New USCG Equipment Rule for Vessels Carrying Oil

The U.S. Coast Guard has finalized an interim rule that requires vessels carrying oil in bulk as cargo to carry discharge removal equipment, install spill prevention coamings and install emergency towing arrangements.

 

The rule, due to take effect May 9, 2016, also requires that these vessels to have prearranged capability to calculate damage stability in the event of a casualty.

 

The Coast Guard said this rulemaking aims to help reduce the risk of oil spills, improving vessel oil spill response capabilities and minimizing the impact of oil spills on the environment.