The Isle of Wight coast has been hosting a major training exercise simulating an emergency response to an oil spill.
Oil Spill Response, one of the largest international response organisations, is performing an on-the-water exercise to train response teams and develop operational capabilities.
The training is scheduled to last four days, starting today (Tuesday, June 11), and will take place along the Island’s south-west coast and the Solent.
At the centre of the operation is a Boeing 727 aircraft outfitted with internal tanks, pumps and spray booms.
There will also be several specialist vessels out on the water.
The event will involve the Boeing 727 flying at a low altitude and depositing a small amount of ‘harmless fluorescein dye’ into the water, to act as a simulated oil spill.
The vessels will then perform the relevant training activities and use the 727 to spray water over the target area, simulating the application of specialist oil spill dispersants.
Additionally, Oil Spill Response will collaborate with several AUV companies to explore the innovative use of autonomous underwater vehicles.
Paul Foley, the Europe regional manager, said: “Residents can be assured that no oil or dispersants are being used, and there will be no impact on the coastline or local marine life from any of our activities this week.”
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