THE WORLD OF OILTANKING VOL. 27/1 APRIL 2015 connections

The Elements EDITORIAL CONTENTS

Contents

ASIA PACIFIC 04 Work in Progress

EUROPE 05 Politicians Visit the Hamburg Tank Terminal 06 A Stronger Presence in Northern Germany

The Four 20 Talking Turkey INDIA 36 Elements LATIN AMERICA 36 Battling the Elements: A Firefighting Drill FIRE

Re-Charged: Sohar Battery Collection Small talk … usually every conversation starts with it effect from January 1, 2015, we have assumed our role MIDDLE EAST 21 before the business or any other formal topic is as Managing Directors. While we will jointly manage addressed. An all-time favorite as well as gratifying Oiltanking, we will each have dedicated geographic NORTH AMERICA 26 The Power of Water topic is the weather. Guessing or discussing each other’s responsibilities. Having worked for the company for Hurricanes: A Dangerous Triple Threat star signs and their corresponding elements is also more than 17 respectively 14 years in various 28 entertaining for some. While it is up to one’s own management positions, we share a deeply rooted 46 United on the Way to Advancing 28 conviction if and up to what extent astrology influences passion for the business and the successful development the Common Good | Dream Come True AIR somebody’s life, it is undeniable that over centuries the of this company. four elements, water, earth, fire, and air are symbols of Opting for Concrete Tanks the development of mankind, and coined the conception With the Oiltanking “ship” in good shape we are ready SOUTH AFRICA 38 of many cultures of today’s world. to head to new shores and are prepared to navigate uncharted waters and adverse weather. Or, in other People 08 Get to Know the New Managing Directors In a broader sense, Oiltanking’s business developed words: clean air is not afraid of thunder (Italian and also depends on these elements. Among others the proverb). & Places 12 We can, we care ... in Human Resources 38 earth provides fossil fuels. With the help of fire these Cultural Experiences | Mumbai, Sohar, can be converted into various useful products. Some of Hopefully getting the latest news of Oiltanking and 14 EARTH Karimun and beyond these are stored at different temperatures at our tank learning more about the four elements feels like a terminals, mostly located close to water. Already 43 refreshing breeze! 18 Focus, Discipline & Accountability: years a sound company, Oiltanking is present on almost The Way Forward for IOT all continents (earth). This has only been possible Happy reading thanks to the dedicated colleagues who have fervently 44 In a nutshell (fire) contributed to the success story. Seemingly with ease (air) and flexibility new challenges have been Leisure & 22 The Deepest Man on Earth embraced and overcome by them. 22 Koen Verniers Daan Vos ENTERTAINMENT Goo-Goos WATER Managing Director Managing Director 30 This will not be any different with the new constellation Oiltanking East Oiltanking West I do's Cover: Herbert Nitsch within the management of Oiltanking GmbH. With 33 is the current freediving Lexicon | Earthing 37 world record holder and 40 Take a Deep Breath … "The Deepest Man on Earth". Read more about him on IMPRINT connections Vol. 27/1/2015 Published by Oiltanking GmbH, Corporate Center, Admiralitaetstrasse 55, 43 Number | 673 page 22. © Management 20459 Hamburg, Germany, www.oiltanking.com, Telephone +49-40-37099-485, Fax +49-40-37099-499 Herbert Nitsch E-Mail [email protected] Coordinator Gabi Wuestenberg, Manager Communications Editor Renate Eijkholt 47 Reader's Corner Design raz design, Hamburg Print BEISNER DRUCK GMBH & Co. KG, Hamburg Published Three times a year Last but not least | A Blue Illusion Copy Deadline vol 27/2 week 21, 2015 48 Print compensated Id-No. 1545224 www.bvdm-online.de 2 CONNECTIONS CONNECTIONS 3 Asia Pacific EUROPE

Politicians Visit the Hamburg Tank Terminal On October 6, the MEW (Mittelständische Energiewirtschaft Deutschland e. V.) invited politicians and representatives from the business and transport sector to visit Oiltanking in Hamburg, Germany. This provided a good opportunity for an exchange All in the same boat Politicians and business of concerns between politics and small and representatives took advantage of the opportunity medium enterprises. to discuss their points of view

Getting to know The umbrella organization MEW, the voice of the medium enterprises, we represent 70 percent of the you … Oiltanking independent oil and energy industry in Germany had country’s tank storage capacity – we are a mainstay of colleagues met invited business and transport policymakers as well as Germany’s energy supply." Subsequently, at the Hamburg officials from several public authorities of Work representatives of the Business and Transport Working Harbor Club, MEW Managing Director Dr. Steffen Dagger Karimun, Indonesia, Group of the CSU party in the German Bundestag, and gave a more detailed presentation on the role of SMEs in during a workshop in Progress the Executive Board of the Junge Union Hamburg to visit the oil market and emphasized that: "Practice and policy Oiltanking in Hamburg at the beginning of October – an are interdependent – which is why we are pleased to note invitation they were pleased to accept. In addition to the the interest by and exchange between business and MEW management, representatives from MEW member politics." During his presentation Karl-Heinz Schult- companies also attended in order to discuss and exchange Bornemann, a lecturer at Otto-von-Guericke University in On December 18, 2014, Oiltanking Karimun organized The objective of the workshop was to introduce Oiltanking ideas with the politicians. Magdeburg, made it clear that while like all commodities a one-day workshop at the Aston Hotel in Tanjung Balai as the first company that is investing in the Oil & Gas oil and gas stocks are finite, the "confirmed reserves" Karimun, Indonesia. Six colleagues (Farkhan Adisuryo, Sector in the Karimun Free Trade Zone. A comprehensive, The boat ride between the Hamburg tank terminal and have been increasing steadily over decades. Snehashish Chatterjee, Yos Effendy, Ferdy Irwan, Didon detailed presentation gave the authorities insight into the the Harbor Club provided an opportunity for dialogue. At Rahardjo, Desmon Simatupang) with professional basic capabilities of the Oiltanking terminal (e.g. loading, the tank terminal itself, MEW President Walter Dornhof Looking back, it was an interesting and fruitful day for experience ranging from Human Resources to Customer discharge, pump over, jetty-to-jetty transfer, blending explained the structure of the German oil trade, the everyone involved, during which they were able to discuss Service, met with 17 officials of the regional Karimun etc.). The get-together was also aimed at preparing a importance of tank terminals, and the challenges currently various positions and aspects as part of a lively exchange governmental bodies such as the Karimun Free Trade Zone smooth commissioning and operation of the terminal by facing the industry to the politicians: "As small and of ideas. Office, Customs, Tax Office, Quarantine and Police making sure all parties have the same interpretation of Departments, Department of Transportation, Department of regulations, and familiarizing everyone with the do’s and Immigration don’ts of each operation. Ultimately it was also a good and Port opportunity for a bilateral learning process for both parties. Authority. Oiltanking Karimun has been invited for further discussions with closely related authorities (Port Authority, Customs and Tax Office) in the run-up to the second of a total of three workshops to be held this year.

Good Teamwork H. Cendra (right), head of the Free Trade Zone Karimun, and Snehashish Chatterjee, General Manager PT Oiltanking Karimun, mark the successful start of the workshop and relationship with the authorities all pictures: © MEW

4 CONNECTIONS CONNECTIONS 5 Europe Europe

A Stronger Presence in Northern Germany

On December 31, 2014, Oiltanking Deutschland took over three Bomin tank terminals Kiel Kiel that had already been owned The Bomin tank terminal in Kiel is located on the Kiel to marine fuels, gasoil and rapeseed oil are stored by the Marquard & Bahls Bremerhaven Canal in the immediate vicinity of the locke. It has a here. The terminal is almost exclusively supplied by Group since May 2012. The total capacity of 35,000 cbm (11 tanks). In addition ship. move strengthens Oiltanking’s Hamburg footprint in northern Germany. Bremen Bremerhaven The Bremerhaven tank terminal has a capacity of nearly The Oiltanking family has grown. 100,000 cbm (13 tanks). Important mainstays here are With the addition of three new terminals the supply of oil for ship bunkering (gasoil and heavy Berlin in Bremerhaven, Hamburg and Kiel, Hannover fuel), local distribution (gasoil), storage of strategic Oiltanking Deutschland’s network of stocks, and treatment of oil-water mixtures. The terminal tank terminals has expanded to 18 can be supplied by ship or barge and currently offers ship sites. The total capacity of the and truck loading. The construction of a railcar unloading station is currently in planning and is scheduled for German network is 2.66 million Hamm cbm. The three tank terminals will completion in the second quarter of 2015. initially continue to operate as Duisburg separate companies that are wholly owned subsidiaries of Oiltanking Deutschland. It is, Gera Chemnitz however, planned to rebrand the three Bomin tank terminals with the Bendorf Oiltanking name in the near future. Hanau Because of their location, the tank terminals have specific characteristics. Frankfurt

Hamburg

Karlsruhe The Bomin tank terminal in Hamburg is located directly on the river Elbe and has a total capacity Three more Deggendorf of approximately 115,000 cbm (22 tanks). It With the addition of Honau currently stores bunker fuels (gasoil and heavy three tank terminals in fuel), paraffin, liquid fertilizer and gasoil. Oil-water Bremerhaven, Hamburg and Kiel Oiltanking now mixtures can also be recycled here. The terminal has 18 locations Breisach can be supplied by ship or barge and railcar, as across Germany well as by tank truck. Its high level of flexibility enables a separate storage of various specialty products.

