TABJ Sep 3 - An oil sheen has started spreading from an explosion from an offshore petroleum platform in the Gulf of Mexico.

The rig blast, operated by Mariner Energy Inc. took place just west of BP’s oil spill and has caused the 2km long oil sheen that fire fighting vessel have been trying to control.

The Coast guard states there were no casualties in the explosion which happened yesterday, 2 Sept morning. There were 13 people on board, all of whom were rescued.

"These guys had the presence of mind, used their training to get into those gumby suits before they entered the water. It speaks volumes to safety training and the importance of it because beyond getting off the rig there's all the hazards of the water such as hypothermia and things of that nature," Chief Petty Officer John Edwards said to press.

The thirteen passengers were taken to a hospital in Houma.

Mariner states they cause of the fire and explosion that took place 160 km from the Louisiana coast to be unknown.

"Mariner has notified and is working with regulatory authorities in response to this incident. The cause is not known, and an investigation will be undertaken," the company said.