Liquid spills can be hazardous to staff as well as hard on the wallet with possible destruction to property and equipment. For this reason having spill containment procedures and preparations is a vital step in any facility management role. When it comes to spill containment prevention is the key. No one wants a spill to happen. Proper equipment maintenance programs and equipment use documentation goes along way to prevent spills. Make sure that your spill containment program includes or is coordinated with a maintenance program.

Even though you take diligent measures to prevent spills from happening, there is always the possible accident caused by unexpected equipment malfunction or operator error. In these instances you will need to have spill containment preparation. You should always have on hand the necessary supplies to contain a spill. These may include a spill tray or drip pan, absorbant materials to soak up spills, hazard signage to notify of the spill and documentation for recording actions taken. Those individuals who will be instrumental in correcting a spill and in the spill containment should be on aware of their responsibilities and able to conduct them efficiently and effectively.

When a spill happens it is important that the Spill Containment Procedures are instituted as quickly as possible. Acting fast in a spill containment crisis will prevent injury, limit liability and save money. Have your Spill Containment Program ready, updated and able to be instituted when the need arises.