IOSC 2017, Shoreline Cleanup Assessment Techniques

Enhancing Oil Spill Response: The Strategic Role of SCAT

The Shoreline Clean-up Assessment Technique (SCAT) has become a cornerstone in the systematic response to oil spills, aiding in the documentation and decision-making processes for shoreline clean-up. Developed in the late 1980s and formalised into the U.S. response framework, SCAT employs standardised terminology to assess and record the impact of oil on shorelines, guiding cleanup efforts effectively.

SCAT’s role extends beyond mere assessment; it underpins the entire cleanup operation from the initial response to final activity termination, which can span months or even years. This methodology was notably applied during the DEEPWATER HORIZON oil spill, showcasing its utility in large-scale environmental disasters.

However, SCAT’s effectiveness can be compromised by inexperienced personnel or misaligned objectives, leading to surveys that do not effectively contribute to response operations. Recent smaller-scale incidents have highlighted the potential misuse of SCAT, underscoring the need for clear goals and proper implementation strategies.

This paper reviews SCAT’s application in various incidents, emphasising the need for tailored approaches in its execution to avoid inefficiencies and ensure that its integration into oil spill responses is both practical and effective, particularly as its use becomes standard globally.