Respect zones — Area of respect for platforms and underwater pipelines

The presence of underwater platforms and pipelines for the extraction and transport of hydrocarbons binds the possibility to engage in fishing activities as well as the possibility for vessels and vessels to anchor in those areas in order not to compromise the operation of the facilities. For hydrocarbon extraction platforms, access to a 200 m wide area (500 m for recreational craft) surrounding fixed and mobile methane installations is prohibited. According to the Italian legislation in force, they are defined as “criminal offences for the deliberate breakdown or damage caused by negligent negligence by vessels flying its flag or by persons under its jurisdiction, pipelines or cables [...]”. An underwater pipeline protection zone is therefore provided to prevent damage.