Viking Life-Saving Equipment UAE, the emirates’ branch office of the leading Danish maritime safety manufacturer, has clinched a contract to supply Vela International, Saudi Aramco’s operating subsidiary and one of the world’s largest oil tanker companies, with over 1,000 state-of-the-art immersion suits.

The move comes ahead of the recent International Maritime Organisation (IMO) announcement that all cargo vessels sailing into cold water – classified as ocean temperatures of less than 20 degrees C – must have one immersion suit per crew member by July 2006.
“The new IMO regulation will increase the global market for immersion suits from approximately 15,000 to 350,000,” said Kevin Momme, sales manager, Viking Life-Saving Equipment UAE. “Though there is still a year to go before the legislation takes effect, Viking, as one of the world’s three leading marine safety powerhouses, is quickly gearing up to meet the challenge for supply and servicing. With a network of 270 authorised servicing stations worldwide, Viking immersion suits can be serviced at ports across the globe.”
The Vela immersion suits will be delivered in January 2006, well in advance of the new IMO regulations. The suits can help keep a person alive and afloat in zero-degree sea water for a minimum of six hours and are made out of PU (polyurethane)-coated nylon, which helps retain body heat and is highly durable, with an expected lifespan of 15-20 years.
Vela International operates a fleet of 21 Very Large Crude Oil Carriers (VLCC) and six product vessels from its Dubai office, primarily carrying Saudi crude to the US.
“Vela’s industry leadership in safety and operations made acquisition of Viking immersion suits well before the compliance deadline an easy decision,” said Talal Bakheet, technical manager, marine operations, Vela International, “These suits meet Vela’s and the industry’s exacting standards.”