Small Spill Guidelines (Non-lab)
Small spills, of a volume which does not exceed the capacity of a standard small spill kit (1-4 gallons), can be cleaned up by trained staff within the department. Large spills are to be handled by EHS staff. All spills must be reported to EHS. Contact EHS at 355-0153 for training or questions.
Always identify the type of material spilled and know exit areas and take steps to control source of the leak.
Procedures for non-lab spills (e.g., hydraulic oil, cooking oil, diesel fuel, glycols, acrylic paint, cleaning compounds and water treatment chemicals)
- Notify people in the immediate area to move away from the spill.
- Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, goggles, and aprons to prevent exposure and minimize contamination.
- Using the absorbent material confine the spill, if this can be done without risk of injury.
- Prevent material from entering into any nearby storm or sanitary drain by blocking the drain.
- Clean up spill by working from the outside of the spill toward the center to minimize spread of contamination.
- Be sure to allow adequate contact time for complete absorption of the fluid.
- Clean-up the absorb content and place into a plastic bag or proper container.
- Properly place spill cleanup debris in a container and contact EHS for proper disposal instruction or go online for pick-up request.
- Wash hands and other exposed skin after completing clean-up.
- Notify EHS of the spill, if you require assistance or additional information.
- Restock material used in spill kit.
- Investigate source of the spill and methods to prevent future incidents.