Disc # 6

Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (OPA-90)

1.What make the US Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (OPA-90) different from other international recognised
laws?
The possibility of unlimited liability.
2.What may be the consequences of unlimited liability?
That P & I will only cover USD 500+200 million and additional expenses will be charged the
owner/operator of the vessel, if necessary by taking legal steps to bring in the funds.
3.What can lead to “Unlimited Liability”?
Wilful Misconduct, Gross Negligence, Violation of Federal Safety and notification requirements etc.

4. OPA-90 is applicable for the following types of vessel?

All types of vessel.
5. What types of vessel shall carry an approved VRP?
Vessels carrying oil as cargo.
6. What is VRP?
Vessel Response Plan.

7. What is correct?
COPT zones may have specific rules and regulations in addition to OPA-90.
8.Are there any exception from OPA-90?
Yes, transit passage through US waters to a nonUS port.

10. OPA-90 notification requirements. What is correct?

Notify as soon as you have knowledge of a spill, or threat of a spill.
11. Reports shall be made when?
Safety of the vessel, safe navigation and safe cargo handling is affected, including similar
occurrences.
12. Who shall notify the cleaning up contractor(s)?
The Qualified Individual (QI).
13. Notification logging procedures. What is correct?
Every report/message must be logged including time/date.
14. OPA-90 is referring to a Qualified Individual (QI). What is correct?
QI is an authorized individual, located in the US, and contracted by the owner/operator of the
vessel.
15. Do you always have to notify the National Response Center?
Yes, within thirty (30) minutes.

16. What is the function of an Incident Commander/Spill Manager?

He is the Company Spill Manager.
17. What are the master’s main responsibilities in connection with spill management?
Safety of the vessel and crew.
18. Which of the following considerations have to be observed regarding public information?
All above.

19. What is the OPPT?

An emergency team that is drilled in pollution prevention tasks.
20. What is the main purpose of the Oil Transfer Procedure Safety Meeting?
 To coordinate operation, safety and emergency routines.

21. What is the top priority if an incident occurs in US waters?

Safety of ship and crew.

22. Shipboard Emergency Drills must be carried out at least:

Once a month.
23. COPT can request
Unannounced drills at any time.