Spills in the workplace cause hazards from slips and falls, exposure to
the spilled material, and accidental release into the environment. Know the proper storage,
handling, use, and spill response for the materials in your workplace.
Read the material safety data sheets (MSDS) that explain correct spill
response techniques, cleanup methods, and disposal. Know when it is safe for you to clean
up a spill yourself and when to call your supervisor, the company spill response team, or
an outside resource for assistance. Know what equipment you will need to clean-up properly.
Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) for spill response such as gloves, safety
glasses, coveralls, and/or respirators. Know where your spill response materials are
located at work and how to use them.
In order to prevent spills, use good storage techniques. Place materials
in compatible groups and appropriate storage containers. Securely seal materials before
storage. Keep materials sheltered and in the proper environment. Post material storage
areas with spill response procedures and emergency phone numbers.
Limit the amounts of new and hazardous materials stored on your site
to minimize the risk and size of spills. Place materials out of the lane of foot
and vehicle traffic to prevent accidental spills. Store materials indoors and away
from exterior doors and sewer drains to prevent accidental releases to the environment.
Consider double containers for materials stored in large quantities, that may create a
difficult cleanup task, or that can be toxic or hazardous even if spilled in small
amounts.
When you move or dispense materials, handle them properly to
prevent spills. Consider double containers when you are transporting materials. Carry
one item at a time when you are moving or dispensing chemicals. Place multiple items
in a rolling cart or tray instead of trying to carry them all at once. Check storage
equipment, material lines, and dispensing areas for signs of leaks and maintain this
equipment regularly. Never leave chemical filling stations unattended.
If you cause a spill or find a spill, immediately notify your supervisor
and coworkers in the area. If the spilled material is flammable or volatile, shut
off flame sources and air the area out if it is safe to do so. If possible, protect
floor drains or outside access areas from the spill. Cordon off the spill area to
prevent further access and potential exposures. If you or a coworker was exposed to
the spilled material, use emergency eye washes or showers for at least 15 minutes,
get to a well-ventilated area, and seek medical attention if needed.
Using your worksite spill response plan and information about
the material, determine if the spill is small enough and of the type that you can clean
up yourself. Generally, spills of one cup or less can be wiped up with paper toweling
or absorbent spill kit materials. Spills of approximately one gallon can be cleaned up
with spill kit materials such as spill socks, pads, or absorbents. If you use loose
absorbent materials, spread them around the spill and work toward the inside to reduce
splashing or spreading the spill. Spills over 2 gallons in size may require emergency
cleanup from a worksite spill response team or an outside resource.
Use a brush or broom and a scoop or dustpan to gather spill absorbents
and soaked towels, socks or pillows. Decontaminate the floor, tools, and other
surfaces that were exposed to the spill. Place used spill response materials,
including contaminated PPE and other items, in a double plastic bag and then
place the bag inside a plastic or metal drum. Label these materials as hazardous
waste along with the date and the materials that were spilled. Arrange for proper
storage and disposal of all spill materials.
