Section 8: Chemical Spills

SECTION 8: Chemical Spills

General information about cleaning up chemical spills is available in the Chemical Spill Procedures section of the EHS web page. This section contains information regarding:

Pre-planning is essential. Before working with a chemical, the laboratory worker should know how to proceed with spill cleanup and should ensure that there are adequate spill control materials available. EHS also maintains general chemical spill kits for use by labs if no other control materials are immediately available.

 

Preventing Spills (top)

Most spills are preventable. The following are some tips that could help to prevent or minimize the magnitude of a spill:

  • Place chemical containers being used in a hood or lab bench area that reduces the possibility of accidentally knocking over a container.
  • Keep all unused reagents in thier appropriate storage area and keep your work area clean of needles equipment and clutter.
  • Plan your movements. Look where you are reaching to ensure you will not cause a spill.
  • Avoid transporting chemicals from the stockroom during periods of high traffic in the hallways such as between classes.
  • Transport chemical containers in a chemical carrier or cart.
  • Place absorbent plastic backed liners on benchtops or in fume hoods where spills can be anticipated. For volumes of liquid larger than what can be absorbed by liners, use trays.

Followed the guidelines outlined for safe storage of chemicals.

 

Section 9: Laboratory Waste Disposal
Section 7L: Nanotechnology