hazardous spills | Spill Containment Blog

3 Things You Need to Know About Spill Kits

January 5, 2024 by Travis Zdrazil

Master the Essentials of Spill Kits to Safeguard your Workplace

Spill kits come in a variety of types and sizes to accommodate any facility’s needs

Are spill kits really that important? And what do spill kits actually contain? You may have heard that spill kits are necessary but not understood why — or what makes a good spill kit. Not to worry. We’re here today with three things you absolutely have to know about chemical spill kits.

If you work with hazardous materials or waste, everyday accidental spills can quickly go from inconvenient to dangerous. You need to be ready to clean up these spills no matter when, where, or how they happen at your business. That’s where spill kits come in.

1. Choosing the right spill kit

Not just any spill kit will protect your equipment and employees. Your spill kits require specific features to be effective, and those features need to be specific to the kinds of possible spills in your workplace.

Therefore, the first thing you need to know is what kind of spill containment kits are right for you. Here’s a brief breakdown of the three main kit types and their uses:

General Purpose — General-purpose or universal spill kits are important to have around for water-based liquids and hydrocarbons. These kits use gray absorbents.
Oil Only — Specifically designed for the cleanup of hydrocarbons like gasoline, oil spill kits contain white absorbents. They are made of materials that repel and float on water to make cleanup in any location efficient and effective.
Hazmat — If you work with highly corrosive acids and solvents, hazardous material spill kits are for you. These chemical absorbents are yellow and will easily absorb your hazardous liquids.

2. What must your spill kits contain

No matter what kinds of kits you have, there are certain components they definitely need to contain. So, the second thing you need to know about spill kits is what they should have in them.

Your chemical spill kits should include:

Absorbents such as pads, socks, and pillows;
Protective gear for your workers, such as safety goggles and gloves;
Disposable bags with ties for handling soiled absorbents; and
A clearly marked container to store your unused spill kit contents.

Make sure that the capacity of your kits are right for the potential sizes of your spills. Figure out what your worst-case-scenario spill volume would be, and make sure you have a plan in place to handle it.

3. How to use spill kits to respond effectively

Of course, it isn’t good enough to just have spill kits. The third thing you need to know about spill kits is that they won’t be helpful if your employees don’t know how to use them.

Chemical spill kits need to be accompanied by training to ensure that every employee is ready to respond quickly and efficiently to spills. All employees should:

Know the location of spill kits as well as their contents,
Understand the procedures to follow in the event of chemical spills,
Have access to emergency contact information, and
Recognize when not to handle spills — sometimes the best response is evacuation.

Trust AbsorbentsOnline as your workplace spill kits partner

If you’ve considered these three aspects of your spill kit program, congratulations — you have a solid base for a spill-response plan! But whether you’re new to spill kits or a seasoned expert, AbsorbentsOnline is here to help ensure you have the right products to protect your employees and your facility. From specialty and portable spill kits to those capable of handling 95-gallons or more, we have all your needs covered.

Do you have the right safety products on hand for your workplace? To find out, contact Angie Meza at angie@absorbentsonline.com or (800) 869-9633.

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

Is Your Company Prepared For a Hazardous Chemical Spill?

August 1, 2023 by Travis Zdrazil

Understanding the risks of chemical spills through safety planning

liquid spill Companies dealing with hazardous chemicals and materials should follow the old saying, “Hope for the best but prepare for the worst.” Let’s hope a spill never occurs but in the rare event that it does, be fully prepared to control, contain and clean it. Because when it comes to workplace safety, there is no room for compromise.

Chemical spills can lead to a range of hazards, including fire, explosion, toxic fumes, and environmental contamination. These hazards can cause severe injuries or even fatalities, as well as significant damage to the surrounding environment. When companies turn a blind eye to the possibility of a hazardous chemical spill, they increase the chance of work-related injuries, while leaving themselves vulnerable to fines and sanctions handed down by the EPA.

