Record High of Offshore Oil Exploration Accidents in Brazil in 2024

In 2024, Brazil’s offshore oil exploration accidents reached a record high with 731 incidents, according to the ANP. This marks an increase from previous years, raising safety concerns especially regarding new licensing in the Amazon River Mouth Basin. The ANP suggests that the rise in accidents correlates with increased operational activities.

In 2024, Brazil has experienced an alarming surge in offshore oil exploration accidents, reaching the highest number of incidents since records began in 2011. This information was derived from a recent report by the National Agency for Petroleum, Natural Gas, and Biofuels (ANP). Notably, 731 accidents were reported last year, an increase from 718 in 2023 and 598 in 2022, averaging nearly two accidents each day.

Concerns regarding safety are significant in the ongoing discussions about the licensing of Block 59, an auctioned area within the Amazon River Mouth Basin, located in the Equatorial Margin region. The Brazilian government has encountered political resistance in advancing this licensing process, reflecting the growing apprehension over safety protocols.

In relation to the unprecedented number of accidents this year, the ANP provided clarification stating that “the figure can be understood as a consequence of increased activity in the country, with the entry of several production units, as well as the strong resumption of exploration and drilling of new wells.” This response highlights the correlation between heightened operational activity and the rise in incidents.

The report by the ANP reveals a concerning trend in offshore oil exploration accidents in Brazil, with a record high observed in 2024. The political implications surrounding the licensing process for new exploration areas, compounded by safety concerns, suggest a need for enhanced regulatory measures. Increased operational activity appears to significantly influence accident rates, necessitating a reevaluation of safety protocols in the industry.

Original Source: www1.folha.uol.com.br