Do you need a spill kit for your workplace?
First we’ll get to the basics – what is a spill kit?
A spill kit contains all the items you need to control the spread of a substance, render it harmless and dispose of it safely. If your workplace deals with hazardous materials, pollutants or substances that can cause damage if spilled, a spill kit is a necessity to protect your employees and work space. It is important to remember that you have the right kit and those who need to know how to use one – can do so.
There are different types of spill kits for different substances
- Oil only
- Chemical spills
- Maintenance spills
- General spills
These kits are designed to deal with a range of different substances, for example fuels (petrol, diesel), bodily fluids, chemicals including acids and alkalis, food waste and cooking oils.
What are the contents of a spill kit?
Most spill kits contain the same items, however some may be varied depending on the type of kit. The most common items found within all kits are as follows:
- Disposable Gloves
- Absorbent socks
- Safety Goggles
- Absorbent pads
Gloves and safety goggles are provided to protect your skin and eyes from any harmful substances. Absorbent pads & socks (not the type of socks you’re thinking of!) are used to contain and soak up the spillage.
Absorbent pads come in different colours for the different types of substances, for example;
- Oil absorbent pads are white and will repel water.
- Chemical absorbent pads are yellow, these are brighter to be easily identified as they can be used to soak up harmful chemicals and solvents.
- General purpose and water absorbent pads are black or grey. These will soak up oils, water, foodstuffs and most chemicals making them perfect for any workplace.
How to deal with a spill
Firstly, assess the situation and follow any procedures in place for spillages in your workplace, then locate your spill kit and put on any PPE as required. Make sure any further possible hazards are swiftly removed from the area.
Use your absorbent socks and pads to control the spillage, if needed contain the area and place a safety barrier around to prevent any possible injuries. If the spill is caused by a leak – stop the leak! Either by plugging a hole, closing a valve or making sure liquids are stored in the upright position.
Next, begin to clean up the spillage safely using the absorbent pads provided (making sure to stick to the right colour for the substance). Depending on what has been spilled, extra clean up or decontamination may be required. Make sure the air quality around the spill site is safe for workers to go back to and for serious/dangerous spills consider calling the relevant emergency services.
Once a spill kit has been used it cannot be used again. Reflect with your team on how great it was to have all the tools needed available in one place and don’t forget to restock for next time!
So – in conclusion, do you need a spill kit? As spillages are a common cause of workplace accidents it’s always a good thing to be prepared, even if your risk of spillage is low. Check out our wide range of spill kits, spill kit refills and extra spillage essentials here!
If you have any questions don’t hesitate to reach out on 01278 783322 or use our contact form.
