What Is Ocean Tar

The black, thick deposits that we often see on the beach and floating on the ocean is a natural seepage from the ocean bottom called “tar”. Tar, or “rock oil,” is a type of petroleum. … Since petroleum is lighter than water, it rises to the top of the ocean where currents, tides and wind carry it to shore.

Is beach tar toxic?

Are tar balls harmful to your health? For most people, brief contacts with tar balls or a small amount of oil are not harmful, but people who are particularly sensitive to chemicals and petroleum products might develop allergic reactions or a rash.

Is beach tar flammable?

Investigators told the publication that the tar has moderate hazardous characteristics and is slightly flammable, and has tested positive for low amounts of volatile organic compounds. Workers have since cleaned the area and officials said Thursday that clean-up efforts were successful.