THE WORLD OF OILTANKING VOL. 20/3 DECEMBER 2008 connections EDITORIAL

KOREA A cool head Oiltanking branches out and a warm heart into South Korea

Terminal equipment, people we recruit are as diverse as their cultural backgrounds. On September 4, 2008, Oiltanking Asia Pacific signed an agreement to enter into a joint such as pumps, The diligent development of this “human capital” and nurturing venture with four other parties to develop a new terminal in Yeosu, South valves, instruments their growth are vital aspects of our strategy and central to Korea. The terminal is expected to serve as a hub for the North East Asia Region. and even tanks to our corporate values. name but a few, needs proper maintenance and attention to We plan with a cool head and a warm heart, fully aware that guarantee a reliable and efficient performance. However, even investing in the development and wellbeing of our employees A new company called Oiltanking- Yeosu. There are the best maintained piece of equipment is useless if deployed is tantamount to investing in the future. As human beings KNOC Yeosu Co., Ltd. will be formed several criteria that or operated in an inappropriate manner. This also goes, if not take the center stage for us, you will see that the articles in through the joint venture agreement make the port of more so, for less or non-tangible parts of our business. Well- this issue also have something of a “human touch”. with Oiltanking holding a 34 percent Yeosu an ideal trained and motivated professionals are therefore paramount. stake and the rest being spread among location: Firstly, it is a Regardless of what line of business you are in, the most crucial I hope I have made you curious enough — one very typical its partners Korea National Oil Company crossing point for success factors are people. We would not be where we are human characteristic, by the way — to read the latest edition (29%), Glencore International (15%), East/West shipping today without the continuous dedication of our employees! and that we touch upon some interesting topics for you. SK Energy Co., Ltd. (11%) and GS routes linking Europe, Caltex Corporation (11%). In order to Asia, and North Oiltanking is constantly growing, as is the number of our Gust Spaepen build, own and operate the petroleum America. Effectively a colleagues. As a company operating on a global scale, the Managing Director Oiltanking GmbH terminal facility, an study is gateway connecting already being conducted. the economies of the Pacific Rim, Yeosu The terminal will have a maximum port (dwt of 20 m) is A Done deal Young Won Kang, President KNOC, storage capacity of 1,655,000 cbm expected to act as a Jae Hoon Lee, Deputy Minister of the Korean divided into two phases and will be used petroleum hub for Ministry of Knowledge & Economy and Rutger van Thiel, Managing Director Oiltanking , for crude oil, clean and black products. North East Asia and Highlights in this issue holding the signed contract (from left to right). A 320,000 dwt jetty with 3 berths is to become a much be constructed with a natural draft of awaited addition to +/-20 m. The facility will mainly act as a the shallow draft ports throughout Japan (20 ha) and its existing jetty (325,000 trading center (arbitrage and blending) and along the North coast of . Its dwt), however, also add to the appeal of although the facility will also have an proximity to the GS-Caltex refinery, not the Yeosu site. overflow function for the nearby GS- to mention the available land of KNOC NORTH AMERICA Caltex and other Korean refineries, Hurricane Ike which are all upgrading or expanding while suffering from a shortage of land. First cargo hits Texas City Commercial operations are expected to 4 welcomed 14 and Beaumont commence by the fourth quarter of 2011.

South Korea is a net exporter of petroleum products and dominated by the local refineries, which have begun to increase their production, with China and the Pacific West Coast as their main MONACO OT SPORT supply markets. Today, the country does EPCA Golf goes not have an independent terminal that conference 30 urban 34 could compete with the size and features of the planned Oiltanking facility in

2 CONNECTIONS CONNECTIONS 3 S o u th A merica S o u th A merica

The long wait is over The first Oiltanking terminal in Brazil receives its first cargo. APLA — a glossy platform Once again, Oiltanking was involved in the annual APLA congress (Petrochemical Association of Latin America) in November 2008, thus highlighting its mounting role as a serious service-provider on the South American market.

First cargo welcomed On August 12, 2008 Oiltanking’s terminal in Vila Velha Brazil, received its first cargo, marking a memorable day on the company’s path to further progress.

Rosy outlook Without a doubt the Copacabana is definitely worth seeing but In the past, Santos used to be the main port for the designed to receive ethanol and by railcar the business opportunities to be had there by our South American team during export of ethanol in Brazil. Now, Brazil’s leading mining and truck, as well as load tankers for export to the the APLA were equally of great importance. and logistics company CVRD (Compania Vale do Rio Doce) international markets. and Oiltanking offer a joint new export route via a rail network and the Vila Velha terminal located in neighboring The ethanol rail export terminal in Vila Velha is the first While our colleagues in Europe were heading to opening to exchange substantial information on ongoing Vitória. Oiltanking terminal in Brazil. In light of the fact that the glamorous Monaco to attend the EPCA (European projects, as well as discover new business opportunities country is one of the world’s chief and most competitive Petrochemical Association Conference), “the” conference and evaluate new investments. Moreover, it was also a After a period of sixteen months, the terminal, producers of ethanol, the terminal makes for an ideal for the petrochemical business in Europe, their counterparts good chance for Oiltanking to introduce its new terminal in which has an actual capacity of 24,600 cbm, finally reference point; the company is also pursuing several in South America were seen at the conference of APLA — in Brazil and the two “new kids on the block” in its South welcomed its first load on August 12, 2008. Two additional other promising projects. the by no means less fancy city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. American portfolio, namely the promising projects in tanks are currently under construction and scheduled to be Still and all there is no need to be green with envy! There Panama and Columbia. You will be able to read more about operational by April 2009, which will increase the total was not so much time for our people to enjoy the spectacular them in the forthcoming issues of connections! capacity to 34,600 cbm. The state-of-the-art terminal is views or sun themselves on the famous Copacabana Beach as their eyes were permanently glued to their busy agenda and their minds focused on customers.

The meeting of more than 500 South American representatives from petrochemical companies, traders and logistic service-providers allowed for an excellent

MOVING ON UP Oiltanking is continuously gaining a foothold in the Brazilian market.

4 CONNECTIONS CONNECTIONS 5 PORTRAIT PORTRAIT

We Can, We Care

economical or human point of view. Therefore, HR work is also constantly … in “Human moving, which brings us directly to the Bessie is supported by three other HR term “Change Management”. This colleagues: Wong Shu Ping, Irene Kang means bringing changes to the company. Resources” and Shendia Tan. Together, they cover It is well-known that people (on the the full spectrum of HR work — from whole) are skeptical of change, According to Bessie Ng, Vice finding the right candidates for vacant especially when they are in their President (VP) Human Resources (HR) positions, drawing up contracts and “comfort zone”. “Changing the mindset Within the Oiltanking in Singapore, the work of an HR promoting colleagues to dealing with of staff members is very challenging,” terminals, there are department is probably the same the unions and securing the food supply explains Bessie. “You often hear wherever you are as it more or less etc. In addition, from the office in comments like “but in the past …” or various departments deals with the same kinds of issues, Singapore they also provide HR support “but it is our culture here to do …” and each and every albeit in different magnitudes. Looking for the other terminals in the Asian whenever things are done differently one of them is crucial at the Singapore terminals is especially region, i.e. China, and, in and are about to alter. This is where the interesting as the HR department caters future, also Korea. Basically, each HR department comes in to help for a smooth and for a staff of 139 Oiltankers from all member of the HR staff is given his or implement and oversee new satisfactory work walks of life, culture and race. “There is her own portfolio of tasks, although introductions in an employee-friendly process. Here, we take never a dull moment” says Bessie, “and they are expected to know each other’s manner and provide reassurance for our it is almost impossible to work for a jobs in order to cover when someone is co-workers. a closer look at what single hour without someone calling you away. Depending on the entry level, the goes on in “Human or walking into your room. We have to educational requirements can range All things considered, HR work is quite Resources” — in consider and deal with at least four from a General Certificate of Secondary versatile. Contrary to what people might different religions, each having its own Education (GCSE) or high-school think, it goes beyond the “paper work”, Singapore. rules, one of which might, for example, certificate to a degree and experience such as contracts and recruitments; the involve serving the right food. We also can vary from zero (junior position) to HR department plays a crucial role in have to be very mindful of the dissimilar more than twenty years (as in the case creating a harmonious working nationalities and mentalities of the of Bessie). According to Bessie, anyone environment and supporting employees people working at the terminal. Chinese, interested in working in HR should keep in all kinds of issues. And, as Bessie Malay, Indian, Dutch, German, Eurasian their eyes peeled, their ears to the points out, “at the end of the day, it is and even Bolivian nationals are ground and their mind open; an interest only employees who feel understood employed here. You have to try to in people is also a definite advantage. and supported that will enable the comprehend their culture and way of company to support new ventures. We thinking in order to communicate with Due to the fact that every country where try to not forget this in our HR work — them more effectively. Reactions differ Oiltanking has terminals has different every day. according to a person’s background. It legislations and cultures, each country is our job as an HR department to develops its own HR policies by holding encourage mutual understanding on to the Oiltanking culture and between colleagues and help solve any embracing the company’s corporate problems that may arise”, explains values. In order to keep in touch with Bessie. colleagues from all over the world, they stay in close contact via e-mail and exchange their experiences during the annual HR meeting. You always have to keep yourself up to speed, as there are always changes — be it from a legislative, THE LADIES from the HR department at Oiltanking Singapore: Bessie Ng, Irene Kang, Shendia Tan and Wong Shu Ping (from top).

