What constitutes oily waste?

Oily waste refers specifically to oil that has been mixed with water or other fluids, leading to a substance that should be disposed of in accordance with environmental regulations and guidelines. This mixture often occurs during routine operations, maintenance, or in the event of spills on a vessel. The nature of oily waste makes it less suitable for reuse in shipboard operations and necessitates careful handling and disposal to prevent pollution.

The idea of oily waste implies contamination or dilution with other substances (like water), which impacts how it must be managed. It contrasts with other options: oil mixed with chemicals does not necessarily constitute oily waste unless it meets the criteria for disposal; oil that is still useful indicates it can be reused rather than categorized as waste; and properly stored waste oil, while it may be a part of waste management practices, does not define oily waste itself. Thus, oily waste is specifically characterized by its mix with water or other fluids, necessitating proper treatment and disposal to safeguard marine environments.