Whether your company produces, transports, stores, or maintains hazardous chemicals, you need to take extra measures to ensure you are protected in the event of a spill. Some companies assume spill preparation isn’t necessary simply because they only store or transport chemicals rather than produce them. The bottom line is companies that deal with hazardous chemicals in any way, shape, or form must have a plan in place to reduce the impact of a spill.

So, let’s delve into the key steps you need to take to protect your workforce and minimize the potential impact of a chemical spill.

Importance of Comprehensive Safety Planning Against Chemical Spills

A comprehensive safety plan is the cornerstone of preparedness for hazardous chemical spills. It serves as a roadmap for your company, outlining the necessary procedures and protocols to follow in the event of a spill. A well-designed safety plan ensures that everyone in your organization knows their roles and responsibilities, reducing confusion and promoting a swift and organized response.

Furthermore, an effective safety plan should cover preventing hazardous chemical spills in the workplace. This includes guidelines on how to store chemicals safely, such as using appropriate containers and labeling systems. It should also outline the necessary precautions to minimize the risk of spills during transportation or use.

Identify Hazardous Chemicals In Your Workplace

The first step in preparing for a spill is to identify the types of hazardous chemicals present in your workplace. It’s not uncommon for companies to perform their day-to-day operations with little knowledge of the types of hazardous chemicals they are dealing with. When a spill occurs, they’re left scrambling to try and figure out the best way to contain it. A smarter approach is to identify the chemicals present in your workplace ahead of time, as this will allow you to better prepare for situations involving spills.

Start by reviewing the Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for each chemical. These documents provide detailed information on the hazards associated with each chemical, including its physical and chemical properties, health effects, and safety precautions.

Hazardous chemicals are often broken down into one of the following categories:

Flammables
Corrosives
Oils
Solvents
Explosives
Combustibles

Note: For more information on the different types of hazardous chemicals see our previous post, What is Hazardous Waste?

Understanding the potential hazards associated with each chemical–including flammability, reactivity, and toxicity–will help you determine the appropriate safety measures and response procedures to implement.

Identify Potential Spill Hazards and Risks

Next, you’ll want to evaluate your facility’s infrastructure and processes. Look for potential sources of chemical spills, such as faulty equipment, inadequate storage systems, or improper handling procedures. Assess the layout of your facility to identify areas where spills are more likely to occur, such as proximity to loading docks or chemical storage areas.

Engage your employees in this hazard identification process. They often have valuable insights and firsthand knowledge of potential risks. Encourage them to report any safety concerns or near misses related to chemical handling or storage. By actively involving your employees, you can create a culture of safety and enhance hazard awareness throughout your organization.

You should also consider the potential routes of exposure for employees and the surrounding community. Understanding how chemicals can be released into the environment will aid in developing effective containment and cleanup strategies. By thoroughly assessing the risks, you can take proactive steps to prevent chemical spills and mitigate their potential impact.

Create a Chemical Spill Response Plan

After identifying hazardous chemicals and risks in your workplace, you should then document a safety plan. Depending on the size and scope of your unique facility, this may require creating more than one type of plan. From a hazardous communications plan (HAZCOM) to one that is specific to fuel spill containment planning.

At a minimum, your safety plan should provide clear instructions on how to respond to a chemical spill. This includes steps to take immediately after a spill occurs, such as evacuating the area and notifying the appropriate authorities. It should also cover procedures for containing the spill, using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), and initiating the cleanup process.

Regular reviews and updates of your safety plan are crucial to ensure its effectiveness. As new chemicals are introduced or procedures change, it is essential to incorporate these updates into your plan. By consistently reviewing and improving your safety plan, you can stay ahead of potential hazards and enhance the overall preparedness of your company.

Creating an Emergency Response Team and Communication Plan

For large facilities, establishing an emergency response team will aid in a coordinated and efficient response to a hazardous chemical spill. This team should consist of individuals with specific roles and responsibilities, ensuring that all aspects of the response are covered.

