PREVENTION & REACTION TO MARINE OIL SPILLS

PREVENTION & REACTION TO MARINE OIL SPILLS - THE SEAFARERS ROLE (EDITION 2)

This is intended for all ranks on board all vessels with a MARPOL Shipboard Oil Pollution Plan (SOPEP). It covers a wide range of topics relevant to both bunker and cargo spills.

The first sequence looks at the importance of avoiding spills during bunker operations. This is followed by a brief survey of the pollution response equipment available onboard ship. This includes portable pumps and includes a review of absorbents both natural and artificial. The advantages and disadvantages of these different materials are discussed.

The next topic to be addressed is that of personal safety in spills of bunker oils, crude oils and petroleum products. The risks of inhalation, skin contact and ingestion are considered and the dangers highlighted.

The last part of the video looks at what happens to oil once it does reach the water. The process of weathering is examined in detail. Diagrams are used to show what occurs under different conditions. Emulsification and mousse formation, evaporation, and bio-degradation are all discussed.

Good monitoring, accurate estimation and proper tracking of the spill will be of immense help to the clean up operation, reducing the environmental impact of the spill and helping to minimize the consequences.