6 CONNECTIONS CONNECTIONS 7 People & Places People & Places

Get to Know the responsible for strategy and corporate development while even had lunch together with our spouses and had a great at the same time each focusing on the well-defined time. Speaking of time, one of the advantages I see in the geographic East and West sides of our global business new structure is that besides managing our business we New Managing portfolio, offers both opportunities and challenges, of can also allocate more time to our colleagues and to our course. Our challenge will be to find enough time to talk stakeholders, such as customers and business partners. Directors and discuss with each other the direction we want to take. We can really be ambassadors for Oiltanking. With our backgrounds both in business and in Oiltanking, A real challenge for Oiltanking in my perception will be to Since January 1, 2015, Oiltanking we are confident that we will form a joint view on a common safeguard the corporate culture of which we are so proud agenda quite naturally. The focus that each of us will be and that has brought us this far, while we keep on growing GmbH has a new joint leadership able to apply to our respective business portfolios offers in a very dynamic ever-changing world. This also has to do consisting of Koen Verniers and Daan the chance to further strengthen business partnering with our company values. It is part of (business) life that Vos, each with their dedicated between the teams in the regions and at the corporate we are continuously challenged to compromise on our center, in order to ensure swift but well-educated decision values, while it is exactly those values that make our geographic responsibilities. Both have making by the shareholders in support of our growth company unique and sustainable. worked for Oiltanking for more than strategy. 17 and 14 years, respectively, in Daan: To have two MDs at the helm of Oiltanking is indeed How would you describe your attitude? a relatively new structure and we need to find our way. I'm Koen: I like to think that strong teams are essential to various management positions, however convinced that we will, as our first weeks of achieving success in a sustainable way. The brilliance of gaining ample experience along the cooperation have already created a lot of positive energy, one leader, the perseverance of another, and the lucky way. Let’s take a closer look at the creativity and alignment in views and philosophy. We’ve hand of yet another are all essential contributors to success but the real value in the long run is created by strong new Managing Directors. teams with strong contributors to common goals – set by the top, but most importantly: internalized and pursued by all. So I like to see my colleagues and team members Daan Vos Having graduated from the University of Amsterdam connections: Can you briefly tell us about with a degree in Economics in 1996, your educational background? Daan gained his first professional Koen: I studied Economics and Commercial Engineering at the University experience outside Oiltanking before of Antwerp, with a focus on my area of interest, international politics. Koen Verniers Koen graduated from the University of joining the company in 2001 as a Daan: I studied Economics at the University of Amsterdam, specializing Antwerp, Belgium in 1992, and holds a Masters Degree in Applied Economic Science and Commercial Engineering. He General Manager in Singapore. After in Management Accounting and International Management. From a young began his Oiltanking career as an International Management four successful years there, he age, I had always wanted to work abroad and explore different cultures moved to Hamburg for Oiltanking Trainee in 1997, and was appointed to the position of Marketing and countries. I hoped this degree would bring me a bit closer to that GmbH in January 2005 to take up his & Sales Manager at Oiltanking Houston, USA in mid-1999. At goal. position as General Manager Asia the end of 2000 he was posted to Marquard & Bahls, Hamburg, Pacific, Middle East and Europe. In Germany, as Manager Corporate Finance, then, in 2002, mid-2010 he was appointed Regional What do you think will be the most transferred to Oiltanking GmbH as General Manager Economics. Director and was tasked with demanding task in your new position? In 2004, Koen took on the challenge of serving as General establishing the Europe Cluster that Koen: Our business has proven to be resilient in the past few years, Manager of Oiltanking in Texas City, USA. After spending almost works from Amsterdam. In January during which the global economy, our customers and the markets we four years in the United States, he moved to Oiltanking Nanjing, 2015, Daan returned to Hamburg to serve have gone through difficult times. Some of our traditional markets China, as General Manager of the joint-venture terminal. In take on the position of Managing have seen a material increase in storage capacity. In order to successfully August 2010, Koen became President of Oiltanking Asia Pacific, the regional holding company, responsible for the Asia Pacific Director of Oiltanking GmbH. In this navigate between potential supply-demand imbalances resulting from region’s business and strategic business planning. In addition, position he will focus on Europe, these trends, we need to continue to strike the right balance between Latin America, and North America. he represented Oiltanking Singapore and Oiltanking Helios running efficient and service-focused operations, investing in infrastructure Singapore as their Managing Director and Oiltanking Odfjell improvements, and being ambitious in maximizing top-line revenues. I Terminal Singapore as its Chief Executive Officer. As of January am confident that our regional and local terminal teams with their 2015, Koen is Managing Director for Oiltanking East, which experience and commitment are very much up to this task. puts him in charge of Oiltanking’s business in Africa, Asia The dual directorship at Oiltanking with Daan and myself being jointly Pacific, China, India and Middle East.

8 CONNECTIONS CONNECTIONS 9 People & Places People & Places

The world around us is constantly changing, as are the markets we operate in,

so obviously our company entrants fresh from school to to share! What really upsets me is injustice and highly experienced professionals wrongdoing. is changing as well. joining our ranks in the middle of their careers, how so many so Things you could not do without / quickly somehow connect with thing you like to throw away? succeed at achieving their goals and the goals of their Daan: Beyond organic growth who we are, what we stand for Koen: Although I have lived abroad for over 15 years now, teams. Work hard, play hard, speak your mind, respect in uncharted territory and and how we engage internally as I still read the Belgian newspaper from front to back every and credit to all are values and behaviors I consider acquisitions, I also feel that well as with our external day. I love it, and at the same time it is also somehow an critical to foster and continue to stimulate throughout there will be opportunities for business partners and obsession that I regularly wish I could get rid of. the Oiltanking organization. Oiltanking in businesses that stakeholders. In other words I Daan: What I would not like to miss is my family! Daan: I'm generally full of energy and have a positive are slightly outside our core like to believe we still somehow Ironing shirts is something I really do not like to do. I attitude. I therefore like to think that the glass is half full business. Possibly linked to our other sister companies. brew the right potion to connect people around the always push it to the next morning. instead of half empty. In addition I am also resilient and To create such opportunities we will have to be creative. Oiltanking brand. Nobody has the exact recipe for this determined. I'm a man of my word and expect that from Thinking in a completely different context one could also Oiltanking culture but as long as we continue to foster Best invention of mankind is ... others as well. identify an opportunity in further excelling in what we do respect, integrity and reliability within our ranks, I believe Koen: On a serious note, electricity I think. Not so Engaging with colleagues and working together is what today, such as commercial and operational excellence. we will remain on the right track. seriously, the iPad I read that newspaper on every day ... really motivates me. I like to create the right setting and Daan: To show our alignment I just want to state my full Daan: My first reaction would be “the computer” but environment so that people develop themselves. Building What personal traits do you agreement with Koen’s remarks. let's see what the 3D printer will do ... up and empowering a team to go after set goals is great appreciate in colleagues? and reaching the goals together gives even more energy. Koen: I have a sweet spot for colleagues that apply What did you want to become when you Favorite movie/song? utmost seriousness and dedication to what they do in were a child (e.g. policeman ...)? Koen: I love to watch and re-watch the "Good, the Bad What are the opportunities for business and at the same time are always game for a Koen: I wanted to be a medical doctor or market vendor or and the Ugly", both the movie and the soundtrack by Oiltanking and where do they lie? good laugh in and outside the office. Not taking yourself a shop owner in a hawker center. My inability to deal with Ennio Morricone are classics. Koen: We remain strongly positioned in our traditional too seriously is another trait that I really appreciate in so much as one drop of blood effectively struck me out of Daan: My favorite song is definitely "Disco Inferno" markets where we are present at the right locations with people. a medical career. The hawker center appeal is still there from the Trammps. Brings back very good memories! state-of-the-art infrastructure and know-how in the local Daan: I really appreciate when colleagues show a passion but luckily I can channel a lot of that type of energy into terminal teams, which are recognized by the industry as for our company and our business, and a strong commitment my job at Oiltanking as well … One thing you cannot resist? being top-class. Our reputation remains very strong and to doing a very professional job day-in day-out. Daan: At a very young age, of course I wanted to become Koen: Chocolate! that continues to open up opportunities for further a fireman, a fighter pilot and a Formula 1 racing driver. Daan: Doing things with my two kids, if only playing growth as well. While we continue to see growth Do you think the Oiltanking spirit Later on, I also dreamt of being a successful soccer or cards and joking around with each other. opportunities in those traditional locations, we are also has changed? hockey player. ambitiously looking into further expanding in growth Koen: We have been growing tremendously over the last Thing you always carry with you markets such as China, South East Asia, Australia, India years and decade. The world around us is constantly What makes you laugh / angry? Koen: My phone? and Africa. With the combination of a strong balance changing, as are the markets we operate in, so obviously Koen: Silly situational humor, often triggered by a healthy Daan: My positive attitude. sheet, focused growth strategy and the ability to combine our company is changing as well. Given the changing dose of self-reflection amongst friends (or lack thereof in skills across group companies, I believe that we will be environment we operate in and the rate of growth we others) always makes for a good laugh. Manipulative able to do well, both strengthening our basis and continue to enjoy, we should always be reviewing behavior is disturbing and can make me angry if indeed it I like to create the enlarging the footprint of our business in the years to processes in order to ensure that we can continue to stands in the way of the teamwork that others are genuinely come. Over the last few years, we have expanded and encourage entrepreneurship and empowerment of our trying to contribute to. right setting and improved our merger & acquisition capabilities throughout teams in the business while also making sure to Daan: Funny movie scenes can really make me laugh until environment so that the group. Acquisitions will increasingly be a necessary complement this with appropriate governance and I’m in tears. I could be the guy sitting next to you on the complement to the growth path we have traditionally compliance expectations. As to our spirit, I continue to plane with a headset on, laughing so hard he’s crying. If people develop followed, which was more focused on green- and brown- be impressed by how, across all the geographies we anyone can recommend movies which I can watch over and field expansions. operate in, so many new colleagues, ranging from new over again for this purpose, please give me a call. Happy themselves.

