The value added service is provided within the existing members’ fees and ensures that member ports will have the resources to be fully compliant with both the OPRC and the Hazardous and Noxious Substances (HNS) Protocol 2000.

The agreement guarantees OSRL/EARL UK Port Members immediate access to a national chemical response capability 24/7 from six VES response centres located around the UK.

OSRL/EARL is a not for profit organisation owned by the oil industry, with headquarters in London. VES is part of global environmental services organisation Veolia Environmental, which employs 251,000 people in 75 countries.

Upon signing the agreement in London, OSRL/EARL director and CEO Archie Smith said, ‘The combination of the UK’s largest and most professional companies in oil spill and chemical response gives our port members a ready made solution to the extension of the OPRC Protocol and does so in a very cost effective manner.’