The Shut off activities at the source of the spill. These may range from simple valve realinement to extensive salvage operations. Rup-tured tanks, for example, may be sealed with chemicals which foam in place and form reliable seals. Phases in an Oil Spill. The preplanned construction of trenches or dikes to isolate potential spill areas on land.
Containment is the critical first step of any coordinated spill cleanup activity.
The rapidity and effectiveness with which it is applied will limit the adverse impacts of the spill on other beneficial uses of the affected water or land area. Table 8-1 summarizes some of the containment methods available. Piston Film Chemicals. Piston film chemicals have high surface activity and spread rapidly over the water surface. The spreading force of the chemical is sufficient to overcome the spreading forces of the slick.