Sounds like that whole rig was a clusterf$ck. Disabled gas sensor, broken BOP, failing computer systems - the BP admins was INSISTED that the contractors press on with the drilling regardless should be tried for murder.
And loss of power doesn't affect a slide rule if you have a flashlight.
I agree with you. The implications for this disaster go much further than most realize.
Audible alarms disabled.
Unusually high pressure readings.
Unexpected spikes and drops in pressure.
Seismic indications of unstable seafloor. Leaks of oil and gas from seafloor (NOTICED WAY BEFORE THE RIG CAUGHT ON FIRE).
Waivers to skip the waiting period for the cement plugs to cure.
Waivers to jump to replacing heavy mud with seawater ahead of schedule.
The 'crew' was ready to go home. (truth was they wanted off the rig before it 'blew'.)
The "MISSION ACCOMPLISHED" signs were already paid for.
There was a 'party' going on celebrating their success.
The EXPERIENCED CREW wanted to follow safety procedures, the INEXPERIENCED STUFFED SHIRTS were only concerned with the 'official turnover' of the RIG going ahead as planned, damn the torpedoes.
Missing Hangers.
Cheap CHINESE steel pipe casing (with Melamine for more flavor). (another 'waiver' from MMS for BP).
Dead batteries in 'REMOTE BOP ACTIVATORS'.
And that's just off the top of my head.
Don’t forget the open fire doors on the generator room.