4.1 This guide describes a methodology for estimating the effectiveness of an in-situ burn. It is intended to aid decision-makers and spill-responders in contingency planning, spill response, and training.

4.2 This guide is not intended as a detailed operational manual for the ignition and burning of oil slicks. The guide does not cover the feasibility of an in-situ burn, or the evaluation of airborne emissions from a burn.

4.3 It is generally accepted that a precise determination of the burn effectiveness will not be possible. However, the methodology presented in this guide can be used to provide a consistent and reasonable estimate.

4.4 Burn effectiveness can be reported as total volume burned or burn efficiency, or both (that is, volume burned of that available.)

1.1 This guide relates to the use of in-situ burning of oil spills. The focus of the guide is in-situ burning of spills on water, but the techniques described in the guide are generally applicable to in-situ burning of land spills as well.

1.2 The purpose of this guide is to provide information that will enable spill responders to estimate the volume of oil consumed in an in-situ burn.

1.3 This guide is one of several related to in-situ burning. Other standards cover specifications for fire-containment booms and the environmental and operational considerations for burning.

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

1.4.1 Exception—Table 1, Table 2 and Fig. 2 provide inch-pound units for information only.

1.5 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.