Information gathered by shoreline assessment surveys (SCAT) is a critical element of the response decision process and the development of practical operational plans and strategies. SCAT involves a standardized methodology for the documentation and description of oiled shorelines. This data is used by strategists and planners within the ICS decision process to develop a shoreline cleanup plan. SCAT teams are involved throughout the response operation from the initial field surveys to inspection and the sign off process.
Shoreline response training provides participants with a basic grounding on coastal processes, shoreline character, and the fate and behavior of spilled and stranded oil. A SCAT standardized methodology for the documentation and description of oiled shorelines is emphasized in the classroom and during field exercises. The course is generally tailored to address points or issues, with examples, as they relate to specific coastal environments (arctic, tropical, marine, inland, regional, etc.) in the client’s operating area.
Topics include:
Physical Processes and Coastal Character
- physical coastal processes and physical character of shorelines
- character of the area coasts
Behavior of Spilled Oil in the Coastal Zone
- oil movement – land vs water spills
- weathering and fate of spilled oil
Spill Management – Response Decision Process
- management by objectives
- Minimum Regret strategy
- environmental sensitivity, response priorities, and Net Environmental Benefit
- treatment end points
Shoreline Cleanup Assessment Technique (SCAT)
- Shoreline Response Program Objectives and Management
- SCAT forms and terminology
- traditional data capture and electronic data capture and review
- SCAT: Pre-spill and Response
Operations
- field operations
- waste management
Duration:
Three day courses are the most common, but we also offer one and two day courses.