4.1 This guide is primarily intended to aid decision-makers and spill-responders in contingency planning, spill response, and training.

4.2 This guide is general and site conditions can change the situation considerably.

1.1 This guide covers the use of in-situ burning directly in derelict ships and other vessels, particularly in remote and inaccessible areas. This guide is not applicable to in-situ burning of oil on sea or land.

1.2 This guide is applicable to situations in which the vessel and cargo are not salvageable. After the burn, the vessel will never be salvageable. It is intended that the in-situ burning of oil spills in ships be a last resort option.

1.3 The purpose of this guide is to provide information that will enable spill responders to decide if burning will be used to remove oil from stranded ships or other vessels.

1.4 This is a general guide only. It is assumed that conditions at the spill site have been assessed and that these conditions are suitable for the burning of oil. It is also assumed that permissions to burn the oil have been obtained. Variations in the behavior of different oil types are not dealt with and may change some of the parameters noted in this guide.

1.5 This guide is one of several related to in-situ burning.

1.6 There are many safety concerns associated with in-situ burning of oil in ships. These include the unsafe nature of the wrecked vessel and the use of explosives.

1.7 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.8 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.