Chemical Spill Response

Overview

Chemical Spill Response should be managed through a planned system of work: identify the task-specific hazards, eliminate exposure where practical, use engineered or collective controls before relying on PPE, verify critical safeguards before starting, and stop the task when controls are missing or conditions change. This guide applies those principles specifically to initial actions, isolation, containment and escalation for chemical spills.

Main Hazards

• • Untrained personnel entering the spill area
• • Wrong absorbent or response method reacting with the product
• • Inhalation, skin, eye or ingestion exposure
• • Incompatible materials or uncontrolled release
• • Incorrect PPE selection, fit or condition

Essential Controls

1. 1Identify the substance, isolate the area and escalate when the release exceeds trained response capability.
2. 2Use compatible containment and cleanup materials and prevent migration to drains or occupied areas when safe.
3. 3Identify the exposure route and eliminate or substitute the hazard where practical.
4. 4Use engineering controls, containment and ventilation before relying on PPE alone.
5. 5Maintain clear labeling, information, training and emergency arrangements.
6. 6Select, inspect and maintain PPE for the actual hazard and exposure level.

Related Guides