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Newcomers The first participants to be accepted onto Oiltanking’s HR development programs “SLP” and “AMP” pictured with fellow colleagues.

The Strategic Leadership Program (SLP) own personalities and strengthen their appreciation for The program is geared towards seasoned senior managers other peoples’ views and performances with a mind to and focuses on strategy/leadership. reinforcing team collaboration. They also help to acquire, improve and apply management, business and technological The Advanced Management Program acumen, along with basic management techniques, in (AMP) conforming to the managerial/specialist competencies Career opportunities The aim is to learn management techniques through action desired. learning as a preferred style on real life OT projects (work Oiltanking shows its commitment and engagement towards its employees in various on solution/proposals, present results and implement All the groups are given further input through internal and ideas). The “SLP” delegates act as sounding boards for this external guest speakers and work with self-styled ways. One of these is to support their career development and capabilities through group. “personality tools”. It goes without saying that internal and its Leadership Excellence Program. external seminars on areas such as HSSE, finance, The Junior Management Program (JUMP) marketing, etc. are provided for as and when necessary. The program paves the way for colleagues for (potential) The entire HR development program is conducted by Oiltanking (OT) recognizes that motivated and reputed Oiltanking Leadership Excellence Program (LEP), first leadership positions. trainers from Oiltanking’s partner, Change International, dedicated members of staff are one of its most essential which started in March 2007. It reflects the Oiltanking who is in close cooperation with the International HR assets and key to the company’s sustained commercial spirit, the “can-do-attitude”: working on real life OT projects The Specialist Program (SP) Department at Oiltanking’s HR head office in . It success. However, not only is Oiltanking aware of the need whereby incorporating theoretical input and a wealth of The HR department is currently designing this additional goes to great lengths to ensure that the LEP is planned for qualified and enthusiastic managers and experts, but it hands-on experience. program. according to the diverse requirements of Oiltanking and also regards it as their responsibility to prepare them well will continue to do so into the future. for the future. Annual performance and potential appraisal This development program means a great deal of extra interviews between superiors and personnel have been effort on behalf of both the participators and their superiors standard procedure for many years. Nonetheless, during — and not only time-wise. Nevertheless, Oiltanking strongly Each program is somewhat specific but a lot of common the Spring Meeting of 2006, the results of feedback believes that the outcome will be well worth the combined ground is covered. All of them are designed to enhance the interviews conducted between seniors and so-called high- endeavors: the gained knowledge will aid the candidates to international network by deepening the true understanding potential nominees triggered a noteworthy discussion at assess their own (managerial) behavior, get them ready for of Oiltanking’s core values and culture, as well as “the the High Potential Committee Meeting held for the first time more complex tasks in the future and at the same time Oiltanking way” of doing business. Promotion of intercultural back then. The committee conversed about the individuals fulfill both the individuals’ own personal goals and those of competence and encouragement of preparatory measures before confirming and eventually selecting the chosen the company. In total, four categories have been for international assignments and rotation is advanced. people for each group. This approach went on to spawn the distinguished: Moreover, they allow the people involved to reflect on their

8 CONNECTIONS CONNECTIONS 9 H u man to u ch H u man to u ch

It was a sunny A day in the life autumn day in (probably the last of the good weather for this year) In stark contrast to the glorious at Oiltanking and the sunshine seemed to be a good weather in Antwerp, our colleagues omen. As a little thank you (!) for coming in Devnya, were greeted by a into work despite her terrible cold, for once foggy and gloomy morning. No wonder Lieve Demoulin, Human Resources Supervisor, did everyone in the office was still a bit sleepy and not experience any traffic jams on the road! Koen crept into the kitchen for a shot of caffeine first Maene (Operations Support & Training Coordinator) and thing — some even started the day with two coffees Mostly, people tend to talk Joan Oris (Customer Service Officer Custom Affairs) came at the same time! While the terminal manager Plamen Lucky day Molleke, Today’s chef Radomir about “big business” and “big by bike as usual. For Gunter Paulus (Operator), however, the Kolev and terminal engineer Radomir Georgiev were the “terminal cat” from Gerogiev treats his OT Antwerp moves into colleagues in Devnya to world would have been rose-tinted whatever the weather — he busy dealing with contractors outside the office, finalizing events”. However, the less a loving home. some fine food. had just got married the previous Sunday and was off enjoying the latest details for the ongoing projects, the weather glamorous duties that are his honeymoon. Fortune was also smiling on Saskia (Customer started to clear up. Hmm, lunchtime! Today, the new often taken for granted are Service Client Affairs) — she was able to make the most of the nice colleague, Radomir Gerogiev, was wearing the chef’s hat! He just as important if you want weather on her day off. Karin Meeussen (HSSE Administrator) was was keen on making tasty sandwiches. As tempting as they even better off: she was on vacation, stretched out on a beach in sounded, however, the ladies refused his kind offer, preferring to to succeed. Unspectacular Senegal and sipping a delicious cocktail. News also from Sabine watch their waist-lines. However, there were some strange episodes can also have a Thierens (Administration Employee): she would be back by October 21 goings-on in the afternoon; one by one, the ladies snuck into the significant impact in the after having spent six months in the South of France. Delicious sandwiches kitchen! Aha, their good intentions began to crumble and Milena for Stefan Broeckx (Customer Service Manager) and his visitors. Johan Nikolova, accountant, was caught red-handed by someone else end. With 2,170 Oiltankers De Nijs (Sales Manager) was wearing a tie that day (!) for a meeting with with exactly the same intention: to nibble at the sweets stored in around the world, potential customers. Sarah Fakhari (Sales Department) launched a new the kitchen cabinet. But, as chocolate is said to be good for the naturally there is a wide customer satisfaction survey. And finally, despite the fact that the phone nerves who can blame them! And as yet another day in the office did not stop ringing and Annette De Bruyn (HR), the receptionist, was drew to a close, even the sun was “smiling” and shone brightly. variety of different experiencing some problems with the OTBE contacts database, the good menial tasks to be carried mood was not to be dampened. In fact, looking at Caroline Landa’s (OPS Spoted A nudibranch with vibrant out. Here, we take a look Administration Employee) wedding pictures at lunch time put everyone in It was hot and humid in Singapore. Outside, colleagues were “busy colors and stunning markings at the an even merrier mood. bees”, but inside the office building it all seemed so quiet and underwater world of Komodo Park. at what some of our empty. Where was everybody? Thankfully, Jerlyn Tan, Corporate colleagues at some of our Affairs Manager, was in the know: Pele Wendt, Assistant Terminal terminals experienced in For Managing Director Rein Männiste, the day proved that Murphy’s Manager, Hendrick Ang, Maintenance & Repair Manager, and Law really does exist: He had to catch the ferry from , Estonia, Keith Low, Operations Manager OTS, were cut off in the just one day: Tuesday, to attend a meeting with a client in Kotka, . However, the conference room for a week-long Hazop study for phase 10 and October 14, 2008. ferry was 30 minutes late, just when he wanted to be in the office the SRC pipeline connection. And as Rutger van Thiel, extra-extra punctually … At the terminal, Janne Liinamaa, President OTAP, Mauricio Prudencio, VP Business Development Terminal Manager, welcomed the clients and they started the OTAP, Gideon Loudon, Business Development Manager meeting, which incidentally went very well! It was to be a OTAP and Sven Parztsch, VP Engineering OTAP, were on thrilling day for one of OT’s bank directors, who also came their way to Seoul, Korea, for a meeting, Rob Eijkholt, to visit the terminal. Nina Kreander, Customer Service Terminal Manager OTS/OOTS, called from Bali to see and Marketing Coordinator, showed him around. Later what was happening in the office (he was just on, one of the operators, Juha Smids, climbed up to coming back from a diving trip where he checked the top of one of the tanks to grant the visitor out the fascinating underwater world of THE Place to be The Kotka his wish. The director left the terminal with a Komodo National Park, Indonesia. terminal welcomed a lot of big smile — as did the colleagues looking customers that day. forward to putting their feet up after a hectic day.