10 CONNECTIONS CONNECTIONS 11 People & Places People & Places

We can, we care ... in Human The meeting was a perfect balance of work Resources and understanding the Indian way of doing business and HR in India. I am happy that we could give other colleagues a glimpse of Incredible India and that they could experience it first-hand. Nawin Chandra regularly, once or twice a year, mainly in Hamburg – and ideally, abroad every once in a while. Even between kept having to postpone it, but with understanding. Coordinating and meetings, the HR colleagues stay in the change in the IOT management, aligning the activities of the various touch, exchanging information in colleagues took the chance to come to regional and group HR teams will regularly scheduled conference calls India to wish Jayanta Bhuyan farewell continue to be one of the priorities for and via virtual platforms. Besides that and to welcome Vivek Venkatachalam the further development of HR within they collaborate very closely e.g. on as new Managing Director IOT (see the company. The aim is to have a international assignments / postings. also page 18),” comments Nawin. common understanding how to Meeting in India also prompted a focus develop global talents, and knowing “All in all, we came back with lots of on Indian HR in particular. “It was very you have the right person in the right valuable information and new ideas. informative for us to see and learn place at the right time. And, I am still impressed by the great how the Indian HR colleagues handle hospitality of the Indian HR colleagues,” the business challenges India is The HR colleagues strive to meet summarizes Judith. facing,” comments Judith. While Europe is confronted with a greying demographic, India’s population is Focused The global HR meeting was a good example for getting younger. Today, over 45 fostering closer cooperation and greater efficiency percent of India’s population of 1.26 billion is under 30 years old. Besides the Indian HR challenges, the agendas' Employees are the foundation of the success „A Human Resources meeting … in major points of discussion ranged of our businesses. Given the company’s strong Mumbai?! In recent years Oiltanking has from, just to name a few, Talent grown rapidly, and so has its workforce. The Management, Leadership Development growth in recent years, Human Resources world has become much more globalized and programs, Compensation topics, (HR) has come to play an increasingly in fast-changing markets, dedicated global job description project, and important role. At the recent global HR employees who identify strongly with the regional and global HR goals 2015. company are an important competitive The meetings held at the IOT office in meeting in Mumbai, India, eleven regional advantage. The obvious consequence is that Mumbai kicked off with an impressive and corporate HR managers came together to some HR services also become more guided tour of the company’s flagship discuss the various business needs and how globalized. The International HR Meeting has terminal in Navghar, followed by an become an integral part of the annual HR informal dinner that set the tone for to reflect those in HR services and global HR calendar. Regional and corporate HR the next three days. goals for 2015. Host Nawin Chandra, HR managers come together for three days to Manager IOT, and Judith Jähnke, Team Lead discuss and reflect on the company’s A global meeting offers the perfect business needs and how to further advance opportunity to get to know each other Global Mobility & Compensation Management global HR services, define HR policies and or catch up with colleagues from other To me, being responsible for international (head office), give a summary. share best practices from around the globe. HR departments. Experiencing the assignments, it is always very interesting to local conditions and seeing first-hand get an impression of the local working and “We had invited the HR teams on numerous how HR matters are handled elsewhere picture: © China National Tourist Office occasions to come to India and unfortunately always contributes to a better living conditions. Judith Jähnke

12 CONNECTIONS CONNECTIONS 13 CULTURAL EXPERIENCES CULTURAL EXPERIENCES

After spending 22 years of my life in a city in the foothills of the Himalayas in India, I was offered PORTRAIT Mumbai, a job in Mumbai as part of Oiltankings’ first Snehashish “Chatto” terminal project in India. It was a step full of Chatterjee joined Oiltanking Sohar, excitement and anxiety. I was to travel 1,600 km in June 1998 as an from home to the coastal city of Mumbai to join Operations Trainee at the Karimun the startup team of the Navghar terminal as a Oiltanking Terminal in trainee in operations. Navghar / Mumbai, India. After seven years and That was 1998 and little did I know that this was having gained experience and beyond just the start of a journey which would take me in his position as from the deserts of Rajasthan to the coast of Maintenance Engineer, Project Manager (IOT Mumbai in India, to the Strait of Hormuz and the EPC), he moved to Sohar to work as Terminal Omani desert, and then all the way to Indonesia. Manager for Oiltanking Odfjell Oman. In October 2014, he took up the position as General Manager Karimun is an island in the Strait of Malacca, a of PT Oiltanking Karimun, Indonesia. beautiful place. Mountains with lush green forests, a busy little town that still has a certain old-world charm, where people smile at strangers and shopkeepers know your name and family. It is also the island where Oiltanking is building a terminal with a capacity of 760,000 cbm. A team of dedicated Oiltankers are working day and night against all odds to make this project a reality by the fourth quarter of 2015. I have been part of this team since October 2014. Apart from the fact that the project provides an opportunity to live in and work very closely with Indonesian culture, it is also a Well-rounded melting pot of various cultures ranging from Chinese, Chatto's postings European, Indian, and Singaporean. Colleagues from brought him to all over the world have come together to make this most different places project a reality, the culmination of years of experience in building and operating complex terminals within Oiltanking.

I also witnessed this infectious vigor and can-do- Born in Chandigarh, India, Snehashish It is January 2015 as I write this on attitude some years earlier in Sohar, Oman. I was board a ferry from the island of Karimun fortunate to be part of the Sohar project from day one “Chatto” Chatterjee has had a career at in Indonesia where I work, to another – in 2005 – when Oiltanking started building one of Oiltanking that resembles a multifaceted Indonesian island called Batam. That is the group’s biggest and most diverse terminals. But I tour of exotic places from mountains to where I live with my wife and two sons. also had the privilege to live and experience the rich For someone born near the mountains, culture of Oman, which is often referred to as the desert landscapes to the sea. Join him as the sea remains a distant mythic entity. he reminisces about his postings on his And looking across the water, with small waves lapping against the ferry, I way home on yet another ferry. From day one remember how it all began … Chatto was part of the Sohar project team and worked as Terminal Manager

14 CONNECTIONS CONNECTIONS 15 Culture Experiences Culture Experiences

Karimun ferry terminal The geographical Home of snow The Indian part connection between of the Himalayas forms the northern Chatto and his boundary of the country family who lives on a different island

continents. The warm farewell given to me by the colleagues in Sohar was matched by the welcome given to me by the colleagues in Asia: one made it very difficult to leave, and the other made me feel at home immediately. This I believe is cultural center of the Middle East. During the nine years I something unique within Oiltanking, which we should seek spent in Oman, I enjoyed the hospitality of its proud and to preserve over time. kind people and was amazed in equal parts by its diverse nature and topography. The rumbling docking of the ferry at the harbor brings my Sixteen years is a long time, and yet to me it feels like it recollections to a halt. Now I look forward to meeting my was just yesterday I was packing my bags to move to own family again after being away for a week. For us, the Mumbai. It has been a journey filled with challenges and journey goes on and hopefully this time next year we will triumphs, a journey in which colleagues have become take this ferry together for the inauguration of a world- close friends. class terminal.

During these years I have learnt that cultures can be Happy Family The time when Chatto comes home on the different but people across nations are tied weekends is much valued together with the common threads of humanity. Politeness and honesty is as important in Indonesia as it is in Oman and India. Every society believes in the fact that honest, hard work pays off and this is a lesson that is handed down over the generations in every family. I have also learned that happiness cannot be bought ready-made over the counter – we have to create our own and invest a lot of time and energy in doing so. This lesson was taught to me by my wife and family who have been positive and strong companions in this journey.

Even though I have moved across countries Tradition meets modern age The Palace and regions I find that Oiltanking is a family of Assembly in Chandigarh was designed by tristan tan / Shutterstock.com with its own distinct culture which cuts across the noted architect Le Corbusier

16 CONNECTIONS CONNECTIONS 17 People & Places People & Places

end EPC services provider; Apart from to talk about our capabilities and in the areas of terminals, O&G off sites Larsen & Toubro, we are the only mutually share areas of growth. and power plants. Focus, Discipline company providing these services in Discipline: We will exercise strict India. commercial and financial rigor to • IOT Engineering Projects (IOTEP) has Over the past few months ensure that we execute projects on & Accountability: tremendous experience in constructing you have interacted with time and within cost, and most Power Plant infrastructure. many people at IOT and importantly that we collect our Oiltanking. Please share receivables. The Way Forward Clearly, IOT is in the right place at the your impressions. Accountable: We will have to be right time. However, we cannot have I am very impressed especially with accountable to our customers, for IOT an entitlement mindset because the domain expertise, dedication and suppliers and to each other. everything in this world has to be positive attitude of IOTians and earned. So we shall aim to do the Oiltankers. The talent is up there to Together these three tenets form the Vivek Venkatachalam stepped in small things right and enjoy the future compete with the best in the world. In core of a strategy to ensure profitable market upside. many ways IOT and Oiltanking have and sustainable growth of IOT’s as Managing Director of IOT similarities, with new management in businesses. starting January 1, 2015, after a place to confront market challenges. 13-year stint at General Electric What do you think is the While the market is filled with many most challenging task in opportunities, our ability to adapt to What is your inspiration? (GE) leading its Power Conversion, your new role? change and to embrace change Success inspires me! What inspires Oil & Gas and Water businesses. IOT has a rich history of over 18 years, quickly, will determine our future success are: mutual respect and trust, He spoke to connections about but we will need to selectively unlearn growth. focus on finding solutions, transparent our past and learn new things. As the and open communication. how he plans to use his experience company grows into a multinational in business growth and talent organization operating in different What will be IOT's strategy in development to further grow IOT geographies and businesses, we face 2015 for a profitable growth What do you do in your some key challenges. The talent has of its businesses? spare time? with sustained profitability. to adapt to the changing needs of new Over the past few months, I have been As a family, my wife, my two sons and Excerpts from the interview: customers and geographies. We have talking about the idea of IOT 2.0, a I like to spend time outdoors doing to move out of our comfort zone to concept where the implementation of activities such as road trips, running, operate in an ambiguous and complex three strategic priorities will help us swimming and trekking. We also like environment, and restructure the achieve sustained profitability. to explore good restaurants and street organization for sustained profitability. Broadly, they are: food in new locations. Building trust and credibility with our Focus: We will focus on growing our How do you see IOT tapping opportunities infrastructure and Power Plants thanks to the shareholders and customers is crucial. terminalling business and stabilizing * Source: Index Mundi India presented by the new government at the government’s “Make in India” campaign. These the EPC Business. In EPC we will play Demographics Profile 2014 centre in India? How will these growth areas are a good match with IOT’s opportunities lead to profitable growth? competencies, e. g.: How would you accelerate the India is generating a lot of positive sentiment • IOT Anwesha has already created a modest existing synergies between internationally for the growth opportunities it manufacturing footprint in Gujarat and the team is IOT and Oiltanking? presents as the new government drives efficiency in evaluating products and components that are Oiltanking’s current growth markets Clearly, IOT is in the right place at the execution and decision making through: speed adjacent to and part of our value chain. are in the Middle East, Africa and (faster bureaucracy and quicker response), scale • Terminalling will continue to focus on liquid Southeast Asia and IOT is a natural right time. However, we cannot have an (economy of scale in manufacturing), and skill storage. At the same time, we are exploring partner for building infrastructure. IOT development (favorable demography where over 45 opportunities in the LPG sector as we are likely to must leverage its synergies and earn entitlement mindset because everything percent of 1.26 billion people are under the age of see heavy government spending there. the business to penetrate these in this world has to be earned. 30*). Today, India’s high growth areas include • The EPC (Engineering, Procurement, Construction) markets together. We will continue to Manufacturing, Oil & Gas, Renewable Energy, business has an excellent track record as an end-to- effectively pursue East of Suez forums picture: © China National Tourist Office

