Surface-washing agents: Product evaluations, Case histories, and guidelines for use in marine and freshwater habitats

Abstract

Surface-washing agents (SWAs) are chemicals that are used to enhance oil removal from substrates. These products have been used infrequently because the incident-specific Regional Response Team (RRT) has to concur with the use of chemical agents, and there is very limited, and difficult to understand, information available on the effectiveness and effects of specific products. To address these problems, information on SWAs currently listed on the National Contingency Plan (NCP) Product Schedule was compiled, evaluated, and summarized. The following tools were developed to assist responders in evaluating appropriateness of use and selection of specific SWA products: Summaries of the mechanism of action, when to use, authority required for use, general application requirements, health and safety issues, limiting factors, and environmental concerns to assist in determining when and how to use SWAs Product-specific information needed by responders to select the most appropriate products in an easy-to-use format comparing the key characteristics of each listed product Suggested monitoring plans and strategies for operational use of SWAs Case histories of all documented SWA use during spills also are included to build the knowledge base and promote the effective use of SWA technology.