Long-term exposure to inorganic arsenic, mainly through drinking-water and food, can lead to chronic arsenic poisoning and other more serious complications. Ocean NGOsOil spills in the ocean increase the levels of arsenic causing many long term consequences, that have been well studied from oil spills around the world. As part of the agreed scope of work, the IMO specialist’s role was restricted only to advice on the oil spill response and no other part of the operation. The specialists did not advise on the options for the disposal of the Wakashio, except only where it related to any risk of oil spill and therefore the possible need for oil spill response. The spokesperson confirmed that the IMO had no involvement in the salvage operation.

Source: Forbes August 21, 2020 17:26 UTC