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OSHA Investigates ND Drill Rig Collapse

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration is investigating the cause of a drill rig collapse near Belfield in western North Dakota. Neighbors Drilling spokesman Denny Smith tells the Dickinson Press that no one was hurt and no fluids spilled when the rig's derrick collapsed Tuesday.

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) -- The Occupational Safety and Health Administration is investigating the cause of a drill rig collapse near Belfield in western North Dakota.

Neighbors Drilling spokesman Denny Smith tells the Dickinson Press (https://bit.ly/TTiY6Y ) that no one was hurt and no fluids spilled when the rig's derrick collapsed Tuesday.

OSHA spokesman Eric Brooks says investigators obtained a warrant to enter the site on Thursday. Brooks say companies are allowed to force investigators to obtain a warrant under federal law. But he says it happens infrequently.

Smith says requiring OSHA to get a warrant is standard procedure for his company.

Smith says it's unknown whether the collapse was caused by a mechanical failure or human error.

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