Preventing Oil Pollution: Strategies For A Greener Future

Oil pollution is one of the most devastating forms of pollution, with detrimental effects on the environment, local ecosystems, and the economy. Oil spills, which are defined as the uncontrolled release of oil or any other oil byproduct, can occur due to human error, carelessness, or accidents involving tankers, barges, pipelines, refineries, and storage facilities. To prevent oil pollution, it is crucial to implement effective spill prevention measures, such as regular inspections, specific rules for oil storage, formulating response plans, and providing regular training for workers. Additionally, having the right cleanup equipment, such as spill kits, sorbent pads, and oil sorbents, is essential to mitigate the impact of spills. Governments, municipalities, and corporations all play a role in oil spill prevention, with the U.S. Coast Guard and EPA taking the lead in responding to spills.

Regularly inspect vessels, tanks, and transfer operations

Regular inspections of vessels, tanks, and transfer operations are crucial to prevent oil pollution. Here are some detailed measures to ensure effective inspections:

Vessel Inspections

Vessel inspections are conducted by Port State Control (PSC) inspectors, who play a vital role in ensuring vessels' safety and compliance with international regulations, such as MARPOL Annex 1. PSC inspectors typically examine the following during their visits:

• Oil Record Book: This document is mandatory for vessels of 400 gross tonnage and above, except for oil tankers, and for oil tankers of 150 gross tonnage and above. It contains critical information on fuel oil tanks, discharge of residues, and disposal of bilge water.
• Sounding Log Book: The PSC inspector may request to take actual soundings to verify the recorded quantities.
• Engine Room Bilges: Inspectors check for oil content and potential leakages that may contribute to oily bilges.
• OWS Discharge Pipe: By opening the pipe before the overboard valve, inspectors can detect an oily layer, indicating subpar performance of the OWS (Oil Water Separator).
• Oil Content Meter: Inspectors review the operational log to ensure accurate readings.
• IOPP Certificate: They verify the validity of this certificate, which is crucial for vessels operating in special areas like Antarctica.
• Crew Knowledge: PSC inspectors may randomly question crew members about oil spill drills or the location of the SOPEP (Shipboard Oil Pollution Emergency Plan) locker, ensuring familiarity with pollution prevention equipment.

Tank Inspections

Tank inspections are a critical aspect of preventing oil pollution, especially for vessels with operational oil discharge systems and slop tank arrangements. Initial and annual surveys are mandatory for ships above specific tonnage thresholds. These inspections cover all equipment, machinery, systems, and fittings associated with oil storage and discharge. Regular tank inspections help identify potential issues, such as cracked or worn hydraulic lines and fittings, which should be replaced promptly to prevent oil leaks.

Transfer Operation Inspections

Transfer operations, particularly ship-to-ship (STS) operations, require strict adherence to pollution prevention regulations. Both oil tankers involved in STS operations must carry the necessary certificates, including the Certificate of Inspection, Certificate of Compliance, and International Oil Pollution Prevention (IOPP) Certificate. Additionally, tankers must maintain records of all STS operations in their Oil Record Books and retain these records onboard for at least three years, making them readily available for inspection. The person in overall advisory control of STS operations must be qualified and adhere to best practices outlined in manuals and guides.

In summary, regular and thorough inspections of vessels, tanks, and transfer operations are vital to preventing oil pollution. By identifying potential risks, maintaining records, and ensuring compliance with international regulations, we can mitigate the environmental impact of oil spills and protect our marine ecosystems.

Implement Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure (SPCC) plans

The Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure (SPCC) rule was conceived in the 1970s via the Clean Water Act and has been refined over time. The SPCC rule requires facilities to develop, maintain, and implement an oil spill prevention plan, called an SPCC Plan. These plans are designed to help facilities prevent oil spills and control them in the event that they occur.

The main goal of the SPCC regulation is to prevent oil from reaching waterways and shorelines, as well as to provide a framework for containing any discharge of oil on a per-facility basis. All eligible facilities with above-ground or underground storage tanks are required to develop and implement their own specific SPCC facility response plans, as well as establish associated procedures, methods, and equipment requirements as necessary.

The SPCC rule applies to non-transportation-related facilities that meet the following criteria:

• The total above-ground storage capacity exceeds 1,320 gallons.
• The underground storage capacity exceeds 42,000 gallons.
• The facility could reasonably be expected to discharge oil into or upon the navigable waters of the United States due to its location.

If the oil storage capacity of a facility is less than 10,000 gallons in total, the facility owner or operator can self-certify a plan and conduct regular self-inspections to be in compliance. However, if the oil storage capacity exceeds 10,000 gallons in total, a professional engineer is required to certify the plan.

In the event of an oil spill, it is important to enact the SPCC plan to mitigate its effects. The response to a small oil spill (six gallons or less) is similar to that of a large spill (more than six gallons). The general steps to take are as follows:

• Identify the source of the leak or spill and stop it if possible.
• Wear proper personal protective equipment (PPE) and isolate the affected area.
• Prevent oil from entering storm or sewer drains and thereby entering the water system or navigable waters.
• Clean up the spill using spill kits, sorbent pads, and other tools such as granular oil sorbents.
• Dispose of any oil and contaminated materials, including cleanup tools, in appropriate hazardous waste containers.
• Comply with any additional instructions from authorities and federal, state, and local reporting requirements based on the spill quantity and environmental impact.

