Clarification on NTVRP Final Rule
The USCG has issued clarification on the implementation date and Notice of Arrival (NOA) requirements for the Nontank Vessel Response Plan (NTVRP) final rule.
The final rule requires the owners and operators of nontank vessels greater than 400 GT, operating in the navigable waters of the United States, to prepare and submit oil spill response plans for approval. As of 30 October 2013, the effective date for the final rule to enter into force, vessels submitting advance notice of arrival information are also now required to include their Vessel Response Plan (VRP) Control Number.
All nontank vessels are required to have submitted and be operating under a NTVRP which meets the requirements of Title 33, Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Part 155, Subpart J, prior to the implementation date of 30 January 2014.
A copy of the USCG Marine Safety Information Bulletin can be read here.