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1.1 This practice covers methods of reporting and recording visual observations of oil on water and related response activities from an airplane or helicopter. While a similar set of codes could be used for classifying oil on beaches, this subject is not discussed in this practice. It does not cover the use of remote-sensing equipment from aircraft, which is discussed in a separate standard. This does not include observations of dispersed oil.

1.2 This practice is applicable for all types of oil under a variety of environmental and geographical situations.

1.3 Visual observations of oil on water from the air involve a number of safety issues associated with the operation of airplanes or helicopters at low altitudes. These are not dealt with in this practice, but the observer should be aware of the hazards of such operations.

1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

3.1 This practice can be used by surveillance and tracking staff to report visual observations. The data produced from such observations will provide the basis for preparing maps of the oil-slick location.

3.2 This practice provides a procedure for reporting the visual observation of oil on water in a systematic manner and in a common format.

3.3 This practice deals with the possibility that materials other than oil might be confused with oil when using visual observation methods.

3.4 Local weather, including sea conditions, should be included in the reports.