All offshore operators currently active in exploration and production on the UKCS are party to a voluntary oil pollution compensation scheme known as OPOL. Since the early 1970’s there has been a very substantial increase in the exploration for, and production of, oil from sources beneath the seabed off North-West Europe. At the same time a greater awareness of the possibility of damage to the environment from such activities has developed throughout the world, and accordingly those engaged in offshore exploration and production are taking the greatest precautions to ensure that the risk of oil pollution is reduced to a minimum, and that the highest safety standards are observed. Nevertheless the possibility exists that an accident could occur, and the oil industry therefore developed an Agreement to ensure that, in the event of a spillage or escape of oil, claims for pollution damage are met and the cost of remedial measures reimbursed