UAB-Online, a leading software innovator, has upgraded its digital platform to enhance liquid bulk operational efficiency specifically for maritime chemical parks. The latest functionality aims to minimise errors, improve planning, and reduce idle time in port operations, thereby delivering substantial benefits to all stakeholders.
Maritime chemical parks are collaborative production areas where multiple chemical companies share infrastructure such as jetties and storage facilities. While these parks aim to increase efficiency and lower environmental impacts, they often face challenges in streamlining operations among various parties with distinct systems. Common issues include delays and increased communication traffic via phone and email.
Originally launched in 2010, UAB-Online’s platform optimises the processes of maritime liquid bulk handling for refineries, tank storage facilities, and chemical plants. The enhanced features now address the specific needs of stakeholders at maritime chemical parks, offering insights into different operational processes to facilitate better coordination and efficiency.
“Several chemical parks in the UK and Germany are already benefiting from our platform,” says Hans Bobeldijk, CEO of UAB-Online. “By digitising communications and centralising documents, the platform standardises processes, creating efficiencies across operational handling and enhancing collaboration between stakeholders.”
The benefits of a more streamlined maritime handling operation extend beyond mere efficiency. For chemical parks, where the party handling maritime operations often differs from the party processing the product, UAB-Online’s platform bridges the gap. It ensures seamless communication and coordination, reducing the risk of miscommunication and operational delays. The UAB-Online platform not only boosts productivity but also enhances safety and environmental compliance by ensuring accurate and timely data flow.
Chemical park clients have reported significant improvements since adopting UAB-Online’s platform. “Our work is streamlined, and productivity has increased without the burden of paperwork,” says Jake Woods, Digital Transformation Manager for px Group, which includes the Saltend Chemicals Park in Hull, UK. “Previously, we faced challenges combining information from multiple systems. UAB-Online has helped us digitise our extensive paper-based process which included 60 pages of signatures per vessel and digitalise our reporting by accessing the data rapidly via UAB-Online’s API.”
UAB-Online anticipates that more stakeholders in the chemical park sector will embrace digitisation, leading to a more streamlined liquid bulk industry. “Increased transparency makes the process safer and more efficient,” adds Hans Bobeldijk. “This has always been our goal.”