4.1 This guide provides quantitative data in the form of oil recovery rates, throughput efficiencies, and oil recovery efficiencies under controlled test conditions. The data can be used for evaluating design characteristics of a particular spill removal device or as a means of comparing two or more 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. Other variables such as mechanical reliability, presence of debris, ease of repair, ease of deployment, required operator training, operator fatigue, seaworthiness, and transportability also affect performance in an actual spill but are not measured by this guide. These variables should be considered along with the test data when making comparisons or evaluations of spill removal devices.

1.1 This standard provides a guide for determining performance parameters of full-scale oil spill removal devices in recovering floating oil when tested in controlled environments.

1.2 This guide involves the use of specific test oils that may be considered hazardous materials after testing is completed. It is the responsibility of the user of this guide to procure and abide by the necessary permits for disposal of the used test oil.

1.3 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 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.