Three Workers Pass Out, Die in Offshore Oil Rig’s Ballast Tank

Three men died Wednesday after they passed out inside an oxygen-depleted ballast tank on an offshore oil rig, officials said.

Coast Guard Lt. Cmdr. Robert Diaz said one worker “wilted over” while inspecting the tank on the idle drilling rig in the Sabine Pass channel three miles from the Gulf of Mexico. Two co-workers went into the tank to assist him but also lost consciousness.

A fourth man tried to help the others but climbed out and was later taken to a Port Arthur hospital for treatment of shortness of breath. Two workers equipped with air tanks then entered the tank and removed the men, Diaz said.

Tests showed that air in the tank contained less than 14% oxygen, Diaz said, adding that about 19% is required for normal breathing. He said officials had not confirmed reports that there was hydrogen sulfide gas in the tank.

The rig, named the J-storm XVII, is listed as being operated by Marine Drilling Co. of Corpus Christi. Company officials refused to comment pending an inquiry.