18 CONNECTIONS CONNECTIONS 19 India Middle East

Talking Turkey Re-Charged The Sohar Battery Collection, a volunteer-driven campaign for better waste management practices, is entering its third year. The project, originally launched at Oiltanking Odfjell Oman, is becoming ever more popular. Time to review its origins and development.

In early August 2012, Oiltanking Odfjell Oman (OOTO) locations in Sohar. OOTO contributes 2.9 percent of the organized a training session for all operators aiming to total collection, an average of two kg monthly. All the reduce waste at their sites, on sustainability and on how to batteries collected are first sorted before being safely take care of the environment, particularly at the OOTO stored in special bins at a hazardous-waste storage site. terminal in Sohar. The workshop revealed that batteries In September 2014, IOT and its joint venture were disposed of as household waste rather than collected Information dissemination and awareness campaigns are separately. Eventually they end up in landfills where the being carried out, especially at schools, universities and company, IOT-VITO, won a contract for the heavy metals they contain, e. g. mercury, in combination private companies. All activities are published in major engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) of tanks for the STAR Refinery at with the high outside temperatures pose a serious health dailies for a wider reach. Promoting the segregation of Izmir, Turkey, opening up an exciting new market for IOT’s EPC business. and environmental threat. OOTO saw the need for action wastes at source is very important for better waste and checked with various private and government management, especially in countries like Oman, where organizations to see what could be done. With the help of a waste generation is increasing e. g. due to changing Aliaga, a town in Izmir province, known for its ship- strengths convinced the consortium to add IOT to the list. Dutch team and sponsored by Sohar Aluminium, Sohar Port lifestyles, urbanization and industrialization. breaking and tourism industry, will soon be known for a While IOT India will be in charge of the engineering and and Freezone, Jusoor (a social state-of-the-art, ten-million-metric-ton refinery. A procurement, the construction of the tanks will be handled responsibility nonprofit organization) In September 2013, Sohar greenfield project, the STAR Refinery is a joint venture by IOT-VITO, a new joint venture company being established and OOTO, the Sohar Battery University provided office space between SOCAR Turkey Enerji A.Ş. and TURCAS Rafineri in Turkey. Based out of Istanbul, VITO specializes in small Collection Project was born. for the Sohar Battery Collection Yatirmlari, which is slated to need a tank farm comprising construction projects in the fields of power generation and Project and offered administrative 66 tanks and eight LPG spheres with a total storage capacity oil & gas. The company also trades and provides consultancy In mid-November 2012, a project support. OOTO is happy with the of approximately 1.6 million tons. services to various EPC companies and has acquired a lot of trial was launched at OOTO. In early positive results, but will continue experience constructing numerous gas-fired power plants December, the first “emptying the to sponsor the initiative as part The contract for the engineering, procurement, construction in Turkey. bin” ceremony was held, revealing of its sustainability advocacy. (EPC) and commissioning of the refinery facilities has been that an astonishing nearly one kg of The HSSE team is setting up awarded to a consortium consisting of Técnicas Reunidas The project is worth approximately US$ 117 million for batteries had been collected by plans to be even more active in (TR), Italy, GS Engineering & Construction, South Korea, mechanical works consisting of 43 tanks and eight Horton OOTO employees in just two weeks. environmental protection. and Itochu, Japan. This consortium (collectively called spheres weighing approx. 27,500 MT in total. It consists of The Sohar Battery Collection Project TSGI) plans to sub-contract the EPC of the tank farm the EPC of tanks with diameters of between 7 m and 82 m, was officially launched on November portion of this refinery in two parts. The first portion was which will hold crude as well as products such as naphtha, 28, 2012, at the Safeer Mall in Sohar. recently won by IOT Infrastructure & Energy Services Ltd toluene, xylene, etc. The LPG spheres will vary in diameter The project was communicated to a (IOT) and its joint venture company IOT-VITO. Getting this from 18 m to 22 m. The engineering and design work began large number of shoppers, and a project was a challenge since the list of sub-contractors for in November 2014 and in the following 29 months, a battery collection bin placed in the Re-charged Colleagues at the this project had already been prepared and approved when multicultural team will work together to complete this mall to be emptied monthly. To date, Oiltanking Odfjell terminal aim to IOT approached TSGI. But the company’s excellent track prestigious contract, which will considerably strengthen almost 1.2 tons of batteries have collect as many used batteries as record, experience of working in the Middle East and EPC IOT’s footprint in Turkey. been collected in 23 different possible and recycle them

20 CONNECTIONS CONNECTIONS 21 Leisure & Entertainment Leisure & Entertainment

Particular Personage Unlike "The Deepest Man other elite freedivers Herbert on Earth" This Nitsch is self-taught and a prestigious title was pioneer in every way given to Herbert Nitsch when he set the world record for freediving at an incredible depth of 214 m in 2007 in the No Limit discipline Have you always enjoyed being in the water? Yes, I’ve always loved the water. As a kid I did a lot of The sailing and windsurfing. In high school I was on the swim team. I also liked water skiing and scuba diving until I discovered freediving in 1998. At first I didn’t even know it was a real sport!

You are a professional pilot by training. What made you decide to quit your job and Deepest devote your time to exploring the depths of the ocean? I stopped being an airline captain in 2010 to fully pursue Man on Earth the ultimate discipline called No Limit* in freediving. I had been flying full-time during the preceding decade, and treated freediving as a hobby, competing on the side. My motives were to push my boundaries and explore the limits of my body and mind. It is amazing how freediving can motivate you, because you are able to see big improvements “Each time I think I’ve reached a in a very short time. limit … there is a door … it opens … and the limit is gone,” says Herbert How would you describe the feeling Nitsch. The Austrian freediver, of being underwater? who holds 33 world records in all During a competition, I am completely focused on the task at hand. When I descend, I usually have my eyes closed, as of the sport’s various disciplines, it is pitch-black down there anyway. When I’m freediving good practice is to not eat for several hours including freediving to a record for fun, it is magical and feels like a dream to interact with before a dive, but to be well hydrated. Freediving depth of 253 m, is an amazing large marine creatures. Scuba divers are not as mobile due is not an extreme sport in the sense that it sends to their equipment and make a lot of noise, so they miss out adrenaline pumping through your veins. On the and inspiring example of on a lot. I can hear them from far away, and so can most contrary, it is of utmost importance to be as endurance, concentration, marine life, which therefore shies away from them. When I relaxed as possible. So preparing for a dive discipline, encouragement and a explore caves, shipwrecks, etc. it can feel eerie or spooky includes simple relaxation techniques to reach a at times. And, when freediving over a beautiful coral super relaxed state, as if just waking up on a lazy committed promoter of safety formation or swimming in the midst of a tuna vortex, I feel Sunday morning. Another aim is to conserve measures and their application. like a kid in a candy store. oxygen, so it is better to take your time We invite you to take a deep breath underwater, and not rush as this will almost certainly reduce your dive time. And to achieve and immerse yourself in what he How do you prepare for a dive? greater depths, there are ways to reduce the loves doing best! It depends whether I’m competing or diving for fun. In blood pressure prior to a descent, and to trigger competitions there are distance and depth disciplines, each the mammalian dive reflex before leaving the requiring a different kind of preparation. But for any freedive surface. there is always the Golden Rule: Never dive alone. Another

