Diamond Offshore Drilling, Inc. (NYSE:DO) reported that the semi-submersible drilling rig Ocean Whittington experienced an incident involving the ballast control system at approximately 0500 central standard time yesterday, December 25, 2007. The rig has been stabilized and corrective measures have returned the unit to even keel. There were no injuries to personnel and the rig is currently in the process of being re-manned after an initial partial evacuation according to procedure. The well has remained under control throughout the incident and is secure.
The Whittington initially listed approximately 9 degrees as a result of the ballast event and an investigation is underway to determine the cause. The Ocean Whittington is currently contracted to Petrobras and located offshore Brazil.
Diamond Offshore provides contract drilling services to the energy industry around the globe and is a leader in deepwater drilling. Additional information on Diamond Offshore Drilling, Inc. and access to the Company’s SEC filings is available on the Internet at www.diamondoffshore.com.
Contacts:
Les VanDyke,
281-492-5370
Director Investor Relations
