The Deepwater Horizon incident in the Gulf of Mexico had occurred for more than a month. Incident severity and lengthy clean-up operations let the Club realize that it’s helpful to setup websites and information sources for members to obtain more details regarding port operations, vessel decontamination sites & claims processes against British Petroleum (BP) for alleged losses, damages & costs incurred due to oil spill.
Websites Available for Members
- General information for Deepwater Horizon incident and oil spill response: www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com
- US Coast Guard information about ports regarding vessel decontamination sites & Marine Safety Information Bulletins (MSIBs):
- Port Authorities’ websites for bulletins / updates:
Besides above, the most up-to-date information is available for members from their local agents for contemplated voyages through or to the affected region.
General Recommendations for Members
- try to avoid known spill areas in order to minimize the risk of hill contamination & the need for hull cleaning
- maintain a safe speed while transiting affected area
- avoid pocket of heavy black oil
- ensuring safe navigation
- refraining from stopping / anchoring offshore while awaiting transit into pilot-assisted areas
- avoid striking any existing containment booms placed in locations designed by the US Coast Guard
NOAA Spill Area Projections & Updates Latest projected paths & known areas of the oil slick is available on the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) website: http://response.restoration.noaa.gov/index.php
Designated Hull Decontamination / Cleaning Stations
The US Coast Guard issues the MSIBs for each port where designated areas are set for hull cleaning operations. Two bulletins issued by New Orleans & Mobile US Coast Guard are attached for you as reference. From the bulletins, it can be seen that the decontamination sites are near the ports of New Orleans (LA), Bienville (MS), Gulfport (MS), Pascagoula (MS), Mobile (AL), Pensacola (FL) & Panama City (FL). The US Coast Guard sectors will update the listings regularly and members are encouraged to visit the relevant websites for up-to-date information regarding decontamination sites.
Spill Related Claims
All losses, costs or other damages (including lost time) arise from passing through affected areas in the Gulf of Mexico are recoverable from BP. Meanwhile, BP has established an online claim form with 3 languages available: English, Spanish & Vietnamese, and a claims line: 1-800-440-0858 which is served on 24/7 basis with personnel to provide information on how to submit a claim.
Furthermore, BP will handle the claim as follows:
- an independent adjuster will be assigned for each claim with prompt investigation & evaluation
- additional investigation & documentation is required for larger & more complicated claim before evaluation & resolution
- claims will be paid promptly
More information is available on BP’s website at www.bp.com/claims
Reference:
Mobile US Coast Guard bulletin.pdf
