Study shows PTTGC followed protocol
PTT Global Chemical (PTTGC) had followed through the oil spill emergency protocol, according to a fact-finding study of the Energy Ministry-appointed committee.
The committee chaired by Khunying Thongthip Ratanarat released the finding on Wednesday.
It confirmed the spill of 54,341 litres of crude oil and affirmed that the volume of dispersant used was in line with the contingency plan.
The committee which comprises other four members confirmed the timeline of the incident on July 27 when the flexible hose connected to MT Maran Plato's pipeline was leaked. It looked into the company's work process, maintenance, equipment and on-duty officers.
It found that the company properly followed the protocol by using a vessel to spray the dispersant onto the oil spill. For higher efficiency, the spray was also conducted by plane. Officers also laid blooms to contain the oil spill, which could be washed ashore due to the strong wind and high tide.
However, due to the strong wind, partial spill reached Ao Phrao, in Koh Samet.
As the spill spread out, two types of dispersant were deployed - 30,612 litres of slickgone and 6,930 litres of super-dispersant 25. Both are allowed for use in Thailand by the Pollution Control Department, due to low toxic level and fast biodegradable condition.
The committee however suggested the establishment of another committee to investigate into the cause of damage to the flexible hose. Another committee is suggested to assess the environmental impact and draw up the short- and long-term rehabilitation plan.
PTTGC has agreed to set up the two committees as recommended. The technical committee will consist of experts from the Engineering Institute of Thailand and Chulalongkorn University's Faculty of Engineering. The committee's report will then be submitted to the Energy Ministry.