Assign a team leader who will oversee the overall response efforts and act as the main point of contact for external agencies or authorities. Other team members may include individuals responsible for containment and cleanup, communication and coordination, and providing medical assistance if needed.

In addition to the emergency response team, you should develop a clear communication plan. This plan should outline how information will be disseminated during a chemical spill, both internally within your organization and externally to the appropriate agencies or authorities.

Consider establishing a chain of command for communication, ensuring that everyone knows who to contact and when. Implement a reliable communication system, such as two-way radios or a designated phone line, to facilitate quick and effective communication during emergencies. Regularly test the communication system to identify and address any potential issues.

Acquire Necessary Equipment for Spill Containment and Cleanup

Having the right equipment and materials readily available is essential for effective spill containment and cleanup. Depending on the nature and scale of the chemical spill, you will need a range of tools and resources to mitigate the risks and minimize the impact.

Chemical spill kit with absorbent materials

Absorbent contents in a hazmat chemical spill kit

Invest in appropriate spill containment supplies, such as chemical absorbent materials, spill kits, and containment berms. These products are designed to quickly and effectively contain spilled chemicals, preventing further spread and contamination. Ensure that an ample supply of these materials is readily accessible throughout your facility.

For instance, companies dealing with large quantities of oil should invest in a spill kit specific to hydrocarbons. These spill kits include a variety of items necessary for containing and cleaning up oil-based chemicals, such as gasoline, diesel, motor oil, hydraulic oil, etc. On the other hand, workplaces with aggressive corrosives and solvent chemicals should opt for a hazmat spill kit or perhaps even an acid spill kit.

Also, equip your emergency response team with PPE suitable for handling hazardous chemicals. This may include gloves, goggles, respirators, and protective clothing. Regularly check and maintain the condition of the PPE, replacing any damaged or expired items. Likewise, it’s equally important to inspect your spill kit to validate the state of its contents.

Hazardous Chemical Spill Response Training: Know How to Use Spill Kits

Of course, a chemical spill kit is only useful if you’re fully aware of its contents and how to use them. Once you’ve acquired the appropriate spill kit, spend some time familiarizing yourself with its various supplies. Depending on the particular kit you choose, some of the items frequently contained include absorbent pads, socks, pillows, wipes, gloves, buckets, plastic bags, and emergency handbooks.

Properly trained employees are key to swift and effective hazardous chemical spill response. Without the necessary knowledge and skills, employees may panic or make uninformed decisions, potentially exacerbating the situation and increasing the risks.

Provide comprehensive training to all employees who may be involved in or affected by a chemical spill. This includes not only those directly working with hazardous chemicals but also individuals in adjacent areas who may need to take immediate action to protect themselves.

The training should cover various aspects of spill response, including recognition of different types of spills, the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), evacuation procedures, and communication protocols. Employees should also be familiar with spill kit locations and the proper use of spill containment and cleanup equipment.

Additionally, conduct regular drills and simulations to practice the response procedures outlined in your safety plan. These exercises will help identify any gaps or areas for improvement in your spill response capabilities. By continually reinforcing the training, you can ensure that your employees are prepared to handle a chemical spill confidently and minimize potential risks.

Stay Up to Date with Federal Requirements for Chemical Spills

In addition to implementing your safety plan, it is vital to comply with federal regulations and standards related to hazardous chemical spills. These regulations are in place to protect workers, the environment, and the general public from the dangers posed by chemical spills.

For example, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) standard. This standard specifically outlines the requirements for employers and employees who respond to chemical spills or releases. Similarly, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversees a number of regulations related to chemicals and toxics, including the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) and Clean Water Act (CWA).

Failure to comply with federal regulations can result in severe penalties, legal liabilities, and reputational damage. By staying up to date with the latest regulations, you can maintain a safe and compliant working environment.

Conclusion

A hazardous chemical spill can have severe consequences for both human health and the environment. As a responsible company, it is crucial to prioritize safety and be prepared for such emergencies. By understanding the risks, implementing a comprehensive safety plan, having the right response equipment, complying with regulations, and training employees, you can minimize the potential impact of a chemical spill.