10 CONNECTIONS CONNECTIONS 11 H u man to u ch H u man to u ch

Our colleagues at the terminal Highlight in have a habit of coming to the office earlier to have a coffee together and get prepared It might not be October 14, the day we picked to have a look at a “normal” day at some for the day ahead. That day was no different and it did not take long for Rachel Caruana (Logistics Manager) to start dashing around and of our Oiltanking offices around the globe, but October 16, 2008, was still a special day “driving everybody crazy” (her own words!). It was the second Tuesday of the and therefore worth picturing as our colleagues in celebrated Diwali — the festival month and Leddy Evangelista, CEO, had a management meeting at 9 a.m. As she was of lights. And so did Rashmi Surve, (Senior Executive Secretary MD). going to travel the same day, the meeting had to finish by 12 noon at the latest. In addition, all purchase orders had to be signed before she left, so Janette Schembri (Administrative Officer) was given the job of making sure they were. Then Lorenz Joyce, HSSE Officer, came into the office 07:30 hrs Oh my God, I’m late again and I’ll miss 15:30 hrs The buzz of the day seems to have with friendly comments about everyone — he always brightens up the day (especially for the ladies …). the bus now. How am I going to get a ride to the station? I disappeared and made way for a festive atmosphere and our There seemed to be a lot of noise throughout the day: either from the constant buzzing of the telephones also wonder why starting the day with a race happens to me Diwali celebration starts. We play a series of games: Kapil Jain or the peals of blithe laughter from colleagues teasing and commenting on each other in the canteen during everyday. But blessed are the Rickshaws (a three-wheel (President) and his team wins at dressing up one of their the lunch break. vehicle with a motor attached to it and a common form of members, Yogesh Chavan (Finance Executive), as a cook in transport in ). I manage to flag one down and have a ten minutes! Our colleagues from finance and business pleasant ride through the colorful streets of awakening Mumbai development are experts in the kitchen, too? Now that’s really with me adding even more color to it by wearing an eight-yard something (and good to know!) And voilà, I won at golf! I saree (the traditional dress) for our Diwali party at the office. can’t believe it: the ball just went into the hole like ice-cream sliding down your throat — that smoothly! 08:30 hrs After a bumpy one-hour drive, I finally reach the office. It is pretty hot outside and I feel exhausted even before I start my working day. It seems as if the scorching 17:00 hrs As another stress-filled day draws to a October sun has absorbed all the energy from my body and I close and we get ready to leave the office, there’s still time for long for an energy drink! a photo session for all of our female colleagues dressed in their beautiful sarees — and of course, it’s time for the rangoli 08:45 hrs I’m sitting at my desk (cooled inwardly (a form of sand painting decoration that uses finely ground by a refreshing drink and outwardly by the freezing (!) air white powder and colors or flowers and is one of the most Jocose lunch break Get-together (from A DIFFERENT KIND OF conditioning) and it’s high time to check the mails. Of course, popular art forms in India). We then head home to our families Lorenz Joyce (middle), left) Paul Shynett Jr, endeavor Jesman today I find a lot of “Good Morning” messages sent by dear old to celebrate the holiday; tomorrow all of us will be back in the OT Malta, surrounded by Said Al Masoudi, Morten Devia, OT Texas City his colleagues. Albriktsen, Gerard (left) together with friends and colleagues expressing their holiday wishes. They’re office to meet our other “family” members in the office again Reumer, Daan Vos and Alton Meador, Specialty quite inspiring and I appreciate them as I’ve a pile of things to as we get back to the grind. However, this does not mean that Ashutosh Kaushik. Tank, floating a tank. take care of in my “IN” tray. I remember the golden secret we won’t be able to enjoy ourselves and have a bit of fun! from Rhonda Byrne‘s novel “The Secret”: “Think of an empty “IN” tray and the world as your genie will grant you what you have wished for! Just another routine day for the colleagues of the terminal in Texas City, Texas, who were still busy getting the In the meantime, the telephone terminal “back to normal” after the havoc wreaked by the disastrous Hurricane Ike. Jesman Devia donned his keeps on ringing. I wish I had four waterproofs and got ready to float the tank 3749 to its foundation. The repairs to the electrical infrastructure hands. Tick tock tick tock — the clock were still in progress but were coming along nicely. Chuck Godin, Maintenance Supervisor, was checking is ticking mercilessly and, while I get how the construction of the new maintenance building was going. through the pending work as fast as I can, it’s almost 12.30 now. Actually, it’s lunchtime! Hooray! The office In Sohar, , the board of directors of Oiltanking Odfjell Terminals & Co. LLC canteen food is always colorful and a had its 10th meeting since the establishment of the company in 2005. It was feast for the eyes as well as for the the first time the members had met since tank farm operations stomach: salads with fresh commenced in August 2008. cucumbers, carrots, tomatoes chopped vertically with white rice, What’s up in the kitchen? Visual delights Rashmi Surve During one game Kapil Jain, (right) with her colleagues yellow dal, red or orange colored and his team Indrajeet Guha Sukhada Dagade, Ranjini Pillai, vegetables in gravy etc., and a desert and J.Nampoothiri (from left) Jyothi Nair (from left) from the to end with. Heavenly, but I’ve still had to dress Yogesh Chavan as Mumbai office wearing beautiful got to finish the work first. a cook as fast as possible. sarees for Diwali.

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Logbook entry:IKE Hurricane Ike was the third most destructive hurricane to ever hit the . On September 13, 2008, Ike made its landfall at Galveston, Texas, as a Category 2 hurricane, causing damage everywhere. The Oiltanking terminals in Texas City and Beaumont — both in the coastal areas of the Gulf of Mexico — were not spared, either.

Texas City began. At first glance, the terminal looked to be in good shape. Texas City, Texas, is located on the shores of Galveston Bay Of course, there was trash and debris all over the place. and is about 5 miles away from Galveston Island and the Gulf However, after driving through, they noticed that most of the of Mexico. The city is protected by an 18-foot levee that was tank farm areas were full of water. This was the first indication built after Hurricane Carla back in 1961. As a waterfront of how high the storm surge was. They found out later that facility, Oiltanking Texas City (OTTC) is located on the waterside the official storm surge in the area was 12–15 ft above sea of the levee. level. According to the debris line on the levee behind us, they estimated it to be 14 ft. To put that in perspective, the highest Preparations for the storm began elevation here at the terminal is about 12 ft above sea level at several days before the expected landfall. the main office. Fortunately, the main office foundation is built up by about 3 ft and did not take on any storm surge water. Following the news meticulously, the OTTC Hurricane Team, work to assist in this process. The rest would arrive back in replacement. Oiltanking Beaumont offered their assistance as which consisted of ten employees ranging from electricians, The water was anywhere from 6-8 ft deep the coming days. Most of the colleagues worked long hours well, even though they had their own hurricane damage to machinists, operators, and managers, made the final decision at the peak of the storm. while the maintenance staff worked many days without a day- contend with. to evacuate the terminal on Friday morning, September 12, off, performing tasks outside of their normal jobs without as the forecast track of Hurricane Ike and the current high The rest of the terminal was not so fortunate. In some areas, being asked. They were able to manage all of this and take There was plenty of work to be done. tides were not favorable for the northern Texas Gulf Coast. such as the truck rack, the water was anything from 6–8 ft care of things at home while being without electricity for 1–2 After several days of preparing and securing the terminal, the deep at the peak of the storm. This meant that most of the weeks. The loyalty and dedication of these Oiltankers was the On Friday, September 26, OTTC was able to make its first electricity was turned off and the gates were locked. At this electrical infrastructure had been exposed to salt water, reason for the successful and safe recovery. By Wednesday, transfer by pipeline and, three days later on September 29, point, the waters from Galveston Bay had already covered the including the switch racks, starters, breakers, and pump September 17, most of the trash and debris had been the colleagues started loading and offloading railcars. By barge docks and most of the north part of the Terminal, but motors. There was also extensive erosion to the dike walls picked up and deposited in roll-off boxes. There were a total October 1, the docks started coming back into service, the eye of Hurricane Ike was still 14 hours away. The hurricane because of the storm surge and wave action, not to mention of 32 roll-off boxes loaded and disposed of. This equaled about while the rest of team spent the next several hours at a hotel in the the additional wind damage: Metal buildings had lost their 1,000 cubic yards of trash and debris. The same day, the OOTC’s truck/rail rack came back on-line on October 7. area riding out the storm. roofs, dock houses destroyed, the insulation separated from electrical contractor started working to restore power within Some of these activities were still on generator power, as the tanks. By the time daylight ran out, they realized that there the terminal. This would prove to be the long lead item, and terminal did not yet have one hundred percent main line On September 13, around 12 pm, the hurricane team was still plenty of work to be done! the pump motors would be another. Oiltanking Houston was power. Some 24 days after Hurricane Ike, OTTC was able to made its way back to the Texas City area to check on their able to send their maintenance employees down to Texas City provide service to all customers by all modes. As of Friday, homes and to do an assessment of the terminal. By 3 pm, the On Sunday, September 14, the clean-up commenced. By to start pulling salt-water soaked motors. Within three days, October 24, all generators were turned in and the terminal gates at OTTC were unlocked again and the assessment Monday, September 15, 38 employees had arrived for they had pulled and sent off 156 motors for repair or was on main line power again.

