The audit covered telecom and communication systems. The audit was conducted during the period from 17 to 23 January 2025, as a coordinated audit between the Norwegian Communications Authority (Nkom) and the Norwegian Ocean Industry Authority (Havtil).
Objective
The primary objective of the audit was to verify that Transocean is complying with requirements linked to technical and operational matters related to internal and external communication systems. This is to ensure that the barrier is effective in the defined hazard and accident situations that can occur on Transocean Enabler. We also wanted to focus on the role of communications officer, the competence of radio station operators and technical personnel, and to improve the classification and follow-up of barrier elements linked to communications systems. Nkom wanted to verify frequency use both on the facility and in the surrounding area.
Result
During the audit, we identified seven non-conformities. These concerned:
- Barrier management of communications systems and ocean surveillance
- Maintenance programme for radio equipment
- Telecom installations
- Updating of technical operating documentation
- Classification of Ex equipment in classified areas
- Protection against ignition in potentially explosive areas
- Description of the work process for loss of monitoring
We also identified two improvement points. These concerned:
- Ensuring internal and external warning in situations involving ships on collision course
- System for ensuring sufficient competence within communication for lifeboat crew members
What happens now?
We have asked Transocean to report by 31 March 2025 on how the non-conformities will be addressed, and for their assessment of the identified improvement points.