Have questions about hazardous chemical spill supplies? 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 November 11, 2013.

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.

Comparing Levels of Protection For Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

May 7, 2021 by Travis Zdrazil

What You Need to Know About Chemical-Resistant PPE When Dealing With Workplace Spills

Donning Level A full body protection is necessary for severe hazmat chemical spills

Basically, the name says it all. The purpose of personal protective equipment (PPE) is to protect the wearer from any number of potential dangers. Be it exposure to a physical, chemical, ergonomic, or biological risk. Including things like encountering infectious diseases and body fluid, or a chemical spill.

For instance, when a spill occurs responders need to gear up in the appropriate PPE before entering the contaminated area. Similarly, donning PPE in healthcare settings is essential for infection control and disease prevention. Especially during eras of Ebola and the Covid-19 pandemic.

In this post, we’re going to reveal the different levels and use of PPE for workplace chemical spills.

Why You Need PPE in the Workplace

Use of personal protective equipment is more than just a recommendation. It’s a requirement by law. For instance, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets limits for worker exposure to hazardous materials.

PPE helps protect your workers from exposure to hazards and injury

If workers cannot control a spill by normal means, OSHA states they must gear up in PPE. However, because all spills are different it’s important to choose the right PPE. Of course, the type that is necessary will depend on the situation.

Several other government bodies also offer PPE guidelines. Including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). And the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

Some of which help protect public health interests during pandemics like the Coronavirus. For instance, healthcare workers using NIOSH-approved n95 respirators when caring for Covid-19 patients. And patients themselves with Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) infection wearing a surgical mask.

Fortunately, there’s a wealth of information about PPE available online. Including fact sheets and FAQs, some of which we link to above. Tip: official government website URLs end in “.gov”.

Types of Personal Protective Equipment

There’s a wide variety of personal protective equipment available for workplace use. In short, each type of equipment helps to minimize different health and safety risks for workers.

Basic workplace PPE might require a hard hat, steel-cap boots, and hi-vis vest for safety

Some common PPE supplies include facepieces, like face masks, and eye protection safety glasses. Which help prevent eye and nose areas from sprays, dust, and other irritants.

In addition to face shield protection, earplugs and hard hats reduce hearing and head injuries. Meanwhile, gloves and steel-toe boots offer extra barriers for hand and feet safety.

Likewise, coveralls, aprons, and safety vests help with full body protection. Including harsh weather conditions when working outdoors, chemical splashes, or by increasing visibility.

Many kinds of PPE are not suitable for reuse due to hygiene reasons. Think disposable surgical masks or earplugs. Meanwhile, it is possible re-use some equipment like hard hats, eye protection, and face shields. But only after you employ cleaning agents such as hand sanitizer or disinfectant.

What are the Different PPE Protection Levels?

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) defines four levels of risk associated with chemical spills. You’ll find PPE supplies are readily available based on these varying risk levels. Ranging from “Level A” being the most secure to “Level D” being the least protective.

Levels A-D personal protective equipment

PPE comes in different levels corresponding to its chemical hazard protection abilities

Level A

Offers the highest level of both skin and respiratory protection available. Level A PPE includes a whole body coverall with self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). The encapsulating suit construction has reinforced, sealed seams to prevent air from entering. When worn correctly, Level A offers a superior level of protection against chemicals and contamination.

This gear is appropriate for emergency responders to severe hazmat chemical spills and in oxygen-deficient atmospheres.

Level B

Like Level A, this PPE also has a SCBA respirator and industrial-grade garment materials for chemical splash protection. However, Level B PPE does not protect against airborne gas exposure. That’s because the unsealed garment seams leave the wearer vulnerable to chemical gasses.

Firefighters and other first responders might wear Level B PPE in environments where no harmful gasses are present.

Level C

Has similar garment chemical resistance to Level B, but with less respiratory protection. Most Level C PPEs contain a basic air respirator rather than a SCBA. These suits are only suitable when the contaminated area is deemed safe for air purifying respirators. That is, in areas with adequate oxygen levels.