14 CONNECTIONS CONNECTIONS 15 N orth A merica F amily affairs

Recipe for success

Colleagues from Oiltanking Houston and Texas City took part in the cook-off organized as part of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo in October 2008, thus helping to raise money and even bringing home a trophy in recognition of their cookery skills.

There are still signs of Hurricane Ike at OTTC. Dike walls are location. Having the employees on site allowed for a speedy still being rehabilitated, minor electrical work is ongoing, and assessment and recovery procedures of the terminal. the repairs to the wind damage are still in progress. As for the The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo is both the employees, they are returning to normal activities. They have The eye of Hurricane Ike passed over Beaumont in the early world΄s largest livestock exhibition and the world΄s largest electricity back at their homes. Those that were displaced are morning of Saturday September 13. The shore-side rodeo event. In 2008, for example, the attendance figures now back in their homes. Some are still making repairs but terminal experienced an amazing storm surge of 12 to 13 ft, exceeded 1.8 million. The 20-day event features bull riding, hopefully that will be finished soon. 25 miles away from the Gulf of Mexico. The surge stopped livestock competitions, auctions, concerts, trail rides, and approximately 8 ft. from the office building, which is … a barbecue. While the rodeo competitors are honing their approximately 2,000 ft. from the river. Barge dock A was riding mastery and shining their buckles, several hundred Beaumont completely underwater. In addition to the trash and debris, other people are polishing their culinary equipment. The Oiltanking Beaumont terminal is located approximately most of the damage experienced by the Beaumont terminal Although the contest is full of fun and cameraderie, the 25 miles inland from the Gulf of Mexico and is situated along was due to the storm surge submerging equipment. Beyond judges mean serious business as various teams pit their the Neches River. Transit time for vessels from the Gulf of the storm surge, five tanks that were under construction were wits against each other in the World Championship Bar-B- Mexico to the terminal is approximately five to six hours. The damaged by the wind. Each tank had either four or five metal Que Contest. The food entered in the competition can be terminal consists of two large terminals separated by two tank rings without roofs. All the tanks were buckled by the beef, fajitas, chicken or pork ribs. One of the 100 major highways. The shore-side terminal includes two vessel wind and in need of extensive repair, delaying the construction participating cooking teams was from Oiltanking, comprising docks and one barge dock along with numerous tanks. The schedule. Austin Bracewell, Bob Groves, Jackie Wooten, Mike Johnson, remote site terminal consists of tanks only. Luis Rodriguez, Daniel Rodriguez, Erik Malone (all Houston) The loyalty and dedication of the Oiltankers were and Paul Vargas (Texas City). While Beaumont went many years without experiencing any the reason for the successful and safe recovery. major hurricanes, it has now felt the wrath of two hurricanes Although the event has been held for the last 26 years and (Rita in 2005 and Ike in 2008) in the last three years. In On Sunday, September 14, the day after the storm, three Oiltanking has been competing for 12 years, this year was addition, Beaumont experienced two near misses with more employees in addition to the three employees who had the first time that an OT cooking team was among the Hurricane Gustav on September 1 and tropical storm Edouard stayed during the storm began a general assessment and winners. The judges, who take “sight, smell, taste and on August 5 of this year. Like Texas City, the Oiltanking clean-up. On Monday and Tuesday, September 15 and 16, overall presentation” into consideration, awarded the OT employees began preparing for the storm several days before all crews which were scheduled to work checked-in and cooks 5th place for their smoked chicken recipe. The OT the expected landfall. The preparations were made easier continued the clean-up operation. They also returned the recipe for ribs also made it into the coveted top 25, because of the same routine practiced during Gustav and pumps that had been relocated during the days before the eventually finishing 14th. The Oiltankers and their families Edouard earlier that month. They included removing pumps hurricane. On Friday, , six days after the attending this occasion were also full of praise for the September 19 What’s cooking in the kitchen Colleagues from from low-lying manifolds and relocating them to higher hurricane, Beaumont received power in the shore-side terminal cooks’ talent. Of course, coming home with a trophy was OT Houston and Texas City impressed the jury in the ground, tying down loading arms and other moveable and made their first product movement. As experienced with the icing on the cake but the 8 chefs also just enjoyed the cook-off with their recipes for smoked chicken and equipment, renting diesel-driven water pumps and locating Hurricane Rita in 2005, the dedication and loyalty of the cooking and doing something for a good cause. After all, a spare ribs. them in expected needy areas. A mandatory evacuation was Beaumont employees provided services to our customers significant part of the Livestock Show and Rodeo is namely ordered by the City of Beaumont on Thursday, September 11 sooner than other terminals in the area. Many employees its mission to obtain money for education, such as granting for non-essential personnel. The Oiltanking employees made experienced damage to their homes or were hindered due to and/or funding agricultural scholarships and educational the final preparations on Thursday evening, turned off the a lack of electricity. Almost all of the employees’ lives are back endowments coordinated by the General Rodeo Fund. power and left to take measures at their homes. Three to normal except for dealing with minor damages with employees returned and stayed during the storm in a secure insurance companies.

16 CONNECTIONS CONNECTIONS 17 A sia A sia

Reasons & types of Indian Oiltanking enters directional drilling.

Reservoir Seal drilling business Producing OVERVIEW of Fermation directional drilling. A B C

D E F G H

On August 15, 2008, Indian Oiltanking signed agreements in Calgary, Canada, thus formalizing SAND its landmark acquisition of Newsco SHALE SAND

Directional and Horizontal Drilling SHALE Services, Asia (Newsco Asia) from SHALE Newsco Canada.

WATER SALT India’s Independence Day was also a historic day for Indian Oiltanking. Terry SHALE WATER Cennon, CEO at Newsco Canada, and Jayanta Bhuyan, Managing Director at Indian Oiltanking, signed the acquisition agreements A: Multiple Wells Offshore in Calgary, Canada, thereby bringing Indian B: Shoreline Drilling Oiltanking (IOT) closer to its strategic plan to enter C: Fault Control upstream services. The acquisition of Newsco Directional D: Inaccessible Location and Horizontal Drilling Services, Asia (Newsco Asia), a E: Stratigraphic Traps F: Relief Well technically sound and highly reputed company with there G: Straightening and Sidetracking specialized domain expertise, gave IOT a major head-start. are serious the few companies to H: Salt Dome Newsco Asia brings rights to existing and future business in entry barriers for have developed in-house India, South East Asia and the to IOT, not to new competitors, especially Measurement While Drilling (MWD) mention brands, Past Track Record (PTR), equipment, in these markets. technology, which is now owned by Newsco Services. technology, know-how, research & development back-up The other important competitive advantages to which further growth in India and major participation in Indonesia and manufacturing facilities. Currently, Newsco Asia boasts Newsco Canada has several crucial competitive advantages Newsco Asia has full access and rights are a strong base of and the Middle East, not to mention the acquisition of new an order book of over 40 million EUR. which have been acquired by Newsco Asia, mainly through highly experienced field personnel with domain knowledge technologies like Resistivity Tools, Rotary Steerable and a shareholding in and a comprehensive, legally binding to deliver superior customer services and dedicated tie-ups Hot Hole Motors (for Geothermal Wells). The company is In the exploration and production sector of the oil and gas services agreement with the newly created subsidiary of with motors and equipment suppliers, which ensures also set to enter into the lucrative onshore conventional industry, vertical wells are increasingly being replaced by the former Newsco Services. The intellectual property preferential treatment. Newsco Asia is the only company drilling business. directional wells to reach multiple downhole formations from rights to and patents for technology and products, with two workshops in India that are capable of maintaining a single location and substantially enhance productivity and manufacturing rights, research & development set-up, and repairing tools and equipments. minimize costs. Directional drilling has very attractive market vendor contracts and development capabilities, maintenance opportunities in the region mentioned above. Because of its & repair set-up and other support facilities have now been The strategic focus of Newsco Asia in the near future will be highly specialized technology and knowledge-driven nature, taken over by Newsco Services. Newsco Canada is one of to expand the directional drilling business with a mind to

18 CONNECTIONS CONNECTIONS 19 INTERVIEW H u man to u ch

Introducing …

… this time Lisa Meche, Human Resources Manager for North America at Oiltanking Houston. Another colleague whose face Fruitful can be seen in Oiltanking’s international advertising campaign “We Can, We Care”.