22 CONNECTIONS CONNECTIONS 23 Leisure & Entertainment Leisure & Entertainment

Against all odds After a severe No Limit dive accident Herbert Nitsch is training and freediving again

marine mammals, You hold 33 World Records and barely How many people assist you during and combined with survived a freediving accident. What a dive, and what are their tasks? the EQUEX allows me pushed/pushes you to go further? In No Limit freediving, there is a team of approximately to reach deeper It’s the drive to explore the unknown, cross physiological ten persons who provide assistance: technicians, an depths. boundaries and achieve goals that seem beyond the limits. oceanographer, mechanics, safety freedivers, and a film That’s how I set world records in all of the eight freediving team. In other disciplines, I have nobody assisting me disciplines*** (no one else has achieved this), and an (other than the competition’s assigned safety divers). I additional one in the traditional Greek sponge-dive discipline have no coach or trainer, because I prefer to train on my What measures do you take called Skandalopetra. The human body is amazing, and I am own, on my own time, and in my own way. Sometimes to ensure a safe dive? intrigued by exploring how far (or deep!) I can go. colleagues will help out as a “buddy” or “temporary coach” In competition, the safety measures depend on the After my deepest dive in June 2012, I had severe on a competition day, something we all do for each other. discipline***. During static apnea and distance disciplines decompression sickness. In my case this resulted in multiple it is easy to monitor the freedivers, as they are on or near brain strokes. The initial diagnosis was that I would be the surface. In depth disciplines, all kinds of safety wheelchair-bound for life. I did not accept this and What kind of diving technique measures are taken, such as a lanyard attached to the discharged myself from a long-term care facility, and do you use to take in more air? freediver and the descent rope, cameras at the bottom stopped taking all medicine. Taking my health and fitness All top freedivers use packing during competitions. It is plate, sonar at the surface, safety freedivers, safety scuba routines back into my own hands was the best decision of also called “buccal pumping,” and involves using the divers, doctors on the platform, and so forth. In No Limit my life. By using the same approach I had always taken epiglottis** as a piston to pump more air into the lungs. In diving, the safety systems are incredibly complex and with freediving, and by believing that our bodies are indeed my case I expand my 10 l lung capacity to 15 l. Two-thirds there are many of them because of the great depths amazing, I quickly discarded the wheelchair. Now, two years of this air (yes, 66 percent!) is used for equalization on the reached. In addition, there are various safety and later, I’m fit and freediving again. way down during depth disciplines. I invented and use an emergency plans for different scenarios, all well-rehearsed. EQUEX (equalization extension tool), which I used on my When I first started with the No Limit discipline in 2005, I 253 m No Limit dive. I breathe all air into this device (a was astonished by the incredible lack of safety measures. What are your goals for the future? coke bottle!) at 20 m depth before diving deeper, and then So I made my own safety adjustments, e. g. I subsequently You can’t really make a living from competitive freediving as use it to equalize the pressure in my ears and sinuses. designed all of my own No Limit sleds and affiliated it costs more than the prize money you can win. I was lucky Deep diving on empty lungs mimics the technique used by systems. The last one cost a whopping Euro 250,000, with to have had my job as an airline pilot to pay for it. Nowadays most of the money invested in I give lectures around the world and write – among other safety and security systems. things I am writing my autobiography – to support my Everything on my sleds has one or favorite pastime. And, a few good sponsors help too, of more back-up-plans that have to course! One of my future goals is to build the ocean-going work both mechanically and eco boat I’m designing, and live on it for six months a year. manually. Another one is to build a submarine. I also hope to help protect oceanic wildlife and environments through my function as a member of the Ocean Advocacy Advisory Board of the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society.

* In No Limit freediving, the freediver uses a non-propelled, non- electronic sled construction that slides into the depths with a ballast weight. A lifting device is used to get it back to the surface.

Stunning Herbert ** Tissue at the end of the tongue that flops over the windpipe when Nitsch can pump 15 l one swallows to keep food from getting into the lungs. of air into his lungs High Standard Being and hold his breath *** There are eight recognized disciplines in freediving: two for keen about every distance (dynamic apnea with fins and without); one for static (the for more than nine freediver is head-down in the water for as long as he can hold his technical detail he designs minutes breath); three for depth without and two for depth with sled. his own equipment

24 CONNECTIONS CONNECTIONS 25 North America North America

The periphery, Texas City is well protected against devastation including Tank TK 3749 back in its foundations, after from powerful tidal surges. However, being located on being re-floated and relocated. Oiltanking had gotten a the sea, the Oiltanking Texas City Terminal facility is little taste of the power of water. outside the safe boundaries.

Hurricane heel as safety measure Ravages Hurricane Ike’s landfall in Texas in 2008 had Taking into account the experiences gained from previous a lasting destructive impact hurricanes, Oiltanking Texas City (OTTC) took preventive of measures to reduce the impact of hurricanes striking the Galveston and Texas City area during the U.S. hurricane season (from June to November). According to the Saffir- Water Simpson hurricane scale used in the Atlantic Ocean, hurricanes are categorized from 1 to 5 based on their Each year from June through November, Texas faces the intensities and wind speed. Although the classification is threat of hurricanes. While coastal communities are most at based primarily on wind speeds, it can also give some indication of potential damage from storm surge, which risk, the state’s inland areas are also vulnerable. The is the abnormal rise of water over and above the Oiltanking terminal in Texas City, located on the exposed predictable astronomical tide due to a storm. southwest shoreline of Galveston Bay, has learned from the The terminal defined a “hurricane heel,” which is the past and has defined a “hurricane heel.” minimum level of product required in a tank to avoid the tanks having enough buoyancy to float if subjected to a certain water surge. Based on the Archimedes Principle, or physical law of buoyancy, the total weights of the tanks and their products was calculated against the weight of the sea water displaced by the tanks during the storm surge. It is interesting to note that most of the Hurricanes are among the fiercest storms in nature’s tanks at the Oiltanking terminal would float if surrounded repertoire. The four greatest dangers posed by hurricanes by just 25 cm of seawater. are extreme wind speeds, storm surges, torrential rains and tornadoes. After Hurricanes Katrina and Rita hit the Gulf of In September 2008, three years after Hurricane Rita hit Mexico in 2005, serious concerns started to be raised in the the Galveston bay, Hurricane Ike was pronounced a industry regarding the impact of such natural disasters on Category 2 hurricane at landfall in Texas. Although its storage facilities. Experience had already shown that storm intensity was lower than previously expected, authorities surges produced by hurricanes could unleash enough force estimated the storm surge at 6.1 m, slightly above the to move aboveground storage tanks away from their reference 5.5 m considered in the hurricane heel scenario foundations. Apart from the damage and direct losses to the at OTTC. terminal infrastructure, there was a potential environmental problem involving product spills into the ground or water, Thanks to the preventive measures taken at OTTC, of the which required preventive action. terminal’s more than 100 tanks, only one (TK 3749) was displaced from its foundation, and without major damage In 1935, the authorities in Texas City, USA, authorized the construction of a dike designed to to its integrity. The storm surge also affected numerous reduce the accumulation of sediment. Years later, this Texas City Dike had become the primary electrical motors, electrical panels and transformers, defence against potential encroachment of water from Galveston Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. heavily impacting the terminal’s operations. Only a few In addition, Texas City is surrounded by a 27 km levee system that was built in the early months later, thanks to the untiring efforts of Oiltanking 1960s. Together with pump stations located at various places throughout its northeast personnel, the terminal was back in full operation,

26 CONNECTIONS CONNECTIONS 27 North America North America

† As soon as a storm is predicted to † Final Alert T-12 Action Plan (Port threaten the Gulf Coast, the Hurricane Condition Zulu): sustained gale-force Alert Awareness Plan is activated: e. g. winds are predicted within twelve hours weather channels are monitored, stocks of and hurricane conditions are expected to bottled water and fuel are increased, hotel follow; the terminal is shut down, secured reservations are made. and all employees evacuated.

† T-72 Action Plan (Port Condition † Post-Hurricane Action Plan: the Whiskey): with sustained gale-force threat of the hurricane has been lifted; winds predicted within 72 hours, the now e. g. damage survey, repairs and the preparation of the Severe Weather Plan cleanup of debris will be organized. begins. This involves determining when non-essential personnel will be released, The hurricane preparation plan is updated moving portable pumps to safe locations, and revised regularly. Coupled with years and notifying customers of the potential of hurricane experience, it ensures that shutdown of the terminal facilities. the colleagues in Texas City are † T-48 Readiness Action Plan (Port perfectly prepared to Condition X-ray): with sustained gale- face stormy periods. force winds imminent within 48 hours, the implementation of the Severe Weather Plan begins. E. g. all computers and electrical equipment are brought to safe locations, and tank cars are removed from i the terminal.

† Warning T-24 Action Plan (Port Condition Yankee): commercial Compliance an operations have to stop, e.g., and the In an emergency, es terminal staff is evacuated except for the specified route skeleton crew. signs help people Hur A Dangerous to find the correct and escape route With the potential hurricane Triple Threat threats the order of the day is: be prepared! Thanks to their Hurricane Plan the colleagues at the Oiltanking All eyes on the hurricane terminal in Texas City know exactly the emergency procedures to manage risks associated south of the equator. The relatively peaceful center with hurricanes. It also provides necessary steps for the safe, orderly, and timely shutdown Huricanes begin as tropical storms over the warm of a hurricane is called the eye. Around this center, of the terminal. If conditions so dictate, the terminal will be left in a safe condition, prepared moist waters of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans near winds move at speeds of between 120 and 320 km to withstand the hurricane. Here is how the plan works (though not in comprehensive detail): the equator (Storms to the west of the International per hour. As long as the hurricane remains over Date Line are called typhoons; cyclones refer to the waters of 26° C or warmer, it continues to pull † In May each year a “pre-season action plan” ensures that e. g. housekeeping efforts ones in the Indian and South Pacific Ocean.). As the moisture from the surface and grow in size and are increased, hurricane teams are put together and hurricane minimum tank levels are moisture evaporates, it rises until enormous force. When a hurricane crosses land or cooler closely monitored. amounts of heated moist air are twisted high into waters, it loses its source of power. The winds the atmosphere. The winds begin to circle gradually slow until they are no longer of hurricane counterclockwise north of the equator or clockwise force (less than 120 km per hour).

