23 Chemical spill kit
23:1 Location
ROOM 345A (the WASH UP ROOM, opposite 306) in a labelled container.
23:2 Contents
| 2 bottles | SPILLX-A granules for SOME acids |
| 2 bottles | SPILLX-C granules for SOME caustics |
| 2 bottles | SPILLX-S granules for SOME solvents |
| 2 sets | Instructions for SPILLX items |
| 1 | Mercury SPILL kit and instructions |
| 1 pair | Goggles |
| 1 | Mixing tool and collection tray |
| 1 pair | Extra long gloves |
| 6 | Collection and disposal bags |
| Various | Collection and disposal containers |
| Various | Labels |
| 1 | Dustpan and brush |
| 1 bag | Sand* |
| 1 bag | Vermiculite (inert absorbent)* |
| 2.5kg | Soda-ash (sodium carbonate)* |
* For spillages of chemicals not covered by the SPILLX range, the above items marked * are provided. These are items regularly mentioned on chemical data sheets for dealing with spillages of those chemicals.
23:3 Dealing with a Chemical Spill
The presence and removal of a chemical spill in itself can present a variety of hazards and therefore the following points should be observed:
23:3:1
- FAMILIARISE yourself with the spill kit and its instructions PRIOR TO ITS USE
- The SPILLX range cannot be used for all chemicals; lists are provided in the instruction booklet.
23:3:2 If you have any doubt regarding your ability to safely clean up a spill, LABEL, ISOLATE AND EVACUATE the spill area and OBTAIN ADVICE from the supervisory staff, e.g. your LSM, the Safety Officer, your supervisor or any member of staff.
23:3:3 In dealing with any spill always take the following steps:
- LABEL, ISOLATE AND EVACUATE the spill area as necessary.
- PROTECT YOURSELF. Wear adequate protective clothing. NEVER COMPROMISE LIFE OR HEALTH. If in doubt report the spill to supervisory staff after performing step 3(a).
- Obtain help and advice from supervisory staff
For very serious spills it MAY be necessary to call out the emergency services to deal with the spill. - Identify the spill - use COSHH forms and chemical data sheets for information on how to deal with a spill.
- Select the correct agent to deal with the spill and proceed as in instruction booklets or on chemical data sheets.
- Safely dispose, package and label any residues, clean up the area and arrange with the Chief Technician or the technical staff so that items can be replaced quickly.
- Always report any usage of the kit to the Chief Technician or technical staff so that items can be replaced quickly.
- Contents of the kit will be checked monthly by the member of staff responsible for the checking of First Aid Kits.
