Tor Bay Harbour

All mariners are reminded that the discharge of any form of waste into the waters of Tor Bay Harbour is strictly prohibited by local, national and international legislation. This applies to garbage, sewage, oil and any other form of polluting material. The Harbour Master has powers to detain any vessel suspected of discharging such waste and an obligation to report such vessel to the authorities for prosecution.

Oil and other pollutants which are occasionally spilt into the sea can endanger environmental resources and property, as well as putting human life at risk. Only about 5% of oil and fuel pollution in the water is from catastrophic spills, the majority comes from every day sources such as refuelling, bilge pumping, engine emissions and oil leaks. All mariners are therefore advised to exercise care and adhere to the following guidelines:

• Check the bilge is free from oil before pumping.
• Use an absorbent sock to control oil and fuel in the bilge.
• Whenever possible take on fuel from a recognised marine fuelling station.
• Make sure you use a large enough funnel if you have to refuel onboard.
• Maintain fuel lines, connections and seals to avoid leaks.
• Transfer waste oil and fuel in proper containers.
• Remember that oily or fuel-soaked materials are considered hazardous waste so dispose of them in appropriate facilities.
• Avoid overfilling the tank and allow room for the fuel to expand.
• On shore try not to use oil and fuel within ten metres of the water.
• Use a fuel collar to catch drips or blowback when refuelling.

In addition to the measures outlined above it is important that you never leave fuel hoses unattended whist refuelling operations are underway. All mariners should follow the instructions issued by the fuel station operator. Given the volume of fuel used by the fishing industry all owners and skippers of fishing vessels are reminded to follow the refuelling procedures issued by the Brixham Trawler Agents.

Please remember that the polluter pays for the cost of any clean up and those responsible for pollution can and will be prosecuted.