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Chemical Spill

Before Work Begins

Lab personnel shall be knowledgeable on how to react to a spill or leak of any material that will be used. This information is part of documented Standard Operating Procedures (SOP), is required for labs to have onhand for all work with hazardous chemicals.
Personnel shall know the nearest location(s) of eye washes and safety showers. This is part of the required Lab-Specific Training.

Spill response procedures are also based on individual comfort level.

Only the person dealing with the emergency or the designated lab Chemical Hygiene Officer (ex: Principal Investigator or Laboratory Supervisor) shall decide whether a spill is too large, complicated, or dangerous to handle safely!

**Do not hesitate to call for help in an emergency**

Spill Supplies

spill supplies

Spill KITS and SUPPLIES are variable and should be purchased after taking into consideration the substance needing to be being contained/cleaned

Know what spill kit to use for the spill (e.g., biohazard vs chemical; neutralizer vs absorbent material).

Be aware of incompatiblecomponents!

General Spill Procedures

Minor spills of a manageable amount

If necessary, contact EQMD for guidance.
Consult the manufacturer’s SDS for instructions and compatibilities for the chemicals involved (Be aware of any materials such as paper towels or water that could be incompatible with the spilled chemical!).
WEAR APPROPRIATE PPE (minimum of goggles, buttoned up lab coat, and disposable gloves compatiblewith the spilled chemical). Double gloving is recommended for materials posing a risk from dermal exposure.

Major spills

Leave the area and notify others not to enter.
Report the spill to the UK Environmental Quality Management Department (EQMD) at (859) 323-6280 (M-F 8am-5pm) or after hours by dialing 911 from any on-campus phone or by contacting the UK Police at (859) 257-UKPD (8573).