Spill Kits 2 | Spill Containment Blog

Do You Know How to Choose the Best Spill Kits?

May 23, 2023 by Travis Zdrazil

Different types of spill kits are designed to address specific problems—selecting the wrong type can exacerbate the situation. At AbsorbentsOnline, we understand the importance of being prepared for any spill-related eventuality. Let us guide you in choosing the most suitable spill kits for your unique needs.

Yellow 30-gallon drum universal spill kit

Understanding the Different Types of Spill Kits

Before selecting a spill kit, it is crucial to identify the types of liquids typically handled in your facility. This will ensure your employees have the appropriate equipment to safely mitigate and remedy a spill. Let’s explore the different spill kit options and their specific applications:

Universal or General Purpose Kits: These kits are ideal for handling water-based or hydrocarbon non-hazardous liquids like coolants, solvents, and antifreeze. Universal or General Purpose Kits feature gray absorbents designed to efficiently contain and absorb these types of spills. For example, if you encounter a coolant leak in your automotive repair shop, a Universal Kit will swiftly and effectively mitigate the spill, preventing slip hazards.
Oil-Only Kits: Specifically designed for hydrocarbon spills such as oil or gasoline, Oil-Only Kits feature white absorbents that repel water. This characteristic simplifies the cleanup process. For instance, in a marine environment where an oil spill occurs, deploying an Oil-Only Kit will swiftly contain and absorb the oil, safeguarding the surrounding water and wildlife.
Hazmat Kits: When working with hazardous liquids such as acids and solvents, the yellow-colored Chemical Hazmat Kits are essential. These kits not only enable the safe cleanup of aggressive fluids but also have the ability to absorb water-based fluids and hydrocarbons. In a laboratory setting where corrosive chemicals are handled, a Hazmat Kit ensures proper containment and absorption, minimizing the risk of accidents or injuries.
Specialty Kits: Specialty Kits are designed for specific types of spills that require specialized cleanup supplies. For example, spills involving battery acid, mercury, and body fluids. They include the necessary tools and materials to safely and effectively clean up these unique compounds. Specialty Spill Kits are invaluable in environments such as healthcare facilities, laboratories, and industries dealing with batteries or mercury-containing equipment.

Determining the Appropriate Size Spill Kit

Once you’ve determined the types of kits you need, the next step is determining what size they should be. Selecting the correct size for your spill kits is vital. The key to this step is identifying your worst-case-scenario spill from any single container.

That’s not to say you need kits big enough to handle your largest spills — in some facilities, that would be nearly impossible! Be sure to read up on current regulations to determine the sizes of spill kits necessary for the volumes and types of liquids you’ll be cleaning up. Here are examples illustrating the importance of choosing the right size:

Small-Volume Spills: In a small-scale manufacturing facility, minor spills from containers with limited capacities may occur. In such cases, compact spill kits such as bagged or bucket kits are appropriate. These kits can be easily stored and accessed for quick response to smaller spills.
Medium-Volume Spills: For medium-sized spills, drum spill kits are recommended. These kits consist of larger containers that hold more absorbents, suitable for handling spills from larger containers or equipment.
Large-Volume Spills: In environments where significant spills are possible, such as industrial sites or warehouses, spill kits with substantial capacities are essential. Mobile containers such as wheeled carts or larger drums provide mobility and storage capacity to effectively manage and clean up larger spills.

Choosing Suitable Containers for Your Spill Kit

Consider the storage conditions of your spill kits—whether indoors or outdoors—and ensure that the containers used are appropriate for those conditions. The location of your spill kit will also determine its container; for example, a compact bag kit can be a great option to tuck inside a truck cab. Here are some more examples:

Indoor Storage: Spill kits stored indoors often benefit from stackable containers or cabinets. These options provide organized storage, easy accessibility, and protection against dust and other contaminants.
Outdoor Storage: For spill kits stored outside, durable, weather-resistant containers made of materials like polyethylene are ideal. These containers safeguard the absorbents from moisture, UV rays, and other environmental factors, ensuring their effectiveness when needed.

Customization Options – Building Your Own Kit

Not sure which combination of cleanup elements is best for your business? At AbsorbentsOnline, we understand that each facility has unique requirements. That’s why we offer customization options for your spill kits. Consider the following possibilities:

Tailored Absorbents: You can request different quantities of socks, pads, or pillows to meet your specific needs. For instance, if your facility primarily deals with liquid spills on floors, you may want to include additional absorbent pads in your spill kits.
Consider adding granular sorbent to create the best spill kit for your facility

Additional Absorbents: Granular absorbents or peat moss can be included in your spill kits upon request. Granular absorbents are particularly effective for absorbing liquids on rough or uneven surfaces, like your parking areas or warehouse floors.
Supplementary Accessories: Our customization options also extend to accessories such as pick-up pans, brooms, drain covers, and personal safety products. These additions enhance your spill response capabilities and ensure the safety of your personnel.

Remember, the possibilities are endless. We are delighted to collaborate with you in assembling the perfect spill kits for your facility’s requirements.

Get Expert Guidance

If you’re unsure about which kits to choose, what your spill kit should contain, or even where your kit should be located, then the knowledgeable team at AbsorbentsOnline is here to help. Contact Travis Zdrazil at travis@absorbentsonline.com or call (800) 869-9633 for expert advice and assistance in selecting the most suitable and best spill kits for your specific needs.

By understanding the different types of spill kits, determining the appropriate size, choosing suitable containers, and considering customization options, you can ensure that your facility is well-equipped to handle any potential spills effectively while minimizing risks and environmental impact.

This is a revision to a blog post with an original publication date of March 15, 2016

How Often Should Spill Kits Be Inspected?

May 26, 2022 by Travis Zdrazil

It’s likely your business recognizes the importance of having an effective spill response plan in place. Including keeping the appropriate spill containment and clean up solutions—like spill kits—on site.

But, does your company’s response plan include regular inspections of its kits for handling spills? If not, it should. Because spill kits are not very useful if they aren’t maintained and kept in good condition!

Just how often should spill kit inspections take place? And what exactly do you need to check? Let’s dive in and take a look. Starting with a quick refresher about what kits for spills are, what they contain, and what they are used for.

How Often Should Spill Kits be Inspected?

What Is A Spill Kit?

A spill kit contains a collection of spill cleanup materials and tools. Items like absorbent pads, containment dikes and hazardous waste disposal bags. Its purpose is to help confine, contain, and clean up spills that may occur in the workplace.

Spill control kits also contain PPE (personal protective equipment). The level of PPE included in the kit contents varies according to the nature of the spill. Such as water-based liquids versus more hazardous substances like corrosive chemicals.

