Effective emergency response is vital in ensuring the health, safety and wellbeing of our offshore workforce. Changes to the current regulatory framework are in hand as a consequence of the EU Offshore Safety Directive. The changes include incorporation of environmental requirements into emergency response arrangements.
Operators Co-operative Emergency Services (OCES)
The Operators Co-operative Emergency Services (OCES) is the organisational framework under which oil and gas companies operating in the waters of the North Sea and adjacent waters of the North West European Continental Shelf co-operate and share resources in the event of an emergency situation. To find out more, click here.
Guidelines and forms
In February 2010, OGUK updated its Guidelines for the Management of Competence and Training in Emergency Response for Offshore Installations. The amended document outlines best practice in the offshore oil and gas industry for dealing effectively with emergency situations and recommends the training required to develop, demonstrate and maintain the competence of emergency responders. If you would like to access the Request for Dispensation form included in the Guidelines, please click here.
Also in 2010, OGUK updated its Guidelines for the Management of Emergency Response for Offshore Installations which provide guidance for duty holders and those parties they need to consult and/ or co-operate with when developing or assessing their emergency response arrangements.
Emergency Preparedness Offshore Liaison (EPOL) Group
EPOL Group is an industry-led forum fully supported by Grampian Police, the Maritime & Coastguard Agency and OGUK, which seeks to improve offshore emergency response related issues in the central and northern UKCS and west of Shetland. EPOL Group membership comprises of more than 30 oil and gas companies in Aberdeen and its members meet regularly to discuss best practice, identify areas for improvement and to share learning industry-wide. For further information please visit EPOL’s website.