Western Australia Police are investigating the death of a contracted worker on Woodside’s North Rankin Complex, a gas platform located off the Pilbara coast.
Woodside said the worker, who was employed by contractor Vertech, died during an incident at around midday on Friday at North Rankin.
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Police have reportedly flown to the gas rig along with a team from Australian offshore energy regulator NOPSEMA.
Woodside CEO Meg O’Neill said, “This is a very sad day for the extended Woodside family and I offer my deepest sympathy to our colleague’s family, friends and workmates.
“Any loss of life is heartbreaking.
“We are taking all steps to understand the circumstances around this tragic event and are co-operating closely with Western Australian Police and the National Offshore Petroleum Safety and Emergency Authority in their ongoing investigations.”
Senior Woodside executives are travelling to Karratha and counselling and support services are being made available to employees and contractors through the firm’s Employee Assistance Program.
The Offshore Alliance union paid tribute to the worker on social media.
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“The thoughts of the Offshore Alliance are with our fallen brother from the NRC (North Rankin Complex) and his family, friends and workmates,” the statement said.
“A gentler soul you couldn’t meet and the offshore community is grieving for a life which has been lost way too early. RIP brother.”
