Divers have located around 40 pieces of debris around the site at Dalmore Bay, on the Isle of Lewis, where the Transocean Winner drilling rig originally grounded on August 8.
They are currently working to recover the debris which ranges from laptop size to scaffolding poles with one piece which is thought to weigh about 90 kilograms. All pieces which have been recovered either by manual or mechanical means are being landed and stored temporarily at Carloway.
Deputy secretary of state’s representative Maritime Salvage and Intervention, Colin Mulvana , said: “The divers are working very hard to make sure that they are picking up all the bits found on site, but there may well be previously undetected debris that may appear following bad weather. A future programme of surveys will be discussed and put in place by Transocean in an effort to ensure the area is clear of debris and safe for members of the public.”
“Our advice remains the same as it has from the start – please stay off the beach while the diving operation continues and while the Temporary Exclusion Zone is still in place.
“We know that surfers and walkers, including those with dogs, use Dalmore Bay and will continue to use it after the diving operation is over and the TEZ has been lifted. We’d just like them to be aware of the possibility of debris washing up over the next few months. Just keep an eye out, particularly after stormy weather for anything unusual. If you do, don’t try to pick it up, just call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.”
The Temporary Exclusion Zone remains in place.
The Transocean Winner remains stable and secured to eight anchors in Broad Bay. There’s no sign of pollution and monitoring continues.
Further assessments, including underwater surveys by ROV and divers, continue to take place.