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The Braer tanker incident: Some lessons from the Shetland Islands |
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| Authors: | Nicholas Edgell |
| Institution: | Norton Rose, Blackfriars House, P.O. Box 570, 19 New Bridge Street, London EC4V 6DH, UK |
| Abstract: | On 5 January 1993 the tanker Braer grounded on the southern shore of the Shetland Islands. The vessel was carrying a cargo of about 84 500 t of light crude oil. The incident occurred during severe storms in a remote area of great ecological importance. Because of the bad weather it was not possible to salvage the vessel or any part of her bunkers and cargo. The circumstances which led to this accident are briefly reviewed and lessons that might be learned from this incident are suggested. It is argued that the only viable means of minimizing tanker incidents and providing compensation for those who suffer loss when they do occur is through an internationally adopted framework of rules that have regard to operational and commercial considerations as well as to environmental issues, and which can be enforced to a consistent standard throughout the world. The following lessons can be learnt from this incident: 1. the need for improved internationally agreed rules requiring early reporting of difficulties being experienced by laden tankers; 2. the need to arrest the decrease in the number of professional salvage companies; 3. the value of well planned and well rehearsed emergency response plans; 4. the need for better anchoring systems; and 5. the need for whatever action is taken to tbe appropriate to the circumstances of each particular incident. |
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