Some examples where level C is worn may include laboratory, medical and healthcare settings. As well, at work sites where workers handle pesticides.

Level D

The lowest level of workplace protection is Level D PPE. There’s no respirator mask used in conjunction with these suits. In fact, most Level D PPE is a basic coverall or standard work clothes that offer minimal skin protection.

This level of PPE is commonly worn by factory, construction site, and general public health workers.

Chemical Resistance

There are three factors that affect the chemical resistance of PPE:

Know the chemicals you’re working with to select the appropriate level of protective gear

Exposure time to the chemical
The exposure situation
The properties of the chemical itself

Certain types of personal protective equipment tailor to specific chemicals and toxins. This is why it’s critical to identify the spilled materials before responders enter the contaminated area.

For example, disposable gloves may only offer chemical protection for a few minutes. And obviously, some chemicals are more dangerous than others.

Therefore, you must know which chemical you are dealing with before attempting to cleanup a spill.

Your Spill Cleanup and Prevention Experts

Hopefully, you now have a better understanding of the different levels and use of personal protective equipment. Essentially, it’s a simple system put in place to help companies and responders select their protective suit and gear.

Many of our spill kits for sale include basic protection you’ll need for workplace cleanup situations. For example, gloves and protective eyewear. To complement wearable gear, consider equipping your workplace with other chemical safety items. Such as an emergency shower, portable decontamination unit, or eyewash station.

Need help with spill kits and the correct use of PPE when handling chemicals in your facility? Contact Travis Zdrazil through email or (800) 869-9633.

This is a revision to a blog post with an original publication date of August 27, 2013

Is Your Workplace Prepared to Handle Emergencies?

September 12, 2019 by Travis Zdrazil

Learn the essentials for workplace emergency preparedness

Escape route procedures are one part of workplace emergency preparedness

It’s easy to think “It couldn’t happen to me” — until it does. Too often, we don’t focus on workplace emergency preparedness until disaster strikes. And by then, it’s already too late.

That’s certainly the case for some U.S. employers. For instance, many are less prepared than they should be for emergencies in the workplace.

Consider a 2014 report from the International Facility Management Association (IFMA) and RLE Technologies. Its findings state that 19% of organizations lack an up-to-date emergency preparedness and business continuity plan. And Staples’ 2014 workplace safety survey shows that only half of employees believe their workplaces are prepared for a severe emergency.

Don’t get caught without an emergency response plan

Think an emergency can’t hit you hard? Think again.

Firefighters and emergency services respond to a chemical spill
Source: nhregister.com

A variety of emergency situations could easily disrupt business operations. Consider the impact of a medical emergency or a short-term Internet outage. Let alone more catastrophic events. For instance, building and environmental damage. Be it due to severe weather, a hazardous spill, equipment failure, or a terrorist attack.

Your business needs to be ready. Because if you don’t have an emergency action plan in place to deal with events like these, you risk non-compliance with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations. Specifically, 29 CFR 1910.38(a) and 29 CFR 1926.35.

And if non-compliance with the U.S. Department of Labor’s occupational safety requirements isn’t scary enough, an emergency can have many other dire consequences. For instance, without proper planning, you risk jeopardizing employee workplace safety. Or, even shutting down the business. In fact, according to the Institute for Business and Home Safety, one in four businesses never reopens after a natural disaster.

What does emergency planning require?

You don’t want to be that one in four business that has to close its doors for good after an emergency strikes. So how do you ensure that you’re ready to deal with a disaster if, or when, it comes?

Fortunately, both OSHA and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) offer comprehensive guidelines and resources. Which can assist businesses in developing their emergency preparedness plans.

Your workplace preparedness and emergency action plan should address these areas:

Program management

A preparedness program requires management leadership, commitment, and financial support.

These inputs are essential to your plan’s success and require ongoing investments, including time and money.
Planning

This task involves the assessment of hazards and risks and how to mitigate them.

