Jackup Rig Collapse in Trinidad: One Injured, Search Ongoing for Missing Worker

A jackup rig off the coast of Trinidad partially collapsed on Sunday, resulting in one worker being injured and another missing. The incident occurred during drilling operations at the Heritage Offshore East Field when part of the deck collapsed at around 0300 hours. Of the 75 people on board at the time, one individual sustained injuries and was promptly given medical attention. The rig was subsequently evacuated following the collapse.

The missing worker, identified as Pete Phillip, 45, has yet to be located. Search efforts are ongoing, with the Trinidad and Tobago Coast Guard deploying resources, including the cutter TTS Port of Spain and support vessels, to assist in locating Phillip. Dive operations are being conducted to search the underwater wreckage, as reported by the SAR team.

Heritage Petroleum Company Ltd., the operator of the field, has established an incident command center at its marine base in Point Fortin. A team of 25 individuals is overseeing the response efforts, including organizing the rig’s evacuation and providing drone surveillance. Phillip’s wife, Candacy Phillip, expressed her family’s anxiety and hope for his safe return, particularly as the holiday season approaches. Well Services Petroleum Company, the owner of Rig 110, has not issued a public statement regarding the incident.

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