4.1 Once the extent and type of oiling has been defined and documented using proper procedures (see Guides F1686 and F1687), decisions are made on the appropriate course of action for site cleaning and restoration. In some cases, natural recovery (accompanied by monitoring) can be the preferred approach whereas in other cases, active response may be preferred and appropriate. This guide summarizes the principal response techniques available for shoreline, wetland, and terrain habitats.

4.2 This guide is intended to minimize the potential for added impact to the environment from use of response techniques in an overly-aggressive manner or in unsuitable conditions or habitats.

4.3 In Section 5, typical considerations, which can limit the applicability of a given technique are addressed in Constraints. An example that is applicable to all techniques other the natural recovery, is special permission will likely be needed for any response operations at sites with known culturally or historically important resources. Also, in Section 5, a synopsis of main trade-offs from use of a particular technique is provided in Environmental Effects.

1.1 This guide describes methods to clean and remediate stranded oil on marine and lake shorelines, on river banks and other inland water body shorelines, and terrestrial habitats. The primary goal of any countermeasure is to aid recovery while minimizing additional impact.

1.2 This guide describes 22 different tactics that are available for consideration. These options range from natural recovery to active physical or biochemical intervention.

1.3 The tactics listed might not be appropriate under all possible circumstances, and multiple countermeasures could be appropriate on the same shoreline, river bank, lake shore or terrestrial habitat.

1.4 This guide describes technical considerations for selecting appropriate response countermeasures or techniques.

1.5 Selection of specific countermeasures for use during a spill response is guided by properties of the oil, degree of oiling, site accessibility, geomorphology, substrate and vegetation type, mobility of available equipment, hydrologic (coastal and inland) and meteorological conditions, and the presence of sensitive natural and archeological resources. It is advisable to consult with appropriate regulatory authorities since certain response options may require government authorization or approval, or both.

1.6 This guide does not address response to submerged, sunken or buried oil.

1.7 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents: therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard.

1.8 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.