Accidents can happen. But what happens in your workplace when the accident involves spills of hazardous
substances that can be harmful to people and/or the environment? Are you prepared?
As part of an emergency response plan, this preparation begins long before any spill may occur. Firstly, every business needs to have accurate and up-to-date records of all hazardous substances on site and when a new substance is introduced, staff need to be trained and updated accordingly. It may also require additional and appropriate spill response equipment.
Secondly, while businesses are to ensure these substances are transported and stored safely, every business needs to have an action plan in place should a spill occur. This includes risk assessments that identify any spill risks in the workplace and the placement of spill response equipment at appropriate locations.
Thirdly, staff need to be trained and be fully aware of their responsibilities should a spill happen.
In the case of a spill, a well-organised response includes:
• Assessing the site:
- Is the spill spreading/still leaking? Control the spill
– If it’s safe to do so, switch off any leaking taps or valves, correct any containers which have been knocked over and try to stem the flow if possible.
- What are the risks?
- Should an alarm be sounded?
- Who and what is needed to clean up the spill?
• Contain the spill:
- Stop the spill from spreading further and causing additional hazards or damage to the environment. This includes preventing contamination to drains, sewage systems, waterways, and land.
• Clean the spill:
- Large or highly dangerous spills may necessitate help from external agencies. Smaller spills can be cleaned up by using spill kits.
A spill kit is a collection of specifically designed equipment to be used in spill situations. Contents may include absorbents, waste disposal bags, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and other containment tools. Spill kits are typically housed in brightly coloured, easy to recognise bags or bins to eliminate any confusion when time is of the essence. There are three main types of spill kits:
• General Purpose:
- For non-hazardous, everyday liquid spills.
• Oil and fuel (hydrocarbon):
- For oil, grease, and other hydrocarbon-based liquids.
• Hazchem (chemical):
- For aggressive chemicals or unknown liquids.
“Spill kits are purpose built to suit different spill types and sizes. They range from handy grab bags which can fit in the cab of a truck or ute, all the way up to large wheelie bins which can be easily manoeuvred to the site of a spill. Each business should seek guidance from an appropriate industry professional to determine what kit is best suited to their needs and
their workplace,” says Mike Carrigg of Spill Crew Australia.
As with all tools and equipment, workers need to be familiar with spill kits and how they are used. Spill kits are an integral part of many worksites. Be prepared.