FAQs

The question of “chemical spills” really depends on what material has been spilled. The first step in figuring out how to clean up a spill is assessing the substance that was spilled. Is the liquid spill oil-only? Does the spill involve liquid that is oil and water? Does the spill involve chemicals and, more importantly, what chemicals? The clean-up of any spill should involve, but not limited to, the following steps:

1. Evaluate what material has been spilled
2. Wear protective garments and, if necessary, a breathing apparatus and safety glasses.
3. Contain the spilled liquid
4. Stop the source
5. Begin clean up
6. Contact authorities
7. Dispose of the material that has been used in the clean up
8. Clean off towels and reusable materials
9. Restock materials
10. Review procedures and plans in place to prevent any future spills

Spill kits that work for oil-spills would be oil-only spill kits. These spill kits range in size from small, bagged and lightweight kits, to large stationary kits used in a specific location in a facility. All oil-only spill kits contain special materials that repel water and will only absorb oil. These spill kits usually consist of absorbent pads, absorbent booms, absorbent socks, gloves, goggles, bags and ties, an emergency response guidebook and other necessary materials to clean up the oil spill. For larger spills on water, we have special materials that can be used to not only separate and absorb the oil from the water, but also remove any sheen from the top.

The answer to the question really depends on the type of industry you are in. Generally, the best places for spill kits to be located and stored would be:

1. Trucks and Transport Vehicles owned by the company – Leaks are often unexpected, so by arming your trucks and fleet vehicles with spill kits specifically designed to fit in them, you can help clean up messed on site and quickly.
2. Production lines and manufacturing areas – These are the lifeline of any business, where the product is made. One way to stop production is with a leak, spill, or drip. By having a spill kit handy underneath a work bench or near lines will make sure you stay up and running when leaks do occur.
3. Fluid dispensing stations – Leaks, drips and spills will defiantly happen around any area where fluid is transferred from one place to another.
4. Forklifts – Forklift operators are the one contact in any company that are constantly on the go. Therefore, they are usually the first person to spot a spill. By putting smaller spill kits on forklifts, you can help identify a spill and stop it from spreading before calling the reinforcements to help with containment.
5. Outdoor Storage Tanks – Anytime you have the word “storage” you have the potential for a spill. By having an outside tank that contains liquid, you run the added risk that a spill will leak into the grass, ground, nearby stream or gutter.
6. Loading Docks – When moving product in and out, it isn’t uncommon for something to get bumped. By having a spill kit close to a loading dock, you will always be prepared in case of an emergency.