World’s Biggest Oil Platform Damaged

Two large explosions damaged the world’s largest oil platform off the coast of Brazil on 15 March. The rig owned by Brazil’s Petrobras was in danger of sinking according to the company. More than 175 people were on board the rig about, about 200km (125 miles) north of Rio de Janeiro, when the blasts occurred. Fire quickly spread, causing extensive damage. Most workers were evacuated, however up to 10 were feared dead. Efforts are now underway to prevent the rig from sinking, but officials say there is little risk of an oil spill.

The rig is tilting at an angle of 30 degrees. Two teams are working around the rig. One is trying to stabilise the rig, using a mini-submarine, and the other is trying to put up barriers as a precaution against oil leaks. So far, according to Petrobras' president, the accident has not caused serious environmental damage. Officials say the biggest danger is from the oil and fuel stored on board the rig rather than from the oil well itself, which has been shut off.