DENVER (KDVR) — Chevron has identified the factors that caused a days-long oil and gas release in Weld County in April.
The “uncontrolled release” happened at a Chevron oil and gas facility northeast of Greeley and lasted for several days. Residents in the area were impacted and some have yet to return to their homes following evacuations.
Previous coverage: Oil and gas well sealed in Weld County after days-long release
According to a release on the Colorado Chevron website, an investigation by the company identified the following two root causes for the leak:
- Improper assembly of the installation equipment for the production tree by the on-site wellhead technician contractor
- Inadequate setting of the barrier(tubing hanger assembly) designed to prevent the flow of liquids
Chevron also listed the actions taken to address the issues, including:
- Advance assembly of installation equipment
- Enhanced barriers, including the use, testing and verification of downhole packers as a secondary barrier
- Reviewing and updating wellhead procedures and equipment
- Evaluating technological options to verify the proper setting
In the wake of the incident, several homes had to be evacuated. Chevron provided an update on the situation of those families, as well as ongoing efforts in the cleanup process.
According to Chevron, 10 of the 14 families that were temporarily relocated are back in their homes. The company said it is actively working with the remaining residents on the next steps, stating that each property requires a separate plan, and that living expenses and housing are being provided to the families…