Safety
Small Chemical Spill Cleanup Procedure
Never proceed to clean up a spill if you do not know the hazards associated with the chemical or if you are unsure of how to clean up the spill.
Contact EH&S for spill assistance at 813-974-4036
1. Alert nearby people to what has happened. Secure the scene and keep people away from the area.
2. Identify the chemicals involved in the spill. If it is volatile and flammable, control ignition sources and ventilate the area.
3. If someone has been splashed with chemicals, immediately escort them to the emergency shower or eyewash and rinse for at least 15 minutes while removing contaminated clothing. If there is a fire or medical attention is needed, call 911 or 813-974-2628.
4. Choose appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) by referring to Safety Data Sheets (SDS).
5. Prevent the spill from spreading. Use absorbent material from your spill kit to protect drains or other avenues of environmental release.
If the chemical does enter the soil or water source, please contact EH&S immediately.
6. Surround and cover the spill with an absorbent material such as MagicSorb, vermiculite or absorbent pads. Wait until spilled material is absorbed. The use of a neutralizing agent is not recommended for large spills within a building as toxic vapors may be emitted as a result of the chemical reaction.
7. Collect the absorbent using a scoop, shovel or small dustpan and broom. If there is broken glass use tongs to pick up the glass, not your hands. Place the saturated absorbent waste into a hazardous waste container. Waste containers are provided by EH&S.
8. Make sure the container is labeled with a description of its contents and request a pickup using HITS.
9. Clean up the chemical residue with a mild detergent and water if appropriate.
10. Remove PPE and wash your hands with soap and water.
11. Report all spills to your supervisor and EH&S.
12. Replenish your spill kit supplies.