Basic protective equipment includes gloves and safety goggles to cover the spill responders’ hands and eye areas. Additional hazmat protection—a full body suit, apron or respirator—may be necessary for specialized emergency response kits. For example, spill clean ups involving biohazard materials (think blood) or other hazardous chemicals (think acids).

In short, spill response kits are an important tool for workplace safety. Keeping one onsite can help facilities meet regulations set by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Emergency Spill Kit Types & Uses

There are many different types of spill kits, including various size and absorbent color options. They can be small and portable enough to tuck inside the cab of a truck or forklift. All the way up to large spill carts on wheels that can absorb more than 100 gallons of fluid.

Among the main varieties are:

Chemical spill kit: These include yellow sorbents and other items to soak up and contain chemical spills. Sometimes they also have substances that neutralize chemicals so that they are no longer harmful. You may find them in factories or other industrial settings that handle and store chemicals.
Oil spill kit: Used to contain hydrocarbon spills, these kits often come in large containers capable of handling oil leaks from drums. The sorbents are typically white and float because they repel water. Meaning they are popular kits for water-based sites like marinas, as well as automotive shops.
Water/universal spill kit: The absorbents in these kits are sometimes called universal because they will work on a variety of spills. Such as water-based liquids as well as oils or solvents. Because they are so versatile, universal kits are popular option for a wide range of business types.
Specialty spill kits: Including body fluid, battery acid, or liquid mercury spillages. These kits often contain specialized items, such as respirator PPE, to safeguard responders. That’s because body fluids like blood are considered a biohazard and can be highly infectious. Bodily fluid spill kits also contain disinfectants and hazardous waste disposal bags. They are commonly found in hospitals. Kits for battery acid spills are prevalent in vehicle maintenance and parts businesses. Meanwhile, kits for mercury spills are typical to labs.

How Regularly Should You Inspect A Spill Response Kit?

Generally speaking, facilities should have a regular schedule for checking spill kits every one to six months. This applies for all types of spill kits; specialty, hazardous chemicals, oil, or universal.

However, this inspection frequency can depend on whether the spill clean up kit is sealed or unsealed. And that’s because supplies in unsealed kits can sometimes become a target to deal with general cleaning or maintenance tasks (although it’s critical to train employees not to use them for this!). Meaning more frequent inspections may be necessary.

Sealed kits feature a tamperproof sticker or label around the container’s lid. It provides quick visual verification on whether the kit has been opened or not. Which means if the seal—and the container itself—is intact, so are the contents inside.

That said, it is still a good idea to break the seal once or twice a year. For instance, to make sure the kit contents haven’t degraded or expired. Just remember to record the date the seal was broken/replaced for your environmental health and safety (EHS) compliance and audit records.

Often kit inspection tasks fall to the employees responsible for EHS within a business. And can be carried out alongside inspections of other safety equipment; for instance fire extinguishers, first aid, or eyewash stations.

How Do You Check A Spill Containment Kit?

It can be helpful to have a spill kit checklist to follow while you work through your inspection. You can print a separate list for each spill control kit kept onsite.

This document should cover everything the kit is supposed to contain, the quantity of each item, and its condition. For example, absorbent pads, booms, or pillows, along with PPE. You can use the checklist to note down any corrective action that may be necessary, like replacing absorbents.

*Having a checklist can help with a thorough inspection – click to download this example*

With that in mind, here’s an overview of the steps to follow to check the status of your spill kit:

1. Start by checking the outside of the container itself

Look for cracks, leaks, and holes. Make sure that the lid is secure and tight. The container should be dry, clean, and free of contaminants like mold, dust, or debris. If the kit has a seal, you should verify it remains intact and hasn’t been tampered with. Likewise, the kit’s identification label needs to be in place, without peeling edges.

When a container is damaged, there’s a chance items inside are too (or, may have fallen out).

2. Next, inspect the contents inside the kit

Examine each individual item the kit contains. You want to ensure there is no discoloration, strange smell, or other material degradation which could affect intended use. Verify the expiry date remains valid for things like chemical neutralizers or patching repair tools. If you find any waste or unexpected piece in the kit, be sure to remove it.

Over time, things like gloves or waste bags can become brittle and ineffective. Especially when kits are kept in locations exposed to extreme hot or cold temperatures. These items may need replacing

3. Verify the kit and/or its signage remains legible and visible

Depending on the location your spill response kit is kept, it’s possible other items may obstruct its accessibility. For instance, when mobile kits are stored under a workbench or elsewhere on a warehouse floor. Relocate clutter, or other items like brooms or boxes, if they have been shifted in or around the kit’s container.

For kits using additional wall or floor signage identification, check that the lettering is not worn or faded.

4. Finally, take any necessary actions

If you spot something wrong with the kit, record and report it per your company’s EHS procedures. This may include filing a signed and dated copy of your inspection checklist for audit purposes. Should you find any missing, expired or degraded parts, aim to replace or restock them as soon as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Is Checking A Spill Kit Important?

In short, inspections are necessary to maintain best practices for the health and safety of people and plant. If a spill kit doesn’t remain in good condition, and with the right supplies, then it is useless. Reason enough for your facility to undertake regular spill kit inspections!

What Happens If I Fail To Inspect My Kit?

Neither OSHA nor EPA regulations require spill kit inspections or dictate how frequently you should check them. However, if you fail to inspect your kit, then you risk it not being usable in the event of an emergency spill. The outcome being potential injury, damage, or—worst case scenario—a fine.

How Long Does A Spill Kit Last?

A spill kit lasts for roughly 5 years. However, it is recommended that you routinely change the products in your kit to maintain material performance.

To prolong a kit’s shelf life, be sure to store it in climate controlled conditions. For instance, without exposure to moisture, humidity, or harsh weather elements.

Final Thoughts

Having a spill kit to prepare for a potential spillage or hazardous material clean up is common for many businesses. Although, it is necessary to inspect them regularly: at least twice a year, but possibly monthly or more frequently. This will ensure the contents are working correctly and help to avoid spill accidents or injuries.

Does your emergency response kit need replacing or the items inside require restocking? Explore a large selection of spill containment supplies and kits at AbsorbentsOnline.com.

Where Should Spill Kits Be Located?

May 19, 2022 by Travis Zdrazil

If your business deals with any kind of hazardous material, then you know the importance of having a spill kit on hand. And that’s because the proper supplies can help avoid damage and costs that a spill may bring with it.

But have you put much thought into where these spill cleanup kits should be located?

*An emergency spill kit located on a warehouse wall*

In this post, we’ll explore the best places to put a kit to ensure that it is quick and easy to access in case of an emergency. Along with some of the most common locations spill kits are found, and tips on how to choose the right spot for your own facility.

The Kit Location Will Vary Depending on the Type of Business

When it comes to spill kits, one size does not fit all. And that’s because not all businesses deal with the same types of liquids and chemicals. Or, keep the same quantity or volume of these fluids on site. Not to mention, the physical footprint and layout of individual facilities can vary greatly.

