As the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) continues globally, measures are being put in place in Guyana to ensure the safety and health of those working in support of the offshore activities at the Stabroek Block where US oil major ExxonMobil is operator.
The first confirmed case of COVID-19 occurred just a week ago in the South American country and that number has since risen to 5.
“ExxonMobil continues to monitor the Coronavirus outbreak closely in keeping with guidance from relevant authorities. We have well-established processes in place to manage impacts related to infectious disease outbreaks. Currently, our immediate focus is on ensuring the safety and health of our workforce and to do our part to limit the spread of the virus,” Janelle Persaud, Public and Government Affairs Advisor told OilNOW on Wednesday.
Persaud said measures being implemented include screening of workers at the Ogle heliport before they are cleared to travel offshore. She said this is to ensure they are not exhibiting symptoms of the virus and that they have not knowingly come in contact with anyone who has the virus.
“As a further precaution, medical personnel onboard our offshore facilities will continue to monitor the health of the workers and provide appropriate treatment and care. Onshore, most office employees are working remotely as we have instituted ‘social distancing’ protocols, except for employees working on operations-critical activities,” the Public and Government Affairs Advisor said.
SBM Offshore, builder and operator of the 120,000 barrels per day Liza Destiny FPSO which is currently producing oil offshore Guyana, said it is taking all precautions to ensure the safety of its personnel.
“SBM offshore remains mobilized and is taking all necessary precautions to ensure safe operations and safeguard the health of our personnel onshore and offshore as part of efforts to limit the impact of the Coronavirus at all our working sites in Guyana,” Herve Laurioux, Guyana Country Manager said.
Oil production began in Guyana on December 20, 2019 at the Liza Phase 1 Development.
