Forties Pipeline Shutdown postponed due to Covid-19

Ineos confirmed the decision was taken due to concerns around bringing workers together due to the covid-19 outbreak and social distancing.

The pipeline system, which has a maximum capacity is 600,000 barrels of oil per day, was due to shutdown on June 16 this year.

A spokesman for the firm said: “Ineos FPS has today responded to requests from customers and delayed its planned summer shut down of the Forties Pipeline System

“The decision has been taken in the face of the growing Corona Virus pandemic and the need to avoid bringing together large numbers of people

All customers received a communication today advising that there will be a delay to the Forties pipeline Summer Shutdown planned for June 16th 2020. The Shutdown will not now start before August 2020 at the earliest.

“Ineos is also mindful of the benefits of completing this project work to the future operation of FPS and the risks of not going ahead.

“However, it recognises the importance of maintain a flow of oil and gas through FPS during the current situation. The company found that there was an overwhelming desire to delay the shutdown by its customers which it is responding to.

“In the coming days Ineos will continue to have discussions with its customers and other stakeholders to define the best dates to plan these projects.”