Gas Release from gas lift choke valve packing

Cause & Consequence

• Uncontrolled release of a flammable gas or liquid

Incident Location

Fixed Installation

Incident Activity

Production operations

Specific Incident Equipment

Gas lift choke valve

Lessons Identified

• The maintenance history on the system for this valve was found to be lacking detail.
• Packing follower was found to be insufficiently tensioned which in turn allowed the valve packing to pass.
• The valve was poor condition externally due to corrosion. Valve internal components were however in very good condition.

Incident Recommendations

• Valve to be refurbished in preparation for return to service
• Develop a suitable maintenance routine for all gas lift and oil choke packing / gland followers, including work orders to implement.