific LNG project, has recommenced its coal seam gas drilling operations.

Suspend drilling

On 13^th March 2014, Origin suspended drilling operations following notification from one of its drilling fluid suppliers, Australian Mud Company Pty Ltd, that an imported product (NUTPLUG) sometimes used in drilling fluids, had been found to contain asbestos.

A company statement said: “Origin is diligently working through a comprehensive and systematic process of airborne and surface testing to ensure drilling rigs either have no traces of asbestos or have been verified as safe and cleared to resume operations.

Testing of rigs

“As a result, five of the previously suspended drilling rigs have been tested and returned to work. The remaining seven rigs are expected to progressively return to service over the coming days.”

Origin expressed its commitment to the health and safety of its employees, as well as minimising environment impacts.

Adapted from press release by Katie Woodward

Read the article online at: https://www.worldcoal.com/cbm/19032014/csg_drilling_operations_recommence_631/