Delaware River Oil Spill Exposes Critical Lapse in Pre-Transfer Communication

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Mfame Editor
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  • Coast Guard Urges Face-to-Face Pre-Transfer Conferences After Spill.
  • Safety Standdowns Recommended Following 4,200-Gallon Oil Discharge.
  • Unannounced Compliance Checks Advised After DOI Lapses Lead to Spill.

A recent oil spill on the Delaware River has highlighted just how crucial effective communication is during oil transfers, especially when it comes to completing the Declaration of Inspection (DOI) as required by 33 CFR §156.120. Before the spill occurred, the person in charge (PIC) at the facility filled out their part of the DOI and sent it over to the barge PIC using a bucket hoist. Unfortunately, the two PICs never actually met or communicated directly during the entire process, reports USCG.

Incident Findings

The investigation found that this lack of direct communication played a significant role in causing a cargo tank overfill, which led to at least 100 barrels (4,200 gallons) of oil spilling into the Delaware River.

Regulatory Requirements for Pre-Transfer Communication

To avoid such incidents in the future, 33 CFR §156.120(w) specifies essential items that need to be reviewed before any hazardous liquid cargo operations kick off. These regulations mandate a pre-transfer conference, where representatives from both the vessel and the facility should share and confirm critical information.

Best Practices for Communication

As a best practice, this pre-transfer conference should ideally take place face-to-face, whether in person or virtually, to ensure that both PICs are on the same page and agree on the procedures before the transfer begins.

Coast Guard Recommendations

In light of the incident, the U.S. Coast Guard has put forth the following recommendations:

  1. Safety Standdowns: Vessel and facility operators should hold safety standdowns with their PICs to go over DOI requirements and emphasise the importance of clear communication before starting any transfers.
  2. Compliance Checks: Safety officers should conduct unannounced visits during transfer operations to monitor and ensure compliance with the requirements outlined in 33 CFR Subchapter O.

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Source: USCG