An incident occurred at approximately 12.00pm AWST today on the offshore Woodside-operated North Rankin Complex off Western Australia’s coast, which has tragically resulted in the death of an employee of one of Woodside’s contractor companies.

The incident occurred during work activity being carried out at the North Rankin Complex. All other people on board are safe.

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 our Employee Assistance Program.

NOPSEMA CEO Sue McCarrey said they had been notified of the incident at the facility.

“A team of experienced investigators have been mobilised to attend the scene and a do not disturb notice has been issued to the operator. NOPSEMA is working with other relevant authorities as appropriate.

“NOPSEMA cannot comment further on the incident while an investigation is underway.”

APPEA Chief Executive Samantha McCulloch said: “This is a shock and a tragedy for our industry, which prioritises workplace health and safety.”

The Chamber of Minerals and Energy of WA CEO Rebecca Tomkinson said Woodside and their contractor company are doing all they can to support everyone affected by these events.

“The wellbeing of WA workers is an absolute priority for the CME and our member companies – and remains so. Any time a worker in our industry doesn’t return from a shift it’s an absolutely tragic event with far-reaching impacts.”