Operational Pollution Response Services

Network of Stand-by Oil Spill Response Vessels

EMSA’s contracted vessels have been specifically adapted for oil spill response operations and are on stand-by, carrying out their usual commercial activities.

Vessels Inventory - Info-sheets

Regardless of their area of commercial operations, all vessels in the EMSA network can be mobilised for response to an oil spill anywhere in European waters and shared sea basins.

The Agency offers a range of services to help coastal States around Europe respond quickly, effectively and efficiently to oil or chemical marine pollution incidents from ships and oil and gas installations.

The services offered by the Agency can be described as a “toolbox” from which the requesting State can pick and choose the most suitable response means. Through these services, EMSA aims to complement and top-up existing response resources at national and regional level.

The Agency sustains the operational readiness of these services, through dedicated drills and exercises, and organises their quick mobilisation when requested. Once activated, the relevant services are operated under the control and responsibility of the requesting party. The services are available at the request of EU member states, EFTA/EEA countries and neighbouring countries sharing a regional sea basin with the EU.