28 CONNECTIONS CONNECTIONS 29 Goo-goos Goo-goos

Waterlock for a Really Close Look

Changing diapers (especially called waterlock), a superabsorbent polymer without getting wet oneself) can that is commonly used in diapers. Taking this Zhuang Ruilu Xu Qing, Jaden A bundle of joy be a science all its own. And effect into account, they succeeded in Oiltanking Nanjing, and was born to Ruth Ng, diapers played a central role in developing a new method to physically inflate her husband Zhuang Alessandra Marlet and Oiltanking Singapore, and Maximilian Since Xiaowei have been privy Jason Chan, on July 21, recent research by Professor Edward tissues (expansion microscopy). This allows Arles Zelaya, Oiltanking November 30, 2014, to the joys of parenthood 2014. Boyden, neuroscientist at the for examining objects in exquisite molecular Port Neches, have been Britt Wenckebach, since December 13, 2013. smiling parents since Oiltanking GmbH, and Massachusetts Institute of Technology detail using an ordinary microscope. But now October 25, 2013. her husband Uli have (MIT) in Cambridge, USA. In their search to it’s time to turn our attention to our youngest been a happy family of achieve super-high resolution in lab microscopes, he and Oiltankers, who are admittedly (still) quite three with their little two colleagues came across sodium polyacrylate (also small but will be growing very soon! baby boy.

That's Good News: Zhang Zhidong Xiong Xian First smiled These Zhang Jie and Zhang at his parents Yang Jia Xu, Oiltanking Daya Mei and Xiong Gui Meng, Jiang Han Yue A sweet Bay, celebrated a Oiltanking Daya Bay, on Oiltanking girl was born to Jessica bouncing male addition Zhang Mo A darling little March 7, 2014. Liu Zi Xi A bundle of joy Wang Ziqian Since the Wang Bei and Jiang Xiao Lei, Huang Zimo Huang Shijie, to the family on girl for Ge Lijuan and Zhang for Lu Miao Xia and Liu Shi Babies birth of their son on May 3, Oiltanking Daya Bay, on July Oiltanking Nanjing, and his November 16, 2013. Wei, Oiltanking Nanjing, Qiang, Oiltanking Daya 2014, the life of Mandy Xiao 18, 2013. wife Bian Panpan were over born July 15, 2014. Bay, arrived on December and Wang Zhucao, the moon with the birth of 3, 2014. Arrived! Oiltanking Nanjing, has their son on February 5, 2014. become even more colorful.

Alathraa Fatma Al Ajmi, Arthur A bundle of joy Oiltanking Odfjell Oman, and Wang Zitong Wang Jing was born to Lorena Maroto Jafer Al Ajmi, became proud and Wang Liwei, Oiltanking Reem and Ali Double and Vilmar Souza, Emilia An adorable little parents on July 6, 2014. Li Yixuan Zhang Yan Nanjing, are the delighted Yang Chuanrui He Jing happiness was bestowed Oiltanking Terminais, on girl was born to Daniela and Li Jin, Oiltanking parents of a son since and Yang Le, Oiltanking on Amal Saleh and Mustafa August 2, 2014. Dotzauer and Alfredo Nanjing, have been proud December 14, 2014. Nanjing, proudly announced Juma Al Balushi, Oiltanking Lafuente, Oiltanking parents since November the birth of their son on Odfjell Oman, on Terminais, on April 18, 2014. 27, 2014. November 9, 2014. December 11, 2014.

30 CONNECTIONS CONNECTIONS 31 Goo-goos I do’s

Formula for the Perfect Marriage

Gustavo This cute Kyndall Rion Angie Proposal little fellow was born to Moore, Oiltanking Port Caroline Becker and João Pedro Martins Neches, and James Dean André Alejandro Bruno Silva, Oiltanking Tatiana Valois and have been proud parents This little swimmer, born Terminais, on August since May 6, 2014. Hugleydson Thom, on June 5, 2014, is If you’re not sure about when to pop THE 15, 2014. Oiltanking Terminais, laid showered with love by his question to your chosen partner, the findings of researchers at the proud eyes on their son parents Gina Patricia for the first time on May Ipanaqué Pinto and University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia, may be able to help. They created 29, 2014. Cristhian Gallo Feijoo, a formula* that predicts the best time to propose and claim that it has a success rate of Consorcio Terminales. almost 40 percent. In any case these 10 Oiltanking colleagues have already picked their wedding day – we may wonder who did the asking, but that will remain their sweet secret!

* The marriage formula Œ Decide at what age you want to get married at the latest. This age is ‘n’.  Choose the earliest age at which you will start to think of a potential spouse. This age is ‘p’. Ž Subtract ‘p’ from ‘n’, then multiply the result by 0.368.  Add your minimum age (p) and you’ll get your optimal proposal age.

Luciana Motta, Oiltanking Terminais, and ALAI BEATRIZ A bundle Keyra Brunella Bernardo Giurizatto of joy was born to Beatriz A precious little girl for made a radiant bridal Plasencia Pérez and Victor Sheyla Lilibeth Merino couple on March 15, 2014. Quispe Palomino, Alemán and Edwin Joel Consorcio Terminales, on Vania Priscila Sunción Alemán, Narelle A sweet November 15, 2014. Elizabeth Patricia Correa Consorcio Terminales, addition to the family for López and Edgar Gomero born on August 13, 2014. Lim Sock Hoon, Oiltanking Zuloaga, Consorcio Singapore, and Chris Lai, Terminales, are delighted on November 17, 2014. about their little girl, born on July 21, 2014.

Edgar Rafael Jackelin Audrey Brunella Rosa Fiorella del Río and Rene Myriam Álvarez Cáceres Edgar Pacho Cruz, Consorcio and Juan Carlos Pastor Terminales, laid proud eyes Joel Alexander This Ghersi, Consorcio Thiago December 27, 2014, Marin Xue Hong Bo, Oiltanking Daya on their son for the first time little fellow was born to Terminales, had a sweet was a joyful day for Liliana Bay, and Tian Xing Long promised on February 20, 2104. Narda Román Anchante baby girl on July 24, 2014. Huarcaya Guerra, Consorcio each other eternal love on July 12, 2014. and Joel Ríos Pozu, Terminales, and Juan Pablo Consorcio Terminales, on Huaranca Condori. October 10, 2014.

32 CONNECTIONS CONNECTIONS 33 I do’s I do’s

Everything came up roses for Zalinda Binte Salleh and Sufian Bin Zakaria, Oiltanking Singapore, on June 15, 2014.

A toast to Elisa Lopez Cassara and Lucas Buedo, Oiltanking Ebytem, who said “I do” on September 18, 2014.

Gloria Esther Carbajal Rojas and Juan Antonio Espinoza Robles, Consorcio Terminales, became husband and Jackie Cheng, Oiltanking Nanjing, wife on November 29, 2014. became a caring husband for Cheng Yang, married on May 20, 2014.

Linda Yan, Oiltanking Nanjing, and Wang Hongyong, stepped into the realm of matrimony on October 2, 2014.

Neha and Kapil K. Kharangate, Oiltanking Singapore, tied the knot on December 4, 2014.

Stephanie I. Flores García, Consorcio Terminales, and Roberto Seminario were pronounced husband and wife on December 20, 2014.

Wei Shimeng and Chen Zhaowen, Oiltanking Nanjing, took the right turn on November 21, 2014.

34 CONNECTIONS CONNECTIONS 35 Latin America Lexicon

Battling the Elements: A Firefighting Drill A fierce fire Earthing The simulator tank was dosed with different kinds of hydrocarbons which combust into flames when gasoline is used as an accelerator Lightning is an often underestimated and high intensity of the unpredictable weather risk with a very high potential current. destructive power. The average lightning strike has an electrical current of approx. 30,000 amperes at a The current always takes the temperature of 8,000 to 30,000°C and moves at about path of least resistance. So in 100,000 km a second (one-third the speed of light). lightning protection, the earthing The development of a “Fire Protection Standard” is just one of the Satellite images show that there are more than specifies the paths that the lightning many measures stipulated in the Oiltanking HSSE (Health, Safety, three million lightning flashes a day worldwide – current should ideally take. Therefore, that’s 35 flashes per second. The need to earth on tall buildings lightning rods are Security, and Environment) manual. Colleagues at the terminal in tall buildings for good lightning conduction was constructed that directly conduct the Puerto Rosales, Argentina, put the local emergency response plan into first recognized by Sir William Harris in 1823. lightning current into the ground via separated action during a recent firefighting drill. earthing cables on the outside of the building, The general objective of earthing is to so that the lightning does not seek a way through avoid potential differences (voltage) the building. within a system. If all conductive parts Although Oiltanking takes all kinds of measures to Bystanders could observe the benefit of this attack-formation are electrically connected to each Earthing is not only ensure the highest safety standards at all times during technique: Thanks to the water curtain protecting the other there can be no voltage important for protection operations, the products it stores are inherently dangerous. firefighters against smoke and flames and their coordinated difference between these components against lightning, but The Oiltanking HSSE Manual therefore requires that movements, they could advance against the fire safely. It (potential equalization). In practice, serves among other things colleagues receive job-related trainings and tutorials to was also interesting to witness the persistence of fire and however, there are always slight to protect people and keep abreast of the latest information and methods and to how flames on the tank wall that had already been voltage differences, as each electrical systems, and to know the right procedure in case of an emergency. The extinguished could resurface as soon as they found air bags. electrically conductive prevent electrostatic discharge “scenario-specific emergency response plan” is a guideline The exercise also included familiarizing participants with connection also has an electrical resistance. The goal is (spark formation and associated that specifies exactly what needs to be done in such a case the use and wearing of protective clothing. The time it to minimize this resistance. risk of explosion) and interference (e.g. a tank fire). On November 21, 2014, the colleagues in takes to take it on and off must be taken into account since signals (functional earthing). various departments at the Puerto Rosales terminal had the this kind of safety clothing forms a physical thermal barrier Buildings on tank terminals, pipelines and loading opportunity to put their theoretical knowledge into action. to the body. Trainees had to change fire gear as well, in facilities also need to be protected from the possible Some people may have already learned order to understand how different temperatures are effects of a lightning strike. This is achieved by the need for earthing the hard way. For The Navy facilities at “Puerto Belgrano” provided the right generated in the presence of fire originating in an enclosed earthing all buildings and installations via an example, anyone who has taken off a location for the exercise: to extinguish a fire in a confined location. electrically conductive connection to the ground, polyester sweater and became electrostatically tank containing hydrocarbons. Matías Cortalezzi, HSSE which conducts the lightning current into the charged as a result may have received a slight Coordinator, and José Zanetti, HSSE Supervisor, led the A well-deserved lunch break offered a good opportunity for ground in a controlled manner in the event of electric shock if they subsequently touched a drill. The latter also acted as on-scene commander and discussions and further explanations on how to improve a lightning strike. If, for example, a metallic conductor. instructor, performing the drill repeatedly with different one’s performance during firefighting. Looking back, Matías tank is struck, the lightning current groups. Participants were grouped into two teams of six Cortalezzi is quite happy with the outcome. “Even though flows down the tank shell and into the people who carry the fire hoses on their shoulders. To the result of the exercise was excellent, I believe the key ground via the earthing. Without this advance against the fire they had to walk in a coordinated to success is to regularly train our team in using the various direct earthing, the current would seek way, and initially set the nozzle to “fog” mode to protect techniques and equipment." other ways to reach the ground, in the themselves. Once they reduced the intensity of the fire, process destroying electrical or the mode was changed to “water jet” to douse the tank mechanical components due to the surface and finally extinguish the fire.