Potential hazards exist in every company or organization. And every workplace is unique. Your preparedness plan should include hazards specific to your business and workplace environment. In other words, oil or chemical spills or severe weather events that are possible in your area.
Implementation

The plan should cover all facets of preparedness. This means crisis communications, business continuity, and emergency response.

Workplace protective actions can be everything from installing a defibrillator (make sure to train employees how to use it!) to having a shelter in place at tornado-prone locations.
Testing

Test and evaluate the plan with drills and exercises that you schedule on a regular basis each year.

Are evacuation routes in your building visible, and, are your staff familiar with evacuation procedures? Are alarm systems and public address systems in effective working order if you need to alert staff or reach out to local law enforcement?
Improvement

Based on what you learn during testing and evaluation, determine how you can improve your plan.

Do you need to revise your evacuation plans and emergency evacuation procedures, or, consider upgrading building fire protection systems? Is it time to update employee family member contact information so you can let them know about an emergency situation?

Get prepared for potential emergencies

Keep acid neutralizer on site to prepare your workplace for emergency spills

Ensuring your workplace has emergency response items like fire extinguishers, first aid, leak, and spill kits on hand is a good start. But, will only do so much during a large catastrophe.

Beyond tangible equipment, you must also have clear processes in place to report and respond to an emergency. Above all, preparation to protect your workers or customers demands a clear chain of command.

Preparation also means appropriate safety training for staff. The American Red Cross offers specialized courses in everything from first aid and CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) to using AED (automated external defibrillator) equipment.

When developing your first responder notification procedure, you might even want to reach out to your local fire department or police department for their input.

Types of emergencies to consider

An emergency or disaster in the workplace can strike at any time, without warning. Broadly speaking workplace emergencies fall into two main categories – man-made and natural.

Examples of man-made disasters are:

Hazardous toxic gas releases or chemical spills
Radiological accidents
Explosions
Civil disturbances
Workplace violence that results in bodily harm and trauma.

Weather is one of many worst-case scenarios workplaces must plan for

Similarly, the types of natural disasters your workplace may need to prepare for include:

Floods
Hurricanes
Tornadoes
Fires

Brainstorm potential emergency scenarios

Not all workplaces will be at risk of the same types of emergencies. But it always pays to prepare for the worst-case scenarios. Therefore, brainstorm any and every potential hazard that your workplace might face.

Start by writing down a list of questions, such as the following examples. What types and volumes of hazardous materials does your job site handle or store on location? Does your medical facility have the appropriate equipment in place to protect employees against bloodborne pathogen risks?

When it comes to natural disaster preparedness, check out our previous Storm Safety Tips post for more ideas.

The time for emergency planning is now

There’s no time like the present to determine whether your existing plan needs an update. Particularly if you haven’t recently done a review or test of your workplace’s emergency preparedness plan.

And if your company lacks a workplace emergency preparedness plan, consider the consequences of not being prepared when disaster strikes. In conclusion, make it a priority to develop a plan that protects both your employees and your business.

We’ll help your workplace with disaster preparedness

Workplace emergency preparedness spill kit

Have your plan in place? Congratulations! Now, check out these emergency preparedness products from AbsorbentsOnline.com:

Do you have the right safety products on hand for your workplace? To find out, contact Angie Meza at angie@absorbentsonline.com or (800) 869-9633.

This is a revision to a post with an original publication date of November 11, 2014.

Be Ready with a Job Hazard Analysis and Spill Response Plan

March 14, 2018 by Angie Meza

Earlier this year, a chemical spill at a clothing manufacturer in Norton, Massachusetts, triggered a hazmat crew response. Sources report the spill involved chlorine, a chemical the Environment Protection Agency (EPA) defines as hazardous waste, prompting officials to evacuate several homes in the surrounding area.

