Web Alert: NRC launches Global Response Services

National Response Corporation (NRC) has announced it will now provide oil spill emergency response coverage to tank and non-tank vessels on a global basis via their Global Response Services (GRS), effective as of 1 January 2017.

Under OPA 90, tank and nontank vessels are required to contract with an oil spill response organization (OSRO) to provide coverage to those areas listed in the vessel’s Vessel Response Plan. There are currently two companies, Marine Spill Response Corporation (MSRC) and NRC in the United States that provide OPA 90 required OSRO coverage using a network of spill responders nationwide. 

NRC’s proposed Global Response Services will add global coverage to existing NRC clients coverage via the attached International Amendment. The International Amendment has been reviewed by the IG and conforms with the IG’s guidelines for vessel response plans. The footer for identification purposes is: International Coverage Amendment – January 2017.

The attached advisory notice was sent out to NRC customers regarding Global Response Services. 

Members should note that GRS is a non-compulsory program and existing NRC clients must reply in the negative to NRC if the GRS service is not desired.