36 CONNECTIONS CONNECTIONS 37 South Africa South Africa

Opting for This area of land offers great opportunities for the progress of OTGC

Deep End The computer Concrete generated image shows the concrete structure of a partially constructed in-ground tank. What tipped the scales Tanks First, the investment: Compared with the conventional above-ground steel version, in-ground tanks promised savings of 47 percent (excluding costs associated with pipelines, pumps and firefighting systems). Second, the operating costs (e. g. lower maintenance), required land area, and risks are substantially lower. Another reason to opt for in- ground concrete tank technology was that it permits the construction of much larger tanks compared to conventional steel tanks. This allows the new tanks to be sized to suit the requirements of customers and their tanker sizes, without the need for multiple tanks. In-ground concrete tanks also utilize land very efficiently The port of Saldanha due to their design and the reduced Bay is South Africa's largest natural anchorage separation distances required. With 52 ha and will be situated next to a Oiltanking Grindrod Calulo Holdings (OTGC) and MOGS Oil & Gas Services and deepest port the double containment lining system, similar, but much larger tank terminal (MOGS) have entered into a joint venture, Oiltanking MOGS Saldanha (OTMS), it provides a low pollution risk solution. that has been operating successfully to conduct a feasibility study to develop, construct and operate a more than The facility will occupy approximately since 1980. 2 million cbm crude oil blending and storage facility near the port of Saldanha

Bay, South Africa. “Recycling” Excavated material removed to make room for the in- ground tanks will partially be used as filler around the top of the tanks The Port of Saldanha Bay is approximately 140 largest specialist crude oil blending terminal. The km north of Cape Town. It is an excellent location for entire project is expected to be completed in early 110 m a crude-oil hub as it is close to strategic tanker routes 2017. connecting key oil-producing regions with major oil- Concrete Roof Fence is covered consuming markets. It is ideally situated for the For starters, a detailed evaluation was carried out Embankment Road with gravel Access Point Next Tank blending of West African and South African crude oils. into what type of large-scale crude-oil storage facility will be revegetated Together with its joint venture partner MOGS would be suitable for the proposed facility. The Oiltanking Grindrod Calulo Holdings (OTGC) will soon options were above-ground tanks (floating-roof steel help enhance the Port’s potential to establish itself as tanks or fixed-roof tanks with nitrogen blanketing), a global crude transshipment hub. Together they plan below-ground or in-ground concrete tanks. In the to develop, construct and operate a two-million cbm case of the Saldanha facility, there were many crude-oil storage facility. It will reportedly be Africa’s convincing reasons to favor the latter. Ground level Crude Oil Person to show scale Concrete

picture: © China National Tourist Office

38 CONNECTIONS CONNECTIONS 39 Leisure & Entertainment Leisure & Entertainment

Delicious Dining at Take a Deep Dizzying Heights Are you tired of cozy Italian trattorias, fancy sushi bars and the like and ready to try something new? Your taste buds are sure to Breath… levitate with delight as you dine at a height of 40 to 50 m – an When did you last find yourself experience made possible by Dinner gasping for air: When you tried in the Sky®, e. g. A team of professionals caters to a group of running up the three flights of stairs no more than 22 guests who are instead of taking the elevator? When seated at a modular, mobile table you received your latest electricity bill? on a platform (total weight around 7 t). The platform is hoisted up with When you entered the poorly ventilated 16 steel ropes using a 120-ton subway? You can’t remember? In any crane. Breakfast, lunch, tea … the sky’s the limit for your orders. case, we hope the following information Picture: © dinnerinthesky.com

will come as a breath of fresh air. Hungry for more? Then may we suggest slacklining, an even more adventurous treat? Slacklining is the art and practice of balancing on a thin strip of webbing tensioned between at least two anchor points, typically 4.6 to 10 m long and not too high up from the ground. One Inch Dreams® is a group of Ready for Takeoff slackline enthusiasts that produces slackline equipment but also organizes all sorts of breathtaking events. Like the dinner they High up in the sky, the air tends to become thinner and above a certain height dished up at dizzying heights on a massif at Samerberg, Germany. (High) Tea? As you like it – either one starts feeling short of breath. Most passengers can tolerate altitudes of Here the first difficulty consisted of setting up not two but four A tax on breathing in the restaurant inside the highest Many people have aired 2,400 m without ill effects. However, as of July 1, 2014, passengers taking off slacklines in such a way that they formed a square. Then the table ball of the Atomium or just in mid-air their grievances about from Venezuela’s biggest airport, Maiquetía Simón Bolívar in Caracas, may had to be placed on a space anchor. Eventually the couple started on a platform organized by Dinner in a newly introduced find themselves gasping for air for a different reason. In addition to other cooking their dinner – definitely a wobbly endeavor balancing on a the Sky® in Brussels, Belgium surcharge on fresh air at “common” surcharges like departure tax, every strip of nylon webbing exactly 2.54 cm (1 inch) wide. Doubtless the the airport in Caracas passenger has to cough up 127 bolívar (approx. dinner tasted as good as the underlying idea was spectacular – not 16 Euros) for the air they breathe. This is to to mention the view! cover the cost of the recently installed new air- conditioning system, which uses ozone to purify the air inside the airport building. This technology not only protects the health of travelers, but also eliminates bacterial growth and deodorizes, as the Venezuelan Ministry of Water and Air Transport (Ministerio del Poder Popular para Transporte Acuático y Aéreo) is happy to point out. Meanwhile, the romantic flight with Flamingo Air from Cincinnati’s municipal Lunken airport in What’s on the Ohio, USA will hopefully leave you breathless menu? One Inch Dreams® dishes with anticipation. A one-hour flight in a private up new dining curtained aircraft, it includes chocolates, experiences using champagne, and, a very discreet pilot. slacklines Pictures: © One Inch Dreams

40 CONNECTIONS CONNECTIONS 41 734094545239523082 Leisure & Entertainment Leisure & Entertainment 403479234802340823 840238042480524805 Castles in the Sky?

The metaphor “building castles in the sky” means that upon closer inspection an idea 248602486024680246 or a plan is unrealistic and unlikely to come true. And yet – it might pay to NUMBER remember what Henry David Thoreau (1817 – 1862), an American author, poet, 802468024473462345 philosopher and historian, once said: "If you have built castles in the air, your work need not be lost; that is where they should be. Now put 784025072358249502 the foundations under them." 935802357023758245673 Eucrasia or ‘Perfect Balance’ 823507235087230750circumnavigations The Greek philosopher and poet Empedocles (c. 492 – c. 432 B. C.) 673 is credited with the four-elements theory of matter (earth, air, of the earth fire, and water), one of the earliest theories of particle 582375235976956892 physics. Shortly thereafter and based on his doctrine, the 91 years ago, two pilots first circumnavigated the earth in they made in 2013 add up to 673 circumnavigations of the

Greek physician Hippocrates (c. 460 – c. 377 B. C.) an airplane. On September 28, 1924, after more than 40,000 earth. This caused 9,128 t of CO2 emissions as calculated by postulated the theory that health depends on the km, various bad weather fronts, and countless repairs, Lowell Atmosfair gGmbH based on data made available by the balance of four distinctive bodily fluids: Excess or H. Smith and Erik H. Nelson landed wingtip to wingtip in Marquard & Bahls HSSE & Corporate Communication deficiency of any of these four fluids, known as 734094545239523082Seattle, Washington, USA, where they had begun their Department. Atmosfair’s comprehensive method takes into humors, directly influence a person’s health and journey 175 days earlier. Today, world travel can be account the effect of different air pollutants at high altitudes, temperament. In his theory, black bile corresponds accomplished in a fraction of the time of those flights in as well as the aircraft, engine types, and booking class. to earth, yellow bile to fire, phlegm to water, and 1924. Aviation has made the world smaller, but has also Carbon emission-related figures – including those pertaining blood to air. Different temperaments are 403479234802340823become a big contributor to greenhouse gas emissions: to air travel – are published in Marquard & Bahls’ annual attributed accordingly: melancholic, choleric, According to the European Commission, a person flying Sustainability Report. phlegmatic and sanguine. from London to New York and back generates approximately the same volume of emissions as the To reduce its air travel-related carbon footprint, Common practices to restore balance among these average person in the EU does by heating their home Oiltanking keeps flight bookings to a minimum and, elements (Eucrasia) included bleeding patients or 840238042480524805for a whole year. The ICAO International Civil where they are inevitable, strives to choose the applying hot cups to their bodies. Once adopted by the Aviation Organization projects that by 2050, shortest but safest possible route. One of the Greek physicians, the humoral theory persisted until the emissions from international aviation could grow ways Oiltanking minimizes air travel is by advent of modern medical research in the 19th century. One by another 300 to 700 percent. promoting an increased use of video- interesting vestige still found in the English language is the 248602486024680246conferencing systems within the company. expression that someone is in “good humor” or “bad humor”. Due to the worldwide presence and The ultimate goal – against the international nature of Oiltanking’s backdrop of the company’s growth businesses, its employees often – is to reduce all types of 802468024473462345have to travel by air. The emissions as much as individual trips possible. 42 CONNECTIONS 784025072358249502CONNECTIONS 43 935802357023758245 823507235087230750 582375235976956892 People & Places People & Places