Despite the countless protocols in place to avoid spills such as this one, these incidents still happen. That’s why spill preparedness is of utmost importance. Part of an industrial facility manager’s job is to train personnel so their responses to unexpected events like chemical spills are automatic and it’s less likely for injury or environmental damage to occur. To meet this goal, facility leaders should have response plans in place for employees to follow and stock their facilities well with absorbents and other spill response equipment.

The first step: Conduct a job hazard analysis

For leaders securing their facilities against emergency spills, conducting a job hazard analysis (JHA) is essential. Designed to carefully identify hazards before they occur, a spill response JHA consists of three distinct steps:

Conduct a thorough facility walk-through, noting all potential spill hazards.
Incorporate any Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards that apply.
Equip work areas with necessary absorbents and spill-control supplies as well as instructions for responding to hazards.

In all steps of the process, it is imperative to involve employees. Group discussions can not only help employees identify spill risk areas but also promote safety awareness throughout the facility. Facility leaders should ask employees to demonstrate their daily tasks and what steps they would take if an emergency spill was to occur as well as what tools would best equip them to respond to such incidents.

Don’t forget a spill response plan

For those who handle hazardous waste, an effective JHA must also contain a spill response plan. According to OSHA’s compliance guidelines, any business in which employees could be exposed to hazardous materials resulting from spills are required to equip employees to deal with those spills.

Key questions to consider when constructing a spill response plan include whether spills require special cleanup materials, such as those safe to use on hazardous spills, and what size spills could possibly occur. Stocking the appropriate tools such as absorbents, drain protectors, drain plugs, drum plugs, and chemical neutralizers can greatly increase the effectiveness of any plan.

All the right tools

With their spill response plans in place, here are three main types of spill kits facility leaders should consider when preparing for a spill:

Universal or general purpose kits designed to address water-based fluids and hydrocarbons
Oil-only kits made with white absorbents that repel water and absorb hydrocarbons only
Hazmat kits made with yellow absorbents to clean aggressive fluids such as acids and solvents

Facility leaders can determine the best spill kits for their needs by considering factors such as the size of a spill and type of container necessary. They can even order custom spill kits for areas where potential spills are larger in volume than available container size.

Knowing industry requirements and the types of chemicals on hand is important, and having equipment such as nonabsorbent drain covers or spill containment berm dikes allows facility leaders to control spills until they can remove the liquid safely. Many also use spill containment trays of different sizes and generally place these underneath batteries or other hazardous chemicals to prevent leakage and contain spills.

Shop Now

Are you looking for a comprehensive guide to prepare for spills in your facility? Our thorough spill response compliance manual can help you consider the possibilities and develop a comprehensive response plan.

To learn more about absorbents and order the products you need for your spill response plan, contact Angie Meza at angie@absorbentsonline.com or (800) 869-9633.

What Kinds of Absorbents Do Firefighters Need?

September 26, 2017 by Travis Zdrazil

firefighters cleaning up a truck fuel spill

Firefighters cleaning up a fuel spill

To the average person, it may seem like firefighters are more in the business of dispensing fluids than cleaning them up — but any firefighter knows he or she does a lot more than hold a fire hose, and that includes cleaning up spills. To do so effectively, it’s important to have the right absorbents and spill containment products both in the firehouse and in trucks.

What kinds of spills do firefighters face?

To see what sorts of spill containment challenges firefighters are dealing with every day, all you have to do is look to the news. For example, firefighters responding to a three-car collision in Harvard, Massachusetts used absorbents to clean up two small fluid leaks from vehicles involved in the crash. An oil absorbent pillow or oil absorbent pad would’ve been a likely candidate for this kind of job to both repel water and absorb oil-based fluids — and one pillow or pad can safely absorb more than 20 gallons.

In Halifax, Virginia, a tractor trailer pulled down some utility lines, resulting in a transformer leaking hydraulic fluid into the street. Firefighters used absorbents to create a dam to contain the leaking oil and prevent it from spreading while they orchestrated a spill cleanup. This can be done with a portable spill containment berm. Alternatively, absorbent socks can work in these applications if firefighters wanted to absorb the liquids, rather than just contain them.

