Which vessels are required to have a Vessel Response Plan?

The requirement for having a Vessel Response Plan is specifically tied to the potential environmental impact and hazards that certain types of vessels pose. Oil tankers operating under U.S. jurisdiction are particularly mandated to develop and maintain a Vessel Response Plan because they are capable of transporting large quantities of oil, which can lead to significant pollution risks in the event of a spill. The law establishes that these vessels must prepare for potential spills and detail their response strategies, which includes coordination with local response teams, ensuring that they have the necessary resources for containment and cleanup, and providing training for their crews.

This requirement stems from federal regulations aimed at minimizing the risk and impact of oil spills, thereby protecting marine and coastal environments. Other categories, such as commercial fishing boats, recreational vessels, and non-profit research vessels, do not face the same level of regulatory demands regarding Vessel Response Plans since they typically present a lower risk of significant oil spills compared to oil tankers.