ENOC conducts major oil spill response drill at Jebel Ali Port

Simulated drill aimed to help prevent the potential risk of pollution

The Emirates National Oil Company (ENOC) successfully conducted a joint oil spill emergency response exercise in Jebel Ali recently. The exercise, named ‘Amwaj 4’, took place at Tanker Berth No. 3 of Jebel Ali Port.

The drill was conducted in view of the concerns raised over some recent incidents and circumstances that developed over the past two years in the Arabian Gulf. Spill response teams from EPPCO International Limited (EIL), and Ports, Customs & Free Zone Corporation jointly participated in the exercise organised by ENOC.

The purpose of the simulated drill was to test the emergency response programmes of the port safety, environment, and fire-fighting departments as well as other agencies concerned with protecting the environment, and their capability to prevent and control air, land and water pollution through prompt and co-ordinated measures.

Saeed Khoory, ENOC Chief Executive commented: “We are delighted with the success of this drill, as it reinforces our commitment to protecting the coastal environment in the UAE from spills and pollution. The drill has enabled us to test our equipment, system and data and ensure swift response from our personnel during emergencies.”

“In spite of having the best response systems and protocols, time becomes a limitation during emergencies. We regularly conduct such drills in order to see how fast we can act to save such situations and update ourselves on the safety challenges posed by Dubai’s increasing trade and commerce,” added Khoory.