API PUBL 4651:1997

FOREWORD This 1997 International Oil Spill Conference is the 15th biennial event since the first conference held in December 1969. The conference is jointly sponsored by the following: American Petroleum Institute (MI) United States Coast Guard (USCG) United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) International Maritime Organization (IMO) International Petroleum Industry Environmental Conservation Association (IPIECA) Through the combined sponsorship and participation of these distinguished industry and regulatory agencies, this conference has evolved into the world's premier symposium on oil spill issues. Participants, delegates, presenters, and exhibitors are all able to share current information and thoughts on the leading oil spill topics of today, and these conference proceedings become critical references for all who work in the field. The conference goal is unchanged since 1969:'... to delineate the overall dimensions of the oil spill problem, explore the present state of prevention and control of oil spills, and review the relevant research and development efforts of government and private industry around the world.' The theme of the 1997 Conference is 'Improving Environmental Protection-Progress, Challenges, Responsibilities.' Technical papers and exhibits will stimulate discussions in many aspects of spill prevention, response planning, and research and development. Case studies will disclose what we are learning, and a special session on the February 1996, Milford Haven, United Kingdom spill from the Sea Empress will provide new insight into understanding the effects of that large spill and its response, which involved a large use of dispersants. In addition, the sponsors have commissioned and funded the preparation of the following issue papers that will be featured in open discussion forums. 'Putting Dispersants to Work Overcoming Obstacles' 'Differences in Risk Perception: How Clean is Clean?' 'International Responsibilities: Are We Our Brother's Keeper?' The sponsors of this conference thank each of the authors and reviewers of the papers that constitute these proceedings. We also thank all panel members, session chairs, and members of planning committees, along with all others who have contributed time and effort to make this conference a success.