How did you find out about OT? I was approached by a headhunter. How formula long have you been working for OT? I’ve been with the company for 12 years now. What is your profession? In keeping with its policy of I’m the Human Resources Manager for social corporate responsibility, Oiltanking North America. What do Oiltanking Malta has signed a you like about your job? The people I see everyday and there’s something sponsorship agreement with “new” every morning. How would engineering students from you describe yourself in one Malta University to help fund short sentence? Someone who is dedicated to her family and friends and their participation in the 2009 enjoys life! What inspires you? rally organized by the Society Defying all odds. How do you of Automotive Engineers recharge your battery? A weekend with my husband and the occasional International (SAE) in the good martini. What do you do in Formula SAE competition to your spare time? I΄ve just started be held in Maranello Turin, experiencing this … not sure yet … let Ingenious “Falconers” Students of the “Maltese Falcon Racing Team” proudly present me get back to you! Do you have a Italy. their Formula SAE race car. hobby? I enjoy decorating my trailer (only for cowgirls), and is shopping considered a hobby? Three things you like? Exhaling in freezing weather; Under the name of “The Maltese Falcon Racing Team”, up to the judges to award the much sought-after honors to conversing at the dinner table with my the students recently knocked at Oiltanking Malta’s door in the winning team, thus proving their worth as budding family; visiting my girl friends. Three the hope of raising funds for their project called “Formula engineers. things you dislike? Bad news; mean SAE”. The SAE*, an international body of mobility engineers people; housework. What makes you serving the society, established the competition to give Oiltanking Malta recognized the value of such experience laugh and what makes you angry? students the opportunity to apply their studies and develop for young students and proceeded to formalize an agreement Joking around with my boys makes me new skills while still under the guidance of academic staff. that was signed on October 31, 2008. A small Oiltanking laugh. Also, looking at my husband΄s The research involves the students having to design, test, Logo will now appear on the Maltese Formula SAE racing facial expressions when I tell him I want build and then compete in single-seat, formula style racing car. Oiltanking’s real interest, however, lies in contributing to learn to ride a motorcycle; Malicious cars. The contest assesses the design and cost of the to the future engineers’ research and development project intent annoys me. What could you vehicle according to regulations set by SAE. Tests are then and it wishes the Maltese Falcon Team every success in the not live without? The “Tomorrow”. carried out to ensure the safety of all competitors. The competition! What would you do if you had participating students, acting as an imaginary firm, are three months vacation? Cross also obliged to make a presentation to SAE judges, who some things off my bucket list, like dog might be interested in manufacturing the car. In actual

sledding in The Great Tetons, whale- fact, while the design is evaluated for its marketability, the * The organization carries out research and sets standards watching in British Columbia, overdosing vehicle’s dynamic performance — acceleration, handling, for vehicles and aircrafts (e.g. motor oil classification standards, SAE NET horsepower). It acts as a means for What did you want to be when you grew up? I wanted on lobster in Maine, Frontier Days in Wyoming. I΄m starting to autocross or sprint, endurance and fuel economy — are sharing information for the development and improvement to become a marine biologist until I realized that I wasn΄t sound like the travel channel, but as you can see I could fill a studied closely and graded by the experts. Then it is all left of engines and their impact on the environment. comfortable with the ocean unless I was in a really big boat! calendar.

20 CONNECTIONS CONNECTIONS 21 O T S P O R T O T S P O R T

Ride for the Roses physically but also with good bicycles and equipment, not On August 31, 2008, the so-called “Ride for the Roses” was organized for the eleventh to mention sufficient food and water. time in the . A team of ten colleagues from Oiltanking Terneuzen participated in the demanding cycling tour to raise money for cancer research. Despite the fact that the advised speed was around 25 km/ h, the team cycled a lot faster, especially during the first section (about 33 km in the first hour). Riding in groups went very well, apart from the odd occasion where there was a hold-up due to too many cyclists. The route covered a large part of Zeeland, taking in two bridges between the Bridging the gap About 7000 cyclists islands. Cheering crowds of spectators lined the entire participated in the 100 km tour, which length of the course where they added to the very special included crossing two bridges between the islands in Zeeland. The “Ride for the Roses” atmosphere and gave the cyclists an extra boost to keep was originally instigated by going, even when the going got tough. Lance Armstrong, who won the Tour de France seven times. As always, the last leg of the tour proved to be the most After the event, everybody enjoyed a well-deserved lunch Having recovered from cancer difficult. After about 80 km, the OT group members were and a few drinks. Finally, the really good news was himself, he brought into being the no longer with each other and some started to lag behind. announced at the closing of the day: a total of €1.1 million event in Texas in 1997 in order to Nevertheless, they all managed to reunite shortly before had been collected for the Dutch Cancer Society (KWF), an acquire money for cancer research. the end and eventually had to cross the finish line on foot! all time record! Whilst the race might have been hard-going His initiative was followed in many In the end, it was simply too overcrowded with bicycles, at times, the OT line-up is already looking forward to countries, including the Netherlands. which made it impossible to ride through. The team engaging in the next Ride for the Roses. This year, the Dutch Ride for the completed the 100 km tour in three and a half hours at Roses took place in the province of around 2.30 pm with an average speed of 28 km/h. Not too “Zeeland” in the area north of bad for a bunch of amateurs! Terneuzen. That is where our co- workers from OT Terneuzen came in. August 31, 2008, the day of the tour, Tom Blommaert, Sandra Early in 2008, some hobby cyclists Bouma, Rianne de Bruyn, Eric de Cycling for A cancer foundation Top row, there approached the management and Bruyn, Patricia de Theije, Pascal from left to right: Robin suggested that they join in to promote Pauwels, Robin Ploegaert, Rick van Driel, Ploegaert, Rinaldo van the sporting element and support the Rinaldo van Geersaem and Omer Verbist got Geersaem, Eric de Bruyn, cancer foundation with a financial up early as they were to meet up at Oiltanking Rianne de Bruyn, Omer contribution. The terminal manager, Marc Terneuzen at 7.15 am and travel together to Verbist. Bottom row, from left to right: Pascal Pauwels, Tesselaar, was enthusiastic from the word go, the starting point in Goes. Since there were so Tom Blommaert, Sandra and agreed to enter a team of ten members of staff many participants (… have you ever seen 14,000 Bouma, Patricia de Theije, in the 100 km tour (there are also shorter routes of 25 people on bikes …?), they were directed to park their Rick van Driel. and 50 km). For each entrant, the company consented to cars a few kilometers from the starting line and make their donate €125 to the cancer foundation along with an extra way to the starting area by bike. There, every company €250. On top of this, Oiltanking also kitted the group out had its own area to “park” their bicycles before the race. In with a jersey. Although the ten Oiltankers were in good the main building of the “Zeelandhallen”, a healthy breakfast shape, they wisely did some extra training seeing that the was served up for all. The allotted starting time for the 100 km cycling tour was non-stop and the recommended Oiltanking team drew closer and they finally set off at 11.00 am speed was to be approximately 25 km/h. — well-prepared of course — not only mentally and

22 CONNECTIONS CONNECTIONS 23 H u man to u ch A sia

Rescue project At the beginning of 2007, Oiltanking Brazil sponsored a social project called “Rescue” in IOT bags prestigious the city of Vila Velha — thus helping children as well as the neighboring community. EPC contract

Indian Oiltanking recently won two Engineering Procurement and Construction (EPC) contracts from (IOC) and Cairn Energy in the Western Indian state of Gujarat, thus underlining once again its excellent reputation.

According to the contract, Indian Oiltanking (IOT) will pipeline from the terminal at Barmer to a coastal location provide Engineering Procurement and Construction (EPC) near Salaya in Gujarat. This 24″ insulated heated pipeline services, including fabrication, erection and commissioning will traverse Viramgam, which will have an intermediate services for the offsites and utility facilities of the Residue pumping station. The terminal facilities at Viramgam are Upgradation Project at IOC΄s largest and most complex critical for delivering crude to IOC΄s refineries at Panipat refinery in Baroda. It reinforces IOT΄s reputation as the top and Mathura. offsite and utilities EPC company in India established by its successes at the Panipat and Mathura refineries.

The order for the Viramgam Terminal from Cairn Energy is to build crude oil buffer storage tanks and associated facilities. Cairn Energy is a leading exploration and At the Viramgam site Completion production company in India with three proven fields in of an anti-corrosive layer of a crude When Oiltanking Brazil started to develop its first The scheme also requires the involvement of the children’s Rajasthan — oil buffer storage tank. terminal project in the city of Vila Velha located in Brazil’s parents, as they constitute the main pillar of their children’s M a n g a l a , state of Espirito Santo, it inevitably came into close contact education. As for Oiltanking, the company supervises the Bhagyam and with the local community. In order to compensate for the progress of the complete plan through contacts and reports Aishwarya. To impact on the people living in the vicinity of the future presented by the organization Instituto de Ação Comunitaria evacuate large terminal during the construction of the product pipelines, the do Barrio Paul (IACBP), which is responsible for the project. quantities of company was requested by the authorities to sponsor a social heavy, waxy responsibility program for the community. Even though the program’s most important achievement is crude oil from the to teach values to future citizens, it is encouraging to hear Mangala field, Oiltanking’s social commitment is firmly anchored in its that the “Rescue” teams have been competing successfully in Cairn Energy is corporate values. What may sound like a burden on Oiltanking different tournaments with other teams from the region. In building a 600 has in fact been a regular and rewarding practice ever since. addition, according to the neighbors, the program has been km heated Now the only question was how Oiltanking Brazil could help a roaring success and the main objectives have been achieved in the best possible way. In order to find out, the company during its first year. Finally, Oiltanking happily completed the invited the community leaders to put forward proposals for a work in the public area without incident and enjoys a most project focusing on a subject of common interest and harmonious relationship with the local community. considering the main needs of the local people. In early 2007, a project based on the idea of forming a football club for children aged seven to fifteen was selected. The purpose of “Rescue” — as it is called — is to motivate the children through the game and develop positive personal and social Dress for success The boys skills. The project also focuses on monitoring the headway of of the “Rescue” team the participants’ education at school. Apart from the football eagerly await the coaches, the program is also supported by a team of distribution of their professors, a psychologist, a social assistant, and a doctor. colorful football kits.

