USCG: VRP and FRP Update Reminder
The U.S. Coast Guard issued a reminder to owners and operators of tank vessels operating in U.S. waters that vessel response plans (VRPs) must be updated and resubmitted to USCG Headquarters by 4:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, on February 22, 2011. The CAPS “Dispersants” regulation amendments (which also impact some marine transportation-related facilities) also come into effect on February 22. The response plan updates must address compliance with the Salvage and Marine Firefighting (SMFF) regulations and the CAPS “Dispersants” regulation amendments. Only 387 of an estimated 800 VRP updates have been received so far. The updates may be physically delivered to Headquarters or may be submitted electronically. The Coast Guard has issued internal guidance relating to enforcement of the revised tank vessel and facility response plan requirements. (2/17/11)