Mokpo Coast Guard Conducts Joint Civil-Government Oil Spill Response Training in Island Areas

Focus on Strengthening Initial Response Capabilities for Remote Marine Pollution Incidents

Mokpo Coast Guard is installing oil fences during a public-private joint oil spill response drill on the 26th. Photo by Mokpo Coast Guard

[Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Kim Chunsu] Mokpo Coast Guard announced on the 27th that it conducted on-site, field-centered oil spill response training by directly visiting island areas to ensure rapid and systematic response to distant marine pollution accidents within its jurisdiction.

The training took place from the 17th to the 26th and involved public and private participants including the Marine Autonomous Oil Spill Response Team, Dadohaehaesang National Park, Sinan County, the 3rd Fleet of the Navy, internal combustion power plants, and the Fisheries Cooperative. It was conducted at three locations of the Marine Autonomous Oil Spill Response Team in Heuksando and Hongdo of Sinan County, and Jodo of Jindo County.

The oil spill response training simulated a marine pollution incident occurring inside a port where an oil tanker was docking. It focused on strengthening initial response capabilities by directly installing oil fences at sea and removing pollutants using oil absorbents, emphasizing practical, hands-on exercises.

Following this, the Coast Guard provided education on the theory of response materials, how to use the materials, and safety and health guidelines for response workers. Safety equipment such as helmets and safety vests necessary for response work were also delivered to the Marine Autonomous Oil Spill Response Team.

A Mokpo Coast Guard official stated, “We plan to activate the operation of the Marine Autonomous Oil Spill Response Team to eliminate blind spots in marine pollution response,” adding, “We will take the lead in preserving a clean marine environment through prompt initial actions in the event of marine pollution accidents.”

Meanwhile, the Marine Autonomous Oil Spill Response Teams under the jurisdiction of Mokpo Coast Guard are private response organizations centered on local fishing communities. A total of 22 teams (325 members) operate to minimize marine pollution damage by providing initial response in island areas where the Coast Guard’s response forces cannot reach promptly during the early stages of marine pollution accidents.