Record High Offshore Oil Exploration Accidents in Brazil for 2024

Brazil witnessed a new record of 731 offshore oil exploration accidents in 2024, according to the ANP. This represents an average of two accidents per day, reflecting a significant increase in activity and safety concerns, particularly regarding the licensing of Block 59 in the Amazon region.

In 2024, Brazil experienced a significant rise in offshore oil exploration accidents, marking a record number since such data collection began in 2011. According to the ANP (National Agency for Petroleum, Natural Gas, and Biofuels), there were 731 incidents recorded, averaging two accidents daily. This uptick is notable compared to 718 accidents in 2023 and 598 in 2022, highlighting ongoing safety concerns.

Discussions regarding safety are particularly pertinent in the context of the licensing process for Block 59, an area auctioned in the Amazon River Mouth Basin, part of the Equatorial Margin region. The Brazilian government is currently facing political pushback as it advances this process despite the heightened incidents.

The ANP attributed the record number of accidents to the increased activity in the sector, noting the integration of multiple new production units and a vigorous resumption in the exploration and drilling of new wells. This explanation suggests a correlation between rising operational activity and the frequency of accidents.

In summary, the record high of offshore oil exploration accidents in Brazil in 2024 raises serious safety concerns within the sector, particularly as political resistance grows over licensing processes for sensitive areas like Block 59. The ANP’s acknowledgment of the increased operational activities suggests a need for heightened safety measures to prevent such incidents in the future.

Original Source: www1.folha.uol.com.br