Which means that different types of spill kits, and the best place to store them, is specific to each individual business.

Common Places to Find and Store A Spill Kit

As you’re no doubt aware, spills can—and will—happen anywhere. Therefore, kits for cleaning up spills can also be placed anywhere around the workplace.

Be it on a wall, under a workbench, or even inside the cab of a truck. From laboratory areas to outdoor storage tanks. In waste collection areas, on fuel pumps, and just about everywhere else you can think of!

So, let’s take a look at common sites where spill response kits might be found, in and around different types of workplaces.

Automotive and Machine Maintenance Shops

What comes to mind when you think about an auto maintenance or machine shop? Perhaps a busy workshop floor staging vehicles and machinery that runs on fuel, oils, lubricants, and coolants. Or, motor engines powered by batteries containing corrosive acid.

All of these pieces of equipment can leak, or, encounter a spillage. Especially when fluids are being replaced or faulty parts are being worked on in different areas of the shop floor.

Therefore, it’s a good idea to place a specialty kit for battery acid leaks on a wall near charging stations. Meanwhile, keep a 55-gallon drum oil spill kit beside storage areas that house large volumes of hydrocarbons. Conversely, stage smaller kits on your workbench for handling solvent or coolant spills.

Manufacturing and Industrial Sites

Industrial and manufacturing facilities usually have various potentially hazardous materials on site. Often in large volumes (think drums and IBC containers filled with all types of liquids). When these materials are moved or mishandled, leaks and spills can occur.

In which case, kits for hazardous chemical spills can be mounted to the wall in storage locations (and likely spill zones). Or, use jumbo kits in a mobile cart that can be easily wheeled around a warehouse floor for fast emergency response. Small, portable kits can also be stored on things like forklifts for operators who may be the first to notice a spill.

Transportation Fleets and Loading Docks

On any given day, companies move countless items around the country, and world. Shipping logistics can involve all manner of vehicles: trucks, ships, trains, planes, vans, trailers, and more.

Containers of all sizes and shape can shift during transit, which means there is always a chance of something getting damaged and leaking. Likewise, docks are incredibly busy places when it comes to loading and unloading those shipped goods.

Having an accessible kit on the wall or floor of your docking bays means that spills can be taken care of immediately. Similarly, a small spill kit stowed in a truck cab provides cleanup materials in the event of a spill on-the-go.

Laboratories and Medical Facilities

*A lab-pack spill kit stored under a workbench*

When it comes to lab safety, kits for spill cleanup should be as synonymous to these facilities as white lab coats. Along with personal protective equipment (PPE) like nitrile gloves to minimize exposure to harmful liquid spills.

That’s because these environments often house hazmat materials like acids, or could even have a mercury spill. So it is important that lab facilities have specialized chemical spill kits. For instance, kits containing PPE, granular absorbent materials and neutralizing agents. Plus a chemical-resistant dustpan to sweep everything up. Even dealing with a small spill can put employee health and safety at risk, otherwise.

Convenient lab pack kits are a great option to tuck under benches and work stations. They contain items like absorbent socks and pads that can be used to quickly wrap around and soak up spills.

Likewise, you can store a body fluid cleanup kit onboard medical carts to safely clean up biohazards like blood.

Fluid Dispensing Stations and Fuel Pumps

Spills are common when transferring materials between containers. Especially when fuel pumps or drum faucets are involved.

So, naturally, a spill control kit is especially important in these types of locations. The absorbents in it can help prevent spills from entering drain systems or other sensitive areas.

Large lidded drum kits make an excellent choice for these sites. Position the kit beside the fuel station and then use the chemical resistant container to toss soiled sorbent materials.

Marina and Boating Areas

Oil spill kits containing sorbents that float on water while absorbing hydrocarbons are ideal for marine sites. Oil and water don’t mix. So kits containing absorbent pads, socks, or booms are perfect for soaking oily sheen off the water’s surface.

Tuck an oil absorbent kit inside a motorized vessels’ cabin where it’s easy to grab. Or, near its engine and fueling zone where leaks might occur.

A mobile caddie is a handy way to transport supplies that are staged in a port building entry to spills on water.

Tips For Deciding Where to Keep a Spill Kit

Tip #1: Understand Potential Spill Sites in Your Workplace

A key component of a company’s spill containment plan is documenting all the different liquids your facility uses and where they are kept. Use this information as your starting point to map out the best locations to position spill kits. After all, one of the best ways to decide where you need a kit is to look at where you’re most likely to have spills occur.

It’s easy to think of hazardous chemical or bulk material storage areas. But don’t forget about less obvious locations as well. For instance, janitorial cupboards will likely contain a variety of solutions. Like bleach, disinfectant, and other potentially hazardous liquid cleaners.

A diagram drawing of the facility can help identify the locations of each kind of container and how much material is stored there.

Tip #2: Keep Your Kit Accessible

As outlined above, it is best practice to store kits near the location where spills can happen. But, it is equally important to keep a kit for an emergency spill in a place where employees can easily access it. And not locked away in a cupboard, for instance.

Fortunately, there are many types of spill kits available offering quick and easy access. Including those that are designed to be placed under the counter. As well as kits that can be situated on the floor, wall, or be carried around in a bag.

It might seem practical to keep all your employee health and safety equipment in one location. Such as an area with a safety shower, spill and first aid kit. However, you want to avoid creating secondary hazards.

Consider an emergency where one worker needs materials to respond to a spill. Meanwhile, another person needs first aid to treat an injury caused by the spill. Immediate access to emergency response supplies could be compromised if everything is stored in one spot.

Tip #3: Make Sure Kits Are Visible

Often, chemical spill kits come with a bright colored red or yellow container. (That can double as a place to put soiled hazardous waste materials after the clean up is done). This can help make sure they are easily seen on a wall or shelf.

Granular spill kit contents with bright red duffle bag — *A bright red portable duffle bag spill kit*

Otherwise, large wall or floor signs can also act as useful reminders of where spill kits are located. Signage can be particularly useful for kits kept in less obvious locations, like under a workbench.

Lastly, the container itself should also have a large label detailing what type of kit it is. For example if it’s a chemical, oil, universal or specialty kit for things like corrosive acids or blood. An itemized list of the kit’s contents can also be useful, along with any specific instructions inside.

Tip #4: Remember to Train and Maintain

Employees should always receive training on where spill response equipment is located at work. As well as refresher training on spill clean-up procedures. Practice spill drills to properly prepare employees for hazardous emergencies.

Dealing with a smaller spill might be as straightforward as using a broom, dustpan and absorbent materials. However, biohazard and acid spills are more complex. Employees need to know how to use all necessary personal protective equipment—like respirators—in a hazmat kit.

