Semi-submersible Drilling Rig Grounds off Scotland

Severe weather has caused semi-submersible drilling rig Transocean Winner to break free from tow and run aground off the western isles of Scotland, the U.K. Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA) said.

There are no personnel on board the rig and there is no risk to life, MCA said. There is 280mt of diesel on board.

The tug Alp Forward encountered severe weather west of the Isle of Lewis while towing the Transocean Winner, and remained connected to the rig overnight on Sunday but was unable to make headway with the tow. The MCA’s Emergency Towing Vessel Herakles was deployed from Orkney on Sunday night to assist.

Early Monday morning, the tow line parted, and due to the severe weather conditions it was not possible to reconnect. The rig then grounded on the west side of the Isle Of Lewis near Carloway. The tug Alp Forward remains on scene to visually monitor the rig.

The MCA’s counter pollution branch and the Secretary of State’s Representative (SOSREP) for Maritime Salvage and Intervention Hugh Shaw is now in discussions with the owners Transocean, ALP Marine and the salvors SMIT Salvage. Police Scotland and HM Coastguard Rescue Teams are also on scene.