Oil Spill Surveys

A survey request should follow the subsequent steps:

a) Communication of Incident to AES
AES should receive communication from clients requesting a contamination survey to determine the extent of damage caused by the spill of oil.

b) Communication with Owner / Occupant
Upon receipt of any request, the owners / occupants are within 1 hour to arrange a suitable time and date for the survey to be performed, which, if can be agreed would commence within a maximum of 24 hours of the initial request.

c) Commencement of Survey
Surveys are carried out utilising a Photoionisation Detector (PID) calibrated with 101ppm isobutylene in zero air, which detects any hydrocarbons that may have migrated through the subsoil. This information can then be used to determine the nature and volume of the affected area.

The diagram below, highlights exactly how Dense Non-Aqueous Phase Liquids (DNAPL) such as oil can easily migrate and disperse through soil structures following the path of least resistance.

d) Remedial Strategy
Completed Reports are then submitted via e-mail / post or fax to Clients within 3 days of undertaking surveys, containing details on the extent of contamination present, recommended remedial works, detailing the extent of any physical disturbance to property (whether internally or externally) and a quotation.

e) Remedial Works
Provided that AES-Marconi’s recommendations and quotation are accepted a team of remedial technicians would mobilise to the site within 5 working days upon receipt of a written / faxed order.

Although case specific, it is usual for remedial works to consist of both ex-situ and in-situ remediation techniques. In terms of ex-situ remediation contaminated materials are safely removed to landfill, whereas in-situ bioremediation is reserved for treating pollution lying beneath dwellings and outbuildings, seeking to minimise structural disturbance.

Bioremediation involves the deployment and stimulation of bacteria in solution throughout contaminated areas. The bacteria then multiply as they consume oil, thereby cleaning soil particles. This process is highlighted in the diagram left.

f) Status Report
During all survey and remedial works owner/occupiers are kept informed of progress and a fortnightly status report is supplied to Clients indicating the progress of the works and/or any changes in circumstances with regard to the extent of the pollution problem, migration to 3rd party properties or increased costs of remediation.

g) Completion of Works
Upon completion of remedial works, AES-Marconi will supply a ‘ Decontamination Certificate’ to the client along with a Mandate of Satisfaction from the owner/occupier and independent verification of the work carried out.