Selecting a Spill Kit can be a daunting processes, especially if you are unware of the types of absorbents you need. Not having the right kit on hand can cost you money and time. With so many kits to choose from, do you know which spill kit specifically matches your needs? A spill kit is a collection of items, to be used in case of a spill, leak or other discharge of oil. Spill kits are developed so that a prompt response and clean-up may be performed. A spill kit usually contains two or three types of equipment. First is protective clothing or Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). The second is equipment used to clean up the spill. Third, some kits include equipment to stop leakage. Spill Kits may be purchased through many supply catalogs, industry warehouses, or you can make your own. Ready-made kits may range in price. You will likely save a fair bit of money by purchasing your own garbage can or covered pail and then separately purchasing gloves, coverall, sorbents and other equipment. You will want to keep extra supplies on hand and restock your spill kit immediately after each use. Absorbent choice for your spill kits include: Universal sorbents. These universal absorbents are all purpose, used just about anywhere and for almost all spills. Oil Only designation on a spill kits indicates that the sorbets contained inside are oil-only absorbents. Oil-only absorbents are intended for petroleum and hydrocarbon-based liquids. Oil-only absorbents will absorb oil without absorbing water. Employees that are tasked to deal with spills need protection. Depending on the type of spill, your employee will need gloves, goggles, protective suits and possibly respirators. Keeping your employees safe during spill clean ups is the first line of spill defense. Depending on what chemicals might be introduced during a spill, your kit should contain all the PPE necessary for the safety of your personnel performing the cleanup.
Spill Procedure Guide: What To Do When A Spill Occurs
1. Risk Assessment: Evaluate the type of material spilled and identify the source. If you are NOT familiar with the liquid and its chemical properties, vacate the area and contact proper authorities.
2. Protective Clothing: Wear the appropriate protective gear for the situation. If the source or the material is not identifiable, assume the worst.
3. Containment: Contain the liquid and seal drains.
4. Stop the Source: Close valves, rotate punctured drums and plug leaks where it is possible and safe to do so.
5. Begin Clean Up: Use absorbents to clean-up spilled liquids.
6. Contact Authorities: Report the spill to proper legal authorities in your community. Be sure to fill out all necessary reports in accordance with local laws.
7. Disposal of Used Material: Absorbent materials take on the characteristics of whatever they absorb. Be sure to dispose of used absorbents and spilled liquids in accordance with local laws.
8. Decontaminate: Clean all tools and reusable materials properly before reuse.
9. Restock Materials: Replace absorbent materials and safety equipment used in any clean-up operation.
10. Review Contingency Plans and Procedures!