What is the scope of the International Convention on Oil Pollution Preparedness, Response and Cooperation?

The International Convention on Oil Pollution Preparedness, Response and Cooperation (OPRC) is an international agreement which is designed to ensure that the countries of the world are prepared to respond to oil pollution events. The convention has been in effect since 2000 and is a part of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. The scope of the OPRC covers the implementation of preparedness and response measures to address oil pollution incidents from oil tankers, offshore platforms, pipelines, and other sources of pollution. The convention sets out a framework for governments to respond quickly and efficiently to oil pollution incidents in order to reduce the impacts on human life, property, the environment, and the economy. In West Virginia, all state and federal vessels and facilities regulated under the OPRC are required to adhere to the requirements set out in the convention. These include the establishment of National Contingency Plans which outline the procedures for responding to an oil spill. All vessels and facilities in West Virginia that are regulated under the OPRC are expected to follow the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 which requires ships to monitor and report any type of oil discharges, and to plan and prepare for a response to any potential incidents. The International Convention on Oil Pollution Preparedness, Response and Cooperation is essential in the fight against oil pollution and is one of the cornerstones of maritime law in West Virginia. It provides a framework for how to respond to an oil pollution incident in an effective and timely manner, and outlines the procedures necessary to reduce the impact of an oil spill.

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What is the scope of the International Convention on Oil Pollution Preparedness, Response and Cooperation?

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