OREANDA-NEWS. September 28, 2012. TNK-BP informs that it has launched a comprehensive program to prepare its entities and contractors to the winter season in order to minimize risks, related to operation in complex geographic and climatic conditions, and ensure compliance with international transportation safety standards, reported the press-centre of TNK-BP.

The key effort within this program is the Winter Road campaign, which will last during the whole winter season starting in October 2012 and ending in April 2013. The campaign comprises three main elements: drivers' health and professional qualification checks; comprehensive inspection of the company's and contractors' motor vehicles fleet; as well as monitoring of the road network used in TNK-BP operations, including ice crossings, temporary winter roads and other transportation facilities.

It will be the first time the company inspects and assesses the condition of roads beyond TNK-BP's assets. This approach will allow to identify roadbed defects in a timely manner and interact with road maintenance services to ensure road condition conformity with current norms and standards.

"Ensuring transportation safety at the level of most stringent international standards is an absolute priority for TNK-BP. We are accountable for the lives and health of those who work at company assets – our employees and contractors alike. Risk mitigation strongly depends on drivers' qualification and vehicles readiness, but they are not the only factors. Starting this year, we will interact directly with those responsible for the condition of roads we use. I am sure, this will help to resolve any issues related to roads condition and safety in a comprehensive manner," says Elena Kompasenko, TNK-BP's Vice President, HSE.