Orkney Ports Handbook - Orkney Islands Council, Marine Services

Guide to good practice for small
vessel bunkering operations
Orkney Islands Council Marine Services
has produced this guide for small vessel
owners and operators.
The aim is to highlight the need for
safe and environmentally friendly
working practices in what is an everyday
occurrence in the many piers and
harbours operated by Marine Services.
The following is a list of recommended
procedures to follow during bunkering
operations.
• Ensure the vessel is securely moored
in a suitable berth with a safe means
of access between the vessel and the
shore.
• Ensure all suitable safety precautions
are taken e.g. no smoking, no naked
lights and suitable personal protection
• A suitable fire extinguisher should be
to hand in case of emergency.
• If receiving bunkers from a road
tanker, always confirm with the driver
the quantity and type of fuel to be
taken.
• Agree communications between the
driver and yourself.
• Disengage any mechanical bilge
pumps and switch to manual any
automatic electrical bilge pumps.
• Ensure a suitable size of nozzle is used
on the fuel delivery line into the fuel
tank.
• If bunkering using oil drums or other,
ensure a suitable size of funnel is used
for filling the fuel tank.
• Have an adequate quantity of
absorbent material available for use in
the event of any spillage occurring.
• Once refuelling is complete ensure all
tank lids are closed and secured.
• Wipe up any spillage with absorbent
material and clean away any residual
oil with suitable detergent.
• Dispose of any waste material in the
appropriate bins and tanks situated
around the harbour.
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