Should be as smooth as possible as

Should be as smooth as possible as in photo left, the pockets in this photo right would be filled with oil and it becomes difficult to get it to flow towards the collection area. Heavy oil tends to cling to the boom material making the problem even more difficult.

Protrusions and deformations interrupt the smooth flow of water and oil. These can cause vortex's, which could result in the loss of oil, even at very low current speeds.


In coastal areas, changes in the direction of the current due to the effects of the tide may be expected on a regular cycle. It is important to recognise this fact when installing booms for the following reasons.

A boom, once in position, normally will only be effective for collecting or deflecting oil coming from one direction. Additional booms should be put into position to take into account the different directions of currents due to tidal changes.

Anchors should be set for all booms, so that they stay in approximately the same position, regardless of the direction of the current. This will guarantee that the least damage will be done to the boom, by wear and tear on rocks, etc.