ITOPF is a not-for-profit organisation established on behalf of the world's shipowners and their insurers to promote effective response to marine spills of oil, chemicals and other hazardous substances. Technical services include emergency response, advice on clean-up techniques, damage assessment, claims analysis, assistance with spill response planning and the provision of training and information. 

Since 1968, ITOPF technical staff have responded on-site to approximately 800 shipping incidents in 100 countries, to provide scientific and objective advice on clean-up measures, the effects of pollutants on the environment and economic activities, and on compensation. ITOPF has also provided advice remotely for numerous other incidents.

These incidents can involve oil, chemical and dry bulk and packaged cargoes, as well as bunker fuel from all types of ship. Advice is also given occasionally in relation to oil spills from other potential sources of marine pollution, including pipelines and offshore installations, and physical damage to coral reefs resulting from ship groundings.

The first-hand experience gained by ITOPF’s staff through direct involvement in pollution incidents is utilised during damage assessment, contingency planning and training assignments, as well as in the production of technical publications and films.

You can find a copy of their promoting effective response to marine spills brochure attached below.