Preparedness
Oil spill response without a clear understanding of
even the most detailed of plans will always result in a less than optimal
outcome. So too, expensive response equipment will not operate at maximum
efficiency without the benefit of trained operators. The best way to become
proficient in the understanding and use of both response plans and equipment
is through classroom and hands-on training, and exercises. Regulations of
the MMS
(30 CFR Part 254 – Oil Spill Response
Requirements for Facilities Located Seaward of the Coastline)
focus on these key components, requiring equipment training for oil spill
removal organizations, regular table top exercises using
MMS-approved oil spill response plans (OSRPs), and annual classroom training of those expected to play
any role during an oil spill response.
The MMS subjects owners or
operators that have approved OSRPs to unannounced drills to test how well
they can react to a simulated spill from one of their facilities. Evaluation of the drill uses 15 key
criteria from the
National Preparedness for
Response Exercise Program (PREP)
(531 KB PDF file),a program that forms the basis
for all exercises conducted or required by the MMS,
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency,
U.S.
Department of Transportation–Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration and
U. S. Coast Guard.
Through this nationally coordinated program, plan holders complying with
PREP guidance concurrently comply with individual agency requirements as
well.
The tragedies of the terrorist attacks on the Twin
Towers in 2001, and the widespread destruction from hurricanes Katrina and
Rita in 2005 highlighted the critical nature of coordination between
federal, state, and local governments, private responders, volunteers, and
others during large-scale emergencies. Processes documenting this
coordination during emergencies are found in the
National Response Framework
(NRF),
guidance based upon the
National Incident
Management System (NIMS), of which the
Incident Command System
(ICS) is a
major component. MMS requires that all members of spill management teams
are trained in and operate consistent with NIMS and ICS principles and
practices.
Last Updated:
11/13/2008,
03:24:54 PM
