Pollution
Pollution
When a real or alleged pollution incident occurs, BUDD immediately alerts the vessel’s P&I Club and obtains as much information as possible from the agent and the Master and all interested parties.
In order to preserve the owner’s/P&I Club’s rights and interest,
- A surveyor is appointed to investigate the cause and extent of the pollution and to co-ordinate the clean-up operation.
- If possible, samples are taken from the vessel’s cargo bunkers and from the oil spill
- It is also imperative to obtain copies of all the relevant documents concerning ballasts, maintenance etc… from the Master
Every effort to minimise the pollution itself is made by the Correspondent and the surveyor.
To cover the clean up expenses, third party claims and fines, if owner’s liability appears to be engaged, the authorities will demand either a cash deposit or security.
In the event of a serious oil spill, the Captain will be questioned by the authorities and may have to appear before the Court. In this case, a lawyer will be appointed to represent the Captain and owners and try to minimize or contest the penalty.
A careful analysis of the origins of the oil found in the sea will have to be made by BUDD and lawyer in order to mitigate vessels exposure.