Fuel Spill Cleanup and Bilge Well Remediation on a Vessel

During a recent vessel cleaning and repair period, a fuel spill was discovered in the bilge well. We maintained constant telephone contact with the onboard crew and cleaning team, providing guidance and recommendations for effective remediation. Upon opening the bilge well cover after cleaning the cargo tank top, the crew discovered it was filled with fuel. We advised the immediate removal of the fuel followed by a thorough cleaning of the bilge well using an oil dispersant solution. This involved soaking the pipes in the solution, constantly replacing the contaminated dispersant until no visible oil traces remained. The pipes were then rinsed with clean water, and all oily water was responsibly disposed of ashore. During a boarding inspection on July 27th, the bilge well was found to be clean with no significant oil traces. The crew also inspected the internal pipe filters, finding them free of contamination. However, some minor oil stains remained around the hatch area. A mobile platform was utilized to facilitate the cleaning of these remaining stains. The cleanup operation was successfully completed by 0800 on July 28th.