M.Tech. (Operations Management) / The field of study is of a multi-disciplinary nature relating to chemistry, microbiology, electrical engineering, soil technology and legislation dealing with different aspects of soil, water and environmental contamination in South Africa The relevant basic principles involved as applicable to the problem being researched are discussed in the dissertation. The reader is introduced to the statement ofthe problem in Chapter 1. A study was carried out of research projects which were conducted elsewhere in the world with regard to oil pollution and the remediation procedures followed. This research project has focused on a problem which revolved around the pollution of soil from insulating oil spillages. Insulating oil is used in electrical equipment, such as transformers, tap changers and other items in the distribution of electricity throughout South Africa. Insulating oils perform three functions namely, a cooling function, acts as an insulator and as an indicator ofthe condition ofa transformer. The aim ofthe research was to develop methods and techniques, under the South African climatic conditions, to clean insulating oil polluted soil cost effectively. Oil in its various forms and derivatives is part of our modem society. Scientists are continuously designing new applications for various types of lubricants without the knowledge of the impact the product might have on the environment. When a pollution problem becomes intolerable, then a solution is investigated. Then man, with its superior brain power, goes to the simplest life on earth to solve his pollution problem. Various products and applications were investigated theoretically and also in practice. Case studies were investigated to determine the success rate of different products and applications. Laboratory tests were carried out to determine the true results of some of the products. The laboratory results were tested in practice on two test sites to confirm the results. The consequence of the research project has indicated that excellent results have been achieved. The results have indicated that insulating oil polluted soil can be cleaned in a...