Have a Facility Response Plan (FRP)

While prevention is key to reducing the risk of oil spills, they may still occur despite the best efforts. Oil spills can have detrimental effects on the environment and local ecosystems if not properly contained and cleaned up. Therefore, it is important to have a Facility Response Plan (FRP) in place to manage and mitigate the impact of any spills that may occur.

The FRP is a requirement for facilities that could potentially cause "substantial harm" by discharging oil into or near navigable waters and shorelines. The plan serves as a safety manual specific to oil spills and provides a framework for containing any discharge of oil on a per-facility basis. Facilities with above-ground or underground storage tanks that meet certain criteria are required to develop and implement their own specific FRP.

The criteria for determining if a facility is subject to the FRP rule are outlined in Section 112.20 of the Oil Pollution Prevention regulation and Attachment C-II Certification of the Applicability of the Substantial Harm Criteria. The facility owner or operator can use these criteria to self-identify if they are subject to the FRP rule. If the criteria are met, the FRP must be prepared and submitted to the appropriate EPA Regional Office for review and approval.

The key elements of an effective FRP include:

• Identification and availability of resources to remove and contain a worst-case discharge of oil.
• Training, testing, unannounced drills, and response actions for personnel to ensure preparedness and proper procedures are followed.
• Facility information, including name, type, location, owner, and operator details.
• Emergency notification, equipment, personnel, and evacuation protocols.
• Regular submission of significant changes to the plan to the EPA Regional Office for approval.

By having a comprehensive FRP in place, facilities can be better equipped to respond to oil spills, minimise their impact, and reduce potential harm to the environment.

Understand the causes of spills

Understanding the causes of oil spills is crucial for implementing effective prevention strategies and mitigating their environmental impact. Oil spills are defined as the uncontrolled release of oil or any oil byproduct into the environment, particularly water bodies. While large spills like the 2010 BP Deepwater Horizon spill in the Gulf of Mexico grab attention, most spills are much smaller, often consisting of less than one barrel of oil.

Human activities are the primary cause of oil spills, accounting for about 90% of all spills worldwide. Accidents involving tankers, barges, pipelines, refineries, drilling rigs, and storage facilities are the most common human-induced causes. Collisions and vessel groundings can damage hulls and lead to oil leaks or spills. Aging or poorly maintained vessels are also at risk of structural failures, resulting in hull breaches or pipeline ruptures. Additionally, spills can occur during the refueling of ships or boats, and from bilge discharge when oil and water accumulate in the bottom compartment of a vessel and are then pumped out.

Natural causes contribute to the remaining 10% of oil spills. Natural seepage occurs when hydrocarbons migrate from underground reservoirs and reach the water's surface or land. Underwater volcanic eruptions can also release oil stored beneath the seafloor, forming oil slicks. Earthquakes or geological events can cause fractures in the Earth's crust, allowing oil to escape from underground reservoirs. Severe weather events like storms, hurricanes, and tsunamis can damage oil infrastructure, including pipelines and storage tanks. Climate change and rising global temperatures increase the likelihood of such natural disasters impacting oil systems.

Regardless of the cause, oil spills have detrimental effects on the environment and local ecosystems. They harm sea creatures, make seafood unsafe, and ruin natural habitats like beaches, mangroves, and wetlands. Therefore, understanding the causes is essential for developing prevention and response plans to minimise the occurrence and impact of oil spills.

Clean up spills with spill kits, sorbent pads, and granular oil sorbents

While prevention is key to reducing the risk of oil spills, they may still happen. Oil spills can have detrimental effects on the environment and local ecosystems if not properly contained and cleaned up. Therefore, it is important to have the right cleanup equipment on hand. Spill kits, sorbent pads, and granular oil sorbents are effective tools for cleaning up oil spills.

Spill Kits

Spill kits are essential for quickly and effectively managing spills of oils and other hazardous liquids. They typically contain items such as sorbent pads, booms, protective gloves, disposal bags, and instructions for proper use. These kits are designed to contain and clean up spills before they cause damage or safety hazards and ensure compliance with environmental regulations.

Sorbent Pads

Sorbent pads, also known as absorbent pads, are used to absorb and contain oil spills. They are made from materials such as cellulose, peat moss, or polypropylene, which are effective in absorbing oil. These pads are placed on or around the spill to absorb the oil and prevent its spread. Sorbent pads can also be used to catch drips during refueling or as part of a bilge sock to prevent oily water discharge.

Granular Oil Sorbents

Granular oil sorbents, or granular absorbents, are another effective tool for cleaning up oil spills. These are usually made from cellulose, which has been shown to be highly effective in absorbing oil. The granular form allows for easy dispensing directly over spills, making it ideal for small leaks and routine maintenance tasks. Granular oil sorbents instantly soak up oils and other liquids, preventing their spread and facilitating cleanup. They are also dust-free and fireproof, with a high melting point, making them safe and effective for spill containment.

By using a combination of spill kits, sorbent pads, and granular oil sorbents, individuals and organizations can effectively contain and clean up oil spills, minimizing their impact on the environment and complying with regulatory requirements.

Frequently asked questions