24 CONNECTIONS CONNECTIONS 25 A sia A sia Herculean storage experience. Thus, there was no option but to recruit practices, product loss control, quality management, and the remaining seventy percent from competent professionals customer services. IOT΄s team of knowledgeable and highly that had sound work background in other fields but the capable operations professionals, which included the likes task right attitude and aptitude, and then provide extensive of AG Khan, EP Esteves, S Mundle, Sanjay Dawar and training to make them suitable for their new responsibilities. Pradeep Bhatt and the active support of Nawin Chandra The remote geographies of Mundra, Palanpur and Ajmer and Sunil Bhatt from HR, rose to the occasion as usual and also made it difficult for IOT to attract competent people. successfully managed this Herculean task. All five terminals Continual, structured training in operations management have overcome most of their teething problems and the was conducted diligently at all locations covering, amongst selected teams are now managing stable operations with other things, standard operating procedures, HSSE confidence.

The right candidates Pradeep Bhatt training new recruits at the HPC terminal in Mundra.

Indian Oiltanking reinforces its position as the preferred and leading storage and logistics provider in India by winning an operations & maintenance contract for five terminals from the Indian public sector giant, Hindustan Petroleum Corporation.

The five terminals are an integral part of the Hindustan After the contract was won on a nomination basis following All these terminal locations have very interesting histories ... Petroleum Corporation’s (HPC) new 1,048 km cross-country, extensive persuasive efforts and negotiations, the most multi-product white oil pipeline from Mundra in Gujarat to formidable challenge was to recruit, train and retain over Mundra, is located at India΄s largest and fastest growing private port, Mundra Port and Special Economic Zone, promoted by the Adani Group. It is close to Gandidham, a city established to settle refugees after the partition of India and creation of Pakistan by the British in Bahadurgarh in the National Capital Region of Delhi. The 100 operations professionals to fill positions at various 1947. Mundra survived the massive earthquake that devastated the area in 2001. terminals, having a total storage capacity of around 600,000 levels. Since IOT΄s terminals run with lean staff, only ten Palanpur, situated on the northern border of Gujarat, was the capital of a princely state. It is the ancestral birthplace of the majority of cbm, had progressively been commissioned by Indian percent of the workforce could be generated internally. India΄s diamond-trading families, known as Palanpuri Jains. The temple of the 23rd Lord of Jainism, Lord Parswanath, is situated here. Oiltanking (IOT) over the last few months to cater to the With only one month allowed under the contract, IOT΄s HR product requirements in Gujarat, Rajasthan, Haryana and team arranged walk-in interviews at Ahmedabad, Kandla, Ajmer, also known as Ajayameru, was ruled by the famous Prithviraj Chauhan. It is located in the heart of Rajasthan. Renowned for its fort, the city is bordered by a large lake. Ajmer is home to the famous Dargah Shareef (tomb) of the most revered Sufi saint, Moinuddin Chisti. Delhi. The operations & maintenance contract has an initial Baroda, Jaipur and Delhi on a crash basis. In all, over 600 An annual camel fair is held here at Pushkar near the lake bearing the same name. The well-known 14th century temple of Brahma, the Hindu term of five years with the option to renew for a further five people were interviewed by IOT΄s seasoned team of god of creation, is also located near Ajmer. years. With these additions, IOT now owns/operates 17 selectors. Due to the paucity of professionals having Jaipur, popularly referred to as the Pink City, is the capital of Rajasthan and was also the capital of the former princely state of Jaipur. terminals with a capacity of 1.1 million cbm. Consequently, understanding of the oil industry, however, only twenty Founded in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh. Jaipur is famous for its forts, palaces, gardens, the Jantar Mantar Observatory, not to mention IOT is continuing on its unique growth path as India΄s percent of the requirements, mostly at senior levels, could countless gems and savouries. leading terminal company. be filled with suitable candidates who had oil/chemical Bahadurgarh is a part of the National Capital Region (NCR) centered around the historic city of Delhi. It is renowned for its decorated war heroes.

26 CONNECTIONS CONNECTIONS 27 M iddle E ast E U ROPE

Oiltanking Odfjell Oman A builder’s paradise starts terminal operations When you enter the Oiltanking Stolthaven terminal (OTSA) in Antwerp, , you can hardly miss the cluster of massive steel cup tanks, which dominate the landscape. The Successful commissioning impressive structures are a combination of two large expansion projects: Project 307–399 of first independent bulk and the Methanol Project. liquid storage terminal in the Sultanate.

Superb strategic location The industrial port of Sohar, Sultanate of Oman, is ideal for trade to the western and eastern global markets.

Project 307–399 their major hub in Northwest Europe. The product streams will The decision to build the tanks for Project 307–399 was based mainly come from their new production plant, which is now on the growing market demand for middle distillates in under construction in Egypt. Earlier this year, the building Northwest Europe. The market has also shown a significant work for the Methanol Project commenced and will continue shift from neighboring ports to Antwerp as the preferred over two phases until the first quarter of 2010. The project At the end of September 2008, Oiltanking Odfjell Terminals Hormuz and in the vicinity of major international shipping location for distribution and trade. Project 307–399 started in consists of four mild steel cup tanks (with an internal floating & Co. (OOTO) completed the first construction phase of its lanes. International traders and producers have great interest early 2007 and is actually a combination of two similar roof) with a total capacity of 153,500 cbm. Aside from that, state-of-the art tank terminal in Sohar, Sultanate of Oman. So in this location, which resulted in long-term storage contracts expansion projects due to be completed in two different two jetty loading arms, two truck loading racks, and one far, 322,000 cbm has been put into operation to cater for the for the capacity currently commissioned. The terminal’s phases. It includes the construction of eleven mild steel cup railcar loading rack (with three loading positions) will be storage and handling of clean petroleum product and infrastructure offers its customers excellent flexibility, quick tanks with a total capacity of 399,000 cbm and two new jetty added. chemicals. By the end of this year, however, an additional turnaround times for vessels and added capabilities such as loading arms. These spectacular expansions of the OTSA terminal require a 216,700 cbm will be commissioned, while the final completion truck-loading, blending and the injection of additives. The The first phase will begin operations in December 2008. This lot of coordination. Once finished, both projects together will of the facility is envisaged for the first half of 2009. With a terminal also has multiple direct pipeline connections to the phase consists of eight tanks with a total capacity of 307,000 amount to an impressive storage capacity of 552,500 cbm, total capacity of 842,500 cbm, it is the largest terminal that 116,000 bpd refinery located in the same port. cbm. The second phase includes the construction of three which means doubling the storage capacity by 2010 as it Oiltanking has constructed within a 24-month timeframe. OOTO continues to pursue various other possibilities and additional tanks with a capacity of 92,000 cbm, to be rockets to over 1.1 million cbm. And, with new, exciting There are also other superlatives. It is the first independent several other projects are already “in the pipeline”. This operational in the second quarter of 2009. The tanks will be projects on the way, OTSA will continue to be a builder’s bulk liquid storage facility in Oman and the first example of development underlines Oiltanking’s central role in equipped with all the necessary systems for the storage and paradise in the future. Just watch this space! “outsourcing” in the Sultanate. Part of OOTO’s capacity will be transforming Sohar into a major liquid hub in the region. blending of middle distillates. Moreover, because of OTSA’s dedicated to the storage and connection to the Central European Pipeline System (CEPS), handling of feedstock and some of the tanks will be specially equipped to handle jet fuel. Facts & figures project 307–399 run-down products for The cup tank structure was chosen for all tanks because it A large project such as this requires a substantial Aromatics Oman Ltd, the offers many optimization features over regular tanks. These number of resources. Here are just a few interesting facts about the project: world-scale aromatics include better utilization of land, higher flexibility of non- • Total land used: 8.2 hectares plant which will be compatible products in the same tank pit, reduced emissions • Total steel: 12,300 tons commissioned in Sohar in from tank-breathing, improved protection against heat, • Total length of pipeline: 33 km Q2 2009. reduced fire surface, and individual containment in the case of • Total number of piles: 7,987 The location of the terminal a tank rupture. • Total length of piles: 112 km • Contractors on site: 11 is very strategic. Sohar • Languages on site: 9 Industrial Port is situated Methanol Project • All 11 tanks stacked on top of each other would make the list of in the Gulf of Oman, just The Methanol Project is the result of a long-term contract with the world’s 50 tallest buildings (at nearly 300 meters tall!) outside the Strait of a large methanol producer, whereby Antwerp will become

28 CONNECTIONS CONNECTIONS 29 E u rope E u rope

Hustle and bustle The EPCA in Monaco attracted over 2.000 participants.

