At approximately 1330 hours Saturday, June 4, 2011, the drilling rig GSF Grand Banks sustained damage during a lifting operation. There were no injuries to personnel, and no damage to the environment. The rig itself is stable.

The rig was at the North Amethyst Drill Centre preparing to move the Blow Out Preventer (BOP) for the next stage of operations, when a lifting cylinder failed, causing the load to shift in its carrier. An assessment is underway to determine the extent of damages to the rig and BOP. The BOP will not be returned to service until appropriate repairs and testing are carried out and it is re-commissioned.

21 personnel were returned to St. John’s as they are not required for current operations and because there was flight capacity and good weather conditions. This will allow Husky and Transocean to effectively manage personnel on board for the current work scope and future inspection and repair activities. Further personnel transfers will be considered as required.

The C-NLOPB is continuing to monitor the situation.