Additionally, it’s also important for employees to familiarize themselves with safety data sheets for the various materials used at a job site. This should help inform them about whether a chemical or oil spill kit is the appropriate choice for response.

Finally, it is essential to periodically check and maintain your emergency spill kit contents. For instance, some PPE—like nitrile gloves—can degrade when kits are not kept in climate controlled locations. And absorbent pads and other absorbent materials may need replacing if the kit it is stored in a wet environment. Especially if it has an inadequately sealed container.

Final Thoughts

Having an appropriate plan for liquid spills and clean-up procedures is essential for a safe workplace. It’s also an OSHA requirement for hazardous substances. So, in the event of a spill you need to be ready with good spill containment and cleanup materials.

However, depending on the type of facility you work in, there will be different designated places for spill kits. In general, they should be placed near potential spill sites, but not so close that they could become a secondary hazard.

If you’re not sure what type of kit you need, or where to put it, get in touch with AbsorbentsOnline for help making an informed decision. You can also find answers to common queries about spill control kits and supplies, below:

Frequently Asked Questions

What Do Spill Kits Contain?

April 19, 2022 by Travis Zdrazil

Spill kits are an essential bit of equipment that are used to contain and clean up liquid spills.

Like first aid supplies, these handy tool kits are useful to have pretty much anywhere. From the workplace to public areas where a slippery floor can lead to accidents and injury.

*Absorbent pillows and pads in a warehouse wall-mount spill response kit*

Spill clean up kits are also extremely important to have in places where people work with potentially hazardous liquids – this includes labs, warehouses, hospitals, and even restaurant kitchens.

However, not all kits have the same things inside them and certain types contain specialized items. That’s because spill kit requirements depend on the environment that they will be used in, and the kinds of spills that they will potentially need to clean up.

Using the right type of spill kit is important.

If you’re unfamiliar with spill kits and want to make sure that you’re getting the right type (or if you’re just curious about what they contain), then don’t worry – we’ve got you covered.

In this guide, we’ll take you through everything a spill kit contains so you know what you’re getting.

We’ll also look at some different kinds of spill kits to help you learn the differences between them, and which kit is right for you!

What Is A Spill Kit?

As mentioned before, spill kits are a collection of absorbent materials and other supplies that are used to mop up and contain spills.

They aren’t the same as just a mop and a bucket – there are many different components in spill kits that make them capable of tackling all sorts of spills for emergency response. Including oil, chemical spills, and other hazardous liquids like an acid spill or body fluids.

In addition to regular cleaning tools, spill kits contain specialist spill clean up products along with protective equipment; additionally, a kit comes with its own bin to make disposing of the used materials much simpler and safer.

Spill kits come in several varieties, and these can contain different items depending on their intended purpose. However, most kits will contain similar things with a few changes for their specific application.

There are three main varieties of spill kits: general purpose universal spill kits, oil spill kits, and hazmat spill kits.

Kits also come in different sizes, depending on the site or volume of the spill. For example, small fleet spill kits that tuck inside a vehicle trunk or truck cab. All the way up to large mobile spill kits, and those than can handle spills from a 50 gallon drum.

We’ll take a closer look at each type soon, but first, let’s take a look at the most common items you’ll find inside a spill kit.

What Does a Spill Kit Contain?

While there are some differences between various types of spill kits, there are many things that stay the same between them.

All spill kits will typically contain the following cleanup materials:

Absorbent Pads

One of the most important items for dealing with liquid spills is a way to soak them up. Which is why absorbent pads are so useful to throw on top of spills.

Absorbent material pads are designed to soak up as much liquid as possible—without dripping—and contain it for disposal.

The type of absorbent pad depends on the specific spill kit you’re using, as not all pads work with every liquid (for example, dangerous chemicals need a chemical-resistant pad to mop them up safely).

This is indicated by the color of the absorbent pad, which is specific to the spill kit type.

Absorbent Socks

If you’ve ever seen a large spill in a store, then you might have seen absorbent socks being used to block the bottom of shelves.

These long, thin tubes are used as absorbent dikes for spill control. And are meant to keep liquids from traveling under hard-to-move surfaces or between rooms.

Like absorbent pads, they come in different colors specific to the spill response kit type.

Disposable Bags

When you’ve used up your cleaning materials, you need to dispose of them properly.

Just tossing them in a plastic bag and into the garbage isn’t safe (especially if the sorbent materials been used to mop up chemicals or biohazards like blood).

Therefore, specialty-marked disposable bags are included in spill kit contents so you’re able to safely get rid of clean up materials.

Safety Goggles

Wearing the right personal protective equipment (PPE) when dealing with spills is important. Safety goggles are required to protect your eyes from hazardous liquids and other materials.

They also keep your eyes safe from fumes, which is particularly important when dealing with spilled chemicals or other hazardous materials.

However, you should wear safety goggles for protection even when dealing with everyday spills.

Gloves

Like safety goggles, protective gloves are another important form of PPE while dealing with spills.

The type of gloves in a spill kit can differ based on what kind of spill you’ll be dealing with. But they’re usually some form of sturdy waterproof or nitrile glove that is intended to protect your hands against potentially dangerous liquids.

Disposal Container

Finally, you’ve got the actual container that the spill kit comes in. Typically, spill kit contents will come inside some kind of plastic bucket for storing items.

Not only is this handy for keeping the kit tidied away, but it also functions as a container for disposing of the used cleaning materials.

Other designs of spill kit containers include wheeled carts for easier transportation, or drum versions to carry more supplies.

The contents inside a universal spill kit — *Absorbent pads, pillows, socks, and PPE contents inside a universal spill kit*

Types Of Spill Kit

As mentioned earlier, there are some differences between the three primary kinds of spill kits.

It isn’t just the type and color of the absorbent that changes – there are also some additional things in each type of kit that make it more specialized for its intended job.

General Purpose Spill Kit

The general purpose, or universal spill kit, is the most common type of spill kit. That’s because they are suitable for mopping up most kinds of spills.

They contain the usual cleaning materials found in all spill kits and are designed for cleaning water-based spills as well as hydrocarbons.

The absorbents used in universal spill kits are gray, and they are capable of mopping up nearly all liquids including oils.

Oil Spill Kit

As the name suggests, oil spill kits are intended to clean up spilled hydrocarbons. Oil sorbent materials are colored white.

They are buoyant, so particularly effective at removing oil from the surface of water. Which is because they are hydrophobic (or repel water); letting them absorb oil without taking on water and sinking.

As such, they make an ideal spill kit for marine locations.

Chemical Spill Kit

Chemical spill kits are intended for use on hazardous materials, such as corrosive acids, and solvents.

These are dangerous materials to deal with, so using the right PPE and chemical resistant equipment is important to comply with OSHA regulations. As a result, many hazmat spill kits come with additional PPE such as a mask or perhaps even a respirator.

