(3) Strengthening the System for Mutual Cooperation Between Related Organizations
In order to limit pollution from oil spills to a minimum amount of damage, it is extremely important that the public and private sector parties concerned be united in their response. Therefore, as of the end of FY 1995, there were 93 organizations for disaster preparedness and response, such as the Council for the Removal of Oil Spills, which were established as joint private and public sector organizations for coordination and removal. These organizations work to improve communications between related organizations when oil spill accidents occur, establish accident countermeasures, store and maintain equipment, materials, etc., and conduct maritime disaster preparedness and response exercises.
On the occasion of the OPRC Convention ratification, the "Liaison Council for Ministries and Agencies Responsible for Preparing for and Responding to Oil Pollution" (Secretariat, JMSA), established in May 1995, put together a National Contingency Plan (decided upon by the Cabinet) in accordance with the provisions of the OPRC Convention. This Liaison Council continues to carry out the communications, coordination, etc., required to prepare for and respond to oil pollution.
3. Measures to Remove Noxious Substances
There are many types of noxious substances and their properties and handling methods are diverse. Therefore, it is necessary to devise the proper removal measures according to the substance when a spillage accident occurs because a ship transporting any of these substances experiences maritime distress.
JMSA strives to improve its removal readiness through the utilization of the National Strike Team and other measures. In addition, the Maritime Disaster Prevention Center, in accordance with JMSA's guidance, carries out studies related to removal technology. The Center has also set up an advisory group composed of persons of knowledge and experience, as an organization to advise the center on emergency disaster countermeasures. In addition, the center conducts a course on noxious substances at its training center and educates and trains the crew members of chemical tankers, the personnel of enterprises involved in handling disasters and their prevention and treatment, and other parties concerned.
4. Maritime Fire-fighting Measures
JMSA has taken measures to extinguish and prevent the spread of fires by stationing patrol vessels and craft with fire-fighting capabilities, including fire-fighting boats with advanced capabilities, at its Maritime Safety offices and stations throughout the nation.
5. Preparedness and Response Measures for Large Tanker Berths
Because oil spill accidents and fires caused by large tankers present the danger of
