Booms

Absorbent booms and containment booms serve different but complementary roles in spill control.

• Absorbent booms are made from melt-blown polypropylene or natural fibre cores that absorb and retain liquids. They are ideal for hydrocarbon spills on land or water and are available in oil-only variants.
• Containment booms, on the other hand, are non-absorbent barriers designed to contain and control the spread of liquids on water surfaces. They use inflatable or foam-filled flotation chambers and weighted skirts to trap oil or debris, preventing it from drifting.

Both types can be used together – containment booms to encircle the spill and absorbent booms to remove the trapped liquid.

Proper deployment ensures maximum containment efficiency and regulatory compliance.

For absorbent booms:

• Position booms around the perimeter of the spill or across drainage pathways to prevent spread.
• Overlap ends and secure with carabiners or clips to create a continuous barrier.
• Replace when saturated and dispose of according to local council regulations.

For containment booms:

• Deploy from the downstream or downwind edge of the spill to prevent drift.
• Use anchor points or mooring systems to hold booms in place in moving water.
• Inspect flotation chambers and ballast chains regularly for damage or fouling.
• Clean booms after each use with compatible detergents and allow to dry fully before storage.

Used absorbent booms must be treated as hazardous waste once saturated with chemicals or hydrocarbons. Best practice includes:

• Draining residual liquid into an approved waste container.
• Double-bagging and sealing used booms in labelled hazardous waste bags or drums.
• Storing in a bunded area until collected by a licensed waste contractor.

Containment booms that have not absorbed contaminants can be cleaned, inspected, and reused, provided they show no material degradation or chemical damage. Replace damaged sections immediately to maintain full compliance.