August 28, 2013– The investigation into the November 16, 2012, explosion and fire aboard Black Elk Energy's West Delta 32 platform continues. Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE) investigators have secured physical evidence and documentation and have conducted interviews with witnesses and employees from the companies performing operations at the time of the explosion. The bureau has determined the sequence of events that led to the explosion as well as the ignition source (sparks from a welding operation) and the sequence of the initial explosion, subsequent explosions, fire and evacuation of personnel. Investigators are awaiting the completion of laboratory and forensic tests before finalizing their report.

BSEE has identified communication failures and instances in which established procedures were not followed aboard the platform. These and other contributing factors will be detailed in the investigation report, and the bureau will take appropriate actions regarding any findings of noncompliance with federal regulations.