BOEM to investigate Mariner platform fire

Michael R. Bromwich, Director of the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, Regulation and Enforcement (BOEM), says the agency has launched a full investigation into the September 2, 2010, incident on Mariner Energy ResourceÕs Vermilion 380 platform. Under a March 27, 2009 Memorandum of Agreement from on BOEM-U.S. Coast Guard cooperation, USCG will support BOEMÕs investigation of this incident.

ÒWe are all relieved that the 13 personnel on the platform were rescued safely. We are continuing to closely monitor this situation, which will be investigated fully. We will use all available resources to ensure that we find out what happened, how it happened, and what enforcement action should be taken if any laws or regulations were violated,Ó said Director Bromwich.

Bromwich has directed members of BOEMÕs newly created Investigations and Review Unit (IRU) to lead the investigation.

The IRU is described as a "team of prosecutors, FBI agents, and enforcement officials whose mission is to: promptly and credibly respond to allegations or evidence of misconduct and unethical behavior by Bureau employees; pursue allegations of misconduct by oil and gas companies involved in offshore energy projects; and assure the Bureau's ability to respond swiftly to emerging issues and crises, including significant incidents such as spills and accidents."