Absorbents in these kits are yellow and are made out of materials that will not react with any hazardous chemicals.

It’s important to take care when dealing with hazardous waste, so be sure to use the appropriate PPE and be careful to dispose of waste materials properly.

Specialty Kits

Lastly, specialty spill kit contents include items for handling specialized emergency spill response.

These types of kits have sorbents for spill containment and cleanup of specific fluids. Such as neutralizing agents for acid spills, or disinfectants for biohazards like blood.

In the case of mercury spills, items like a dustpan and brush are necessary to sweep up absorbent cleanup powder.

Final Thoughts

Spill kits are a great way to keep messes contained and under control.

As long as you have the right kind of spill clean up kit, you should be able to handle almost any situation without having to worry about ruining your floor or risking injury.

Using the appropriate kit will make sure that spills are sorted effectively.

So now you know a bit more about what spill control kits are, what they contain, and some differences between the types of spill kits.

What Is A Spill Kit?

April 8, 2022 by Travis Zdrazil

Spills happen. They happen at home, they happen at work, and they even happen at restaurants. No matter where or when spills happen.

When they do, you want to know how to clean up spills properly. And quickly, without having to spend too much time or effort. Which is what makes spill kits such a great solution!

Red duffle bag universal spill kit — Duffle bag spill kit with granular absorbent.

Basically, like the name suggests, a spill kit is a collection of items that you can use for spill clean up. Though they are mainly used in industrial workplaces, you can fashion your own spill kit designed for home use.

If you’ve ever wondered, “What is a spill kit?”, find out everything that you need to know below!

How Do I Choose a Spill Kit?

There are several types of spill kits out there, from basic ones to those that include specialty equipment.

If you don’t already have a spill kit, here are some things you should consider when selecting one:

Cleaning supplies: You will need cleaning supplies such as sponges, rags, and other materials like disposal bags. These are the basics that you need in order to clean up any type of spill.
Specialty tools: Some spill kits come with specialty tools that allow you to clean up more difficult spills. For example, if you have spilled something on your carpet, you may not be able to get it all off using just a regular sponge. A specialized tool or solvent, like carpet cleaner, might help you remove a stain.
Size: The size of your spill kit depends on what kind of spill you are dealing with. If you have a small spill, then you probably won’t need a large kit. However, for spills involving a multi-gallon container or drum, you will want to buy a larger kit. Kit size will also depend on the setting. If you are keeping a kit for home use, you will likely only require a basic one.

After all, you may not be dealing with the dangerous spills that are often found in industrial environments.

However, if you plan on using it in a workplace setting, a more substantial kit will be required. Especially if the spill involves corrosive or hazardous materials, including acid spills. In which case, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations may apply.

What Do Spill Kits Contain?

The contents of a spill kit vary depending on the brand, model, and intended use. But most kits contain the following items for fast, safe, and efficient spill response:

PPE

PPE stands for personal protective equipment. This includes gloves, safety goggles, aprons, shoe covers, and more.

All of these items are used to protect yourself from harmful chemicals and substances.

You should cover your skin and clothes as much as possible to prevent them from being covered in hazardous chemicals or whatever spills you are cleaning.

Cleaning Supplies

These are the basic supplies that you need to clean up any type or size of spillage.

You will find a variety of different kinds of cleaning supplies. Including rags made from absorbent materials that can be used to remove liquids. As well as things like a dustpan and brush for granular spills, or disposal bags to safely contain soiled materials.

Signs

These are to warn people of the spillage, signs should be utilized.

Signs can be placed near the area where the spill occurred so that anyone who comes into contact with the spill can see it. This can be important to help prevent slip and falls in the workplace.

A Bin

As you likely already know, a bin is a container that holds objects for waste disposal. In many cases, a wheelie bin is often utilized which can also double as storage of your spill kit contents.

These bins are usually made of plastic or metal and can hold anything from garbage to liquids.

Most bins are designed to be portable so that you can take them wherever you go.

This means that you can easily transport the spill kit and all of its contents to the clean up site.

Absorbent Socks

Though they are called socks, these are not items that you wear. Instead, absorbent socks are used for spill control.

They are similar to bandages but are filled with absorbent material. These sorbents are typically used to wrap around and contain fluids spills or leaks.

Absorbent Pads

Absorbent pads are another item included in many spill kits. Use them to to soak up liquid spills and prevent them from spreading further.

The pads are generally made of strong, tear-proof materials that are capable of quickly absorbing fluids.

When Are Spill Kits Used?

Spill kits are commonly used when there is a spill that needs to be cleaned up quickly. When this happens, you must act fast.

Otherwise, you could end up causing even more damage than you originally intended.

They are mostly used in settings where potentially dangerous spills can occur. For example, they may be used in a lab or factory.

What Types Of Spill Kits Are There?

There are lots of different types of spill kits. They are used in different situations depending on what substance has been spilled. It is important to be aware of the type of liquid spill you are dealing with. Sometimes it is even necessary to color-code your spill clean-up

Here are some of the main varieties:

Universal Spill Kits

These general purpose spill kits are ideal for cleaning up most types of liquids. Including water-base fluids as well as spill containment of hydrocarbons like gasoline.

Contents of these emergency spill kits are typically grey in color. Because they are general-purpose, they can be utilized for a wide array of stains.

Chemical Spill Kits

As you may have guessed, chemical spill kits are used for cleaning up more hazardous chemicals. Which can include acids, solvents, coolants, and more. There are even specialty kits just for cleaning up mercury spills.

Sorbents in chemical spill kits are typically yellow. Or, purple the case of acid spills. Kits for acid spills usually contain neutralizing granular substances, such as sodium bicarbonate, that can counteract chemicals. And are designed to contain and neutralize the substances that were spilled, like battery acid.

Oil Spill Kits

This variety of spill kit contains items designed to clean up oil, fuel, and other hydrocarbons. It contains special tools and other items that help to ensure that the spill does not spread.

Contents of oil spill kits are normally white. Because many of the items float on water, they are ideal for use in and around marinas and boats. The PPE in these kits will need to be oil-resistant.

Blood Spill Kits/ Body Fluid Spill Kits

Lastly, biohazard spill kits are for cleaning up various body fluid contaminates. They will contain items to remove any traces of hazardous waste, like blood and urine.

These spill response kits are most commonly used in medical facilities.

Body fluid spill kits do require a certain level of training before being used. You must be careful when handling these types of biohazard fluids. One way to protect yourself is through PPE like nitrile gloves, lab coat, face mask or respirator.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is The Difference Between A Spill Kit And A First Aid Kit?

A spill kit is designed to handle spills, from small to large in size. Which may include emergency response situations to hazmat chemical spills in the workplace.

