OCIMF published the second edition of its Guidelines on the Marine Assessment of F(P)SOs. The new guidelines establish a framework for assessing the marine sections of Floating (Production) Storage and Offloading (F(P)SO) facilities, in order to comply with international legislation and industry best practice.
Shipping associations have called on ship owners to inform Britain’s navy of their movements before sailing into the Strait of Hormuz because of the escalating crisis in the region. BIMCO, ICS, INTERTANKO and OCIMF published guidance for vessels that sail through the Arabian Gulf (AG), Straits of Hormuz (SoH) and Gulf of Oman (GOO).
Following the attacks that took place near the port of Fujairah and the Gulf of Oman, OCIMF presents measures to be implemented and guidance so that the crew and the vessels are safe when sailing through the spiked area.
Following the attacks against two tankers in the Gulf of Oman, the US Secretary of State, Michael R. Pompeo, provided interviews commenting that the US is considering a military response after the attack, with the goal of protecting the area and the vessels operating there.
Following the two suspected attacks against tankers transiting the Gulf of Oman Thursday, INTERTANKO and OCIMF noted that these attacks appears to have been well-planned and coordinated and recommended operators to review associated BMP5 guidance.
The Norwegian Maritime Authority informs that in light of the sabotage act against four vessels off Fujairah port, the Maritime Security (MARSEC) adjusted the security levels in the area to ISPS1 and advise shipowners to carefully consider measures from ISPS2.
In a joint statement OCIMF and Intertanko commented that the sabotage act against four vessels in UAE territorial waters seems to be well-planned and coordinated. They both noted that it appears that each vessel was attacked by a sub-surface explosive device placed by either a remotely-operated vessel or diver. Both types of delivery method are more likely to happen when vessels are near stationary or in a very restricted waterway.
OCIMF (Oil Companies International Marine Forum) informed that it has withdrawn a series of books and information papers, including a guide to the International Oil Pollution Compensation Regimes (2000) and EEDI (2001).
Intertanko launched new guidance on Mooring System Management Plans and Line Management Plans. The guidance is developed to assist operators ensure compliance with MEG4 and address the questions in Vessel Inspection Questionnaire. With this guide, Intertanko also aims to help operators manage the relevant equipment and lines from design to retirement.
OCIMF collaborated with defence company QinetiQ for a study on tanker hull vulnerability. This information paper highlights the results of the study in relation to the protection of crew and vessels. The results provide mitigating measures that can be applied to both existing and new build vessels.
