UPDATE: MONTARA WELL HEAD PLATFORM
1 September 2009The Australian Maritime Safety Authority is continuing with their response to the oil leak off the Western Australian Coast. The use of satellite technology displays the area affected by the incident, which remains some 180 kilometres off shore from the WA coast. The area under observation spans about 25 nautical miles (nm) x 70 nm. Within this area the majority of the ocean is unaffected; however there are patches of oil and sheen. AMSA is utilising two aerial dispersant capable aircrafts for spraying and combating the spill, along with the vessel Lady Gerda to assist in surface spraying on the water. Ongoing reports confirm the dispersant is still successfully enhancing the natural breakdown of the oil. AMSA’s dedicated search and rescue aircraft is also being used for ongoing surveillance and mapping purposes to implement forward planning for the next phases of the clean up operation. AMSA’s liaison with both Federal and State agencies, including oil and environmental specialists with regard to the clean-up operation remains ongoing. AMSA also continues to consult and engage with the company, PTTEP, in regards to the forthcoming phases for the operation. |
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