This practice is to be used as a guide to classify water bodies for spill control systems. These classifications may be used in formulating standards for design, performance, evaluation, contingency and response planning, contingency and response plan evaluation, and standard practice for spill control systems.

Relatively few parameters of broad range have been used in Table 1 in order to enable the user to readily identify general conditions under which spill control systems can be used.

Satisfactory operation of any specific spill control systems may not extend over the full range of conditions identified by Table 1. Detailed discussion with systems suppliers is recommended.

Effective operation of oil spill control equipment depends on many factors, of which the prevailing environmental conditions are just a few. Factors such as, but not limited to, deployment techniques, level of training, personnel performance, and mechanical reliability can also affect equipment performance.

1.1 This practice creates a system of categories that classify water bodies relating to the control of spills of oil and other substances that float on or into a body of water.

1.2 This practice 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.

1.3 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.

1.4 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.