Dalian pipeline explosion and oil spill

Friday, 23rd July 2010

23 July 2010: We have received an update from local correspondents in Dalian, PRC on the situation following the recent pipeline explosion and oil spill at Xingang Port.

The port officially re-opened at 1900hrs on 20 July 2010 and the oil terminal itself reopened at 0900hrs on 23 July. It is not clear whether this includes the VLCC terminal.

Spill coverage was reduced to 30 square kilometres as of 20 July but the ore terminal and COSCO shipyard have been affected. Oil can be found on the surface at some terminals and tidal action has drawn it into the fairways. Many vessels are having to arrange hull cleaning before departure and cleaning resources are still not readily available. Furthermore, vessels require MSA approval to depart and hull conditions are being checked.

Yingkou and Bayuquan have not been affected.

Members should not hesitate to contact the Association for advice specific to their circumstances.

Once we have further information from correspondents or the Chinese Authorities a further briefing note will be issued.

21 July 2010: We have been advised by local correspondents in Dalian, PRC of various problems for vessels resulting from the recent pipeline explosion and oil spill at Xingang Port.

Current indications are that the port is not closed but that traffic is being closely controlled with between 80% and 90% of berths closed.

All available spill response teams and equipment have been put into service by the authorities and the cleanup operation is expected to take between 7 and 10 days.

During this time resources for hull cleaning may not be readily available and it appears that vessels with oiled hulls will not be allowed to leave Dalian.

Any cleaning operations need to have the approval of the authorities and we suggest that all cleaning operations be well documented and evidenced.

We further suggest that Members keep in close contact with their agents, correspondents and other interested parties to aid the distribution of information. There are likely to be vessel delays and other problems arising from this incident.

Members should not hesitate to contact the Association for advice specific to their circumstances.

Vessels transiting the area or encountering an oil slick should be guided by any information provided by the local authorities.

Once we have further information from correspondents or the Chinese Authorities a further briefing note will be issued.

North of England P&I Association, press release