Safety Update

Safety Update: What are the three C's of Spill Response?

Spills are inevitable in any workplace.

A release of oil from equipment while filling, a spill from a drum while moving it in the warehouse, leakage from a tank or container. It is bound to happen. So the real question is, What do you do if a spill occurs?

Many companies will have written procedures for spills that are never practiced, spill equipment that is not compatible with the material that has been spilled, and workers that truly do not understand the hazards to them when handling a spill.

A few things to keep in mind regarding a hazardous release of material or spill

1. What is the actual hazard to me? 
I know the name of the product and the intended usage, but do I really understand what this can do to me if I'm exposed

2. Am I properly trained to handle this spill? 
Theory v.s Experience

3. Do I have all of the information, tools, and safety equipment to handle it properly?
Do I have access to and understand MSDS for this substance, Do I have access to and understand proper use of PPE, are compatible absorbents, etc., readily available

4. Do I have a plan in place to respond?
Is a written spill procedure available that is detailed enough to provide ALL information on how to safely respond and to protect me and my coworkers

5. Do I know when I can safely handle a spill or when it is best to call for help?
Internal housekeeping spills v.s a hazmat incident requiring an emergency or hazmat team response

The key to any successful hazardous spill response is to first ensure your safety, the safety of your co-workers and to follow any directions provided by the first responders who may be called in to deal with the spill

Remember the three C's of Spill Response; Contain, Control, Clean

So does your workplace have well developed spill response procedures  that are clear to all workers?

Your workers should know who is responsible for what, who are the coordinators of the spill response plan, who is in charge of what, and how do we safely handle this situation.

Having well trained workers, who clearly understand the roles and responsibilities of those involved in a safe spill response, is vital to the health and safety of everyone in your workplace. Training should include, but not be limited to:

-Hazard Recognition    -Chemical Compatibility         -WHMIS (Specifically MSDS)

-TDG                            -Hazard  Assessments             -Response Techniques

-PPE                             -Reactivity of Substances       -When to call for help

This Safety Update was contributed by Kevin Swinden from Global Hazmat  

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