ExxonMobil PNG (EMPNG), operator of the PNG LNG Project, has confirmed that their staff is safe and accounted for following a magnitude 7.6 earthquake in the Highlands this morning.
In their latest update, EMPNG has confirmed that its emergency plans have been activated to mobilise support, as soon as it is safe to do so.
In the interim, the Hides Gas Conditioning Plant has been safely shut down and our all the wellpads have been shut in as a precaution until full assessments can be completed.
Initial reports from the Hides Gas Conditioning Plant indicate the administration buildings, living quarters and the mess hall have sustained damage.
In addition, flights into the Komo airfield have also been suspended until EMPNG are able to survey the runway.
The safety and security of our employees and contractors is a top priority.
“Due to the damage to the Hides camp quarters and continuing aftershocks, ExxonMobil PNG is putting plans in place to evacuate non-essential staff.
We (EMPNG) are also concerned about the impact the earthquake is having on our nearby communities. While telephone communications have been impacted in the region, we are working with aid agencies and our community partners to better understand damage in the local area.”
