Falklands approves offshore oil pollution emergency rules

The Falkland Islands Executive Council has approved regulatory amendments requiring offshore installations to have emergency plans for oil pollution and report spills or possible discharges. The provisions amend the 2019 OPRC Regulations, according to details published by the Attorney General’s Chambers.

Under the changes, offshore installations will come under the authority of the Director of Mineral Resources. Responsibility for ships, ports, harbors and oil handling facilities will remain with the Falkland Islands Maritime Authority. Facilities handling oil must have approved emergency plans before conducting activities that risk causing oil pollution.

Those responsible for offshore installations must prepare and maintain a separate plan for each installation, unless the director permits a joint plan. Preparation must take account of the director’s guidance and satisfy requirements in a new schedule. Approved plans require review at five-year intervals, sooner if specified events occur, or at the director’s request.

An installation cannot conduct oil or gas operations without an approved plan. Approval can lapse if required reviews, submissions or amendments are not completed. Duties also include equipment maintenance, exercises and implementation of the plan during an incident. Licensees must ensure their appointed responsible persons can fulfill their duties satisfactorily and have access to adequate financial resources.

Reporting obligations cover oil discharges, probable discharges and oil present at sea when those responsible observe them or become aware of them. The amendments also establish inspection powers and offenses for noncompliance, and allow the director, maritime authority and Governor to share information with other agencies.