4.1 This guide is intended to facilitate the oil spill response equipment selection process for local, regional, and national spill response teams. It is not intended to define rigid sets of equipment standards.

4.2 The effectiveness of the equipment chosen to combat an oil spill will depend on the oil type and environment(s) encountered, as well as other factors. This guide is intended to be used by persons generally familiar with the practical aspects of oil spill cleanup operations including on-scene response coordinators, planners, oil spill management teams, oil spill removal organizations, and plan evaluators.

4.3 Eleven general types of skimming systems are described in this guide. Each description includes a summary of the operating principle and a list of selection considerations.

4.4 Selection considerations are included to guide the user on the selection of a particular skimmer type or category. Users are cautioned that within each category there may be a wide variation in performance among various skimmers.

4.5 When selecting a skimmer for use in extremely cold conditions, consideration should be given to the effect of ice forming on the skimmer, changes in buoyancy, possible restriction of inlets, and changes to hydraulic efficiency. Because there may be wide variations in skimmer performance at extreme temperatures, even within a given category, ambient temperature is not included as a selection consideration.

1.1 This guide covers considerations for selecting skimmer systems for the recovery of marine-oil spills. The purpose of this guide is to provide oil spill response planners, equipment manufacturers, users, and government agencies with a standard on the equipment selection process for the removal of oil from the marine environment.

1.2 This guide does not address the compatibility of spill-control equipment with spill products. It is the user's responsibility to ensure that any equipment selected is compatible with anticipated products and conditions.

1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.