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Cougar helicopter fleet inspected
September 27, 2011 By Carey Fredericks
Sept. 27, 2011, St. John's - The President of CEP Local 2121 says he'd like to see Cougar's fleet of Sikorsky S-92As grounded for a full inspection in light of a recent incident in the Norwegian offshore.
An S-92A, operated by Bristow, which services the Norwegian offshore oil industry, experienced engine trouble and was forced to return to base.
Bristow grounded its fleet for inspection. Cougar also inspected its fleet, but local union president Kevin Kelly, who is working offshore right now, says he and his members would have liked to see the fleet grounded as well as an added precaution. He says workers are very concerned about the S-92A.
The C-NLOPB has been in contact with both Bristow and Cougar to determine what's being done to ensure there are no similar problems.
Meanwhile, on VOCM Niteline with Bill Rowe, "Chris" said even though the C-NLOPB has been issuing more releases about safety concerns since the Wells Inquiry, there needs to be an independent regulatory board in charge of safety when it comes to the Newfoundland offshore.
NDP Leader Lorraine Michael is questioning government committment to worker safety. Michael is demanding government release more details concerning steps taken by the C-NLOPB to ensure the safety of the fleet of S-92 helicopters flying workers to offshore oil platforms. Bristow, which services the Norwegian offshore oil industry, grounded their entire fleet when an engine problem with one of their choppers was discovered, until they could ensure the machines were safe. Michael wants to know why that didn't happen here.
