- by Ray Bernard
Concern at oil spills
17 February 2003: National Safety Council Chief Executive Pat Costello has voiced his concern at the growing incidence of oil spills occurring on roads nationwide and the serious threat such incidents pose to road safety. In the past fatalities and serious injuries have resulted following oil spills on roads.
“Oil spill warnings are a regular feature of traffic bulletins”, said Mr. Costello describing the extent of the problem, “and from discussions with Road Safety Officers in various local authorities throughout the country, it is clear that oil spills are a problem in almost every county. As recently as last week a major diesel spill occurred in County Limerick which stretched for 10 miles.”
While all vehicle types can potentially be a source of an oil leak the main causes appear to be:
1. Faulty seals and hoses not properly emptied on home heating oil delivery trucks
2. Carelessness in closing fuel caps particularly on heavy goods vehicles
3. Waste oil being carried in tankers and in improperly sealed barrels on goods vehicles spilling at junctions
4. Leaking hydraulic systems/braking systems particularly in agricultural vehicles
5. Road crashes, when oil sumps may be ruptured
“While the reasons for such spills are mainly due to human error and equipment failure, all are preventable. So I would strongly urge those involved in the transport and agricultural sectors to be more vigilant. If your vehicle has a leak, get it repaired and do not drive the vehicle until the job is completed. Make sure too that equipment such as fuel caps and hoses are replaced properly. It is every driver’s responsibility to keep the roads’ network as safe as possible”.
Members of the public who witness an oil spill or see one on a road should report it immediately to An Garda Síochána who will then alert the appropriate authorities. If available give the Gardaí a description of the vehicle responsible.
©2003 irishcar.com