OPA 90 OVERVIEW

Oil Pollution Act 1990

The Oil Pollution Act (OPA) was signed into law in August 1990, largely in response to rising public concern following a major marine incident. OPA improved the nation’s ability to prevent and respond to oil spills by establishing provisions that expand the federal government’s ability, and provide the money and resources necessary to respond to oil spills. OPA also created the national Oil Spill Liability Trust Fund.

On January 22, 2011, all oil tankers and tank barges operating in the U.S. waters carrying OPA cargo were now required to list a Salvage and Marine Firefighting (SMFF) contractor capable of meeting the stringent regulatory requirements in their United States Coast Guard approved Vessel Response Plan (VRP).

Impact of New Regulations on Industry

In 2013 OPA-90 again expanded to include all non-tank vessels over 400 gross tons.

Two key components of this newly implemented regulation include:

• Contract for SMFF services must include a funding agreement which is a mechanism to ensure that there is no delay in response due to contract negotiations. T&T Salvage’s contract and funding agreement have been reviewed and accepted by the International Group of P&I Clubs, Hull underwriters and the USCG.
• The vessel owners must include a vessel specific pre-fire plan (PFP) in accordance with National Fire Protection Association standard NFPA 1405, or be based on the applicable SOLAS fire and safety regulations. This plan must be certified by the SMFF provider and must be submitted to the USCG. T&T Salvage offers the most streamlined process available to plan holders assist in the preparation process and certification of vessel pre-fire plans at no additional cost.

Whether you operate tank vessels or non-tank vessels, T&T SALVAGE has a comprehensive SMFF compliance solution to suit your needs. To enroll your vessels with T&T SALVAGE please contact our Vessel Response Services team at vesselresponse@ttsalvage.com.

SERVING EVERY ASPECT OF THE MARINE WORLD.