Working with caustic chemicals always presents a significant amount of risk. Even if your employees know about the types of chemicals used on site and store them properly, accidents can still happen that result in a spill.
When a spill occurs, your team will have to work fast to contain it. So, it is always best to have an official spill-response plan in place. This plan should also be included in your company’s ongoing training efforts.
In the case of a containable spill, following these four steps can minimize injuries and damages, while mitigating risks often associated with negative environmental impacts.
1. Alert Co-Workers and Authorities to the Hazard
As soon as a spill happens, alert workers in the area and clear out the area as quickly as possible. If the situation warrants an emergency call, do so, and have all available information regarding the accident. This will streamline Emergency Response process.
Tend to the Injured
If anyone was injured during the chemical spill, immediately move the injured personnel a chemical-free area, and tend to their wounds until the medical team arrives.
Contain the Spill
If you can prevent further spreading of the spill, do so immediately. However, before turning off any valves or moving chemical containers around, ensure that your team is wearing the appropriate PPE. Once your team has stopped the spill, isolate the area to prevent fumes from spreading.
Also, you will need to prevent the chemical from spreading towards drains and grates to prevent environmental contamination. While awaiting assistance for a safe cleanup, absorbent materials can be used to contain the spill.
Safely Clean Up the Spill
Once the spill is contained, collect and store the chemical(s) in the appropriate containers before transporting the waste to the appropriate disposal facility. Ensure all manifests are completed correctly and that the entire process is fully compliant with all Federal, state and local regulations.
If the site was contaminated, be sure to the have site/soil remediated by a licensed professional.
TAS’ Emergency Response and Environmental Waste Disposal Services are available to assist with emergency 24/7/365. TAS’ process guarantees that the spill site will be hazard-free once all work has been completed.
Questions About Chemical Safety? TAS Environmental Services can Help.
Questions About Chemical Safety? TAS Environmental Services can Help.
Unfortunately, on-site personnel cannot contain all chemical spills and sometimes, major spills occur during chemical transportation. TAS Environmental Services offers emergency response services that help contain chemical spills and prevent them from causing further damage at the surrounding site.
If you have questions about chemical spill prevention or need an emergency service your business can rely on, TAS Environmental Services can help.
Contact us today to learn more about the chemical spills and hazardous cleanup services we provide.
