This guide provides procedures enabling the recording of qualitative performance information under controlled test conditions. This information can be used together with quantitative data to comprehensively evaluate a particular spill removal device or as a means of comparing two or more devices.

Although the qualitative assessment described in this guide can be somewhat subjective, it is an important part of the overall evaluation of a spill removal device. This guide covers performance factors other than recovery rate and efficiency that will affect the device’performance in an actual spill. Their consideration allows the comprehensive evaluation or comparison of spill removal devices.

Caution must be exercised whenever test data are used to predict performance in actual spill situations as the uncontrolled environmental conditions that affect performance in the field are rarely identical to conditions in the test tank.

Portions of this guide are specifically intended for skimmers with hydraulic power supplies. This is not intended to limit application of this guide to skimmers with other power supplies such as electric or pneumatic.

1.1 This guide covers evaluating a number of qualitative performance parameters for full-scale oil spill removal systems or individual components of those systems. It is intended to complement the quantitative testing covered in Guide F 631.

1.2 This guide is intended for potential purchasers of oil spill removal equipment to ensure that suppliers meet their needs and expectations.

1.3 This guide requires a subjective evaluation that could vary widely when completed by different organizations. As such, its main use would be as a means of comparing different skimmers for a particular organization or application.

1.4 Not all of the items in this guide would apply to a particular skimmer or to a particular cleanup application. Prior to using this guide, users should carefully review the entire contents and note those areas that are most important to their needs. In particular, qualitative evaluation of items such as workmanship of construction may not be applicable to prototype skimmers.

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. Specific safety precautions are given in Section .