On October 25, the Jieyang Maritime Safety Administration reported on a significant emergency preparedness drill conducted on October 23 to enhance comprehensive emergency response capabilities at sea. This drill was aimed at preventing and mitigating safety risks associated with vessels carrying hazardous materials, thereby strengthening the safety production framework.

The scenario for the drill involved a simulated oil leak at the No. 8 berth of the Sinopec Guangdong Petrochemical Company during the loading of heavy oil. The incident saw a flange gasket at the oil pipeline connection leaking, which resulted in oil spilling into the harbor waters. In addition to this, the drill also included a scenario where an individual accidentally fell overboard during the emergency response.

Upon receiving the distress call, the Jieyang Sea and Marine Search and Rescue Sub-Center promptly coordinated with the Huai County Search and Rescue Sub-Center and dispatched the “Hai Xun 0965” vessel along with an emergency response boat to manage the oil spill and conduct the search for the overboard person. The drill focused on various critical scenarios, including alarm responses, personnel and vessel evacuation, channel control, emergency shutdown procedures, rescues of the overboard individual, oil spill containment, recovery operations, and coordination of on-site command resources.

This comprehensive drill was organized by the Jieyang Sea and Marine Search and Rescue Sub-Center in collaboration with the Jieyang Maritime Safety Administration and was executed by Guangdong Petrochemical Co., Ltd. Approximately 60 personnel from various departments, including maritime, ecological environment, emergency management, transportation, border inspection, and Guangdong Petrochemical, participated in this drill. A total of 10 vessels, two drones, one ambulance, and one fire truck were deployed.

The exercise showcased effective coordination among all participating departments, with a well-organized and efficient emergency response that tested the validity and operability of the emergency plan. It further enhanced the emergency response capabilities of all units involved, solidifying the defense for maritime traffic safety and ocean environmental protection.