Glycol accidentally released into sea from West Aquarius rig

Glycol was discharged in the ocean from the West Aquarius drilling rig this week, authorities revealed Thursday. 

Hibernia Management and Development Company (HMDC) said the discharge of glycol, which is used to prevent the control fluid from freezing, came from the blowout preventer on the rig on Monday.

In a news release Thursday, HMDC said it estimates that 1317 litres of glycol was released into the ocean.

An investigation determined that a hose has parted just below sea level, resulting in the unauthorized discharge.

There was no impact on the blowout preventer on the rig.

The Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Offshore Petroleum Board is reviewing the incident.

HMDC is also continuing its investigation into the incident.