The association meets four times a year, allowing members to come together and discuss face-to-face the issues that affect them.

Committees

OMSA has a number of active committees addressing issues affecting safety, security, human resources and vessel operations. This is where members shape the positions that OMSA will take on critical issues.

Through monthly electronic newsletters and email updates, OMSA reports on pending laws, regulations and other news that may impact the industry.

Each year, OMSA holds a number of events designed to give members a chance to enjoy each other's company, build relationships, and reinforce the culture that has made OMSA so effective. Events include golf tournaments, fishing rodeos and a Christmas dinner celebration.

OMSA members can access the association's on-line directory to find detailed contact information and products provided by member companies. The site also serves as an electronic marketplace to help companies advertise their services, find vendors and even place requests for quotes.

For more information or if you have forgotten your user name and password, contact Ashley Smith, Director of Member Services, at 504-528-9411 or ashley @offshoremarine.org.

OMSA has partnered with ERM (Environmental Resources Management) to develop a series of Coast Guard-approved and internationally compliant vessel security plans. OMSA/ERM also provides annual drills, audit assistance and crew security training to meet the regulatory requirements of the security plans. To access vessel plans, contact Jeff Simmerman at (225) 292-3001 or jeff.simmerman @erm.com or Sarah Branch, Director of Government Relations, at 504-528-9411 or sarah @offshoremarine.org.

OMSA offers a safety training program for company vessel crewmembers. In 2005, the OMSA program was accepted as meeting the requirements of the SafeGulf program, an offshore operator safety orientation program which is now being required by many oil and gas production companies. The program focuses on maritime-related safety and was developed through the expertise of OMSA's Safety Committee. Member companies have the option of using in-house training or sending crewmembers to an accredited training institution.

For additional information, contact Sarah Branch, Director of Government Relations, at 504-528-9411 or sarah @offshoremarine.org.

OMSA offers a "best practices" manual for use by vessel operators to comply with the 2008 EPA requirements for management and reporting of discharges incidental to the normal operations of commercial vessels under the Vessel General Permit program. This manual is very helpful in ensuring compliance with this permit. For additional information, contact Sarah Branch, Director of Government Relations, at 504-528-9411 or sarah @offshoremarine.org.