(a) The Board may decide to expend available moneys to perform any cleanup, abatement, or remedial action work required under the provisions set forth in Section 18904 which is required by the magnitude of the endeavor or the need for prompt action to prevent substantial pollution, nuisance, or injury to public health or safety and/or the environment. The action may be taken in default of, or in addition to remedial work by the responsible parties or other persons and regardless of whether injunctive relief is being sought.

(b) The Board may perform the work itself or in cooperation with any other governmental agency. Notwithstanding any other provisions of the law, the Board may enter into oral contracts for that work, and the contracts, whether written or oral, may include provisions for equipment rental and in addition the furnishing of labor and materials necessary to accomplish the work. The contracts are exempt from approval by the Department of General Services pursuant to section 10295 of the Public Contract Code.