There was concern about the significant impact to the beaches within the vicinity due to the close proximity of the spill to the shore.

The incident was unusual in that it was very close to a major population centre. Given the relatively light character of the crude, local authorities were concerned that volatiles released would have a harmful effect on the health of the local population and clean-up workers on the beaches where the oil had come shore.

There was no local expertise in air monitoring, particularly hydrocarbon related spills or human health risk assessments.

Within 48 hours of receiving an instruction, UK based RAW Consulting had obtained visas and had a fully equipped team on location. RAW had previously established a strategic equipment resource to ensure that it was not dependant upon third parties for equipment. A monitoring programme was established with a combination of real time measurements and sample collection for laboratory analysis to establish irrefutable standards.

By responding quickly with a combination of competent experienced personnel and the appropriate equipment, the environmental and human concerns were rapidly quantified ensuring that the vital cleanup works could recommence without delay.

RAW's rapid response expertise encompasses environmental, human health and ecological impact assessments. With the recent establishment of RAW Remediation the capability has been extended to include the clean up of contaminated soils, water and eco-systems.

The RAW environmental group has announced a 35% increase in turnover for the last financial year to a volume of just under £4m. It was only three years ago that the group first reached £1m in turnover.

MJ Information No: 21814