GL Introduces 24-Hour File Access Service
Germanischer Lloyd has introduced a File Access Service (FAS), offering permanent storage of specified ship drawings according to USCG requirements for immediate access around the clock. The FAS serves as a valuable tool in fulfilling USCG requirements regarding the "nontank vessel response plan" ("NTVRP"). In case of an emergency, the relevant ship drawings will be available immediately via a hotline system. Compliance with this USCG requirement is documented with a certificate. All ships enrolled in Germanischer Lloyd's Emergency Response Service (ERS) already exceed compliance with this new regulation.Nontank vessels larger than 400 GT trading to US ports must be equipped with a US Coast Guard approved NTVRP from 8 August 2005 on. This amendment to OPA 90 now includes nontank vessels in the response planning regime for reaction to the discharge, or the threat of a discharge, of oil from a vessel. The NTVRPs should be submitted to the USCG for examination by July 9, 2005.
The NTVRP is a contingency plan authorizing implementation of removal actions, immediate communication between individuals responsible for response actions, availability of private personnel and equipment necessary to remove worst-case discharge and describe training and equipment. 24-hour access procedures for available shore-based damage stability and residual structural strength calculation data, such as plans and line drawings, must be provided. The availability of these plans will help to evaluate damages and/or to compile a data model for further investigations.