The Oil Companies International Marine Forum (OCIMF) clarifies & recommends minimum scope of statutory Emergency Response Services (ERS). According to current regulations oil tankers must have prompt access to computerized, shore-based damage stability and residual structural strength calculation programs. Whilst other vessel types are not currently regulated, the principles outlined in this paper may apply to other vessel types such as gas and chemical tankers. The means by which this access is arranged is not described in the legislation. The scope of services to be rendered is only described briefly and too vaguely to enforce a performance standard. Capability of the service provider is not addressed in the legislation.