Abstract: A method for installing a pipe closing apparatus in an oil well rig system positioned at least partially in a body of water, comprising the steps of shutting off a flow of oil through a well head, removing a section of riser pipe from the oil well rig system and connecting the pipe closing apparatus to a remaining portion of riser pipe and positioning the pipe closing apparatus between the remaining portion of riser pipe and the well head.

Abstract: An apparatus which includes a housing defining a chamber, the chamber being sealed from an exterior of the housing, wherein the housing further defines an opening in fluid communication with the chamber and the exterior of the housing. The apparatus further includes a valve in fluid communication with the opening and positioned between the chamber and the exterior of the housing and a member at least partially positioned within the chamber and moveable relative to the housing such that opening of the valve allows fluid to enter the chamber from the exterior of the housing and move the member. A method to operate the same is provided.