Spill kits are collection of materials and tools that are required for taking counter measures on oil spills and chemical spills. These kits help in reducing the number of accidents and hazardous diseases whenever chemical or oil spills happen. It is very important to note that specific spill kits are meant for particular tasks and spill kits must be compatible with the spilled chemicals. In other words, precaution should be taken for absorbent material that is used for absorbing acid and must not react. In such cases, only specific acid spill kit should be used otherwise it can cause any type of dangerous accident or could generate additional danger that can increase the hazard level of the spill. Therefore, the selection of the spill kit should be made on the basis of the nature of spilled chemical, location of the spill and volume of the spill. Since many types of kits are available, but chemical spill kits should include the following items:
• Absorbents like sand and saw dust can absorb liquid spills, but absorbent pillows and booms are used for larger spills.
• Sodium hydrogen carbonate can be used for corrosive liquid spills.
• For sweeping up and carrying absorbent materials, brooms, dustpans and open baskets can be used which depletes or reduces manual handling.
• Vermiculite in sufficient quantities is capable of handling chemical container of non corrosive liquid.
• Neutralizer substances that can neutralize the effect of acid, bases and solvent spills.
• Sealed plastic bags for containing spilled oils and chemicals prior to disposal. Plastic drums with lid can also be used for the same purpose as another alternative.
• Personal Protective Equipments (PPE) that includes safety gloves, gas masker, goggles, chemical suit or coat and other protective clothing items and accessories. These protective clothing is meant for better safety and protection of personnel working in laboratories, plants and other areas from chemical spills.
• Items like shovels are used for sweeping or moving absorbent materials from spilled location into plastic bags.
• A pH meter should be a must have item in spill kits. pH meter is an electronic device which is used to measure the acidity or alkalinity (pH levels) of a liquid/ chemical.
• Chemical spill clean-up procedure in a step-by-step detailed version.
There are many websites that offer chemical storage recommendations, laboratory equipments and chemicals for any type of clinical, research or any other work. Accidents caused due to negligence in handling chemicals or chemical spills can be prevented by using flammable storage cabinet. These cabinets are designed in such a way that they prevent chemical liquids from the threat of flames. It is always suggested to buy cabinets which meet the OSHA and NFPA standards and specifications. Many companies offer flammable storage cabinets made from steel and polyethylene material. One can find a number of these cabinets in different styles and features. It is very important to have a spill control system and personal protective equipment for personnel working in laboratories, research centers and other places where chemical handling is done.
