Introduction
Chemical spill response is a critical process that ensures the safety of workers, the environment, and the surrounding community when hazardous substances are accidentally released. Prompt and effective action can minimize the impact of a spill, prevent further contamination, and reduce health risks.
Hazards of Chemical Spills
The unplanned release of a chemical can have devastating effects on workers and materials, including:
- Skin and eye burns
- Slips, trips, and falls
- Lung damage
- Fires or explosions
- Corrosive damage to materials
- Polluted air, soil, or water
- And, public danger
Minor Vs. Major Spills
A minor spill is defined as an event that can be handled safely without the assistance of the Environmental Health and Safety Office (EHSO) or emergency response personnel. A minor spill does not pose an immediate threat of fire, explosion, or chemical exposure.
This spill can be contained and cleaned up by trained lab staff using spill kits.
Examples of a minor spill may include cleaning chemicals or leaking diesel.
A major spill is defined as an event that cannot be handled safely without the assistance of EHSO or emergency response personnel. This type of spill poses a significant threat to human health, safety, or the environment. There is no specific volume that defines a major spill, but it typically involves the release of a significant amount of chemical, potentially surpassing the ability of on-site personnel to manage it safely.
Examples of a major spill may include hazardous chemicals, flammable solvents, carcinogenic substances, or hazardous gases.
Safety Data Sheets (SDSs)
An SDS communicates the comprehensive information about the chemical, physical, and health hazards of a substance. This document also provides guidance on its safe handling, use, storage, and disposal. Additionally, the SDS will provide appropriate responses to various situations, including:
- Accidental release or spill of a chemical
- PPE required to be used
- First-aid
- And, fire prevention
Proper storage plays a key role in spill prevention. By storing chemicals according to the manufacturer’s instructions, the risk of spills or accidental releases can be significantly reduced.
Chemical Spill Response
The actions for a chemical release/spill may vary depending on the type of spill and the chemical involved. The following is a general response for a minor spill:
- Assess the risk and determine the effect on human and environmental health, and the property
- Locate the spill kit
- Consult the SDS
- Choose the appropriate PPE to respond to the spill; information on PPE will be provided in the SDS
- Stop the flow of liquid before it contaminates a water source (if applicable)
- After the liquid is confined, stop the source of the spill
- And, if the spill is confined and the leak has stopped, reassess the incident and begin cleanup
For a major spill:
- Evacuate the area or issue a shelter-in-place order
- Notify others of the spill to prevent further exposure
- Call emergency services or the EHSO and notify them of the spill
- Stop the source of the spill if it is safe to do so
- And, follow instructions given by authorities
If a worker is exposed to the spilled material, immediately use emergency eyewash or shower stations for at least 15 minutes, move to a well-ventilated area, and seek medical attention if necessary.
How to Assess a Spill
Using your worksite spill response plan and the SDS information, determine if the spill is minor enough and what clean up measures are needed. As a guide:
- You can wipe spills of 1 cup or less with paper towels or absorbent materials from a spill kit
- You can clean spills of approximately 1 gallon using spill kit materials, such as spill socks, pads, or absorbents
- And, spills over 2 gallons may require emergency cleanup from a worksite spill response team or emergency response personnel
Disposal and Decontamination
Disposal and decontamination procedures vary depending on the chemical, and the SDS provides specific guidance. General disposal and decontamination procedures may include:
- Use a brush or broom and a scoop or dustpan to gather spill absorbents and soaked towels
- Decontaminate the floors, tools, and other surfaces exposed to the spill
- Place used spill response materials, including contaminated PPE and other items, into a double plastic bag, and then seal the bag inside a plastic or metal drum for proper disposal
- Label contaminated materials as hazardous waste, including the date and the spilled material(s)
- And, arrange for proper storage and disposal of all spilled materials
Resources
OSHA provides regulatory standards for Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides information on their Response Techniques for hazardous substance releases.
Conclusion
Chemical spill response is essential for protecting workers, the environment, and the community from the dangers posed by hazardous material spills. Quick and effective action can mitigate risks, prevent further damage, and ensure safety. By understanding the necessary steps and implementing proper procedures, businesses can respond to spills with confidence and minimize their impact.