Oil containment system for emergency use

摘要

A system for containing oil or other contaminants which have leaked from an oil tanker or similar structure is disclosed. A protective housing surrounds the structure. A plurality of covers are each pivotably mounted at its upper edge to a lower outer edge of the housing to depend therefrom. Each cover is retained in a closed position with a lower edge of the cover adjacent the side of the structure to form a storage cavity defined by the cover, the housing, and a portion of the side of the structure. A series of interconnected collapsible float assemblies is contained within the storage cavity. In case of an oil leak, a triggering mechanism located within the housing sequentially releases the covers from the closed position and the float assemblies fall away into the water. In this manner a continuous curtain may be provided to surround the structure to prevent passage of all or most of the leaking contaminant. The housing and the hinged covers provide protection for the triggering mechanism and float assemblies contained therein from buffeting of waves and the like. The housing and covers also withstand docking procedures and function as a rub rail.