The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has put together a safety checklist for dealing with chemical spills in a variety of facilities. Its elements can be tailored to the specific needs of your workplace. Note that the procedures differ slightly with regard to small chemical spills and large chemical spills. The contact information (names and phone numbers) should be updated periodically.

The checklist:

The following are the locations of:

Spill containment and security equipment:___________________________

Personal protective equipment (PPE)

(PPE):_______________________________________________________

MSDS:_______________________________________________________

When a Large Chemical Spill has occurred:

Immediately notify the designated official and Emergency Coordinator.

Name of Emergency Coordinator:___________________________________

Phone number:_________________________________________________

Contain the spill with available equipment (e.g., pads, booms, absorbent powder, etc.).

Secure the area and alert other site personnel.

Do not attempt to clean the spill unless trained to do so.

Attend to injured personnel and call the medical emergency number, if required.

Call a local spill cleanup company or the Fire Department (if arrangement has been made) to perform a large chemical (e.g., mercury) spill cleanup.

Name of Spill Cleanup Company:__________________________________

Phone Number:________________________________________________

Evacuate building as necessary

When a small chemical spill has occurred:

Notify the Emergency Coordinator and/or supervisor (select one).

If toxic fumes are present, secure the area (with caution tapes or cones) to prevent other personnel from entering.

Deal with the spill in accordance with the instructions described in the MSDS.

Small spills must be handled in a safe manner, while wearing the proper PPE.

Review the general spill cleanup procedures.

Date___/___/___