A section of a gas export pipeline in the waters to the west of Shetland has been displaced – with fishing gear understood to be the suspected cause.
A spokesperson for BP (LON:BP) said safe operations continue on the Clair Ridge gas pipeline.
But protective concrete mattresses around the subsea pipeline have been damaged, with one torn into sections.
According to an update on the Kingfisher platform used by mariners, part of the six-inch diameter pipeline PL3184 has been dragged out of position by around three metres, while the pipeline is exposed for approximately 25 metres.
The alert warns of an “increased risk of snagging.”
The pipeline from the Clair Ridge field connects into the West of Shetland pipeline system (WOSPS), which then heads to Sullom Voe Terminal.
The incident came to light in early July, and is understood to have likely been caused by fishing gear snagging.
A BP spokesperson said: “During routine inspections of the Clair area pipeline system, a section of the Clair Ridge gas export pipeline was found to have been displaced with evidence of damage to and movement of the protective concrete ‘mattresses’ covering the pipeline.
“A risk assessment concluded there was no risk to the pipeline integrity and safe operations continue.
“We continue to monitor the pipeline while remediation plans are put in place. BP has engaged with relevant authorities and partners, including the Health and Safety Executive.”
It comes after damage to a subsea telecommunications cable off Shetland last year – also thought to have been caused by a fishing vessel.
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