ABSTRACT
This chapter summarises the in-situ burning (ISB) operational successes of the Deepwater Horizon (DWH) response and provides an update on the state of ISB technology and research. The DWH response demonstrated the large-scale capabilities of controlled ISB for offshore spills. More than 400 controlled burns were conducted from April to July 2010, removing an estimated 220,000–310,000 barrels of oil from the Gulf of Mexico. The success of these safe, effective controlled burns significantly reduced the spilled oil’s impact on marine life and shorelines. Although the scale of the ISB operation during the DWH response was unprecedented, controlled ISB is not a new tactic. It has a long history of research and testing. Along with advances in the industry’s understanding of oil characteristics and environmental effects, technological enhancements have improved the effectiveness of equipment that supports ISB operations, such as fireboom, igniters, air quality monitors, surveillance systems and communication methods and devices. To determine the suitability of applying the ISB countermeasure for offshore responses, decision-makers must take into account factors including oil properties, wind and sea conditions, proximity to populated areas and overall net environmental benefit. Analysis of the comprehensive DWH experience with controlled ISB reveals that this approach was safe, cost-effective and environmentally favourable, thereby compelling industry and governmental agencies to re-evaluate perceptions and revise policies. This chapter concludes that controlled burning, under the right conditions, is now considered by many to be a viable response option in offshore environments.
