Introduction

Oil spills are among the most devastating environmental disasters, capable of causing long-term damage to marine ecosystems, shoreline habitats, and human livelihoods. Effective oil spill response operations hinge on the ability to contain, recover, and store spilled oil promptly and safely. The storage of recovered oil plays a pivotal role in ensuring the efficiency of such operations while mitigating further environmental impact.

This article explores the importance of oil storage during spill response operations and discusses the types of storage tanks available for this purpose.

Why is Oil Storage Crucial During Spill Response Operations?

Preventing Secondary Contamination

One of the primary objectives during an oil spill response is to prevent the recovered oil from leaking back into the environment. Proper storage ensures that the collected oil remains contained throughout the operation, reducing the risk of secondary contamination. This measure is especially critical in sensitive ecological areas where additional exposure could exacerbate the damage.

Supporting Efficient Recovery

Oil spill recovery operations often involve multiple teams and equipment working simultaneously to remove oil from water and shoreline areas. Adequate storage capacity allows these teams to work without interruption, ensuring that recovered oil is safely stored and does not hinder the continued cleanup process. Without sufficient storage options, operations may experience delays or bottlenecks.

Facilitating Disposal and Recycling

Recovered oil needs to be disposed of or recycled properly after the spill response operation concludes. Appropriate storage during the operation simplifies the logistics of handling the oil later, ensuring its safe and efficient transfer to disposal or recycling facilities.

Enhancing Operational Safety

Oil spill response operations often occur under challenging conditions, including rough seas and unpredictable weather. The choice of storage tank must take into consideration the environment in which it will be used.   Selection of an appropriate storage tank is a must for oil recovery operations to reduce the likelihood of further spills of recovered oil and any damage or accidents that could follow. 

Types of Storage Tanks Used in Oil Spill Response

Portable framed tanks

Portable framed tanks are ideal for quick deployment in areas where oil spill response operations are underway. These tanks are easy to transport, and can be set up rapidly. They come in various sizes and can be made from either a rubber materials or thermoplastic (such as polyurethane).  Durability of the material is essential to ensure the tank can handle the harsh conditions of spill environments. Framed portable tanks are particularly useful for temporary storage during shoreline cleanup operations or remote areas.

Self supporting tanks

Self-supporting oil storage tanks do not have frames and cleverly designed to be quickly and easily deployed.  They are highly effective in containing and storing recovered oil. Tanks such as Vikoma’s Vikotank is a self-supporting has an open-top and is available in either neoprene or polyurethane material. It features a collar that supports the entry lip, making it easy to fill the tank. This design ensures that the tank takes shape as it is filled, providing a stable configuration even in high winds.

Floating tanks

Floating oil storage tanks are designed to float on water, making them ideal for use in marine environments where oil spills are most likely to occur. Vikoma offers a range of floating oil storage tanks, each tailored to meet specific needs and conditions.

One of the primary types of floating storage tanks available at Vikoma is the Flexible Floating Storage Tank. These tanks are towable and can be used both on water and dry land for retaining recovered oil or water. They are constructed from durable materials such as neoprene or polyurethane, ensuring resistance to harsh environmental conditions and hydrocarbons.  Another type is the Floating Recovered Oil Storage Tank (FROST), which is a barge featuring a hull-shaped storage pocket and is designed for towing. This tank is made from neoprene-coated fabric and includes internal airtight compartments for increased integrity. Vikoma also offers the FR50 Floating Storage Tank, which is a towable tank with a pocket-shaped bottom.

These tanks are designed to be robust and reliable, with features such as pressure relief safety valves.  A variety of sizes and capacities are available allowing for flexibility in different spill response scenarios, making Vikoma's floating storage tanks a versatile and essential tool in managing oil spills effectively.

Neoprene or Thermoplastic

Oil storage tanks can be made from either a rubber material or thermoplastic (such as polyurethane)

Vikoma uses Neoprene for it’s rubber oil storage tanks.  Neoprene is a lightweight but strong and durable rubber product providing excellent, robust performance. 

Thermoplastics are an alternative to Neoprene.  An example is Polyurethane.  It is a strong material, although not as robust as Neoprene.  Polyurethane offers a cost effective solution where the durability of neoprene is not required and is usually at a lower cost.  Tanks are also available in heavy duty PVC.

Key Considerations for Choosing Storage Tanks

When selecting storage tanks for oil spill response operations, several factors must be considered to ensure efficiency and safety:

• Capacity: The tank must be able to accommodate the anticipated volume of recovered oil during the operation.
• Durability: Tanks should be made of materials resistant to corrosion, punctures, and harsh environmental conditions.
• Mobility: For operations in remote or difficult-to-access areas, portable and collapsible tanks may be more suitable.
• Ease of Deployment: Rapid setup is crucial during emergencies to avoid delays in oil recovery.

Conclusion

The storage of oil during spill response operations is a critical component of managing environmental disasters effectively. Proper storage solutions prevent further contamination, support efficient recovery efforts, and ensure compliance with regulations. With a variety of storage tanks available, ranging from portable options to fixed installations, response teams can tailor their approach based on the scale and location of the spill.

Investing in sufficient reliable storage solutions is essential for mitigating the impact of oil spills and protecting the delicate ecosystems they threaten. By prioritising safe and effective storage, we can ensure that oil spill response operations achieve their goals while safeguarding both human and environmental health.

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