Little help please

[Derrington92]

I'm stuck on a question on 2357-302 Task B,

During construction work, a fuel tank on the generator used for temporary supplies ruptured causing fuel to escape onto a nearby water course. Explain the possible consequences of this and how this situation should be reported?

I have been trying to figure out this for the past half an hour and i do not have a clue, is there any chance you guys could help me out please. :wacko:

 

[Richard Burns]

The escape of fuel to a water course has the potential to contaminate the water course (depending on the fuel but petrol, or diesel would cause problems).
The contamination of the water course could reduce the chemical oxygen demand of the water and cause fish to suffocate and can also seal a water surface causing plants to suffer. There is also the potential for contaminated water consumption by animals and people that can lead to toxic effects. There is also the potential for contamination of the surrounding earth affecting the growth of land plants.

The spill should be contained as soon as possible to limit the spread of contamination and the situation reported to the environment agency, with details of the date, quantity, type and duration of the spillage and the watercourses affected. Clean up should be undertaken by specialist waste contractors, with appropriate monitoring to ensure the contamination is reduced to a negligible level.
Internal procedures for the company should also be adhered to.

 

[Derrington92]

Thank you very much! Top bloke