First aid kits are designed to treat injuries and illnesses. For example, if you have cut yourself, a first aid kit can be used to cover the wound.

Though they are both important workplace kits, they perform completely different functions.

Where Are Spill Kits Found?

This will depend on the environment. But, if it is your job to clean spills, you should be informed where the kit is kept. If there is a cleaning supply room, or materials storage area, it could be found there.

Alternatively, these kits are sometimes placed near where spills are most likely to occur. For example, along a route that is commonly used to transport chemicals. Or, a compact fleet spill kit may be stored inside the vehicle or truck cab itself.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, spill kits are very useful. They are great at containing spills and keeping them under control.

If you ever find yourself in a situation where you need to deal with a spill, then you should definitely consider getting one.

You never know when it might come in handy!

If you work in a factory or another industrial building, it is important to know where the spill clean up kit is kept so that you can stop spills before they can worsen.

What Should a Spill Kit Contain?

January 12, 2021 by Travis Zdrazil

What is a Spill Kit and what contents should it include?

Spill kit contents include absorbents and clean up equipment

A spill kit is an all-in-one container that stores gear and equipment used for cleaning up hazardous material spills. Typical contents inside a spill kit are PPE, sorbents, and other clean-up supplies.

The EPA‘s Spill Prevention Countermeasure and Control Planning guidelines state that companies that deal with hazardous materials must have the appropriate spill kits ready as a precautionary measure. If a corrosive chemical were to spill, kits such as these will allow workers to better control and contain it.

But just what exactly should your workplace spill kit contain? Read on to find out.

The Different Types of Spill Kits

Spill kits are generally broken down into one of three different categories: general purpose, oil, and hazmat. It’s important for company owners to carefully identify their particular needs before choosing a spill kit.

While a general-purpose kit may suffice for some companies, others may require a hazmat kit. Look below for a quick comparison of the three different types of spill kits.

General Purpose Spill Kits

As the name suggests, this type of spill kit is designed for both water-based liquids as well as hydrocarbons.

General-purpose spill kits are made with gray absorbents, making them effective for cleaning up water and oils.

Oil Only Spill Kits

An oil spill kit contains white absorbents and is designed to clean up hydrocarbons such as oil and gasoline.

The absorbents found in this kit are hydrophobic. That means they repel and float on water for more effective cleanup contact with the hydrocarbons.

Hazmat Spill Kits

The third type of spill kit is a hazmat kit, which is designed for spills involving highly corrosive acids and solvents.

Hazmat spill kits contain yellow-colored absorbents for dealing with hazardous chemicals.

Contents of a Spill Kit

A spill kit will contain specialty absorbents and cleaning gear

The exact contents of a spill kit will vary depending on the particular model you choose; however, there are several key items found in most kits. Some of the most common contents found in spill kits include:

Safety goggles,
Gloves,
Disposable bags,
Absorbent pads, and
Absorbent socks.

How to Select the Right Spill Kit Contents

Before purchasing a new spill containment kit, check its contents to ensure it’s an acceptable match for your company’s needs. For example, kits are available to handle everything from chemical spills to blood and body fluids. After identifying the chemicals used in your workplace, you can then choose the right type of spill kit.

Along with the contents, you should also consider the size of a spill kit. A bucket-sized spill kit is perfectly fine for smaller work areas, but larger work areas will require a larger spill kit. A step up from the bucket-sized spill kit is the drum model. Going up even further is the mobile cart spill kit. The mobile cart spill kit contains wheels for easier transportation.

Have questions about which spill kit contents are right for your business? Contact Travis Zdrazil at travis@absorbentsonline.com or (800) 869-9633.

This is a revision to a blog post with an original publication date of September 5, 2013

How Do I Respond to an Oil Spill?

December 31, 2020 by Travis Zdrazil

Plan, prepare, and have oil spill absorbents on hand for effective clean up

An oil leak or spill can have disastrous effects on the environment

Whether on a large or small scale, when an oil spill happens, you need to be ready to leap into action. But are you and your staff prepared to respond to an oil spill if — or when — it occurs?

The term “oil spill” is primarily applied to marine spills, but they can also occur on land. Either way, oil is a hazardous material that can have a disastrous impact on wildlife, marine life, and the environment. So when spills do happen, quick and efficient containment and cleanup are imperative.

Ways to prepare for oil spills

Of course, the best oil-spill cleanup is preventing spills entirely. But prevention isn’t always possible. Therefore, anyone who works with oil in any facility should make it a top priority be fully prepared for the possibility of spills.

If you handle oil in your facility, always plan for a “worst case” spill

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires leaders of certain facilities where employees store or use oil to put together and submit facility response plans (FRPs), detailing how they would handle worst-case-scenario oil spills. But, even if your facility doesn’t meet EPA FRP requirements, you should still have a plan!

A comprehensive FRP lays out preparedness procedures and provides an action plan employees can follow in case of spills. FRPs should contain:

information about the facility, equipment, and personnel;
information about potential spill hazards and responses to each; and
a plan for regular training, self-inspections, and drills to ensure staff members are prepared.

An FRP should also include a clear response plan coversheet that workers can reference quickly and easily in case spills occur.

But even the best FRP can’t solve oil spills by itself! You should also equip your facility with the cleanup materials a worst-case spill would require.

Spill response supplies to have on hand

Absorbent products

To quickly clean up oil spills, sorbents are a great solution. But did you know the term ‘sorbent’ actually refers to adsorbents and absorbents? The distinction being that absorbents take oil into the body of the material. Conversely, adsorption refers to oil adhering to an adsorbents’ surface, similar to a desiccant.

Hydrophobic products repel and float on water, only soaking up oil

The most effective oil absorbents are both oleophilic (oil attracting) and hydrophobic (water repelling). This type of sorbent product is usually white in color and floats on water.

Absorbent materials span a range of natural and synthetic construction choices. Organic options include everything from bark or sawdust, to corn cob and cellulose polymer materials. Typically messier to use and dispose of, these single use products often tend to adsorb water as well as oil. Which means they are best for cleaning up oil spills on land only.

Man-made plastic absorbent materials — like polyethylene and polypropylene — can absorb up to 70 times their own weight. And means these products are quick and efficient at soaking up spills in any situation. Not only that, but with a hand wringer, you can often clean and reuse them to save money!

What are the different types of oil spill absorbents?

Between oil absorbent pads, skimmers, socks, booms and more, the options can feel a bit overwhelming! So here’s a quick overview breaking down a few uses for each type of product.

Sorbent pads and rolls

Absorbent pads come in a variety of options, including these static-resistant oil absorbents

Oil absorbent pads and rolls come in plenty of sizes and quantities for any application. You can select pads with different absorbency options, including lightweight, medium or heavy duty.

