As a result, transportation and storage represent a labyrinth of
sophisticated processes that include rigorous inspections,
stringent standards of compliance, regulations generated from
industry initiatives and government mandates for the design,
construction and maintenance of tanker fleets and pipelines, and
the selection of qualified crew and personnel. Moreover, safety,
efficiency, tanker hull strength and pipeline integrity are
critical concerns, particularly as they relate to environmental
issues such as fires, oil spills, and oil leaks. According to
Hoovers Oil and Gas Transportation and Storage overview, some of
the major players involved in oil and gas transportation and
storage are OAO Tatneft, Exxon Mobil Corporation, Royal Dutch
Shell, China Petroleum & Chemical Corporation, and BP.4 These
are the same companies that are also involved in the refining,
marketing and distribution of oil and gas. Tankers travel
interregional water routes. Tankers are primarily the major
haulers of oil that is importe