100
5 Handling Uncertainty and Sensitivity …
Table 5.4 (continued)
Main parameter
A: Strength of knowledge (function where it is
used)
B: Belief that the value may deviate from the
average assumption (natural variation of
parameter)
C: Sensitivity of function to parameter (sensitivity
index)
Maximum age (year)
A Moderate/weak
B Low
C Not tested
Comments/recommendations
Table 5.5 Summary of assessments or calculations used as basis for classification in the shoreline.
Impact parameters
Main parameter
A: Strength of knowledge (function where it is used)
B: Belief that the value may deviate from the average assumption
(natural variation of parameter)
C: Sensitivity of function to parameter (sensitivity index)
Tidal range (m)
A Moderate/low
B Moderate/low (Coastal tidal ranges vary considerably depending on
the volume of water adjacent to the coast, and the geography of the
basin. Tidal range also varies depending on the locations of the moon
and sun)
C Low
Comments/recommendations:
Lower values are more conservative. The parameter is cell specific and
is used to estimate oil thickness
Slope (°)
A Moderate/low
B High/moderate (the slope of the beach may vary considerable with a
shoreline habitat type)
C High
Comments/recommendations:
Higher values are more conservative. The parameter is ESI specific and
is used to estimate oil thickness
OHC
A Moderate/low
B High/moderate (the distribution of oil along the shoreline will also
depend on factors such as current, wind, geography, that are difficult to
accurately estimate outside the oil drift model)
(continued)