Sorbent pads are a handy option for dealing with small spills. Economical perforated rolls let you tear off only what is necessary to soak up oil. Lay either product over a body of water to absorb oily sheen from its surface.

Absorbent socks, booms, and pillows

Absorbent oil containment booms float on water and quickly soak up spills

If you need to absorb more oil than a pad can handle, oil absorbent pillows or absorbent socks can be good choices. Ideal for hard-to-reach areas, you can wedge them under and around machinery or into tight corners.

To prevent a marine spill from spreading, link absorbent booms together to float on the surface of the water. These long sleeves will contain the oil, absorb the hydrocarbons but repel water.

Specialty marine and water sorbents

Sweeps, bilge booms, net bags and pom poms are specialty marine oil spill absorbents

In addition to booms, several other floating absorbent products are ideal for marine applications. For example, drawing a 100 foot polypropylene sweep over water will remove any oily surface sheen.

Oil snare pom poms feature thousands of polypropylene strands for high surface area absorbency. While net bags, bilge booms, and catch basin skimmers are other lightweight products that remove hydrocarbons and oil from water.

Absorbent mats

A semi-permanent solution for floors, reusable absorbent mats offer convenient spill response for small spills and oil drips. Simply park forklifts, vehicles and other machinery or equipment right over the mat.

As well as water-base liquids, these mats also soak up other common hazmat leaks like solvents and coolants. Which makes them a popular option for automotive shops.

Granular spill absorbents

Granular cellulose absorbents are suitable for cleaning up oil leaks on land

Loose material granular absorbing products are another top seller for automotive workshop floor spills. Just shake or apply these single-use materials directly onto oil leaks.

Because they are often made with bio-degradable contents like peat moss or sawdust, they can be messy to dispose of. And are most suitable for land spills only.

Spill kits

To be fully prepared for spills, an oil spill containment kit is often the easiest option. As the name implies, spill kits contain the absorbents you need to clean up spills and hazardous materials. They also include equipment necessary for your personnel to use those absorbents safely.

Oil spill clean-up kits come in a variety of sizes and different selection of products we outline above. This means you can pick a kit to handle your worst-case spill scenario and keep it on hand in case of emergency. If you need something very specific for your facility, we can even create custom spill kits here in the United States.

Spill containment

Another method of cleanup is containment; that is, confining a spill so it can’t spread. Once you contain the oil, you can remove it more easily.

To contain a spill on land, use oil conta inment spill berms. They come in a variety of sizes to suit your needs. Often berms are set up to house and safeguard against large container leaks. Alternatively, a flexible berm lets you create an emergency containment dike barrier wall around a spill.

Oil containment and absorbent booms can work well together

To contain an oil spill on water, use oil containment booms. Booms come in reusable non-absorbent options as well as heavy duty absorbency models.

One you are able to contain the spill, use any number of the products above to absorb the oil.

Become a spill expert

Oil spills can be catastrophic, and even the safest, most prepared professionals can experience accidents. Make sure you’re ready to tackle any spill with the right plan, training, and materials.

Are you ready for an oil spill? To determine which oil spill absorbents are best for your facility, contact Angie Meza at angie@absorbentsonline.com or (800) 869-9633.

This is a revision to a blog post with an original publish date of April 11, 2017

Which Spill Response Kit Belongs in Your Facility?

July 27, 2019 by Travis Zdrazil

One Size Spill Kit Doesn’t Fit All

5 gal. bucket kit with universal absorbents

Being prepared with a well-equipped spill kit is just as important as having a fully stocked first aid kit: No matter where you are, no matter what you do … spills happen. It’s a natural fact of life! But in your place of business, it’s especially important to have the correct tools on hand to clean up spills before they cause damage or injuries to personnel or plant.

It’s a no-brainer that quick response is key to addressing any spill scenario. But what are “the correct tools” for an emergency response to surprise spills? And, what’s the best approach for spill control and remediation?

Spill response kits (not to mention the spills themselves) are not one size fits all. You need to ensure that you are prepared for exactly the type of spill that you will be facing. Only when you have the appropriate spill kits for your facility, and the materials you use there, will you be able to face any potential disaster with confidence.

What spill risks exist at your job site?

Your facility is unique — and along with that unique identity come unique potential issues. There are many different risk factors for you to look at and think about. Which equipment, machinery, or areas are particularly prone to spills? What kinds of liquids do you have on-site? How many volumes of materials are you storing? Where and how do you house or transport those fluids? Forklifts moving pallets, IBC totes, and other large storage containers around can present a prime hazard for punctures!

Other things to consider are the location and potential size of your spills — will you need to clean up small leaks, or massive spills? Keep in mind the requirements for your industry and the type of spill kit container you will need. Does your spill response kit need to be used outdoors, or inside? Different types of containers will be best suited for different spill volumes (for instance, bagged or bucket spill kits will do fine for small spills, but large-volume spills might require a drum or a mobile spill kit in a wheeled cart).

You’ll want to review all of these things—and more—before you go looking for the right spill kit. Make sure to consider the worst-case quantities that could be spilled in various different locations.

What items are necessary in a spill response kit?

Once you know what your facility’s risks are, you can find the spill kit that matches them. What materials will you need in your kit? Perhaps pads and rolls, absorbent pillows, or absorbent socks. Each material has its own strengths, so you should read up on the particular uses for each type to determine which is best for you.

Safety gloves, goggles, sorbent pads, disposal bags and more come in battery acid spill response kits

Besides absorbents, other spill kit contents usually include things like disposal bags for soiled clean-up materials, nitrile gloves for safe material handling, and goggles for eye protection.

Spill kit refill materials are often available to purchase separately, so you can re-stock or augment your kit as necessary.

Select the right spill kit for the job

Just like your facility is unique, so is each spill kit. There are different kit types designed to most efficiently handle small to large spills of different liquid categories.

The three main types of spill cleanup kits tend to be color coded, to help easily identify and use the right kit for the right spill cleanup. The kit types include:

Universal or General Purpose Kits

65 gal. drum universal spill kit

These cleanup kits can handle both water-based fluids and hydrocarbons. The universal absorbents and cleaning materials in these kits are usually gray.

Universal spill kits are a good option for locations storing or using coolants, paints, solvents, and other non-hazardous materials and chemicals.
Oil Only Spill Kits

Mobile cart kit for oil spills

Dealing with hydrocarbons? The absorbent pads and contents in Oil only kits are generally white in color. The materials repel water and can be used to clean up motor oil, jet fuel, diesel, gasoline, lubricants, and hydraulic oil spills, among others.

An oil-only kit is an obvious choice for automotive/mechanical equipment shops as well as marine locations.
Hazmat/Chemical Spill Kits

Hazmat spill kit in a duffel bag

Hazmat kits will allow you to clean aggressive fluids such as acids and solvents. Absorbents in these kits are typically yellow in color and are for both hydrocarbons and water-based fluids.

