Developing a Chemical Spill Response Plan

If there are any hazardous chemicals in theprotective equipment (PPE)
workplace, Chemical Spill Handling and Cleanup- Be sure all chemical containers are clearly labeled
Procedures must be in place. All employees mustwith the name and hazard warning
receive training before they are placed in a- Flammable solvents are stored in an approved,
situation where there is a reasonable expectationvented, solvent storage cabinet
that they might be exposed to a spill while on the- Train all personnel in the use of the spill kits and
job.the PPE.
An effective Spill Response Plan should consider:- Place spill control materials and PPE in a readily
- The physical characteristics and volume of eachaccessible area.
chemical that is handledDevelop a Spill Response Plan that includes:
- Their toxicity and potential for release to the- Names and phone numbers of individuals to be
environment.contacted in the event of a spill
- Determination must be made as to what- Evacuation plans for the room, building, work
constitutes a 'small spill' that can be cleaned up onsite, if necessary
site by trained personnel.- Instructions for containing the spilled material,
- What steps will be taken for cleanup of a 'smallincluding potential release into the environment
spill'?(for instance, floor drains should be protected)
- What is the extent and type of spill that would- Inventory of spill control materials and personal
be designated as a 'large spill'?protective equipment
- What triggers a call to 911 or an entity- Methods of proper disposal of cleanup materials
designated for the clean up of hazardous spills?and hazardous waste, contaminated tools and
Developing an effective Spill Response Planclothing
involves the following steps:- Train all employees on the use of PPE and
- Review the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)methods of chemical spill containment and cleanup.
for all chemicals on site- Completion of all medical and incident reports as
- Place MSDS in manual or notebook that is readilyrequired by the organization, local, state and
accessible to employeesFederal requirements.
- List recommended spill cleanup method forDespite the best efforts of everyone, chemical
eachDetermine what personal protectivespills do happen. Planning ahead is important for a
equipment (PPE), gloves, respirator, protectivesafe response and the avoidance of a serious
clothing, etc. is needed.incident. A well prepared and well trained
- Acquire an adequate amount of spill controlemployee will be able to deal effectively with a
materials (spill kits that are complete)chemical spill.
- Acquire an adequate amount of personal