A protocol for reopening areas in the Gulf of Mexico that are closed to fishing is based on guidance from National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The fishing areas were originally closed off to protect seafood consumers. Area reopening will be based on an acceptable reduction of the threat of exposure to contamination.
Specifically, the criteria include:
1. Threat of exposure is sufficiently reduced based on past observations of previous spills, baseline information, and status of the spill and conditions.
2. Confirmation that the closure area is free of sheen by aerial reconnaissance or confirmation that there is no oil presence in the water column through visual observation or water testing.
3. Test seafood for petrolium taint: all samples must pass sensory testing conducted by a NOAA/FDA sensory panel.
4. Test seafood for chemical concentrations: once samples have passed the sensory assessment, they are measured for chemical concentrations. The chemical concentrations must be below applicable FDA levels of concern for human health.
5. Boundaries will be opened based on analysis results that demonstrate the product is untainted and safe for human consumption.
6. Buffer zones will be created between open and closed areas.
7. Reopenings may be fisheries specific.
