Building readiness ahead of offshore drilling
When planning an offshore drilling campaign, operators must ensure they have immediate access to the right equipment and trained personnel in the event of a spill. Shell required Tier 1 oil spill response capability for their Black Sea operations and engaged OSRL to supply equipment and deliver training to onshore and offshore teams.
Meeting OSCP requirements when local resources are limited
Shell’s exploration work in Block 1-14 Khan Kubrat required response-ready equipment aligned with their Oil Spill Contingency Plan. With no suitable in-country stockpile available, OSRL’s equipment hire service was used to provide containment, recovery, and dispersant capability. Multiple vessels and contractors were involved, requiring clear coordination and practical readiness.
How equipment and training were delivered
OSRL prepared and mobilised equipment packaged in offshore-rated containers, including containment and recovery systems, a dispersant application system, and PPE. OSRL’s team supervised installation and delivered training covering safe work practices, equipment familiarisation, and deployment and recovery processes. Attendees received Certificates of Attendance.
What organisations can apply
- Hands-on training increases confidence and improves deployment speed
- Practical exercises complement formal instruction
- Understanding equipment limitations supports safer operations
- Clear documentation aids consistency across teams
- Repeated sessions help when working with rotating crews
- Close-out reporting supports future improvements
Strengthening response capability through training and equipment readiness
The equipment hire programme and associated training supported Shell’s preparedness for the drilling campaign.
Personnel demonstrated confidence in using the equipment and understanding their roles in a Tier 1 response.
The full case study provides further technical detail.
The key to any successful response is the understanding of the response strategies, techniques and resources to be applied in the event of a spill. After the training was completed, it was evident that both vessel crews clearly understood all safety elements, response strategies and techniques, and were very competent in the set-up, running and close out of the equipment on hire to Shell. The hands on experience of the crew demonstrated that in the event of a Tier 1 response, the crew would be undoubtedly competent as first responders prior to any escalation to a Tier 2 or 3 response, where Shell would receive immediate assistance from OSRL. This is exactly what OSRL looks to achieve while conducting training for its Members
