Spill Containment Procedures
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.
Spill Tray Specifications
A spill tray, also commonly know as a drip pan, is an important part of any spill
containment program. A spill tray should possess the following vital attributes.
- A spill tray should be accessible and portable when necessary. In some instances
a spill tray will remain in location under a potential spill area. However, in other
instances you may store the spill tray for use only if or when a spill occurs. If
you intend to store your spill tray make sure that it is accessible and portable.
- Make sure your spill tray is made of appropriate materials. You do not want to have
a light plastic spill tray for an acid leak! Use a spill tray that will stand up
to what is spilled into it.
- Is your spill tray big enough? Make sure that your spill tray is large enough to
hold the contents required. Nothing is worst than thinking you have a spilled cover
and then realizing that they tray is too small during the spill. If your potential
spill will involve a source (continuing flow) you may consider a drain pan solution
or multiple spill trays until the source can be shut down.
Also always know the condition of your spill trays. Trays made out of plastic can
be damaged over time with cracking from exposure to heat. Heavy objects can crush
thin metal spill trays. Make sure that you are aware of the location of your spill
tray and whether it is in working order or not.
