Definition(s)
Uncontrolled release
An accidental release of hydrocarbons, toxic substances, or other materials that is likely to develop quickly, be outside the anticipated range of normal operations, present only limited opportunity for corrective action, require any action to be in the nature of an emergency response, and could result in serious environmental or safety consequences.
Source: API RP 75, Recommended Practice for Development of a Safety and Environmental Management Program for Offshore Operations and Facilities: Upstream Segment, Third Edition, May 2004. Global Standards