What risks we cover: Water pollution
This covers incidents involving the pollution of rivers, lakes, ground waters, estuarial and coastal waters (up to the 3 mile limit).
Environment Agency
The majority of water pollution incidents are dealt with at a local level by the Environment Agency and they have suitable arrangements in place
Defra
Defra’s role is in response to the most serious incidents (Category 1 under the Agency’s classification system). The Department provides an assessment, and develops and implements a handling and communications strategy in association with relevant bodies.
Maritime and Coastguard Agency
The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) of the Department of Transport leads on any spills from shipping and offshore installations, working with Defra and the Environment Agency, as appropriate.
Page last modified: 13 February 2008
Page published: 13 February 2008