What is the primary document required for vessels over 300 GT involved in oil transfers?

The primary document required for vessels over 300 gross tons (GT) involved in oil transfers is the Certificate of Financial Responsibility (COFR). This certificate is essential as it establishes that the vessel owner has the necessary financial capability to cover potential liabilities resulting from oil spills, as mandated by the Oil Pollution Act of 1990. The COFR provides assurance to the government and the public that adequate resources are available to address and mitigate environmental damage should an oil spill occur during operations.

The Certificate of Operation refers to the vessel’s compliance with safety and operational standards but does not specifically address financial liabilities related to oil transfers. An Environmental Impact Assessment, while crucial for project planning and evaluating potential environmental effects, is not a document required for ongoing operations related to oil transfers. The Safety Management System outlines processes for ensuring safety on board, but it does not directly pertain to financial responsibility regarding oil pollution incidents. Thus, the Certificate of Financial Responsibility stands out as the correct and vital document for ensuring compliance with environmental regulations in the context of oil transfers.