Brazil From November 8 until 11, 2014, Rio de Janeiro was the place to be for players in Latin America’s petrochemical and chemical business if they did not want to miss the industry’s most important meeting in the region. Named after its organizer, the Latin American Petrochemical and Chemical Association (Asociación Química y Petroquímica Latinoamericana), the APLA conference took place for the 34th time and attracted 288 companies. Among them was Oiltanking, represented by In a colleagues from the Latin American subsidiaries in Argentina, Brazil and Colombia. High-profile speakers and interesting lectures about topics like “Sustainability in the Chemical Industry,” “The Petrochemical Industry in Latin Nutshell America: Present and Future,” “Mexico’s Energy Market Reform” and "Shale Oil & Gas Developments in the Region", made for a very informative and comprehensive conference. The opportunity to network with the industry’s Europe Goats, horses, chickens, geese ... a lot of animals live on the Kibaho children's petrochemical producers, buyers and service providers farm in the Kirchdorf section of Hamburg, Germany. And just as many children come to have completed the experience and made it a success for fun here every day, exploring nature and animals on their own initiative, as well as feeding, Oiltanking. The visitors’ feedback was very positive, looking after and of course petting the including on the decoration! The colorful panels with the animals. Anyone who wishes to stay “team spirit” motifs taken from the latest Marquard & longer than a day can even spend the Bahls Annual Report even served as inspiration to other night. Kibaho Kinderbauernhof Kirchdorf exhibitors. Hope to see you in Mexico at the next APLA Eye-catcher The Oiltanking meeting room e.V. relies on financial support from third conference (November 7 - 10, 2015)! was decorated with panels displaying some parties to be able to host groups, offer of the expressive “team spirit” motifs from age-specific concepts, and of course to the latest Marquard & Bahls Annual Report feed the animals. At the end of 2014, Oiltanking Hamburg sponsored Kibaho for the first time by making a donation towards a children's bouncy castle. This is Snow Jam Right on cue for this not only great fun for the kids, but also year’s Snow Jam, snow actually fell, provides additional income that will offering perfect conditions for a group of benefit the association in the future. twenty colleagues from various companies of Marquard & Bahls. On January 28, 2015, following the theme of the 2013 Annual Report “Team Spirit & Europe In allocating its donations in Sports” they took to the mountains for 2014, Oiltanking Hamburg once again four days of skiing in Obergurgl- considered the nonprofit Wilhelmsburger Hochgurgl in Austria. The name of the Hospital Groß-Sand, which is sponsored by the hotel “Sporthotel Olymp” was no Catholic parish of St. Bonifatius. The vehicle coincidence! Our international colleagues fleet urgently needed to be expanded to be had a lot of fun, plenty of opportunity to able to service various schools in Wilhelmsburg, chat with each other, and many chances Harburg and Neugraben, as well as the to enjoy Austria’s alpine cuisine. More St. Franziskus Kindergarten: the hospital importantly – no one was hurt! distributes around 1,100 meals every day. By financially supporting the purchase of a new Fiat Doblo, Oiltanking helps to ensure that the Snow Jam Once again a perfect children get healthy and delicious, freshly venue to demonstrate sporting prepared meals every day. team spirit among colleagues

44 CONNECTIONS CONNECTIONS 45 North America READER' S CORNER

Advancing the common good Bill Hayes, one of the colleagues being on a helping mission ... and Action! United on the Way Try to solve our riddle and don't miss out on the chance to win! to Advancing the Please send your entries to: [email protected], or contact us by post: Oiltanking GmbH, connections Team, Admiralitaetstrasse 55, Common Good 20459 Hamburg, Germany, or by fax: +49 40 370 99-499.

For years it has been second nature for the Oiltanking distributes gifts to a terminal in Joliet, Illinois, USA, to make donations to number of schools. United Way – a nonprofit organization that pools its The idea of helping CONGRATULATIONS fundraising efforts and focuses its work on the three several children building blocks for a good life: Education, income, and simultaneously health. But how can Oiltanking Joliet be sure its charitable prompted Oiltanking Quiz Solution donations are well spent? On October 28, 2014, a to choose Kuzma Thanks to your good advice, the merchant Perú, Konstantin von Hobe, Skytanking, representative from United Way came to visit the Joliet Care Cottage again was able to send the shipment smoothly on Zheng Yang, Oiltanking Nanjing, Bas terminal to provide an overview of where and how this year. On November 6, 2014 , the company initiated a its way by using seven cartons with eight Ooijen, Oiltanking Stolthaven Antwerp, Oiltanking’s money was used in the previous year. In all, campaign that involved employees purchasing gifts and big boxes and four cartons with ten small Nicole Strauch, Total Deutschland GmbH, the Oiltanking colleagues wholeheartedly supported 45 clothing for local schoolchildren. boxes. Congratulations to Dante Balleggi Tim Venghaus, Oiltanking GmbH, who will local charitable organizations via United Way. The United Way representative also presented the and Jesús Medrano, Oiltanking Andina soon receive the Oiltanking Wellness Set – United Way also provides the option of donating to a upcoming year’s campaign goals to Oiltanking. And, Services, Jaime Gutierrez, Oiltanking neatly boxed, of course! specific, self-chosen charity. In the past, around Oiltanking Joliet has already come up with a support Christmastime Oiltanking would ask local schools to scheme as well: This year its involvement for the suggest a particular family to donate to. Three years ago, community will even go a step further. Rather than just NEW QUIZ Oiltanking employee Debbie Jackson suggested the Kuzma donating money, the colleagues plan to additionally donate Care Cottage in Wilmington (approx. 27 km from Joliet). their time by volunteering at one of the United Way What on Earth? Among other charitable activities, this organization charities. A united effort indeed! The best way to solve our new quiz is to think laterally. 1. Chimneys’ end and smoke’s beginning? ? ? Dream Come True If you feel your brain buckling 2. What swims along with you but doesn’t get wet? ? under the effort, maybe some 3. Who makes a living from “going up in smoke”? Although Christmas has long passed by now, we approximately 63 km from Texas City, recorded the first fresh air will help, or one of 4. What is "empty" even when it is filled all the way? have to dredge up a Christmas story as it fits perfectly White Christmas in its history. This virtually unprecedented the other three elements 5. What makes no sound when it falls onto with the topic of this issue. Many dream of a White natural event was fuelled by an arctic front that had humors ... We look forward the ground? Christmas, but the colleagues in Texas City, USA, wouldn’t pushed across southeastern Texas, dropping temperatures to receiving your solutions by 6. Colorless yet visible, it weighs nothing but every have dared dream of actually experiencing one. And yet, below freezing point while another cold front brought May 28, 2015. An Oiltanking object that has it weighs less ... snow fell overnight on Christmas Eve 2004 resulting in a snow. tablet cover awaits the happy 7. What is clean before washing and dirty afterwards? White Christmas – something completely foreign to the Kids at home enjoyed the rare opportunity of snowball winners. Good luck! region. fights, but colleagues at the terminal had to fight against Indeed it was a rare and record-breaking event across the elements and fix the potable water lines, which were south and southeast Texas – the most significant snowfall lost due to the cold. Fresh water had to be brought in to the Texas Gulf Coast and Deep South of Texas had keep the safety showers and eye baths functional. As to all By the way … experienced since February 1895. The city of Houston, other inconveniences at the terminal related to the freak Do you know why most weather, the colleagues remained “cool,” Have you ever wondered why the weather often seems to get bad right hot-air balloon pilots carry calm and collected. And, during lunch at the weekend and brighter on Mondays, just when most people have a toilet roll with them? breaks, some new colleagues joined the to go back to work? Statistical averages do indeed indicate a slightly No, it’s not what most teams: snow angels and snowmen. higher cloudiness during weekends, but why? Due to industrial activity, people think of first! In the fine dust pollution in the air increases over the course of the week, fact, if they want to know the reaching its peak on Fridays. This fine dust pollution contributes to direction of the air current at low A vision in white Colleagues at cloud formation, and so tends to result in more clouds. Friday evening altitudes, they just drop a leaf of toilet the Oiltanking terminal in Texas City experienced around 10 cm of snow through Monday, the fine dust pollution gradually decreases and is then paper overboard and look to see what in December 2004 at its lowest again on Monday morning. direction it flies in.

46 CONNECTIONS CONNECTIONS 47 Last but not Least

A Blue Illusion

Ever tried to breathe underwater without getting wet? You could if you visited the ‘Swimming Pool’ art installation by Leandro Erlich, part of the permanent collection at the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art in Kanazawa, Japan. The exhibit consists of a life-size swimming pool divided into two parts: the upper, exterior one, which creates a very convincing illusion of seeing people under water in the swimming pool. It is achieved with an acrylic lid over the pool that is filled with about 10 cm of water. This produces an interesting trompe l’oeil effect, making it look as if people who enter the second, lower part of the installation through a side door are submerged in the pool; those looking from above think they are seeing an underwater reality. Leandro Erlich’s spectacular, ingenious installation produces astonishment and disorientation, making it very popular with the museum’s visitors. The Argentine artist (*1973, Buenos Aires) has exhibited extensively and is now one of the world’s most internationally renowned Latin American artists.

Swimming Pool (1999); 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa, Japan, 2004, © Leandro Erlich Studio