Using the Data Dictionary developed by this Task Force project, as well as a data dictionary associated with the data systems used by EPA and the National Response Center, the workgroup will develop a compendium of definitions. The workgroup then plans to develop a compendium of data sources such as permitting and tank registration information, natural resource information, site characterization, incident reports, and other information from the state and local levels. Their final goal is to address how states are using risk based data to prioritize their oil spill prevention, planning, and response workloads. The Task Force Member agencies should incorporate the terms and format of the Spill and Incident Reporting Data Collection Dictionary into their data systems by a specified date 2 2. Member agencies should participate in investigator training sessions during the Fall of 1997.
Surface waters includes both marine and fresh waters, but exempts ground waters.
Data will be collected on spills from all sources for which participating agencies receive reports. This includes vessels, marine terminals, refineries, other facilities, transmission pipelines, production facilities, underground storage tanks, truck and rail transport, and other significant sources of spills. Near miss information will be provided by those member agencies which collect that information. Understanding the challenge of making changes in database systems on a national level, the Workgroup recommends that Canadian and US federal agencies evaluate and consider adopting the definitions in the attached Data Collection Dictionary. 1 Agreement to be developed.