Chemical Spill Response

Steps

• Assess the hazard
  Identify the chemical via label or SDS. Note quantity, location, proximity to people, drains, electrical. Do not approach without knowing what you're dealing with.
• Evacuate if needed
  Large spills, unknown chemicals, fumes or vapor formation, ignition risk → evacuate the area, alert others, call HazMat. Pull fire alarm if needed.
• Stop the source if safe
  Right the container, close valves, plug leaking line. Only if you can do so without exposure or injury. Wear chemical-resistant PPE per SDS.
• Contain the spread
  Use absorbent socks or pillows from spill kit to ring the spill. Block drains with drain mats. Prevent runoff outside the building.
• Absorb and clean up
  Apply absorbent (vermiculite, clay, or chemical-specific neutralizer) per SDS. Sweep up into approved waste container. Label container with chemical name + date.
• Decontaminate area
  Wash floor with appropriate cleaner (water for water-miscible, neutralizer for acids/bases). Verify with pH paper or visual inspection.
• Report and restock
  File incident report. Notify EHS / supervisor. Report to EPA if quantity exceeds RQ. Restock spill kit. Update incident log.