Minor fuel spill during offshore transfer
- Safety Flash
- Published on 4 July 2016
- Generated on 7 April 2025
- IMCA SF 18/16
- 1 minute read
The Marine Safety Forum has published a safety alert regarding a minor fuel spill during offshore fuel transfer.
What happened?
A platform supply vessel (PSV) was on location ready to deliver fuel, and the hose was connected. Crew were posted nearby on watch. The pump was started on a low rate in order to prove the line with the installation. Very shortly after starting the pump a spray of fuel was noticed from another fuel connection – not the one in use on this occasion. Bunkering operations were stopped immediately. Less than 1 litre of fuel was estimated to have escaped to sea.
This incident serves as a good reminder that all connections (not just the ones in use) should be checked before starting bulk transfer operations. All valves should be correctly closed with appropriate caps correctly fitted in place. Regular maintenance and inspection of manifold valves and connections are an important factor in preventing spills of this type.
IMCA Safety Flashes summarise key safety matters and incidents, allowing lessons to be more easily learnt for the benefit of the entire offshore industry.
The effectiveness of the IMCA Safety Flash system depends on the industry sharing information and so avoiding repeat incidents. Incidents are classified according to IOGP's Life Saving Rules.
All information is anonymised or sanitised, as appropriate, and warnings for graphic content included where possible.
IMCA makes every effort to ensure both the accuracy and reliability of the information shared, but is not be liable for any guidance and/or recommendation and/or statement herein contained.
The information contained in this document does not fulfil or replace any individual's or Member's legal, regulatory or other duties or obligations in respect of their operations. Individuals and Members remain solely responsible for the safe, lawful and proper conduct of their operations.
Share your safety incidents with IMCA online. Sign-up to receive Safety Flashes straight to your email.