The Use of Large Tankers in Seasonal First-Year Ice and Severe Sub-Zero Conditions

Published: 2010

Author: Oil Companies International Marine Forum (OCIMF)

This publication looks at the preparations and safeguards that should be implemented by ships undertaking passages in ice and identifies the issues that should be considered for risk prevention or mitigation. It also discusses chartering and lists the questions to be asked when chartering a ship for operations involving low temperatures.

Practical guidance is provided on ship winterisation, covering cargo and ballast systems, deck preparation, engine rooms, machinery and systems, safety and life-saving equipment and fire-fighting systems and equipment.

The book discusses the difficulties of navigating large tankers in ice and outlines the assistance that can be provided by tugs and icebreakers. It also describes how best to avoid the formation and impact of ship icing.

Guidance is also provided on oil spill response in ice and crew training.

Table of Contents

Section 1 – Ice Navigation Risk Assessment

Section 2 – Vetting for Ice Navigation

Section 3 – Commentary on Ice Class Notations

Section 4 – Engine Power

Section 5 – The Winterisation of Ships

5.1 Cargo and Ballast Systems

5.2 Deck

5.3 Engine Rooms, Machinery and Systems

5.4 Safety and Life-Saving Equipment

5.5 Fire-Fighting Systems and Equipment

5.6 Pollution Prevention and Response

5.7 Ice Accretion and Snow Accumulation on Ships

Section 6 – Navigation of Large Tankers in Ice

6.1 Icebreaker Escort of Large Tankers

6.2 Tug Support in Ice

6.3 Operations at Offshore Terminals

Section 7 – Oil Spill Response in Ice

Section 8 – Proficiency of Ship’s Crew

Appendices

A – Some Useful Contact Websites

B – Some Issues to be Considered when Conducting a Hazard Risk Assessment of Operations in Ice

C – Ice Navigation Control Services