At 13:30 local time today, an incident occurred whilst work was being performed in a cargo tank onboard the FPSO Espoir Ivoirien operating on the Espoir field offshore the Ivory Coast.
Two fatalities have been confirmed as a consequence of the incident, which was caused by a leakage of hydrocarbons into the tank where the work was being performed. Next of kin have been informed.
Production has been shut down and the leak has been contained within the cargo tank, with all personnel accounted for.
The FPSO is operated by BW Offshore for CNR International. Both companies are cooperating with local authorities in addressing the situation.
"This is a tragic day for the families of the men we have lost, and our hearts go out to them", said Marco Beenen, the CEO of BW Offshore.