“To be an ambassador for the Oiltanking brand and make our Martijn van Koolwijk, OT Corporate Center presence felt, not to mention get first-hand information on the What was your meetings schedule like? latest developments on the market”. ”Three days in a row of contact 24/7 — what more can a sales Stanley Teo, OT Odfjell Singapore guy ask for? The schedule was choc-a-bloc from beginning to end, and even with some overlaps in the middle. It was very “It is the platform for the EU and almost all the important hectic; I walked a marathon everyday going from one meeting market players are present. It is all about networking, and point to the next.” Being all smiles Oiltankers attending the EPCA were quite project marketing for tomorrow’s locations.” Erwin Mortelmans, OT /Terneuzen/Stolthaven Antwerp satisfied with there outcome. Reza Adami, OT Corporate Center “About four meetings a day. Most of the time was spent networking “Especially with the current market conditions and signs of a at functions and around the lobbies of the EPCA hotels.” Walk this way slowdown in production, it was important to talk to our Martijn van Koolwijk, OT Corporate Center customers about their business to gauge if and how we would be affected.” “Monday and Tuesday were the busiest days. There were new If you mention the abbreviation “EPCA”, you can immediately feel the blood pressure of Huib Jansen, OT Ghent/Terneuzen/Stolthaven Antwerp meetings every hour from morning until evening.” some our colleagues rise as they become excited. So why is the annual European Boris Martynov, OT Sonmarin Kotka Petrochemical Association Conference such a big deal? What does the EPCA offer over other conferences? “The EPCA is quite efficient because it offers the unique What are some of the success stories? occasion to meet a concentration of customers in a short “We are hoping that the leads will soon become success stories.” The end of September 2008 marked the 42nd annual next. So do not forget to wear the right shoes! When asked period of time. The number of customers we meet at the EPCA Chin Hao, OT Odfjell Singapore European Petrochemical Association (EPCA) conference, which some questions about their experiences at the EPCA, our in the space of just a few days would take a few months to do took place in the small, yet charming, Principality of Monaco. Oiltanking partakers were happy to give their comments. individually.” “There were some constructive meetings where new business This year’s event attracted over 2000 delegates from around Luc Jorissen, OT Ghent/Terneuzen/Stolthaven Antwerp was obtained and ongoing agreements were prolonged.” the world, including eleven Oiltanking participants. Although Sebastian Sira, OT Tallinn the thought of having a conference in Monaco may seem like What was the main reason for attending the EPCA? “Everybody prepares for the event in such a way that actual a vacation, in reality the event is anything but a walk in the “At the EPCA you can meet all kinds of different people related results can be achieved. It is also held at the right time of “We received a lot of market information and could feel the park. The EPCA is Europe’s largest chemical conference and to the petrochemical industry, from producers and traders to year: after the summer break and before winter hibernation.” pulse of the industry in the midst of the financial crisis. Some brings together major chemical players from around the globe consumers. You get the opening to share information, explain Sebastian Sira, OT Tallinn of the leads we took back home may develop into contracts.” and representatives from every industry involved in the new OT developments, and check on the customer‘s new Johan De Nijs, OT Ghent/Terneuzen/Stolthaven Antwerp chemical supply chain. It plays an important role as far as product flow, all in both informal and formal conversations. What was the best part of the EPCA? customer contact, industry exposure and new networking And although most of the formal meetings happen during the “The networking opportunities.” opportunities are concerned. The event itself lasts four days day, luckily there is also a chance to talk more informally in and is packed with presentations, workshops, networking/ the evening.” social events and, of course, running from one meeting to the Johan De Nijs, OT Ghent/Terneuzen/Stolthaven Antwerp

30 CONNECTIONS CONNECTIONS 31 H u man to u ch H u man to u ch

The most efficient human haulers Nepalese “sherpas” expend less energy than other people would require for the same amount of work. “A man who has committed a mistake and doesn‘t uper(hu)man correct it is committing another mistake.” strength Confucius (Chinese philosopher, 551-479 BC)

What does the term “workload” make you think of? strength of these Do you imagine a mountain of documents on a desk? Maybe porters is their ability you picture someone carrying a load on their head — a to pace themselves practice that is commonplace outside Western Europe and by making frequent North America. What about a typical Nepalese porter? On stops. They regulate Nobody’s perfecct average, these men and women can bear 93 percent and their heartbeat and 66 percent of their body weight respectively. While doing energy expenditure What do you do when you make a mistake? Read on to find out how you can make so, however, they use up less energy per pound than a by resting the load on backpacker would need to shoulder half the weight. For a T-headed stick the most of your blunders. instance, porters in Katmandu Valley travel 100 km along (tokma) every two to rugged footpaths (and not exactly wearing the best footwear three minutes and periodically resting the load on platforms for the job, either), climb eight vertical km and descend (chautaras) for longer recovery periods. When on the move, “To err is human”, as Seneca once said back in Ancient • Draw three columns on a piece of paper. Note the mistakes about 6.5 km to reach Nachme Bazaar, a town located at an Nepalese porters sometimes pause more than they walk. Rome. According to Professor Dr. Michael Frese, a you made in the first column. altitude of 3,441 m in the shadows of Mount Everest — only Unfortunately, this practice will not help you to minimize contemporary psychologist from the Justus-Liebig University to run back home for more cargo! your workload but a walk in the fresh air certainly will not in Giessen, , every human being makes anything • In the middle column, write down what you did and what The most reasonable explanation for the superhuman do you any harm. between two and five errors per hour. Unfortunately, you thought after you realized you had made a mistake especially in your professional life, little to zero tolerance (be honest!). for mistakes is the order of the day. However, mistakes are extremely important. They are often a source of promising • Initially, you may tend to justify the mistakes with innovations and new developments. The crucial question is explanations such as: “but I just did …”; “I did everything how people deal with their faults. Nobody likes to admit right, I overlooked that one, tiny thing, that’s all.” having made a mistake, but burying a proverbial head in Comments like these mostly reveal what you could do Food for thought the sand or passing the buck is not the way to successfully better next time. overcome your mistakes. Forthrightness and sincerity are It has been widely acknowledged in common parlance for many paramount to damage control. “It’s vital that employees • Write down what you intend to improve in the future in years, not to mention confirmed by researchers, that: nuts are food aren’t afraid of making mistakes”, says Karin Kreutzer, an the third column. Keep those guidelines close at hand for the human brain. From the most regular nuts, such as walnuts Austrian communication consultant. A positive attitude and you will be well prepared for the next “oops”. — which incidentally look remarkably like the human brain — towards the mistake, performing an error analysis, adopting almonds, hazelnuts, cashews and peanuts to the more exotic a constructive approach to dealing with it, and the nuts: you name it, they all contain a lot of protein and determination to learn from it all help to overcome the vitamins. Each of them can improve mental health in its own problem. Of course, it is easier said than done. So how can way. Besides being an excellent source of nourishment for you implement this in real life situations? Maybe the the human nervous system and encouraging clear thinking, following instructions could prove helpful in the future: they can also lift your mood. Isn’t that simply nuts?

32 CONNECTIONS CONNECTIONS 33 O T S P O R T O T S P O R T

A fair game

On a chilly Friday evening on September 12, 2008, all eyes were on the 22 sporty football players of Oiltanking and Mabanaft, who were no less international and ambitious than F re! their professional counterparts. Keeping in line with tradition, the Golf goes urban teams met to mark the annual get-together for colleagues from different locations and subsidiaries at the head office in

Hamburg, Germany. Around 250 © Alchemie/pixelio enthusiastic “fans” came to cheer their team on, combining their shouts of encouragement with ear-shattering fire-crackers. In shared the prize for the best fan club with the Mabanaft the end, there were two winners: While the Oiltanking “Pirates”. A relaxed party in the clubhouse afterwards provided “Greasers” were once again the proud winners (2:1), they the perfect end to the convivial meeting.

Persevering performance OT colleagues show they still have enough puff left in them despite the cold water.

In the rough Johan De Nijs, Jo Verellen, and Luc Jorissen (from left) attempt a shot across the river.

