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I believe that Exxonss excuse for recent flaring is a lame one

Feb 01, 2021 Letters

Dear Editor,
Please, please allow me space in your newspaper, to make a few comments/suggestion on the subject of flaring at the Exxon Mobil platform.
There is an old figuration expression that goes like this, “If you behave like a dog, people will treat you like one”.
First of all, I would assume that the Government of Guyana and all Guyanese knows the consequences and hazards that are related to flaring of the magnitude we presently experience.
Hence, the excuse given by Exxon Mobil, is totally unacceptable, whilst the inaction of the Government of Guyana can only be described as passive.
I am not too certain if any other country in this civilized world, would accept a lame excuse (DEFECTIVE COMPRESSOR SEAL) as a reason for this “disaster in the making.”
The compressor seal, based on my understanding was recently replaced. If I am correct then I can only assume one of the following;
(1) The seal has a very short life cycle.
(2) The replacement seal was not properly installed or damaged during installation.
(3) The replacement installed did not meet the required design/technical specifications.
(4) The defective seal in the first instant was not replaced but repaired.
Now if we make the assumption that this type of seal has a very short life cycle, a logical question to ask is, “Does Exxon Mobil adhere to proper/established inventory control management practices?”
Secondly, if the seal was not properly installed, Exxon Mobil I believe has the responsibility to explain to local authorities, what is the standard installation procedure (ISO requirement) and what deviation actually took place. This approach is inescapable in order to eliminate any future repeat.
Thirdly, I do not know what the seal looks like and I cannot specifically say what inspection/measurement procedures may have been applicable.
Hence, Exxon Mobil has the ethical responsibility to disclose what inspection was done prior to installation.
Finally, I understand that Exxon Mobil is an internationally reputable company and I do not believe that the seal was not replaced but repaired. However, an investigation in this direction may not be worthless.
I believe that the response given by Exxon Mobil that they are in the process of procuring another seal is an insult to Guyanese and to an extent is indicative of how they see us. I also believe that consideration should be given to retrofitting another compressor on the platform, to elevate overall reliability of the compressor fleet. A second compressor will also facilitate planned maintenance to be executed as per schedule.
The potential environmental disaster due excessive flaring cannot be tolerated, even at this early stage.

I am disturbed that the Guyana Association of Professional Engineers continues to be silent on important engineering issues like this. However, GAPE seems to be spending lots of time planning their Christmas functions.
Guyanese cannot and should accept the destruction of our environment, whilst Exxon Mobil awaits the arrival of this seal. This is garbage and in my mind a reflection of how the outside world see us.
Yours truly,
Hector Lambert

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