This guide covers the collection of quantitative data in the form of storage capacity, strength of materials, filling and offloading rates, and towability under controlled test conditions. The data can be used for evaluating the design characteristics of a particular temporary storage device or as a means of comparing two or more devices. Caution must be exercised whenever the test data are used to predict performance in actual spill situations since the uncontrolled environmental conditions that affect performance in the field are rarely identical to conditions in the test facility. Other variables such as mechanical reliability, the presence of debris, ease of repair, required operator training, operator fatigue, and transportability also affect performance in an actual spill but are not included in this guide. These variables should be considered along with the test data when making comparisons or evaluations of temporary storage devices.

Although this guide provides data on the performance of temporary storage devices, all of the combinations of actual conditions of use are not simulated in this series of tests. In particular, the resistance of the device to grounding, abrasion resistance of the container body, venting of the device during loading, and other operational issues not covered by this guide should be considered along with the test data when making comparisons or evaluations of temporary storage devices.