It is an annual tradition for the commercial departments You are probably thinking: What downtown? Is that not of Oiltanking Antwerp, Ghent and Terneuzen to organize a dangerous? And you would be right! However, the event surprise “sales uitje” (sales outing) for the whole group. This coordinators were smart enough to provide soft golf balls year’s event was both a sporting and unique team-building instead of real ones. Since the sport is quite new, not many exercise in the city center of Ghent, Belgium, featuring a new people have played or even heard of urban golfing. Therefore, sport called “urban golfing”. In principal, urban golfing is the it is hardly astounding that the Oiltankers immediately same as regular golf, but with a few exceptions: attracted a crowd of spectators — their apprehensive looks included. Even the press was present. Social surge The aim of the game: to hit the ball within a one meter radius of a designated “hole” using the fewest number of This year, Sarah Fakhari was the winner of the event with only strokes, for example, a bronze statue. twenty-four swings. “It was a lot of fun and the perfect way to Oiltanking Malta has always been involved in numerous in a swimathon to raise money. Oiltanking Malta donated The course: seven holes in the middle of the city of Ghent see the city,” she commented. At the end of the day, the social and charitable activities. At the top of the list of 50 euro cents for each lap they completed. Admittedly, with plenty of obstacles: pedestrians, bikes, cars, buildings, successful team building program concluded with tasty food, beneficiaries is “Razzett”, an organization that supports there was not exactly a Michael Phelps in the team and the rivers, bridges, etc ... . wine and even karaoke! children with disabilities and their families. Throughout the Oiltankers “only” swam 400 laps. However, a lot of fun was The rules: no more than six swings for each hole, hitting year, OT sponsors it in various ways. Last June, for had by all and, more importantly, they acquired money for pedestrians incurs penalty points, and bonuses are awarded example, eight colleagues from the terminal and two of a good cause. Every little bit helps, after all! for exceptional shots. their children jumped in at the deep end and participated

34 CONNECTIONS CONNECTIONS 35 H u man to u ch H u man to u ch

No joke!

Laughter is one of the most human activities there is and Technical support asks: “Do you have any windows open right Telling part of the universal human vocabulary. Its therapeutic value now?” The customer answers: “Are you crazy? It΄s twenty has been thoroughly and scientifically researched in the past and degrees below outside ...” the truth its physical benefits proven. Dr. Madan Kataria, an Indian family physician, seized upon these facts and developed laughing yoga Two men have to carry a piano to the tenth floor. One says to ! in the mid-90s. This sort of yoga, also called Hasya yoga, is a the other: “I’ve got some good news and some bad news. The If you repeat something often enough, it soon starts to sound true. You don’t think physically oriented technique that uses a blend of simple, playful, good news is that we’re already on the seventh floor. The bad empowering, “tension-releasing” laughter exercises. With gentle news is that we’re in the wrong building!” so? Have a look at some of the common misconceptions that people have been taking breathing and stretching exercises, rhythmic clapping and the at face value for years: chanting of Ho Ho Ha Ha Ha in unison, simulated laughter soon Two friends are admiring an exhibition. Suddenly, one of them turns into real laughter. A typical laughter yoga session lasts says: “This picture doesn’t really belong in this abstract art about 20–30 minutes. Performed on a regularly basis, laughter exhibition! The landscape looks so natural!” The other one yoga can reduce stress and increase productivity, as American comments: “True, it isn’t a painting; you’re looking out of the and Indian studies prove. So why not start your own laughing window!” session right now with some jokes?

TEST Are you professionally minded? Hard to swallow? Spinach Sweet news! Eating We would also like to shed And “cut”! Frequent contains a lot of iron! chocolate doesn’t give some light onto the haircuts stimulate hair Are you qualified to be a professional? Try our “serious” quiz This myth was born in 1890 you spots! (Better watch following matter: Reading growth! Unfortunately, that consists of four questions and see for yourself: when dried spinach was out for anabolic agents). in bad light ruins your regardless of how often examined and its high iron The all clear for chocolate eyesight! Granted, you cut your hair, shave or How do you put a giraffe into a refrigerator? content — which we now means you can indulge in reading by torchlight is let you hair down, it will Open the refrigerator, put in the giraffe and close the door. know to be greater than it as much as you like quite wearing for the eyes only grow a maximum of (This question tests whether or not you approach simple that of fresh spinach — was without a care in the and may be something of a 0.35 mm per day. This is things in a complicated way) wrongly allotted to its fresh world — except maybe for strain, but it’s more your because the roots remain counterpart. However, the hips! beauty sleep that will suffer untouched by threatening How do you put an elephant into a refrigerator? spinach does contain a lot if you can’t put a book scissors. If you thought open the refrigerator, put in the elephant and of vitamins and minerals down. However, reading by close the door, you would be wrong. that make it a healthy twilight won’t do any Unfortunately, the correct answer is open the refrigerator, vegetable and it can still permanent damage. Just take out the giraffe, put in the elephant and close the door. make you strong — as long don’t forget to buy new (This question tests your foresightedness) as you consume more than batteries. 1 kg of it every day! The Lion King is hosting an animal conference. All the animals attend except one. Who is absent? The elephant — it is in the refrigerator! (This tests if you are capable of comprehensive thinking)

OK, if you did not answer the last three questions correctly, this is your last chance to test whether or not you are qualified to be a professional: There is a river that is known to have many crocodiles in it. How do you cross it? Simply swim across. All the crocodiles are attending the animal meeting!

36 CONNECTIONS CONNECTIONS 37 F amily affairs READER ’ S C O R N E R

... and action! Try to solve our riddle and don’t miss the chance to win! Please send your entries to: [email protected], or contact us by post: Oiltanking GmbH, connections Team, Admiralitaetstrasse 55, 20459 Hamburg, Germany or by fax: +49(0)40 370 99 499.

CONGRAT U LATIONS Quiz solution S U M M E R Breaking the spell cast by last summer’s magic quiz was no 1 5 7 7 4 3 mean feat. Nevertheless, some of you found the magic words M A G I C and sent us the right solution — see opposite. Many thanks to - 7 9 0 8 2 all of you! Our congratulations go to Elvira Kaiser, Oiltanking M I L L S Germany, Hanau terminal. The new broomstick – sorry, the = 7 8 6 6 1 new Oiltanking silk scarf is on its way! Shoulder to shoulder Even the youngest Oiltankers demonstrated their common bonding during the family day. ! N E W Q U IZ Pearl pleasure Teamwork We are watching two painters at work. The master While Oiltanking’s operators were playing basketball families had given to the company. Filled with fun-packed needs four hours to paint a room; his assistant paints together, the HSSE Manager was feeding his baby daughter teambuilding games, a prize draw and plenty of chances for the same room in six hours. How long would they need and other “Oiltankers” were going for goal on the football private exchanges, the one-day social event simply flew by. if they worked together? Maybe you would also like to field or chatting away about what was going on in Nanjing, The two months of elaborate preparation had paid off as solve this riddle with someone’s help? In any case, just China, on October 18, 2008! A fabulous event had been the gathering demonstrated perfectly the family culture make sure you specify to whom we should send the organized in Pearl Spring Park, where the entire Oiltanking Oiltanking is so proud of. It was also an ideal moment to Oiltanking relaxing set if the entry is correct and wins. team from the Nanjing terminal and their families were encourage colleagues to share the vision of Oiltanking Good luck! able to enjoy their first Family Day since coming aboard. Nanjing’s brilliant future, not to mention offer their family Koen Verniers, General Manager of Oiltanking Nanjing, members some reassurance. seized the opportunity and delivered an inspiring speech in appreciation of all the support the employees and their Remember? Zachary Eugene, the cute little Texan Oiltanker of Terry Elliot (OT Houston) and husband Jason.

Here we are! Are you curious to see our youngest Oiltankers and would like to know who said “yes, I would” and when and where? Kindly send us your pictures and read all about it in the next issue.

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L ast b u t not L east vol 21/1 13.02.2009 Deadline: Misunderstandings! Copy 3 a times year

A misunderstanding occurs when what was meant and what was understood do not coincide. The consequences can range from being Published trivial, tragic or even funny. Misunderstandings form the basis for novels; they can wreck relationships or wreak havoc. In a nutshell, they represent a common disturbance in communication, and human beings are prone to it. Misunderstandings are everywhere and timeless! At long last, the Museum for Communication in , Germany, was the first institution to dedicate an entire exhibition to the topic. From April 23 to October 5, 2008, “Misunderstandings — Stepping-stones to Communication” presented a broad range of famous and less well-known examples from V.I.G. Druck & Media GmbH, Hamburg & Druck Hamburg GmbH, Media V.I.G. past and present. One of the exhibits

showed a kangaroo. Legend has it that Print when Captain James Cook landed in Australia in 1770 and first saw these strange animals hopping around, raz design he asked the native Australians (aborigines) what they were Design called. The reply was “Kan ga roo” meaning “I don’t understand”! The explorer, however, assumed that Eijkholt Renate this was the animal’s Editor name! Oiltanking GmbH, Corporate Center, Admiralitaetstrasse 55, 20459 Hamburg, Germany, www.oiltanking.com, Telephone +49- 40- 370 99 485, Fax +49- 40- 370 99 499 Gabi Wuestenberg, Manager Communications Communications Manager Gabi Wuestenberg, Published by Coordinator Copyright: Museum fuer Kommunikation, Berlin/photo: Dirk Laessig Dirk Berlin/photo: Kommunikation, fuer Museum Copyright: connections Vol. 20/3/2008 [email protected] [email protected] IMPRINT E-Mail