Operating from its head office at the Marine Pollution Salvage Centre (MPSC) in Milford Haven, DV Howells will store, maintain and mobilise the MCA's counter pollution and salvage equipment. It will field experienced teams nationally to operate it and offer specialist incident management expertise in the event of a pollution or salvage incident in UK territorial waters.

The contract also calls for the provision of support to the MCA's Hazardous and Noxious Substances (HNS) Response Team, which is also operated by DV Howells Ltd in conjunction with United Salvage.

Regular exercises will be held around the UK to maintain personnel familiarity with the equipment and rehearse response strategies used during salvage and pollution incidents. DV Howells staff will also be assisting the MCA's Counter Pollution Branch with Local Authority training courses conducted throughout the British Isles.

Simon Rickaby, DV Howells' managing director said, 'The award of this contract recognises the considerable experience and resources DV Howells has in satisfying clients' needs in very specialised but wide ranging markets.'

The MCA's Toby Stone added, 'The contract for the Government pollution and salvage stockpiles forms a pivotal role in ensuring a proactive prevention and response strategy. The MCA looks forward to working with DV Howells to achieve our vision for safe lives, safer ships and cleaner seas.'

MJInformation No: 20932