A tanker accident in Hickory, North Carolina proves that spills can be unpredictable: The vehicle, which was carrying chicken byproduct, overturned and released the waste into the area. Firefighters shut the leaking valve, then built a dam from sand to prevent the waste from entering nearby storm drains. While sand did the trick in this instance, granular sorbents would’ve been an environmentally safe alternative capable of absorbing — not just blocking — the liquid.

Have the right absorbents on hand

firefighters laying granular absorbent on a truck diesel spill

Firefighter cleaning up after truck wreck

When firefighters are called to the scene, they need to do their jobs quickly and efficiently or they could risk lives and environmental contamination. And that doesn’t just apply in cases of fire but also in cases of spills. That’s why it’s imperative firefighters be prepared for any spill containment scenario with the right absorbents and equipment.

Whether it’s as simple as a drip pan for the fire truck or as convenient as a small, portable spill cleanup kit to tuck into the cab for minor emergencies, absorbentsonline.com has all the absorbent materials that a firehouse needs to tackle any spill. Need help choosing the right absorbents? Our experts can help. Contact Travis Zdrazil at travis@absorbentsonline.com or (800) 869-9633.

Tips To Prevent Hazardous Chemical Spills In The Workplace

June 10, 2014 by Travis Zdrazil

Why chemical spill prevention is important for your facility

metal barrel chemical drums Chemical spills or leaks can pose a direct threat to workers’ health, the environment, and nearby animals. This is why the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have strict rules in place. For both the prevention and cleanup of workplace hazardous chemical leaks or spills.

When you’re running a business, it can be easy to overlook the fundamentals of maintaining a safe working environment. But companies storing, transporting, using or handling hazardous chemicals must take precautionary measures.

And that’s because failing to take preventive measures against chemical spills could place your company at risk. Including OSHA and/or EPA fines. Not to mention placing your workers’ health and well-being in jeopardy.

Some people assume that only large-scale chemical leaks—like the one in West Virginia in 2014—are dangerous. But in reality, it’s often smaller leaks that prove more harmful to workers and the environment. So read on to see our three tips for reducing chemical spill risks in your facility.

1. Store hazardous chemicals under cover outdoors

To protect against rainfall, always store your hazardous chemicals in a covered area outdoors. If rainwater mixes with a hazardous chemical, it can dilute it. And so contaminate the workplace or become a storm-water pollutant. Granted, chemicals diluted with water are typically weaker. But this also means there’s more of it. Which means response teams have to work extra hard to clean up hazardous chemical spills mixed in with rainwater.

There are a number of different outdoor drum storage solutions available. Including lockable units with hard or roll tops. As well as larger shed buildings that can hold up to 20 drums.

What is a hazardous chemical?

A hazardous chemical can include any of the following products that are commonly found in many workplaces:

Flammables
Corrosives
Oils
Solvents
Explosives
Combustibles

2. Properly label all hazardous chemicals

OSHA requires companies to properly label any hazardous chemical that it stores or uses in the workplace. Each type of chemical must have a clear and accurate label describing its contents. For instance, whether it is flammable, corrosive, oil or another chemical type in the list above. Color coding your safety cans is one helpful way to quickly ID its contents.

Why is correct labeling necessary? Well, that’s because it helps ensure safe response in the event of an accidental spill. By understanding the type of chemical spill, responders can use the correct clean up materials. As well as knowing which level of personal protective equipment (PPE) they need to wear.

3. Train workers in chemical spill prevention

Of course, a very important step in preventing workplace spills involves employee training. You should train workers how to properly handle respective chemicals to minimize risks. This includes everything from which container to store chemicals in, to what PPE to wear while using them.

Finally, ensure your staff know the proper cleanup procedures in the event of a spill. Including which type and color absorbents to use. See our post to learn how to choose the right spill containment kit for your facility.

Have questions about which chemical spill containment or absorbent products to purchase? Contact Travis Zdrazil at travis@absorbentsonline.com or (800) 869-9633.