Update on oil protection by Falmouth Oil Services Ltd
We are twelve months into our bunker supply contract with Tramp Oil and bunker call vessels are steadily increasing although not to the extent of that experienced when Chevron-Texaco were involved. The bunkering tanker "Whitstar" is now a familiar sight around the port and I am pleased to say that the crew operate the vessel in a truly professional manner and they all enjoy working in Falmouth.
FOS have chartered a barge called "Falmouth Jubilee" and have converted it to handle all grades of oil slops and ships tank washings from heavy oils to Crude oil and Petrol. This vessel is also approved for bunkering and is fitted with quick deployment oil retention booms. This barge is also a useful asset in the port's growing arsenal of oil pollution response equipment and can be used as an offshore oil recovery skimming vessel. This role was recently exercised in the recent Carrick Roads booming trials which was initiated by the Falmouth harbourmaster and Cornwall County Council Emergency planning.
The terminal still handles the import of diesel and heating oil on behalf of Texaco to the tune of 80,000 tonnes per year. This is recognised as playing a crucial role in reducing distribution vehicle movements from Cornish roads.
Paul Denmead, Terminal Manager