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Spill Investigations

The OCSLA requires that MMS and the USCG investigate major spillage accidents involving MMS regulated offshore facilities. For MMS, these accident investigations are a critical element of its safety strategy. In case of a major incident, MMS may create an investigative panel of district, regional, and headquarters personnel, as well as representatives of the U.S. Coast Guard and other Federal agencies. Findings from both types of investigations may lead to the issuance of safety alerts, technology assessment and research, changes in the training program, and/or improvements in the MMS regulatory program all of which would ensure future safe and environmentally sound operations. An Incident of Noncompliance and civil penalties may be issued if warranted.