In the Gulf of Finland, oil is increasingly transported by vessels in poorer condition, and ice further increases the risk of oil spills. Lamor and the Finnish Border Guard have successfully carried out a Sea Acceptance Test (SAT) and operational training related to the commissioning of oil spill response systems aboard the patrol vessel Turva. The tests verified the reliability of the oil spill response systems in demanding winter conditions, where managing ice and extreme cold is a critical factor in ensuring environmental safety.

The test day, conducted in cooperation with the Finnish Border Guard off the coast of Lappohja, focused on operating vessel-specific oil spill response technology in a real operational environment. During the tests, Lamor’s experts and the ship’s crew went through system commissioning, operating instructions, and maintenance procedures in slippery and cold conditions.

Cooperation with authorities is a key part of Lamor’s strategy to support security of supply and the protection of the Baltic Sea. Multipurpose vessels such as the patrol vessel Turva form the backbone of Finland’s oil spill response capability, and their equipment is designed to meet the challenges of even the most demanding weather conditions.

Performance in ice

Finland is the only country in the world where all ports and fairways freeze on a regular basis during normal winters. This places special requirements on oil spill response equipment and operational activities that are not encountered in many other countries.

Oil spill response in Arctic conditions requires exceptional durability from technology. When there is ice at sea or temperatures drop below freezing, traditional recovery methods face significant challenges.

“Regular testing of the equipment and continuous training of the crew ensure that response times in accident situations are as short as possible. In Arctic conditions, there is little room for error, so seamless cooperation between technology and people is essential,” says Mathias Lindroos, Director, Environmental Protection Technology.

“Oil cannot be recovered from among ice using oil spill response equipment designed for open water. Equipment specifically developed for that purpose is required.”

Preparing for future challenges

The discussion around renewing icebreaker capacity and new vessel acquisitions highlights the need for integrated environmental support solutions. Lamor is a global pioneer in Arctic oil spill response, and the company’s technology is widely used on both Finnish and neighboring countries’ authority vessels.

“Lamor Sternmax solution brings together the expertise we have accumulated over decades in ice management, recovery of heavy oil, and pumping in cold conditions. The technology is simple and proven to work,” Lindroos emphasizes.

The Lappohja tests confirmed that the current equipment and operational expertise are at a high level. Continuous development work and close dialogue with authorities ensure that Finland maintains its position as a global leader in environmental safety under winter conditions.

Further information:

Timo Pylkkä, Sales Manager, Lamor Northern Europe
+358 400 697 755, timo.pylkka@lamor.com