This type of kit is great for labs and other sites handling or storing hazardous materials and chemicals to meet OSHA requirements.

Spill kit container and size options

Various size drum spill kit options exist to cater to large spills, including a 95-gallon spill kit with contents in a poly drum, ready to handle volumes up to 84 gallons. And don’t forget about mobile spill kits: overpack drums or large carts that feature caster wheels on the base for fast and easy transport to spill sites.

A duffel bag or fleet spill kit might be best for smaller spills, or, stashing inside emergency response vehicles. Bucket-style spill kits also make a convenient, grab-and-go option that is highly portable for attending to mid-size spill cleanups.

What other spill response kit options are there?

Spill response kit to safely clean up mercury

In addition to the three main kit types above, there are also various specialty kits available for fast spill containment and response. These options include kits for hazardous waste (such as body fluid kits for biohazard materials), mercury spill kits, as well as spill kits for battery acid.

Remember: workplaces will often need one or more types of spill kits on hand. It’s important to regularly inspect spill kits for missing or damaged items and then order refill kit items, as necessary.

If none of these kits seem like the right match for you, don’t worry! Talk to AbsorbentsOnline and we can build a custom kit that meets all your needs and leaves you confident in your ability to handle any spill.

We also have a wide range of other spill response products for convenient and quick order, to store in your safety cabinet or janitorial closet. Just a few suggestions to consider are wipers, drain plugs, drip pans, and containment berms.

Have questions about which absorbents or spill response kits are right for your needs? Contact Travis Zdrazil at travis@absorbentsonline.com or (800) 869-9633.

This is a revision to a post with an original publication date of July 10, 2015.

All-in-One Spill Kits Prepare You for Anything

September 26, 2017 by Travis Zdrazil

swiss army knife with AbsorbentsOnline logo In the event of a spill, you need to act fast. But you don’t just need the right absorbents for the job — you also need the right equipment and safety gear, you need to know how to use them, and you need to know where to find all these things quickly when you need them.

Does that sound overwhelming? Don’t worry! You don’t need to be a spill cleanup expert to be well prepared for accidents. All you need is an all-in-one spill kit. These kits usually include absorbents, safety gear like goggles and gloves, bags for the disposal of used absorbents, and instructions for their use.

Spill kits make it easy to be prepared

An all-in-one spill kit is designed to have everything you need to clean up a spill of any kind, whether in your home or workplace. Having one — or even a few so there’s always one close at hand — means you’re always ready to tackle any spill.

drain-cover-seal-oil absorbents

Depending on which liquids you have and may need to clean up, different types of kits are available. Universal or general-purpose spill kits, which are usually gray in color, are appropriate for water-based spills as well as hydrocarbons. Oil-only kits, which are white, repel water while absorbing hydrocarbons like oil, gasoline, and diesel. If you’re dealing with aggressive fluids like acids and solvents, a hazmat kit, which generally includes yellow absorbents, is a must for safe cleanup. There are even specialty spill kits available, in case you’re dealing with potentially dangerous fluids, like battery acid or mercury.

Too big, too small, or just right?

Once you’ve decided which type of kit is best for your situation, it’s time to select a size. All-in-one spill kits come in a wide variety of sizes so you don’t need to try and tackle a small spill with an oversized kit — or tackle a large spill without adequate absorbents. Once you’ve determined what your maximum potential spill volume is, you can select the perfect-sized spill kit to prepare you for it.

Small kits are great for mobile applications or for spaces where your potential spills will be small. For example, an economy portable spill kit is perfect to keep in a vehicle, camper, or to tuck into convenient places around your facility or home for quick cleanups. Or, if you want something a little more heavy-duty, a duffle bag spill cleanup kit is easy to bring along if you’re moving from place to place. It has convenient straps so you can hang it on equipment or wall hooks near potential spill sites.

For larger spills, drum spill kits are great options. These kits come in chemical- and water-resistant drums that are easy to store on a shelf or in a cabinet. Best of all, they’re available in everything from 20 gallon to 95 gallon sizes so you can pick the drum spill kit that best suits your needs.

If you may be dealing with very large volume spills, a mobile spill cart might be the best solution. These carts are wheeled so you can easily move them to spill sites and are bright yellow to make them easy to find in case of emergency.

If your home, garage, or facility requires something specific, you don’t have to go with “good enough” — you can work with an absorbent expert to build a custom spill kit based on your needs.

At AbsorbentsOnline, we would love to work with you to provide the right spill kits to make sure you’re prepared for anything! Ready to set up your first auto-shipment of absorbents and save 10% on every order? Contact our sales team at sales@absorbentsonline.com or (800) 869-9633.

What’s in Your Acid Spill Kit?

September 10, 2014 by Travis Zdrazil

Contents of spill kit for battery acid cleanup.

Acids and corrosive substances are on hand at many worksites — automobile repair shops, heavy equipment storage yards, and manufacturing facilities, to name just a few. However, the corrosive materials these and other businesses depend on can be dangerous — and even deadly — if a spill occurs and they’re caught unprepared. Having the proper spill kit materials on hand to respond to an acid spill is imperative.

What you need
Your worksite should have spill kits placed in all areas where acids are used. These kits should include acid neutralizers and absorbents that are specifically made for acids and corrosives, as well as other basic items for spill cleanup.

Make sure your acid spill kit includes the following items:

An appropriate container: You need a container that can hold acids or other aggressive fluids, like the bucket in the Battery Acid Spill Kit. This container is labeled and highly visible, waterproof, and can be used to store contaminated sorbents until they can be disposed of properly.

Personal protective equipment (PPE): Depending on the materials handled at your site, your acid spill kit may need a variety of PPE to protect users from aggressive liquids. Basic PPE may include safety goggles, chemical-resistant gloves, aprons, boot covers, and a respirator.

Absorbent materials: Hazmat spill kits should include absorbent pads and rolls, and hazmat absorbent. Your kit may also need an acid neutralizer, which absorbs and solidifies acids and then changes colors to signify complete neutralization. (Note that acid neutralizers may not be safe for all acids. Contact AbsorbentsOnline’s knowledgeable staff for answers to any questions you have about which absorbents are suitable for your environment.)

Cleaning supplies: Hand brooms or scoops can help spread and clean up absorbent neutralizers. You’ll also need disposal bags to hold used absorbents and contaminated materials.

Your source for spill solutions
AbsorbentsOnline sells many of these items individually, or you can take advantage of our Battery Acid Spill Kits that include PPE and cleanup tools as well as acid-specific absorbents.

You can also contact us about making custom spill kits to meet your needs. Get in touch by email or call toll free at (800) 869-9633. We have hundreds of customers that order special spill kits, and we’re always available to develop the perfect spill solution for your unique business.