Controlling oil spills involves immediate actions to limit their spread, prevent further contamination, and begin cleanup. Key methods focus on containing the oil, protecting sensitive areas, and removing the spilled substance.
According to response procedures, controlling an oil spill primarily involves:
Initial Response Procedures
Swift action is critical to minimize the impact of a spill. The first steps often focus on limiting the physical area affected.
Containment
The primary goal is to keep the oil from spreading over a larger area or reaching sensitive environments like shorelines or drains.
- Using Booms: These are floating physical barriers placed in the water around the spill to corral the oil and prevent it from dispersing.
- Using Spill Berms: These are often used on land or near shorelines to create a physical barrier that holds back spilled oil.
Preventing Spread to Drains
Oil entering storm or sewer drains can quickly spread to waterways or municipal treatment systems, causing widespread contamination.
- Seal Floor Drains: Blocking internal drains to prevent oil from leaving a building or contained area.
- Seal Drain Inlets and Curb Inlets: Placing barriers or covers over exterior drains in streets or parking lots to stop spilled oil from washing in.
Cleanup and Removal
Once contained, the process shifts to removing the oil from the affected area.
- Utilizing Spill Kits: These contain various tools and materials specifically designed for spill response.
- Using Sorbent Pads: These are absorbent materials that soak up oil from surfaces.
- Using Granular Oil Sorbents: These loose, granular materials are spread over the oil spill to absorb it, making it easier to collect.
By implementing these procedures—containing the spill with barriers, preventing entry into drains, and using sorbent materials for cleanup—responders work to control and mitigate the effects of an oil spill.
